Mohamed Fawaz FAWZER | Urban Water Management | Best Researcher Award

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.

Maja Petrovic | Wastewater | Best Researcher Award

Dr Maja Petrovic | Wastewater | Best Researcher Award

Dr Maja Petrovic, University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Serbia

Maja Petrovic, PhD, is an esteemed Serbian environmental engineer specializing in environmental and occupational safety. Born on December 22, 1980, she is married and holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Novi Sad, where she has also earned her Master’s degree. As an Associate Professor at the same institution, Dr. Petrovic leads research and educational initiatives in environmental monitoring and safety. She has extensive experience in ISO auditing and is a recognized expert in managing accredited laboratories. Her diverse roles span from teaching and research to consulting on international projects, reflecting her commitment to advancing environmental and occupational health standards globally.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience:
    • Maja Petrovic has a robust research background in environmental engineering, evidenced by her involvement in numerous projects from 2008 to present. Her work includes significant projects such as the implementation of new analytical methods for water quality and waste management, as well as international collaborations (e.g., RECETOX, IPA Project).
  2. Diverse Expertise and Multidisciplinary Approach:
    • Her research spans various aspects of environmental engineering, including wastewater management, landfill monitoring, and air pollution. This diversity indicates a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and a multidisciplinary approach to solving them.
  3. Strong Educational Foundation:
    • She holds a Master’s and PhD in Environmental Engineering from the Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad. Her additional qualifications, including various ISO certifications, enhance her expertise and practical knowledge in environmental management systems.
  4. Leadership and Management:
    • As the head of an accredited laboratory, she has demonstrated leadership and management skills. Her role includes coordinating quality management and overseeing the entire laboratory process, highlighting her capability in maintaining high standards and efficiency.
  5. Significant Contributions to Publications:
    • Petrovic has authored or co-authored multiple research papers in reputable journals, reflecting a strong record of scholarly contributions. Her publications cover a range of topics from health risk assessments to environmental monitoring, underscoring her research impact.
  6. Professional Engagement and Recognition:
    • Membership in professional bodies and her role on editorial boards indicate active engagement in her field. Her involvement in these roles shows a commitment to advancing the field of environmental engineering.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Outreach:
    • While her research is comprehensive, enhancing the dissemination of findings to a wider audience, including policymakers and the general public, could increase the broader impact of her work.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • Although she has worked on multidisciplinary projects, further collaboration with fields outside environmental engineering could provide new perspectives and innovative solutions to complex environmental problems.
  3. Research Funding and Grants:
    • Details regarding her success in obtaining research funding or grants are not provided. Securing significant research grants or funding could bolster her research capabilities and further establish her reputation.
  4. Quantifiable Outcomes and Metrics:
    • Providing more specific metrics or quantifiable outcomes of her projects could strengthen her application. For example, including data on the impact of her research on policy changes or environmental improvements would be beneficial.
  5. Teaching and Mentorship Contributions:
    • While her role in education is mentioned, highlighting specific achievements in teaching or mentorship, such as the number of students mentored or innovative teaching methods, could add depth to her profile.

Education

Dr. Maja Petrovic completed her Master of Science in Environmental Engineering in 2007 and a PhD in the same field in 2017, both from the Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad. Her additional qualifications include certifications as an EMS Auditor, OH&S Management Systems Auditor, QMS Auditor, and CSR Lead Auditor from LRQA and Intertek. She is also a technical evaluator for ISO 17025, certified by the Accreditation Body of Serbia. This extensive educational background supports her role as an Associate Professor and head of the accredited Laboratory for Environmental and Occupational Monitoring at the University of Novi Sad.

Experience

Dr. Maja Petrovic’s career spans over a decade of academic and practical expertise in environmental engineering. Starting as a research scholarship holder at the University of Novi Sad, she advanced to roles including Teaching Assistant, Assistant Professor, and Associate Professor. Her current role also involves managing an accredited laboratory for environmental monitoring. Additionally, Dr. Petrovic serves as an external lead auditor for ISO standards and a trainer for various professional organizations. Her involvement in numerous international and local projects highlights her significant contributions to environmental and occupational safety, making her a key figure in her field.

Research Focus

Dr. Maja Petrovic’s research focuses on environmental monitoring, waste management, and occupational health. Her work involves the development and implementation of analytical methods for assessing pollution and improving environmental safety. Notable projects include the analysis of landfill leachate, air pollution studies, and wastewater quality assessments. Her research also addresses emerging pollutants and their impact on both environmental and human health. By integrating new technologies and methodologies, Dr. Petrovic aims to enhance environmental protection and occupational safety, contributing valuable insights and solutions to complex environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Maja Petrovic is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her extensive research experience, educational background, leadership roles, and contributions to scientific literature showcase her significant impact in the field of environmental engineering. To enhance her application, she might focus on expanding her research’s broader impact, seeking interdisciplinary collaborations, and providing more detailed metrics on her research outcomes. Overall, her achievements position her as a strong contender for the award, reflecting a high level of expertise and dedication to advancing environmental engineering.