Naseem Akhtar | Environmental Health | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Naseem Akhtar | Environmental Health | Editorial Board Member

Postdoctoral Fellow | Universiti Sains Malaysia | Malaysia

Naseem Akhtar is a dedicated PhD researcher in the School of Industrial Technology at the Department of Environmental Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, whose scholarly work advances critical understanding of hydrology, hydrogeology, and environmental science with particular attention to water quality, groundwater dynamics, and pollution assessment in vulnerable landscapes. His research portfolio reflects a strong commitment to addressing the complex interactions among natural processes, anthropogenic pressures, and hydrogeochemical transformations that influence freshwater sustainability. Through influential publications in reputable international journals, he has contributed to major domains such as water quality index refinement using decision-support methodologies, multivariate analysis of heavy metals in groundwater systems, hydrogeochemical characterization for drinking and irrigation suitability, and the identification of pollution hotspots within rapidly urbanizing watersheds. His collaborative engagements span multidisciplinary teams across environmental technology, analytical chemistry, public health, and sustainable agriculture, demonstrating a capacity to integrate scientific rigour with applied relevance. He has co-authored impactful studies that inform groundwater management strategies, highlight the risks associated with heavy metal contamination, and propose improved frameworks for monitoring and decision-making in water-stressed regions. His contributions also extend to cross-sectoral research involving sustainability modelling and early disease detection programs, underscoring the broader societal relevance of his work. With an expanding citation record and a growing body of scholarly outputs, he continues to shape contemporary discourse on environmental resilience, resource management, and hydrological sustainability. His research trajectory positions him as an emerging scholar committed to producing evidence-based solutions that address global water challenges and support long-term environmental stewardship. He has 1253 citations from 21 documents with an h-index of 7.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Akhtar, N., Ishak, M. I. S., Bhawani, S. A., & Umar, K. (2021). Various natural and anthropogenic factors responsible for water quality degradation: A review.

2. Akhtar, N., Ishak, M. I. S., Ahmad, M. I., Umar, K., Md Yusuff, M. S., Anees, M. T., … (2021). Modification of the water quality index (WQI) process for simple calculation using the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method: A review.

3. Akhtar, N., Syakir, M. I., Rai, S. P., Saini, R., Pant, N., Anees, M. T., Qadir, A., & Khan, U. (2020). Multivariate investigation of heavy metals in groundwater for irrigation and drinking in Garautha Tehsil, Jhansi District, India.

4. Ahmed, S., Akhtar, N., Rahman, A., Mondal, N. C., Khurshid, S., Sarah, S., … (2022). Evaluating groundwater pollution with emphasis on heavy metal hotspots in an urbanized alluvium watershed of Yamuna River, northern India.

5. Akhtar, N., Syakir, M. I., Anees, M. T., Qadir, A., & Yusuff, M. S. (n.d.). Characteristics and assessment of groundwater.

Fatih Durmaz | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Fatih Durmaz | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Selcuk University | Turkey

Dr. Fatih Durmaz is a distinguished analytical chemist currently serving as a faculty member at the Department of Chemistry, Selçuk University, Türkiye. His academic and research journey reflects an enduring commitment to advancing the field of analytical and environmental chemistry through innovative chromatographic and membrane-based techniques. With a strong foundation in the physical and analytical aspects of chemistry, his work encompasses chromatography, HPLC column packing materials, gas chromatography, trace element determination, industrial oil analysis, and water purification technologies. Dr. Durmaz has published extensively in high-impact international journals such as Applied Physics A, Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, Journal of Electronic Materials, Inorganic Chemistry Communications, and Desalination and Water Treatment, among others. His collaborative projects often intersect with interdisciplinary domains, integrating analytical chemistry with nanomaterial synthesis, environmental monitoring, and food chemistry. He has contributed to European Union and TÜBİTAK-funded research initiatives focusing on sustainable biosorbents, green synthesis processes, and the development of advanced chromatographic systems for detecting trace compounds in complex matrices. His mentorship has guided several postgraduate theses exploring environmentally conscious analytical methodologies, including humic acid extraction, membrane-based water purification, and lipid characterization in edible oils. Through his scholarly activities, Dr. Durmaz has significantly advanced sustainable analytical techniques and environmental remediation strategies that align with global goals for clean water and green technology. His research impact extends beyond academia, influencing industrial practices in water analysis and oil processing through the application of modern chromatographic and separation technologies. Widely recognized for his method development and contributions to analytical instrumentation, Dr. Durmaz continues to bridge fundamental chemistry with practical environmental solutions, fostering collaborative scientific innovation within Türkiye and the broader international research community. He has 425 citations from 30 documents with an h-index of 11.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Durmaz, F., & Andirici, Y. (2020). Ultrafiltration membrane separation technique for drinking water. Emerging Materials Research.

2. Durmaz, F. (2020, October 7). Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm. extract alters the expression of some apoptosis related genes. The Journal of Fungus.

3. Khokhar, T. S., Memon, F. N., Memon, A. A., Durmaz, F., Memon, S., Panhwar, Q. K., & Muneer, S. (2019). Removal of ciprofloxacin from aqueous solution using wheat bran as adsorbent. Separation Science and Technology (Philadelphia).

4. Chandio, A. A., Ali Memon, A., Memon, S., Memon, F. N., Panhwar, Q. K., Durmaz, F., Nizamani, S. M., & Brohi, N. A. (2019). Synthesis and antimicrobial assessment of Fe³⁺ inclusion complex of p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene diamide derivative. Journal of Chemistry.

5. Junejo, R., Memon, S., Memon, F. N., Memon, A. A., Durmaz, F., & Bhatti, A. A. (2019). Thermodynamic and kinetic studies for adsorption of Reactive Blue (RB-19) dye using calix[4]arene-based adsorbent. Journal of Chemical and Engineering Data.

Zaira Ahmad | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zaira Ahmad | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | Lahore College for Women University | Pakistan

Dr. Zahra Molazem is a distinguished academic and healthcare researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. She earned her Ph.D. in Nursing Education from the same institution, where she also completed her M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Nursing. Dr. Molazem’s research primarily focuses on patient-centered care, digital health innovations, psychosocial support, and nursing education reform, with a special emphasis on cardiovascular and oncology patient management. Her scholarly contributions include notable 2025 studies such as the evaluation of smartphone-based self-help interventions for patients with acute coronary syndrome and the clinical application of Citrus aurantium aromatherapy to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients. She has also published influential qualitative research on caregiving burdens, patient handoffs, and family-centered care models, widely recognized for advancing evidence-based practice and holistic healthcare. Dr. Molazem has received several institutional awards for research excellence and innovation in nursing education and has actively participated in national and international conferences promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Beyond her research, she serves on editorial boards and peer-review panels for several reputable scientific journals in nursing and clinical health sciences, contributing to the global dissemination of best practices in patient care and digital health integration. Through her academic leadership and commitment to compassionate, evidence-driven practice, Dr. Zahra Molazem continues to shape the evolving landscape of modern healthcare education and clinical research. She has 121 citations from 11 documents with an h-index of 4.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID
Publications

1. Khawar, M. B., Abbasi, M. H., Hussain, S., Riaz, M., Rafiq, M., Mehmood, R., et al. (2021). Psychological impacts of COVID-19 and satisfaction from online classes: Disturbance in daily routine and prevalence of depression, stress, and anxiety among students of Pakistan.

2. Fahim, S., Nisar, N., Ahmad, Z., Asghar, Z., Said, A., Atif, S., Ghani, N., Qureshi, N., et al. (2019). Managing paper and pulp industry by-product waste utilizing sludge as a bio-fertilizer.

3. Nisar, N., Mehmood, S., Nisar, H., Jamil, S., Ahmad, Z., Ghani, N., Oladipo, A. A., et al. (2018). Brassicaceae family oil methyl esters blended with ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel (ULSD): Comparison of fuel properties with fuel standards.

4. Abbasi, A. M., David, K., Idnan, M., Ahmad, Z., & Qureshi, R. (2018). Effect of time-lapse administration of Panadol (Paracetamol) on spleen and kidney functions of adult albino mice. RADS Journal of Biological Research & Applied Sciences.

5. Khawar, T. M. B., Fatima, N., Abbasi, M. H., Sheikh, N., & Amaan, A. N. (Year not specified). Role and molecular mechanisms of lysosomes and cathepsins in neuropathology and aging: New insights.

David Camann | Environmental Health | Leading Environmental Health Scientist Award

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Mr. David Camann | Environmental Health | Leading Environmental Health Scientist Award

Technical Advisor | Southwest Research Institute | United States

David E. Camann is a Technical Advisor in the Organic Section of the Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Department within the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Division. He earned his M.S. in Statistics from the University of Chicago in 1970 and a B.S. in Mathematics and Physics from Valparaiso University in 1966, with additional graduate study in Epidemiology at the University of Texas School of Public Health between 1980 and 1983. Mr. Camann is an accomplished researcher in environmental epidemiology, human exposure assessment, and toxicology, focusing on the effects of aerosolized pathogens, pesticides, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, and endocrine-disrupting semivolatile organic chemicals on human health. His work has included landmark studies linking prenatal and childhood chemical exposures to adverse birth outcomes, neurodevelopmental deficits, and increased risks of viral infections and cancers, with findings published in leading peer-reviewed journals in environmental health and exposure science. Throughout his career, Mr. Camann has been recognized for his contributions to methodological innovation in chemical exposure measurement, including the development of foam roller samplers and wipe-based pesticide collection methods. He has served as a Councilor of the International Society of Exposure Science (1998–2001) and as a member of its Editorial Review Board (2013–2018), reflecting his sustained impact on the field. His research achievements, extensive publication record, and editorial leadership have earned him broad recognition among peers, establishing him as a distinguished figure in the study of environmental exposures and human health outcomes. He has 11703 citations from 91 documents with an h-index of 55.

Profile: Scopus

Publications

1. Wheelock, K., Zhang, J., McConnell, R., Tang, D., Volk, H. E., Wang, Y., Herbstman, J. B., Wang, S., Phillips, D. H., Camann, D., Gong, J., & Perera, F. (2018). A novel method for source-specific hemoglobin adducts of nitro-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Environmental Science: Processes & Impacts.

2. Dixon, H. M., Scott, R. P., Holmes, D., Calero, L., Kincl, L. D., Waters, K. M., Camann, D. E., Calafat, A. M., Herbstman, J. B., & Anderson, K. A. (2018). Silicone wristbands compared with traditional polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure assessment methods. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry.

3. Dodson, R. E., Udesky, J. O., Colton, M. D., McCauley, M., Camann, D. E., Yau, A. Y., Adamkiewicz, G., & Rudel, R. A. (2017). Chemical exposures in recently renovated low-income housing: Influence of building materials and occupant activities. Environment International.

4. Jedrychowski, W. A., Perera, F. P., Maugeri, U., Majewska, R., Mroz, E., Flak, E., Roen, E. L., et al. (2017). Prenatal exposure to fine particles and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and birth outcomes: A two-pollutant approach. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health.

5. Lovinsky-Desir, S., Miller, R. L., Bautista, J., & Jung, K. H. (2016). Differences in ambient polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations between streets and alleys in New York City: Open space vs. semi-closed space. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Aleksandra Lavrikova | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Aleksandra Lavrikova | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

Post – doctoral at EPFL | Switzerland

Aleksandra Lavrikova is a highly promising early-career researcher with strong academic and professional achievements that make her a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a solid background in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and biophysics, and currently serving as a postdoctoral researcher at the Swiss Plasma Center, EPFL, she has developed expertise in advanced experimental methods and interdisciplinary plasma research. Her work focuses on microbial inactivation, biofilm eradication, wastewater treatment, and plasma–cell interactions, resulting in multiple publications in reputed international journals. She has secured independent grants as a principal investigator, received awards for scientific excellence, and actively participated in international collaborations, reflecting leadership potential and global engagement. While her profile could be further strengthened through more high-impact publications, expanded translational research, and greater leadership in multi-institutional projects, her contributions to plasma science and biomedical applications already demonstrate significant impact, making her a deserving candidate for recognition.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s educational journey reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation that has shaped her into a skilled and versatile researcher. She began her studies with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology where she gained essential knowledge in life sciences and laboratory research. Building upon this, she pursued a Master’s degree in Nanotechnology and Microsystems Technology at the People’s Friendship University of Russia  equipping her with advanced technical and analytical skills at the intersection of biology and engineering. Her academic path culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biophysics from Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia where she specialized in the study of plasma interactions with biological systems and microbial biofilms. This progression from biotechnology through nanotechnology to biophysics demonstrates her commitment to integrating multiple disciplines, enabling her to conduct impactful research with both scientific depth and practical relevance.

Experience

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s professional experience highlights her steady growth as a dedicated and innovative researcher in the fields of microbiology, plasma science, and biophysics. She began her career as a laboratory assistant at the Gamaleya Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology in Moscow where she gained valuable hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiological analysis, and cell culture techniques. This early role laid the groundwork for her future focus on microbial systems and their interactions with novel technologies. Following the completion of her PhD, she advanced to her current role as a postdoctoral researcher at the Swiss Plasma Center, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). In this prestigious position, she has been actively involved in interdisciplinary projects exploring cold atmospheric plasma applications for microbial inactivation, biofilm control, and environmental treatments. Her international research collaborations, grant leadership, and contributions to high-impact publications reflect her growing independence and recognition as a promising researcher.

Research Interest

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s research interests lie at the intersection of microbiology, biophysics, and plasma science, with a focus on innovative solutions to biomedical and environmental challenges. She is particularly interested in the microbiological analysis of single cells, fungi, and bacterial biofilms, as well as the study of plasma–cell interactions at the molecular and cellular levels. Her expertise spans advanced molecular biology techniques, including PCR, protein and RNA isolation, immunoblotting, and flow cytometry, alongside spectroscopy and microscopy methods for in-depth characterization. A key area of her research involves the use of cold atmospheric plasmas and plasma-activated liquids for microbial inactivation, biofilm eradication, and wastewater treatment, highlighting the practical applications of her work in both healthcare and environmental sustainability. She is also engaged in studying mechanisms such as cell membrane integrity, DNA damage, and reactive oxygen species accumulation. This multidisciplinary approach demonstrates her commitment to advancing plasma-based technologies for global benefit.

Award and Honor

Aleksandra Lavrikova has received notable awards and honors that reflect her excellence, innovation, and growing recognition in the scientific community. she was a finalist in the Falling Walls Lab (Slovakia) competition, which highlights breakthrough ideas with global impact, underscoring the novelty and societal relevance of her research. The same year, she was awarded a Short Term Scientific Mission Grant to pursue collaborative research on cold plasma interactions with bacterial biofilms at University College Dublin, Ireland, demonstrating her active engagement in international scientific exchange. She also earned the Ján D. Skalný Prize for Best Oral Presentation at the Symposium on Application of Plasma Processes recognizing her outstanding ability to communicate complex research effectively. In addition, she successfully secured multiple competitive research grants as principal investigator during her PhD studies, which highlights her leadership and independence in scientific inquiry.

Research Skill

Aleksandra Lavrikova possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills that enable her to conduct interdisciplinary investigations in microbiology, plasma science, and biophysics. She is proficient in microbiological techniques, including the cultivation and analysis of bacteria, fungi, and biofilms, as well as in vitro manipulations involving virus-infected eukaryotic cells. Her expertise extends to molecular biology methods such as PCR, protein and RNA isolation, electrophoresis, and immunoblotting, which allow her to explore cellular mechanisms at the molecular level. She is skilled in spectroscopic and microscopic analyses, including fluorescence spectroscopy, absorption studies, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy, for detailed cellular and structural characterization. Additionally, she has experience with flow cytometry and animal experiments, further strengthening her versatility. A key aspect of her skill set is her ability to operate cold plasma discharges and study plasma–cell interactions, enabling innovative applications in biomedical and environmental research.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Flow cytometry study of Escherichia coli treated with plasma-activated water: confirming the absence of the viable but non-culturable state in bacteria
Authors: Agus, Rita; Avino, Fabio; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Myers, Brayden; Furno, Ivo

Title: Non-thermal plasma coupled with photocatalysis for indoor air treatment at high air flow rates: effects on VOCs and bio-aerosols
Authors: Vazquez, Thomas; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Wiedermann, Dalimír; Babic, Jan; Palko, Miroslav; Palko, Maroš; Machala, Zdenko

Title: Organic wastewater decontamination by cold plasmas – Improving bacteria inactivation by post-plasma treatment
Authors: Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Avino, Fabio; Agus, Rita; Furno, Ivo

Title: Eradication of single- and mixed-species biofilms of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus by pulsed streamer corona discharge cold atmospheric plasma
Authors: Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Janda, Mário; Bujdáková, Helena; Hensel, Karol

Title: Plasma-activated water retains antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli after 72 h of storage
Authors: Agus, Rita; Pipoz, Laurens; Avino, Fabio; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Myers, Brayden; Furno, Ivo

Conclusion

Aleksandra Lavrikova shows strong potential and already has a remarkable track record for an early-career researcher. Her multidisciplinary expertise in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and plasma biophysics, combined with her successful independent grants, peer-reviewed publications, and international collaborations, make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She stands out particularly for her contributions to plasma applications in microbiology, biofilms, and environmental treatment, which have both scientific and societal relevance. With continued growth in high-impact publications, expanded leadership roles, and stronger translational applications of her work, she has the potential to become an internationally recognized leader in her field. At her current trajectory, she is highly suitable for recognition, and awarding her would not only honor her achievements but also encourage further groundbreaking contributions to science.