María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado | Animal Reproductive Biology | Wildlife Conservation Award

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Dr.María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado | Animal Reproductive Biology | Wildlife Conservation Award

Research Professor | Metropolitan Autonomous University | Mexico

Dr. María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado is a Full-Time Professor at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Iztapalapa (UAM-I), specializing in Animal Reproduction within the Department of Biology of Reproduction. She holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Sciences with honors from UNAM, a Master’s in Animal Production (Ovines and Caprines) from FES-Cuautitlán, and a Bachelor’s in Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics from UAM-Xochimilco, where she was awarded the Medal of Merit. With extensive academic experience across multiple institutions in Mexico and Latin America, she has contributed to undergraduate and postgraduate education in Veterinary Medicine, Biology, Biotechnology, and Reproductive Biology. Her research focuses on Assisted Reproductive Biotechnologies and Embryonic Development (in vivo and in vitro), including pioneering work in embryo cloning of domestic and wild species. She has led major projects such as the preservation of the bighorn sheep in collaboration with national zoological and environmental authorities, and her efforts culminated in a patent on cloning technologies for species conservation. As a former Head of Department and Coordinator of Animal Production programs, she led curriculum reforms and academic evaluations. Dr. Navarro has authored nine scientific documents with 29 citations by 26 sources and holds an h-index of 4. She has also authored book chapters and patents, and served as a reviewer for international journals. She is a Level 1 member of the Mexican National System of Researchers (SNI) and has received funding from national agencies including CONAHCyT, PRODEP, and the UAM. Her collaborations span universities in Mexico, Chile, and Australia, advancing reproductive biotechnology for conservation and livestock productivity.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Verduzco, J. M. R., Herrera-Camacho, J., & Cajero-Juárez, M. (2009). Evaluación de dos medios de maduración in vitro para la producción de embriones ovinos. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 10(1), 95–99.

Vázquez-Avendaño, J. R., Ambríz-García, D. A., Cortez-Romero, C., & otros. (2022). Current state of the efficiency of sheep embryo production through somatic cell nuclear transfer. Small Ruminant Research, 212, 106702.

González-Garzón, A. C., Ramón-Ugalde, J. P., Ambríz-García, D. A., & otros. (2023). Resveratrol reduces ROS by increasing GSH in vitrified sheep embryos. Animals, 13(23), 3602.

Velázquez-Morales, J. V., Santillán-Flores, M. A., Gallegos-Sánchez, J., & otros. (2019). Detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in reproductive tissue and semen of naturally infected rams. Animal Reproduction, 16(4), 930–937.

Soberano-Martínez, A., Bravo-Patiño, A., Olivo-Zepeda, I., Toscano-Torres, I., & otros. (2011). Fertilización de ovocitos caprinos madurados en dos medios de cultivo. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 14(1), 301–307.

Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

Research Associate | University of Niš | Serbia

Dr. Dušica Ilić is a distinguished Research Associate in the field of technical and technological sciences, affiliated with the Faculty of Technology in Leskovac, University of Niš. She holds a PhD in Technical and Technological Sciences, earned through an accelerated study program, with a specialization in the synthesis and pharmacological profiling of bioactive compounds. Dr. Ilić’s academic foundation includes a graduate degree in wastewater treatment technologies and early training as a medical technician, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to science. Her professional experience spans leading roles in academic and industrial research, including contributions to national projects on pharmaceutical-cosmetic formulations, bioactive plant compounds, wastewater purification, and ICT applications in medicine and energy. She has served as a technologist, scientific associate, and educator, contributing to teaching, mentoring, and practical training at multiple institutions, including the Electronic Faculty in Niš and the Alfatec Research Center. Her research focuses on organic synthesis, phytopharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems, and the development of environmentally and clinically relevant technologies. Dr. Ilić has authored numerous scientific publications, contributed a book chapter, and developed innovative solutions with recognized national impact. A recipient of awards for academic excellence and human rights engagement, she is certified in English language proficiency, proficient in scientific computing tools, and holds membership in the Serbian Chemical Society. Her work is marked by a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific rigor, and the practical application of research in both academic and industrial settings. She has 346 citations across 19 documents and holds an h-index of 11.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Stanojević, S. J., Cvetković, J. D., & Ristić, S. I. (2025). Intensified microwave-assisted hydrodistillation produces trans-anethole-rich fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) fruit essential oil. Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly.

2. Maletin, A., Ristić, I., Nešić, A., Knežević, M. J., Koprivica, D. Đ., Cakić, S., Ilić, D., Milekić, B., Puškar, T., & Pilić, B. (2023). Development of light-polymerized dental composite resin reinforced with electrospun polyamide layers. Polymers, 15(12), 2598.

3. Ilić, D., & Vukotić, D. (2023, November 13). Innovative extraction technologies. Trends in Horticulture, 6(2).

4. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Ristić, I. C., Konstantinović, S. S., Stanojević, L. P., & Danilović, B. R. (2023, May 17). New technical solution (not commercialized). MN

5. Илић, Д. П., Тротер, Д. З., Ристић, И. С., Константиновић, С. С., Станојевић, Ј. С., Станојевић, Љ. П., & Даниловић, Б. Р. (2023, May 17). Technological process for the isolation of essential oil with enhanced antimicrobial activity from ground fennel fruit (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) [Technical standard]. Technological Faculty Leskovac; Faculty of Electronic Engineering Niš; Technological Faculty Novi Sad.

Getachew Geleto | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Getachew Geleto | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Instructor | Wachemo University | Ethiopia

Dr. Getachew Mulugeta Geleto is a seasoned scholar and educator in agroforestry, forestry, and natural resources management, currently serving as a faculty member at Wachemo University, Ethiopia. With academic training from institutions in Ethiopia, Bulgaria, and India, he holds a Ph.D. in Agroforestry with a minor in Soil Science, alongside MSc and BSc degrees in Forestry Engineering. Dr. Getachew brings over three decades of experience in higher education, research, outreach, and academic leadership, having taught and supervised graduate students at multiple Ethiopian universities and played a pivotal role in curriculum development for natural resources programs. His research focuses on agroforestry systems, climate change resilience, land degradation, soil fertility, and sustainable agriculture, contributing significantly to both applied and theoretical knowledge. He has published over 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and technical papers, and actively participates in national and international conferences as an invited and volunteer presenter. Dr. Getachew has led and contributed to numerous interdisciplinary projects funded by governmental and development agencies, particularly in the Amhara and SNNPR regions. He is recognized for his editorial contributions, academic committee leadership, and extensive community engagement. His scholarly work and dedication to sustainable land management and climate-resilient agriculture have earned him respect as a leading voice in his field.

Profile : ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Getachew, G. (2025). Nutritive content of indigenous fodder trees and shrubs in highland of Ethiopia.

2. Geleto, G. M., & Mentase, A. (2025, July). Tree species diversity in parkland agroforestry practices: The case of Tambaro District, Kembata Tambaro Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Austral Ecology.

3. Getachew, G. (2022). Effect of blended fertilizer rates and planting density on yield and yield components of Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) at Gombora condition, Hadiya Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

4. Getachew, G. (2020). Role of women in agroforestry management in Tembaro District, Southern Ethiopia.

5. Getachew, G. (2019). Land use land cover dynamics at Bilate Alaba sub-watershed, Southern Ethiopia.

Shahzada Orujova | Dermatology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shahzada Orujova | Dermatology | Best Researcher Award

Dermatologist | Private Medical Palace Hospital | Turkey

Dr. Shahzada Orujova is a Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology at the Private Medical Palace Hospital, affiliated with Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Türkiye. She earned her M.D. from Azerbaijan Medical University, followed by residency and specialization in dermatology and venereology at Erciyes University. With academic and clinical experience as a research assistant at both Azerbaijan Medical University and Erciyes University, Dr. Orujova has been actively involved in various industry-sponsored clinical trials focusing on chronic urticaria, vitiligo, and plaque psoriasis, serving as a sub-investigator. Her research interests center on inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases, psychodermatology, and pediatric dermatology. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications and presented numerous case reports and clinical studies at national and international dermatology congresses. Notable contributions include studies on the neuroimmune link in atopic dermatitis and the dermatological impact of COVID-19 vaccination. She holds a Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification recognized by TransCelerate and is a member of the Turkish Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Orujova is recognized for her collaborative research efforts, academic contributions, and commitment to advancing dermatological care through clinical and translational research.

Profiles : ORCID| Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Orujova, S., Kartal, D., Demirci, E., Barlak Keti, D., Akdağ, B., Solak, E. Ö., Cinar, S. L., & Borlu, M. (2025). Is there a relationship between serum BDNF levels, disease severity, and psychiatric symptoms in adolescents with atopic dermatitis Children, 12(10), Article 1304.

2. Kartal, D., Orujova, S., & Ertaş, R. (2023). Clinical effects of COVID-19 vaccines on chronic spontaneous urticaria patients: A study on two Turkish centers. Frontiers in Medicine, 10, 1222126.

Felipe Masiero Salvarani | Animal conservation | Wildlife Advocacy Award

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Prof. Dr. Felipe Masiero Salvarani | Animal conservation | Wildlife Advocacy Award

Professor | Federal University of Pará | Brazil

Dr. Felipe Masiero Salvarani is a Professor at the Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Institute of Veterinary Medicine, where he also serves as a permanent faculty member in the graduate programs in Animal Health in the Amazon and Animal Reproduction in the Amazon. He holds a Doctorate and a Master’s degree in Animal Science, with a specialization in Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Infectious Diseases of Animals, from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), where he also completed two postdoctoral fellowships. With extensive academic and leadership experience, Dr. Salvarani has served as Director of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vice-Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Animal Science, and Coordinator of multiple academic committees and laboratories at UFPA. His research focuses on bacterial and clostridial infectious diseases in production animals, vaccine development, and zoonoses, and he has contributed to the scientific community through numerous publications, editorial roles, and as Guest Editor for international journals such as Veterinary Sciences and MDPI. He has been recognized with several awards, including the CAPES Thesis Award in Biotechnology and multiple honors for scientific excellence and academic relevance. His dedication to veterinary science, education, and research is further demonstrated by his active mentorship at undergraduate, residency, master’s, and doctoral levels, and by his contributions to institutional development and interdisciplinary academic collaboration. He has 858 citations with 90 published documents and an h-index of 16.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Sousa, J. C. de M., Lins, A. de M. C., Souza, F. dos A., Manoel, H. O., Araújo, C. S. de, Tomaya, L. Y. C., Gasparotto, P. H. G., Pereira, V. M. de A. G., Pacheco, A. D., Spilki, F. R., et al. (2025). Unveiling the genetic landscape of canine papillomavirus in the Brazilian Amazon. Microorganisms, 13(8), 1811.

2. Benarrós, M. S. C., Sakata, K. A. C., dos Santos, B. J. S., & Salvarani, F. M. (2025). Heavy metal poisoning and its impacts on the conservation of Amazonian parrots: An interdisciplinary review. Biology, 14(6), 660.

3. Salvarani, F. M., da Cruz, K. P. P., da Silva, F. R. C., & Daudt, C. (2025). Lagochilascariasis: A neglected zoonosis in the Brazilian Amazon Biome and the role of wildlife in its epidemiological chain amidst anthropization. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 10(7), 177.

4. Salvarani, F. M., Oliveira, H. G. da S., & Uzal, F. A. (2025). Clostridioides difficile in animal inflammatory bowel disease: A One Health perspective on emerging zoonotic threats. Microorganisms, 13(6), 1233.

5. Souza, F. dos A., Daudt, C., Lins, A. de M. C., dos Santos, I. R., Tomaya, L. Y. C., Lima, A. de S., Reis, E. M. B., Satrapa, R. A., Driemeier, D., Bagon, A., et al. (2025). Characterization of papillomatous lesions and genetic diversity of bovine papillomavirus from the Amazon region. Viruses, 17(5), 719.

Yaser Mohammadi | Agricultural sustainability | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yaser Mohammadi | Agricultural Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Faculty Memeber | Bu-Ali Sina University | Iran

Dr. Yaser Mohammadi is an Associate Professor at Bu-Ali Sina University, specializing in agricultural sustainability. He holds advanced degrees in agriculture with a focus on sustainable development and environmental behavior. With extensive academic and international experience, he has served as a faculty member and contributed as a Research Assistant at the Agricultural Sustainability Institute at the University of California, Davis, where he collaborated on a major project funded by Nestlé focused on sustainable raw material sourcing. Dr. Mohammadi has led and participated in multiple national and international research and consultancy projects related to pro-environmental behavior, sustainable agribusiness, climate change adaptation, and greenhouse farming. His scholarly output includes over 20 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Environmental Management and Land Use Policy, as well as two authored books. He regularly contributes as a peer reviewer for Elsevier journals and serves on the scientific editorial board of the Annual Agricultural Extension and Education Conference at Bu-Ali Sina University. He has collaborated with key Iranian agricultural institutions, including the Agricultural Jihad Organization and the Rural Cooperative Organization, to deliver applied research and policy solutions aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and advancing climate-resilient agriculture. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded Best Researcher at Bu-Ali Sina University. His research has achieved measurable academic impact, with 325 citations by 315 documents, 20 published documents, and an h-index of 10, demonstrating the depth and reach of his scholarly work.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Avatefi Akmal, F., & Mohammadi, Y. (2025). The nexus of agricultural land use change and food security: A comprehensive systematic review. Land Use Policy, 128, 107717.

2. Jalilian, N., Mohammadi, Y., Naderi Mahdei, K., Nael, M., & Neaman, A. (2025). Land ownership rights enhance farmers’ attitudes toward soil and soil conservation behavior: Insights from Iran. Journal of Environmental Management, 349, 126821.

3. Gholami Jalal, S., Karimi, S., Mohammadi, Y., Yaghoubi Farani, A., & Liobikienė, G. (2025). Developing and prioritizing strategies for sustainable greenhouse agribusiness: A case study in Hamedan Province, Iran. Sustainability, 17(11), 4912.

4. Gholami Jalal, S., Karimi, S., Mohammadi, Y., & Yaghoubi Farani, A. (2024). A framework for identifying and validating indicators to assess agribusiness sustainability: An emphasis on greenhouses in Iran. Agribusiness, 40(1), 141–160.

5. Razzaghi Borkhani, F., Khaleghi, B., Mirtorabi, M. S., & Mohammadi, Y. (2023). Explaining farmers’ pro-environmental behaviors toward plant, soil and water conservation in Iran: An application of value–belief–norm theory. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 20, 2461–2474.

Ester Cecere | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ester Cecere | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ester Cecere | National Research Council | Italy

Dr. Ester Cecere, formerly Senior Researcher at the IRSA Water Research Institute, Taranto headquarter of the Italian National Research Council (CNR), is a distinguished marine biologist specializing in floristic and vegetational studies, macroalgal bioremediation, alien species, sustainable mollusc farming, and circular economy. She holds degrees in biological sciences with specialization in marine botany and has contributed extensively to the academic and applied understanding of coastal and transitional marine ecosystems. Throughout her career, Dr. Cecere has held several leadership roles, notably directing research on ecosystem structure and function for sustainable development under CNR’s national project “Sustainability of Environmental Systems,” and serving as acting Director of the Taranto headquarters. She was also a Scientific Council member at IRSA and part of the teaching board for the PhD in Algae Biology at the University of Messina. A recognized expert, she has served as a consultant to ISPRA on exotic aquaculture species and marine biological quality indices, and represented the LTER “sentinel site” Mar Piccolo in Taranto. Dr. Cecere has authored over 180 scientific publications, including 55 in peer-reviewed international journals, and served as editor of prominent scientific monographs. She is a frequent referee for international journals, an educator in university-level and professional training programs, and a mentor to numerous scholars. Her achievements have been acknowledged through editorial roles, professional certifications, and memberships in scientific committees. She also contributed to public science communication through CNR’s “Vita di Mare” and has significantly advanced knowledge in marine ecology. Ester Cecere; h-index: 22; 1,149 citations by 848 documents.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Denti, G., Rubino, F., Cecere, E., & Petrocelli, A. (2024). Native and non-indigenous biota associated with the Cymodocea nodosa (Tracheophyta, Alismatales) meadow in the seas of Taranto (Southern Italy, Mediterranean Sea). Diversity, 16(7), Article 368.

2. Denti, G., Ricci, P., Cecere, E., & Petrocelli, A. (2024). Long term monitoring activities to investigate the colonization dynamics of non‑indigenous seaweeds in transitional waters. Conference paper.

3. Screening of Undaria pinnatifida (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae) lipidic extract as a new potential source of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds. (2023). Journal of Marine Science and Engineering.

Mona Maze | Environmental Studies | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mona Maze | Environmental Studies | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Agricultural Research Center | Egypt

Dr. Mona Maze is an Assistant Professor at the Agricultural Research Center, Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate in Egypt, and an accomplished scholar in agricultural sciences with expertise in climate change, plant nutrition, data-driven agriculture, and digital innovation for sustainable farming. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Nutrition from the Technical University of Munich, where she developed predictive models for wheat performance under water stress and climate change, building on an M.Sc. in Plant Ecology from Cairo University and a B.Sc. in Science from Ain Shams University, further strengthened by advanced training in computer science, machine learning, and spatial data science. Her professional career spans Egypt and Germany, including roles at the Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, where she advanced renewable energy and sustainability projects, and leadership in national and USAID-funded projects that integrate artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and big data into agricultural systems. She has spearheaded initiatives such as Egypt’s Digital Dynamic Agricultural Map and web-based decision support tools for irrigation, fertilization, and crop protection, in collaboration with leading organizations including Microsoft and ESRI. Dr. Maze’s research focuses on climate change impacts on agriculture, greenhouse gas mitigation, precision farming, and the integration of AI with ecological modeling, contributing significantly to Egypt’s greenhouse gas inventory and advancing climate-smart agriculture practices. With a distinguished record of publications, international collaborations, and technology-driven solutions that enhance resilience and productivity, she exemplifies innovative leadership at the intersection of environmental science and digital transformation, making her a strong candidate for recognition.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

Maze, M., Attaher, S., Taqi, M. O., Elsawy, R., Gad El-Moula, M. M. H., Hashem, F. A., & Moussa, A. S. (2025). Enhanced agricultural land use/land cover classification in the Nile Delta using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data and machine learning. ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, 209, 282–296.

Maze, M., Attaher, S., Taqi, M. O., Elsawy, R., Gad El-Moula, M. M. H., Hashem, F. A., & Moussa, A. S. (2025, February 17). Exploring diverse AI models for enhanced land use and land cover classification in the Nile Delta, Egypt using Sentinel-based data [Preprint]. Preprints.

Salah, M., Maze, M., & Tonbol, K. (2024). Intersecting vulnerabilities: Climate justice, gender inequality, and COVID-19’s impact on rural women in Egypt. Multidisciplinary Adaptive Climate Insights, 1(2), 1041–1058.

Maze, M., Taqi, M. O., Tolba, R., Abdel-Wareth, A. A. A., & Lohakare, J. (2024). Estimation of methane greenhouse gas emissions from livestock in Egypt during 1989 to 2021. Scientific Reports, 14, 12345.

Hijazi, O., Schoo, D., Schweiger, A., Maze, M., & Bernhardt, H. (2023). Comparative life cycle assessment of FarmBot technology with conventional and organic agriculture. In Proceedings of the 2023 ASABE Annual International Meeting (Paper No. 2300749). American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.

Sara Naccour | Oncology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Sara Naccour | Oncology | Women Researcher Award

PhD Student at Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria

Sara Naccour is a highly motivated researcher and computer scientist whose expertise lies at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and biomedical applications. With a strong foundation in applied mathematics and computer science, she has advanced into research in machine learning with a specialized focus on oncology within the field of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) medicine. Her academic journey has been marked by excellence, as she successfully transitioned from theoretical and applied mathematics to computer science, and then into biomedical machine learning applications. Sara’s research contributions demonstrate her commitment to bridging computational sciences and healthcare, with the ultimate goal of improving cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Sara’s academic path began with an early immersion in mathematics, which shaped her analytical and problem-solving mindset. She completed undergraduate and graduate studies in mathematics, focusing on both fundamental theories and applied aspects. Building upon this solid base, she pursued computer science, where she developed technical skills in programming, software engineering, and system design. Her multidisciplinary knowledge enabled her to understand the complexities of both abstract theory and practical application. Eventually, she advanced to doctoral research, where she specialized in machine learning with applications to ENT oncology. This progression reflects her unique trajectory of integrating mathematics, computing, and medical sciences, which has positioned her as a researcher capable of developing innovative computational models with real-world healthcare applications.

Experience

Sara has gained extensive professional experience that bridges academic excellence with industry-level challenges, contributing to diverse software development projects such as a banking management system built with HTML, CSS, PHP, and MySQL alongside a customer-focused Android application, a user-centered travel agency website interface, and an airline reservation system integrating Java and SQLite. Her technical adaptability and collaborative approach are further complemented by her role as a senior project manager, where she has led teams, managed resources, and aligned technical solutions with organizational goals. This unique combination of hands-on software engineering and leadership in project management reflects her ability to balance academic innovation with practical execution.

Research Focus

Sara’s primary research focuses on applying machine learning to ENT oncology, where she explores how computational intelligence can support early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment optimization for head and neck cancers by leveraging statistical modeling, pattern recognition, and advanced computational methods to detect subtle medical data patterns that aid clinical decision-making. Alongside her biomedical research, she maintains strong academic interests in mathematics, with her master’s thesis addressing eigenvalue problems of the Laplacian operator on manifolds with foliated boundaries, advancing the field of geometric analysis. She has also pursued advanced training in partial differential equations (PDEs), covering parabolic and hyperbolic equations, biological applications, and hyperbolic systems in applied sciences, a mathematical foundation that continues to reinforce the theoretical depth and rigor of her computational models in oncology research.

Publication Top Note

Title: Machine Learning-Based Classification of Cervical Lymph Nodes in HNSCC: A Radiomics Approach with Feature Selection Optimization
Authors: Sara Naccour; Assaad Moawad; Matthias Santer; Daniel Dejaco; Wolfgang Freysinger
Summary: This article introduces a radiomics-based machine learning framework to classify cervical lymph nodes in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Using optimized feature selection, the model enhances diagnostic accuracy and reduces redundancy in imaging data, providing a non-invasive decision-support tool for oncology treatment planning.

Conclusion

In summary, Sara Naccour is a dynamic researcher and professional who has successfully integrated mathematics, computer science, and machine learning into the biomedical domain. Her academic and professional trajectory reflects a rare blend of theoretical depth, technical expertise, and practical application, particularly in the area of ENT oncology. Through her research, she contributes not only to advancing computational methods but also to improving patient care by bringing innovative machine learning solutions into medical practice. Her ability to balance interdisciplinary knowledge, leadership in project management, and continuous professional development makes her a highly deserving candidate for recognition through this award.

Éva Ács | Hydrobiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Éva Ács | Hydrobiology | Best Researcher Award

Research Professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary

Dr. Éva Ács is a research professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary, specializing in aquatic ecology with particular expertise in benthic diatoms, phytobenthos, and water quality assessment. With an established career in research, teaching, and consultancy, she has played a pivotal role in advancing algology, aquatic monitoring, and applied water management. Her contributions span taxonomy, ecology, and applied environmental sciences, positioning her as a leading figure in both national and international research networks. She has collaborated widely with academic institutions, environmental authorities, and international organizations, contributing to innovations that directly support ecological monitoring and sustainable water resource management.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID

Education

Dr. Ács pursued higher education in the natural sciences, where her interest in aquatic ecosystems and microscopic algae laid the foundation for her career. Her academic formation centered on algology, aquatic ecology, and diatom taxonomy, equipping her with both theoretical insights and practical methodologies essential for water quality assessment. Her scholarly development was strongly influenced by interdisciplinary training, where she combined morphology and molecular approaches to study diatoms. Throughout her academic journey, she strengthened her expertise in phytobenthos research and bioindication methods, which later became central to her scientific contributions. Her education was not only a preparation for research but also a gateway to mentoring and teaching the next generation of scientists, a responsibility she continues to uphold.

Professional Experience

As a research professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Dr. Ács has combined academic teaching with extensive research activity. She has contributed to numerous national and international projects, including the Széchenyi Plan Plus program and the National Laboratory for Water Science and Water Security. Her expertise has also been sought in consultancy projects supporting river basin management and ecological monitoring, such as the development of modular sensor systems for water quality assessment and investigations into the effects of cavitation on aquatic organisms. Her professional journey reflects a balance between theoretical ecology and applied science, ensuring that her work benefits both academic advancement and real-world water management. Additionally, she has provided guidance as a mentor and educator, building research capacity in aquatic ecology and algology within Hungary and beyond.

Research Focus

The central theme of Dr. Ács’s research is aquatic ecology, with a focus on benthic diatoms and phytobenthos. Her studies have advanced understanding of diatom taxonomy, morphology, and molecular identification, which are critical for accurate ecological monitoring. She has significantly contributed to the development of ecological quality assessment methods for surface waters, particularly in the framework of the European Union’s Water Framework Directive. Her research integrates algal ecology with applied water management, offering practical bioindication tools for environmental authorities. In addition, she has engaged in international collaborations, including research with NASA on the Licancabur Project, which investigated extreme environments and diatom diversity. Her innovative approach bridges fundamental science and applied solutions, strengthening the role of ecological monitoring in conservation and water policy.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Intermittency as an Environmental Filter: Diatom Traits and Water Quality Indicators in a Hydrodynamic Context
Authors: Alexander G. Rusanov; Zsuzsa Trábert; Keve T. Kiss; János L. Korponai; Mikhail Y. Kolobov; Tibor Bíró; Edit Vadkerti; Éva Ács
Summary: Examines how hydrological intermittency filters diatom traits and water quality indicators. Highlights their value for bioassessment in variable aquatic systems.

Title: Integration of Morphology‐Based and Molecular Techniques to Study the Most Significant Diatom Order (Thalassiosirales) of Phytoplankton in the River Danube
Authors: Éva Ács; János László Korponai; Keve Tihamér Kiss; Tibor Bíró; Mónika Duleba; István Grigorszky; József Szekeres; Edit Vadkerti; Imre Somlyai
Summary: Combines morphology and molecular methods to study Thalassiosirales in the Danube. Improves taxonomy and ecological monitoring accuracy.

Title: Proficiency Testing and Cross-Laboratory Method Comparison to Support Standardisation of Diatom DNA Metabarcoding for Freshwater Biomonitoring
Authors: Valentin Vasselon; Sinziana F. Rivera; Éva Ács; Salomé F.P. Almeida; Karl B. Andree; Laure Apothéloz-Perret-Gentil; Bonnie Bailet; Ana Baričević; Kevin K. Beentjes; Juliane Bettig et al.
Summary: Presents cross-laboratory tests for diatom DNA metabarcoding. Supports standardization and strengthens freshwater biomonitoring practices.

Title: Diatom Metacommunity Structuring in a Large Lake: Geomorphic, Water Chemistry and Dispersal Effects on Diatom Guilds in Lake Ladoga (North-Western Russia)
Authors: Alexander G. Rusanov; Evgeny A. Kurashov; Anna M. Rasulova; Tibor Bíró; Edit Vadkerti; Éva Ács
Summary: Analyzes geomorphic, chemical, and dispersal effects on diatoms in Lake Ladoga. Reveals guild-specific ecological responses in large lakes.

Conclusion

Dr. Éva Ács exemplifies the integration of academic excellence, applied research, and international collaboration. Her pioneering work in benthic diatom ecology, taxonomy, and ecological assessment has provided essential tools for water quality monitoring and environmental management. With an impressive publication record, extensive project leadership, and commitment to mentoring, she has influenced both policy and practice in aquatic ecology. Her editorial contributions and professional memberships further demonstrate her dedication to strengthening the scientific community. In recognition of her achievements and her impact on both fundamental and applied aquatic sciences, Dr. Ács is a distinguished nominee for the Best Researcher Award  of the Zoology Honour Awards.