Nor El Houda Bourkaib | Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Nor El Houda Bourkaib | Environment | Best Researcher Award

PHD at Ecole Nationale Polytechnique, Algeria.

Norelhouda Bourkaib is a passionate Ph.D. student in Environmental Engineering with a specialization in green chemistry and renewable materials; her research centers on the epoxidation of waste cooking oils to develop eco-friendly biobased products; skilled in experimental design, statistical modeling, and chemical analysis, she integrates sustainability with scientific innovation to address environmental and industrial challenges; her publication in the International Journal of Environmental Studies reflects her commitment to impactful, data-driven research; she exhibits strong critical thinking, independence in scientific inquiry, and a dedication to waste valorization through green methodologies.

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🎓 Education 

She earned her diploma in Environmental Engineering from Ecole Nationale Polytechnique (Algiers) with rigorous academic training in sustainable technologies, environmental systems, and chemical process engineering; her curriculum emphasized green chemistry principles, analytical methods, and statistical optimization; her doctoral research expands upon this foundation by applying experimental design and data science tools (R, Python) to chemical valorization processes; she demonstrates a strong theoretical base combined with practical research experience in environmentally focused innovation and chemical transformation.

💼 Experience 

Since 2017, she has been conducting independent research as a Ph.D. scholar, leading a project on the epoxidation of waste cooking oil using peracid chemistry; she designed and executed lab experiments, optimized conditions using DoE in R, analyzed products via titration and FTIR, and successfully published her findings in an international peer-reviewed journal; her work spans full-cycle research—from literature review and lab work to data interpretation and academic writing—showcasing her problem-solving ability, project ownership, and commitment to sustainable chemical solutions.

 🏆Awards and Honors

While no formal awards are listed, her published article in a respected international journal highlights her academic recognition; her research has been commended for applying a statistical, reproducible approach to biobased epoxide synthesis; her commitment to scientific excellence and environmental sustainability is evident through her innovative application of experimental design, making her a promising scholar in green chemistry and waste valorization with the potential for future honors and academic distinction.

🔬Research Focus

Her core research lies in the valorization of used cooking oils through epoxidation processes aimed at generating sustainable, biobased materials for industrial use; she applies statistical methods like design of experiments (DoE) and software tools such as R to optimize reaction parameters; the work includes synthesis using peracids, product characterization using titration and FTIR, and method validation; her research contributes to circular economy principles by converting waste into high-value materials, aligning with global sustainability and green chemistry goals.

🌟Conclusion

Norel Houda Bourkaib shows strong potential as an impactful environmental researcher with a clear dedication to sustainable innovation. Her research is original, socially relevant, and technically sound. While still early in her academic journey, her work already reflects a high level of scientific maturity. With further development in terms of publication volume, international engagement, and industry interaction, she is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award and is well on her way to becoming a leader in green chemistry and environmental sustainability.

📝Publications 

Title: Recycling used cooking oil into a biobased epoxide by experimental design using R
Year: 2025
Authors: N. El Houda Bourkaib, R. Irinislimane, N. Belhaneche-Bensemra

Title: Experimental Design and Kinetics Study of Epoxidized Used Cooking Oil Using R
Year: 2025
Author: N. El Houda Bourkaib

Mohamed Fawaz FAWZER | Urban Water Management | Best Researcher Award

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Mr.Mohamed Fawaz FAWZER | Urban Water Management | Best Researcher Award

PhD student,Western Sydney University

Fawaz Fawzer is a dedicated researcher and chemical & environmental engineer specializing in water and wastewater treatment. Currently pursuing a PhD at Western Sydney University, he focuses on bacterial regrowth in chemically disinfected drinking water. With hands-on experience in process engineering, research, and academia, he has contributed to the design and optimization of water treatment systems. Fawaz has worked as a Research Assistant, Tutor, and Demonstrator, guiding students in laboratory experiments and theoretical studies. His professional background includes roles in pharmaceutical process engineering and industry-focused water treatment research. Passionate about sustainable solutions, he combines technical expertise with practical applications to address real-world water challenges.

profile

Scholar

Education 

Fawaz is currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Engineering at Western Sydney University (2024–Present), focusing on bacterial regrowth in chlorinated drinking water. He holds an MPhil in Civil & Environmental Engineering (2021–2023) from the same institution, where he investigated bacterial survival in primary and secondary chlorinated water. His undergraduate degree is a BSc (Hons) in Chemical & Process Engineering (2013–2017) from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. Additionally, he completed an Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting (2012–2013) from the Chartered Institute of Accountants (CIMA), UK, strengthening his expertise in financial and project management within engineering contexts.

Experience 

Fawaz has been a Research Assistant, Tutor, and Demonstrator at Western Sydney University (2021–Present), mentoring students and supporting research on smart chloraminated pilot plants. Since 2019, he has worked at Krispy Kreme Australia, managing production optimization and product formulations. Previously, he was a Project Process Engineer (2017–2019) at Premium International Technologies, Sri Lanka, contributing to large-scale pharmaceutical projects, designing process systems, and ensuring regulatory compliance. He also gained experience as an Engineering Trainee (2015–2016) at Premium International (Pvt) Ltd., Sri Lanka, assisting in conceptual design for manufacturing facilities and conducting feasibility studies.

Awards & Honors 

Fawaz has been recognized for his contributions to environmental engineering and water research. His work on bacterial regrowth in chlorinated drinking water has received academic and industry appreciation. He was awarded a Research Excellence Grant from Western Sydney University for his innovative studies in water treatment. Additionally, he received a Best Paper Presentation Award for his publication on chlorine decay in bulk water microbes. His contributions to process engineering projects earned him an Outstanding Project Engineer Award during his tenure at Premium International Technologies. His technical proficiency and commitment to sustainability have made him a recipient of multiple scholarships and research funding opportunities.

Research Focus 

Fawaz’s research primarily revolves around water and wastewater treatment, bacterial regrowth in chemically disinfected drinking water, and chlorine decay dynamics. His PhD work examines microbial survival in chlorinated water systems to enhance disinfection strategies. His previous studies have compared primary and secondary chlorination for bacterial control, providing insights into improving water quality management. Additionally, he explores smart water grids, process optimization in water treatment plants, and advanced water quality modeling. His research contributes to sustainable and efficient water management solutions, aiming to reduce contamination risks and enhance public health safety.

Conclusion

Fawaz Fawzer is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with expertise in water treatment, academic mentorship, and industry applications. Strengthening his publication record and research funding could further solidify his position as a leading researcher.

Publication

Title: Bulk Water Microbes Could Accelerate Chlorine Decay at Low Chlorine Concentrations
Year: 2025
Authors: MF Fawzer, G Kastl, KC Bal Krishna, I Fisher, A Sathasivan
Citation: Fawzer, M. F., Kastl, G., Bal Krishna, K. C., Fisher, I., & Sathasivan, A. (2025). Bulk Water Microbes Could Accelerate Chlorine Decay at Low Chlorine Concentrations. Water, 17(5), 624.

Sherine Farouk | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

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Prof Sherine Farouk | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Prof SherineFarouk, Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates

Prof. Sherine Farouk is a distinguished Full Professor of Accounting at Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates. With over 20 years of experience in academia and leadership, she has held key positions, including Associate Provost for Internationalization and Assistant Provost for Academic Projects. Her expertise spans managerial accounting, corporate governance, sustainability, and financial decision-making.

Prof. Farouk holds a Ph.D. in Accounting from London Metropolitan University, UK, and has published extensively in Scopus and ISI-indexed journals. She has received numerous accolades, including the Best Paper Award and the Emerald Literati Award for her contributions to research. As a global academic leader, she actively fosters international collaborations, student success initiatives, and research excellence.

Publication Profile

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Education

Prof. Cherine A. A. El Kaftangui holds a Ph.D. in Accounting with a specialization in Managerial Accounting from London Metropolitan University, Business School, United Kingdom (2002-2006). Her doctoral research focused on evaluating management accounting practices as a strategic accounting tool for Egyptian manufacturing organizations. She earned her MBA in Managerial Accounting from the Arab Academy for Science & Technology (1997-1999), where she developed a methodological framework for inventory management benchmarking. She also holds a B.Com. in Accounting from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia (1989-1992), graduating with excellence and honors.

Professional Experience

With over 20 years of experience in academia, Prof. El Kaftangui is currently a Full Professor of Accounting at Abu Dhabi University. She has held various leadership positions, including Associate Provost for Internationalization (2022-present), Assistant Provost for Academic Projects (2014-2022), and Associate Dean of Enrollment and Student Success (2019-present). Her contributions extend to chairing major international conferences, developing internationalization strategies, fostering global partnerships, and implementing retention and student success initiatives. She has also served as the Chair/Coordinator of the Accounting Department (2009-2018) and the Director of the Undergraduate Student Research Program (2011-2014).

Skills and Expertise

Prof. El Kaftangui possesses extensive experience in academic leadership, internationalization, strategic planning, financial management, and program development. Her expertise includes curriculum design, accreditation processes, university global rankings, student retention strategies, assurance of learning, and faculty development. She is known for her visionary leadership, crisis management skills, collaborative approach, and commitment to academic excellence. Additionally, she has been instrumental in developing research centers, industry-academia collaboration programs, and innovative student engagement initiatives.

Research Focus

Prof. El Kaftangui’s research spans managerial accounting, financial accounting, corporate governance, capital structure, cost accounting, organizational performance, sustainability, and innovation. She has published extensively in ISI/Scopus-indexed journals, contributing to high-impact research in green accounting, financial decision-making, and international business. Her research impact is reflected in her Google Scholar citation indices, with an h-index of 16 and over 1,700 citations. Her studies on sustainable business practices, corporate social responsibility, and financial strategy have been recognized for their academic and practical significance.

Awards and Recognition

Prof. El Kaftangui has received numerous accolades, including the Best Paper of the Year – Environmental Geotechnics Prize (2023) from the Institute of Civil Engineers for her research on sustainable geotechnics practices. She was awarded the Emerald Literati Award (2019) for her outstanding research on ethical climate, corporate social responsibility, and organizational performance. She has also been recognized with the Abu Dhabi University Distinguished Faculty Award (2015-16) for her exceptional contributions to teaching, research, and service. Furthermore, her research has consistently ranked in the Top Ten Downloads on SSRN in various academic disciplines.

 

Publication Top Notes

Determinants of organizational performance: a proposed framework

Knowledge sharing enablers, processes and firm innovation capability

HRM practices and organizational performance in the UAE banking sector: The mediating role of organizational innovation

Total quality management practices and corporate sustainable development in manufacturing companies: the mediating role of green innovation

Green accounting and management for sustainable manufacturing in developing countries

Examining the capital structure determinants: empirical analysis of companies traded on Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange

Strategy and management accounting practices alignment and its effect on organizational performance

Ethical climate, corporate social responsibility and organizational performance: evidence from the UAE public sector

A Review of Human Resource Accounting and Organizational Performance

Determinants of innovation decisions among Emirati female-owned small and medium enterprises

Conclusion

She is highly suitable for the award, especially if it recognizes research impact, academic leadership, and contributions to women in academia. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations and expanding research in STEM-related areas could further enhance her qualifications for broader research awards.