Mr. Gael Plantard | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Gael Plantard | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gael Plantard, National Center for Scientific Research, France

Gael Plantard is a University Professor in the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering at the University of Perpignan Via Domitia (UPVD) and a researcher at the PROMES laboratory (Processes, Materials, and Solar Energy Laboratory – UPR 8521). Since joining the Storage for Photochemical and Energetic Helioprocesses team in 2006, he has focused on advancing solar technologies through the development of photocatalytic materials and photochemical processes. His research spans the optimization of photoreactors, understanding radiative transfer, and validating solar installations, particularly for environmental applications like water treatment. Gaël earned his Habilitation to Supervise Research in 2014 and was appointed University Professor in 2018. With over 50 publications and significant contributions to 20 national and international projects, he has established a strong reputation in the scientific community. He has supervised 14 doctoral theses and numerous master’s and postdoctoral researchers, fostering collaborations with academic and industrial partners. Recognized for his excellence in research, he is a recipient of the Occitanie Region “Chercheur Avenir” award (2013), the PES Scientific Excellence Award (2018-2022), and has been nominated for prestigious paper awards. In addition to his research, he holds leadership roles in multiple scientific federations, including the FEDESOL and FREE research groups, and serves on the academic councils of UPVD. Gaël is also an invited speaker and session chair at international conferences, reflecting his expertise in solar energy and sustainable processes.

Professional Profile 🎓

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award 🌍

Gael Plantard stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his outstanding contributions to solar photocatalysis and sustainable energy research. With over 50 high-impact publications and leadership in 20 research projects at national and international levels, he has made significant advancements in developing innovative materials and photoreactors for solar energy applications. His work directly addresses critical global challenges, such as water treatment and renewable energy solutions.

Education 📚

  1. Habilitation to Supervise Research (HDR):
    • Year: 2014
    • Institution: University of Perpignan Via Domitia
    • Focus: Photocatalytic materials and photochemical processes.
  2. PhD:
    • Institution: Likely University of Perpignan Via Domitia (UPVD) or a related institution.
    • Field: Chemical and Process Engineering or related area.

Work Experience 💼

  1. University Professor
    • Institution: University of Perpignan Via Domitia (UPVD), Chemical and Process Engineering Department.
    • Duration: 2018–Present.
  2. Researcher – PROMES Laboratory
    • Laboratory: Processes, Materials, and Solar Energy Laboratory (UPR 8521).
    • Team: Storage for Photochemical and Energetic Helioprocesses.
    • Duration: Joined in 2006.
  3. Head of Department – Chemical and Process Engineering
    • Institution: University Institute of Technology (IUT), UPVD.
    • Duration: 2009–2015.
  4. Elected Member (2020–2024)
    • Roles within UPVD:
      • Board of Directors (College A PR/Rank 1).
      • Restricted Council (Professor of the University).
      • University Training Commission.
      • Central Council.
  5. Scientific Leadership Roles
    • Team Leader: “Water-Energy Action” team under the PROMES Laboratory’s SCS axis.
    • Coordinator: Expertise for the Master Project University of Science and Technology Hanoi (2020–2024).

Awards and Recognitions 🏅

  1. Occitanie Region “Chercheur Avenir” Award (2013)
    • Awarded for the project “Hybridation et optimisation d’un procédé d’héliocatalyse et d’un procédé de filtration membranaire : application au traitement des eaux de STEP”.
  2. Scientific Excellence Award (PES)
    • Recognized for the period 2018–2022.
  3. Nomination for Frans Habraken Best Paper Award (2022)
    • For the article: “Low-temperature atmospheric pressure plasma of TiO2-baser nanocomposite coatings on open-cell polymer foams for photocatalytic water treatment” published in Applied Surface Science.
  4. Chairman of the session “Nanotechnology for Energy Harvesting, Conversion, Storage and Novel Generation” (2023)
    • Presented at The 11th Annual World Congress of Nano Science and Technologies in Barcelona.
  5. Invited Speaker (2023)
    • Delivered the talk “Shaping of photocatalytic materials for solar energy conversion” at The 11th Annual World Congress of Nano Science and Technologies, Barcelona.

Research Skills 🔬

  1. Photocatalytic Materials Development
    • Expertise in developing innovative photocatalytic materials to enhance photoreactor performance.
  2. Photochemical Process Optimization
    • Skilled in experimental and theoretical approaches to control and optimize photochemical processes, with a focus on solar applications.
  3. Solar Energy Utilization
    • Specialized in the integration of solar energy into chemical and biological processes, including validation at a semi-industrial scale.
  4. Radiative Transfer Analysis
    • Proficient in experimental and theoretical coupled approaches for radiative transfer analysis in photoreactors.
  5. Material Synthesis and Characterization
    • Developed activated carbon/TiO2 composites and TiO2-based nanocomposites for environmental and solar applications.

Publication Top Notes 📖

Trials and in silico simulations to predict daily photo-oxidative capacity under solar conditions: A case study on the inactivation of an oyster pathogenic bacteria, Vibrio harveyi

Dispersed plug flow photocatalytic reactor using TiO2-coated foams, 2D modeling, and experimental operating mode

Removal efficiencies for 52 pesticides and pharmaceuticals from wastewater effluent by coupling solar heterogeneous photo-oxidation with TiO2 and infiltration in saturated soil column

A way to macroporous and alveolar geopolymer foams elaboration: Influence of operating parameters on porosity characteristics

Removal of 39 contaminants of emerging concern found in wastewater effluent by coupling nanofiltration and infiltration into saturated soil column

Dr. Vera Sidorenko | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vera Sidorenko | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vera Sidorenko, Alfred Wegener Institute, Germany

Dr. Vera Sidorenko  is a Senior Scientist at the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, specializing in coastal ecology, climate dynamics, and ocean modeling. She has a Ph.D. in Coastal Ecology/Climate Dynamics from Jacobs University, where she focused on the simulation of Laptev Sea shelf dynamics, particularly the Lena Delta region. Her research interests include numerical methods in ocean modeling, coastal ocean dynamics, regional climate projections, and the interactions between abiotic and biotic factors in marine ecosystems. Dr. Sidorenko has a strong background in applied mathematics and informatics, with expertise in programming languages such as FORTRAN, C++, Python, and MATLAB. She has been involved in numerous research projects and field expeditions, including the Polarstern Cruise (PS132) and the RV “Dalne Zelentzy” expedition in the Laptev Sea. She has also received several prestigious fellowships, including the Helmholtz Advance postdoctoral fellowship. Dr. Sidorenko actively mentors Ph.D. students and contributes to various professional activities, including serving as an editor for the Polarforschung journal and reviewing articles for multiple scientific journals. Her current research focuses on improving numerical modules for the Lena Delta region and assessing the effectiveness of marine protected areas through interdisciplinary approaches.

Professional Profile 🎓

Scopus

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award 🌍

Dr. Vera Sidorenko  appears to be an exceptionally qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on her extensive academic background, research contributions, and leadership in marine science and numerical ocean modeling. Here is a summary of her qualifications and suitability:

Education 📚

  • Ph.D. in Coastal Ecology/Climate Dynamics, Jacobs University (2011-2014)
    Title: ‘Simulation of the Laptev Sea shelf dynamics with focus on the Lena Delta region’
    Supervisors: Prof. Dr. Karen Helen Wiltshire, Prof. Dr. Sergey Danilov
  • M.Sc. in Applied Mathematics and Informatics (with honors), Institute of Mathematics, Mechanics, and Computer Science in the name of I.I. Vorovich (2009-2011)
  • B.Sc. in Applied Mathematics and Informatics (with honors), Institute of Mathematics, Mechanics, and Computer Science in the name of I.I. Vorovich (2005-2009)
  • High School Diploma (with honors), Economic-mathematical lyceum (2002-2005)
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship: Helmholtz Advance, Helmholtz-Mentoring-Program ‘A year for your career’ (2020-2021)

Work Experience 💼

  • Senior Scientist, Coastal Ecology/Climate Dynamics, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (2023–present)
  • Scientist, Coastal Ecology/Climate Dynamics, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (2015–2023)
  • PhD Researcher, Coastal Ecology/Climate Dynamics, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (2011–2014)

Awards and Recognition 🏅

  • AI Exploration Voucher: “Be a Sound”
    Awarded in 2022 for contributions to innovative applications of sound in scientific research.
  • HIDA Host (Israel & UK Exchange Projects)
    Recognized for hosting and participating in international research exchanges in 2023, focusing on sound-based scientific exploration.
  • Fellowship for Scientific Exchange (POLMAR)
    Awarded in 2013 for a scientific exchange fellowship, promoting collaborative research in marine sciences.
  • Travelling Fellowships (FAMOS School)
    Granted in 2013 and 2015 for participation in the FAMOS School, enhancing international collaboration in ocean modeling.
  • Travelling Fellowship to ART-APECS Science Workshop (APECS)
    Awarded in 2012 to attend the APECS workshop for advancing polar research and fostering scientific community engagement.

Research Skills 🔬

  • Numerical Ocean Modeling:
    Expertise in developing and applying numerical methods for simulating coastal and ocean dynamics, with a focus on the FESOM-C coastal ocean model and its integration into large-scale ocean circulation models.
  • Climate Projections and Regional Modeling:
    Skilled in producing and analyzing regional climate projections, using advanced oceanographic models to assess climate impacts on coastal ecosystems.
  • Marine Ecosystem Dynamics:
    Strong background in studying the interactions between abiotic and biotic factors within marine ecosystems, particularly in the context of climate change and anthropogenic pressures.
  • Use of Tracers in Oceanography:
    Extensive experience working with passive and active tracers in ocean modeling to understand water mass transport, pollutant distribution, and ecosystem health.
  • High-Performance Computing (HPC):
    Advanced proficiency in leveraging supercomputing platforms such as OLLIE/AWI, JUWELS/JSC, and LEVANTE/DKRZ for large-scale ocean model simulations.

Publication Top Notes 📖

Analyses of sea surface chlorophyll a trends and variability from 1998 to 2020 in the German Bight (North Sea)

Flipbook-ENA: Towards a dynamic Ecological Network Analysis under changing environmental conditions

Climate change impacts on a sedimentary coast—a regional synthesis from genes to ecosystems

Dynamical reconstruction of the upper-ocean state in the central Arctic during the winter period of the MOSAiC expedition

Dissolved storage glycans shaped the community composition of abundant bacterioplankton clades during a North Sea spring phytoplankton bloom

Dr. Pedro Lopez Merino | Sustainability transitions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Pedro Lopez Merino | Sustainability transitions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pedro Lopez Merino, GREDEG/Université Côte d’Azur-CNRS, France

Dr. Pedro Lopez-Merino is a postdoctoral fellow at the GREDEG research unit, Université Côte d’Azur-CNRS, with a PhD in Economics from the University of Paris-Dauphine (PSL). His interdisciplinary research focuses on territorial food system transitions and circular economy models for plastic waste recovery. By employing participatory tools such as serious games and agent-based modeling, Dr. Lopez-Merino simulates systemic trajectories to address sustainability challenges. A prolific researcher, he has contributed to leading journals like Futures and Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems and leads projects like PLASTRON and ATTER, fostering stakeholder engagement and actionable policy frameworks for sustainable development.

Professional Profile 🎓

Scopus

Google Scholar

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award 🌍

Dr. Pedro Lopez-Merino is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his outstanding academic and professional achievements in the fields of circular economy, territorial food systems, and sustainability transitions. His interdisciplinary expertise, proven through impactful research projects, publications, and participatory tools, highlights his ability to address complex sustainability challenges. Below are the key points supporting his suitability:

Education 📚

  1. PhD in Economics
    • Institution: University of Paris-Dauphine (PSL)
    • Field of Study: Economics
    • Specialization: Interdisciplinary research focusing on circular economy, systemic trajectories, and participatory tools like agent-based modeling and serious games.

Work Experience 💼

  1. Postdoctoral Fellow
    • Institution: GREDEG, Université Côte d’Azur-CNRS
    • Duration: Present
    • Roles and Responsibilities:
      • Research on two interdisciplinary projects (PLASTRON and ATTER).
      • Teaching courses in Circular Economics and Economics of Innovation for master’s programs at EUR ELMI.
      • Development of participatory tools and models for food system transitions and plastic waste recovery at territorial scales.
  2. Scientific Steering Committee Member
    • Project: CoopéraTerr Project, SCIC Les Ferrages de Châteauneuf
    • Funding: ADEME
    • Duration: 2024-2027
    • Responsibilities: Local organic production, sustainable food systems, and territorial transitions.
  3. Consultant
    • Organization: FAO & Coventry University
    • Year: 2018
    • Work: Case study on agroecology in France.
  4. Rapporteur and Jury Member
    • Organization: French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty
    • Duration: 2024-present
    • Responsibilities: Contribution to the National Agricultural and Rural Development Program.
  5. Content Developer
    • Project: Educational module on “Introduction to Economics and Its Relation to Well-being.”
    • Institution: St. Louis University (Missouri, USA).
    • Year: 2018

Research Skills 🔬

  • Interdisciplinary Research: Strong focus on integrating economics, agroecology, and circular systems.
  • Participatory Tools Expertise: Proficient in serious games and agent-based modeling for systemic trajectory simulations.
  • Project Management: Successfully led and contributed to several European Union-funded and international projects like PLASTRON and ATTER.
  • Publication Track Record: Published in leading journals such as Futures, Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, and Journal of Rural Studies.
  • Policy Influence: Collaborations with government bodies (e.g., French Ministry of Agriculture) and international organizations (e.g., FAO) for sustainability transitions.
  • Actionable Research: Expertise in developing practical solutions at the territorial scale, bridging academic findings with real-world applications.

Publication Top Notes 📖

Cited: 113
Cited:7
Cited:3
Cited:2
Cited:1

Dr. Bernard Twarog | Climate Award | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Bernard Twarog | Climate Award | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Bernard Twarog, Cracow University of Technology, Poland

Bernard Twaróg is a distinguished expert in water management and engineering, currently serving as a Chief of Department at the Cracow University of Technology’s Faculty of Environmental and Power Engineering since 1989. He held significant leadership roles, including Chief of the Department of Hydraulic Structures and Director for Research at the Institute of Water Engineering and Management (2009–2012). His expertise extends beyond academia; he served as the Director for Water Resources at the Regional Authority for Water Management in Cracow (2002–2003) and worked as a consultant for the World Bank in Washington, D.C. (1999–2001). Additionally, he is an active member of various professional organizations, including the Polish Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, the Polish Academy of Sciences, and the Association of Polish Hydrologists.

Professional Profile:

ORCID 

Summary of Suitability for the Best Researcher Award: Bernard Twaróg

Background and Experience: Bernard Twaróg has an extensive academic and professional background in water engineering and management. He has held significant leadership positions at the Cracow University of Technology, serving as Chief of Department and Director for Research. His role in the Regional Authority for Water Management and as a consultant for the World Bank further showcases his expertise and contributions to water resource management on both national and international platforms.

Education:

  • Cracow University of Technology
    • Faculty of Environmental and Power Engineering
    • Chief of Department of Hydraulic Structures
    • Chief of Department of Water Management
    • Tenure: Since 1989 (Exact degree(s) not specified)

Work Experience:

  1. Cracow University of Technology, Institute of Water Engineering and Management
    • Position: Chief of Department
    • Tenure: 2015 – 2016
  2. Cracow University of Technology, Institute of Water Engineering and Management
    • Position: Director for Research
    • Tenure: 2009 – 2012
  3. Regional Authority for Water Management in Cracow
    • Position: Director for Water Resources
    • Tenure: 2002 – 2003
  4. World Bank, World Bank Institute
    • Position: Consultant
    • Location: Washington, D.C., United States
    • Tenure: 1999 – 2001
  5. Cracow University of Technology
    • Position: Chief of Department (Water Management and Water Engineering)
    • Tenure: 1989 – Present

Publication top Notes:

The influence of the planned Solina-Jawor pumped storage power plant on the operating regime of the Solina-Myczkowce power plant

Assessing Polarisation of Climate Phenomena Based on Long-Term Precipitation and Temperature Sequences

Application of Shannon Entropy in Assessing Changes in Precipitation Conditions and Temperature Based on Long-Term Sequences Using the Bootstrap Method

Modelling a pumped storage power plant on the example of the Porąbka Żar power plant

Modelling of the Solina-Myczkowce pumped storage power plant