Jin Guo | Environment and Resource Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jin Guo – Environment and Resource Management – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Guo’s work demonstrates a high level of innovation, relevance, and practical applicability, aligning perfectly with the Best Researcher Award category. His contributions to environmental data science, sustainable land use, and ecological modeling position him as a leading researcher in the interdisciplinary domain of environmental sustainability.

School of Business, Henan Normal University | China

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Guo Jin’s academic journey reflects a robust foundation in interdisciplinary studies. Beginning with a bachelor’s degree in economics, Dr. Guo quickly expanded his scope by earning a master’s in logistics engineering and a doctorate in surveying science and technology. His diverse educational background spanning economics, engineering, and environmental science illustrates his commitment to blending disciplines. This multidimensional knowledge base laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to environment and resource management, positioning him uniquely in tackling multifaceted global sustainability issues.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Currently a faculty member at the School of Business, Henan Normal University, Dr. Guo has continuously engaged in research that bridges ecological science with statistical analysis. His professional career has been defined by the integration of academic insight with real-world environmental concerns. One of his standout methodologies involves the combination of remote sensing technology and social statistics to assess land use efficiency. This technique significantly enhances the robustness and objectivity of ecological evaluations by mitigating human bias and incorporating both natural and social-economic indicators.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Environment and Resource Management

Dr. Guo’s primary research focus lies in environment and resource management, with special emphasis on water resource management, ecological security, and sustainable development in arid and semi-arid regions. His innovative approach to modeling ecological security patterns—especially through changes in vegetation evapotranspiration—provides a dynamic view of how natural ecosystems respond to anthropogenic influences. This model has become an essential tool in understanding human-environment interactions and shaping responsive environmental policies. By integrating night light remote sensing data with GDP figures, Dr. Guo developed a scientifically sound method for measuring land use efficiency. This methodological contribution offers more feasible and policy-relevant insights compared to traditional models, marking a leap forward in environmental resource analysis.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Guo’s scholarly output includes high-impact publications such as his 2025 paper in Scientific Reports, titled “Spatial-temporal characteristics and drivers of urban built-up areas land low-carbon efficiency in China.” This peer-reviewed study exemplifies the intersection of statistical science and environmental assessment, cementing Dr. Guo’s reputation as a thought leader in his field. Though he has not yet accumulated patents or book publications, his research has been widely cited and discussed in academic circles. His current membership in the Henan Emergency Management Society reflects his ongoing commitment to applying scientific research for societal and ecological benefit.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Guo’s work is notable for its direct implications on environmental planning and policy-making. His data-driven frameworks for low-carbon efficiency and ecological security modeling have influenced regional planning strategies, especially in areas prone to resource stress. By introducing remote-sensing-enabled solutions into mainstream environmental research, Dr. Guo has empowered policymakers with tools for accurate, unbiased assessment and management of natural resources.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Guo’s interdisciplinary approach and scientific rigor are setting the stage for a new generation of environmental research. His ongoing commitment to merging remote sensing, economics, and ecological data modeling provides a blueprint for sustainable development strategies that are both scalable and adaptive. Looking ahead, Dr. Guo aims to expand his research to include climate change adaptation models, as well as collaborative international projects on eco-economic resilience. His legacy will likely be defined by his pioneering methods that bridge technology and ecology in service of long-term resource sustainability.

Conclusion

Dr. Guo Jin stands out as a dedicated researcher and innovator in the field of environment and resource management. With a uniquely interdisciplinary background and a strong vision for sustainability, his work continues to leave a lasting impact on academic research and environmental governance.

📚Publications

Spatial-temporal characteristics and drivers of urban built-up areas land low-carbon efficiency in China

 Authors: J., Guo, Jin, P., Feng, Pengfei, H., Xue, Han, J., Xue, Jinli

Journals: Scientific Reports

Liu Jiaying | biological diversity | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Liu Jiaying  – biological diversity – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Liu Jiaying’s groundbreaking research achievements, innovative methodologies, and commitment to biodiversity and conservation make her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions align perfectly with the award’s focus on innovation, impact, and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge for societal benefit.

 

Jimei University | China

 

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Liu Jiaying, an Associate Professor and Ph.D. holder at the Fisheries College of Jimei University, has made remarkable strides in the fields of biodiversity and conservation, fisheries policy, and fisheries economy and management. Her extensive academic and research pursuits, coupled with her impactful contributions to environmental sustainability, have established her as a distinguished figure in the global scientific community.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

As an Associate Professor at the Fisheries College of Jimei University, Dr. Liu Jiaying combines teaching, research, and mentorship to advance knowledge in her field. Her role extends beyond academia, as she collaborates with local and international organizations to develop policies and strategies for sustainable fisheries management. Dr. Liu’s work is particularly influential in Xiamen, China, where she has contributed to the understanding of marine biodiversity and the socio-economic aspects of fisheries management. Her professional endeavors reflect a commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and practical policy implementation.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on biological diversity

Dr. Liu Jiaying’s research interests span biodiversity and conservation, fisheries policy, and the economic and managerial aspects of sustainable fisheries. Her major research achievements highlight her expertise:

  1. Illegal Trade and Management Strategies in Protected Aquatic Wildlife
    In the 2025 publication “Exploring Illegal Trade and Management Strategies in Protected Aquatic Wildlife in Xiamen, China” (Water, 17(3), 305), Dr. Liu and her team analyzed the illegal trade of aquatic wildlife, proposing actionable management strategies to combat the issue and protect biodiversity.
  2. Species Diversity in Xiamen Bay
    Dr. Liu has contributed significantly to documenting the biodiversity of Xiamen Bay. Her 2023 study, “The Species Diversity of the Genus Echinogorgia in Xiamen Bay and Its New Record in China” (Water, 15(20), 3547), introduced newly recorded species and enriched the understanding of marine biodiversity in the region.
  3. Spatial Distribution and Coral Diversity
    Another notable achievement is her 2022 publication, “Revealing the Coral Species Diversity in Xiamen Bay: Spatial Distribution of Genus Astrogorgia (Cnidaria, Alcyonacea, Plexauridae) and Newly Recorded Species” (Water, 14(15), 2417), where she revealed the spatial distribution and diversity of coral species, underscoring the ecological significance of the genus Astrogorgia.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Liu Jiaying’s work has earned widespread recognition, both in China and internationally. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Water have been lauded for their innovative approaches and practical implications. As a thought leader in biodiversity conservation and fisheries management, she has been invited to present her findings at global conferences and has received commendations for her efforts in sustainable development.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Liu’s research has had a profound impact on marine biodiversity conservation and fisheries management. By documenting new species and assessing the ecological health of aquatic ecosystems, she has provided invaluable insights for policymakers and environmentalists. Her studies on the illegal trade of protected aquatic wildlife have influenced regulatory frameworks, contributing to the preservation of endangered species. Dr. Liu’s interdisciplinary approach has also fostered collaborations between academia, government, and industry, amplifying the reach and applicability of her work.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Liu Jiaying is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of biodiversity and fisheries management. Her ongoing research focuses on developing circular and sustainable solutions to address the challenges of marine ecosystem degradation. As a mentor and educator, she continues to inspire the next generation of researchers and policymakers to prioritize environmental conservation. Looking ahead, Dr. Liu aims to expand her research to include global comparisons of marine biodiversity, furthering our understanding of ecological interconnections and promoting international cooperation.

Conclusion

Dr. Liu Jiaying’s dedication to biodiversity conservation, fisheries policy, and sustainable management underscores her pivotal role in addressing critical ecological issues. Through her academic pursuits, professional endeavors, and impactful research, she has made significant contributions to environmental science and policy. As she continues her work, Dr. Liu’s influence will undoubtedly extend to shaping a more sustainable future for marine ecosystems worldwide.

📚Publications

Exploring Illegal Trade and Management Strategies in Protected Aquatic Wildlife in Xiamen, China

Authors: Jia-Ying Liu; Jia-Qiao Wang; Yi-Jia Shih; Cheng-Ye Wu; Ta-Jen Chu

Knowledge Mapping of the Development Trend of Smart Fisheries in China: A Bibliometric Analysis

Authors: Qiu-Yuan Qin; Jia-Ying Liu; Yong-He Chen; Xin-Ruo Wang; Ta-Jen Chu

The Species Diversity of the Genus Echinogorgia in Xiamen Bay and Its New Record in China

Authors: Yun-Pei Wang; Jing Yang; Ta-Jen Chu; Jia-Ying Liu

Revealing the Gene Diversity and Candidate Gene Family for Adaption to Environment Depth in Leucosiid Crabs Comparing the Transcriptome Assembly

Authors: Yi-Jia Shih; Yin-Ming Yang; Si-Te Luo; Jia-Ying Liu

Revealing the Coral Species Diversity in Xiamen Bay: Spatial Distribution of Genus Astrogorgia (Cnidaria, Alcyonacea, Plexauridae) and Newly Recorded Species

Authors: Jiaying Liu

Zulaikha Mokhtar | Environmental Challenges | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Zulaikha Mokhtar  – Environmental Challenges  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s research and professional contributions align seamlessly with the Best Researcher Award’s emphasis on innovation, impact, and sustainability. Her work demonstrates a commitment to advancing both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental engineering, making her a strong contender for this recognition.

Department of Environment| Malaysia

         Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s journey into the field of chemical engineering began with a strong academic foundation. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Putra, Malaysia, where she developed a keen interest in environmental compliance and industrial process optimization. Her pursuit of excellence continued with a Master of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering from The University of Queensland, Australia, where her research focused on advanced environmental engineering solutions. This robust educational background laid the groundwork for her dynamic career in regulatory compliance and sustainability initiatives.

 

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Zulaikha’s career is marked by impactful roles in the Department of Environment, Malaysia:

  1. Senior Assistant Director, Legal and Forensics (2021 – Present):
    • Spearheaded forensic strategies and policies to strengthen investigative capabilities.
    • Designed and conducted capacity-building programs, equipping officers with skills in environmental law enforcement.
    • Developed comprehensive SOPs for forensic investigations, ensuring regulatory compliance.
  2. Senior Assistant Director, Environmental Compliance (2021 – 2024):
    • Reduced environmental non-compliance incidents through proactive initiatives.
    • Implemented advanced effluent management technologies and directed environmental impact assessments to align with national and international standards.
    • Collaborated with stakeholders to champion sustainability goals in alignment with Malaysia’s environmental commitments.
  3. Head of Prosecution Division (2013 – 2021):
    • Played a pivotal role in prosecuting 4,825 cases with a remarkable 98.7% conviction rate.
    • Assessed industries for regulatory compliance and improved enforcement outcomes significantly.
  4. Head of Enforcement Division (2010 – 2013):
    • Investigated public complaints and resolved pollution control issues.
    • Maintained an industry compliance rate of 98.6% and ensured timely complaint investigations.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Environmental Challenges

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s career reflects a steadfast commitment to addressing environmental challenges: Effluent Management: She has pioneered the adoption of innovative effluent management technologies, optimizing resource efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance. Regulatory Leadership: Her expertise in environmental stewardship and legal enforcement has led to landmark prosecutions that reinforce Malaysia’s regulatory excellence. Capacity Building: Through training and development initiatives, she has empowered teams across Malaysia to effectively implement environmental regulations and forensic analyses. Research and Innovation: Zulaikha’s work bridges academia and practice, focusing on developing scalable, sustainable solutions for industrial and environmental challenges.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Zulaikha’s dedication and excellence have been widely recognized: 2021: Excellence Service Award for the year of Service 2020. 2021: Special Appreciation from the Ministry of Environment and Water for prosecution under Section 124K, SOSMA. 2013 & 2017: Certificates of Appreciation from the Environmental Institute of Malaysia for her contributions to training programs. 2003: Education Award for JPA Scholarship for her degree program. 2022: HLP Kenal Pasti (Federal Training Scholarship) for her Master of Philosophy.

 

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Zulaikha’s leadership has had a transformative effect on Malaysia’s environmental landscape: Strengthened Enforcement: Her efforts have enhanced regulatory compliance and reduced industrial environmental violations. Prosecutorial Excellence: Her work in prosecuting environmental violations has set new benchmarks for legal enforcement in Malaysia. Sustainability Advocacy: By promoting sustainability practices across industries, she has contributed to Malaysia’s environmental stewardship goals.

 

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s legacy lies in her relentless pursuit of environmental excellence. As a trailblazer in chemical engineering and environmental compliance, she has set a high standard for future professionals. Her vision for scalable and innovative solutions ensures that her work will continue to inspire generations to address environmental challenges. Moving forward, Zulaikha aims to further her impact by leveraging her expertise to drive global sustainability initiatives and mentor the next generation of environmental engineers.

 

Conclusion

Zulaikha Mokhtar (P.Eng, MIEM, ACPE, MIEAust CPeng) stands out as a dynamic force in chemical engineering and environmental compliance. Her career is a testament to the power of expertise, innovation, and leadership in addressing critical environmental challenges. By championing sustainability and regulatory excellence, Zulaikha exemplifies the spirit of the Environmental Challenges Award and inspires global action toward a sustainable future.

 

📚Publications

Challenges for Compliance with Industrial Effluent Regulations—An Industry Perspective

Authors: Zulaikha Mokhtar; Steven Kenway; Irdayanti Mat Nashir
Journals: Challenges

<b>Review of Malaysia&apos;s Environmental Waterways&apos; Compliance with Industrial Effluent Discharge </b> <br/> <br/>

Authors: Zulaikha Mokhtar
Journals: Science Open Preprints

José-María Montero | Sustainability, Enviroment and air quality | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. José-María Montero | Sustainability, Enviroment and air quality | Best Researcher Award

University of Castilla-La Mancha - Spain

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Early Academic Pursuits:

Dr. José-María Montero's academic journey began with a deep-rooted interest in statistical methodologies. Graduating with distinction in Statistics from Castile-La Mancha University, his foundational research in the late 1980s laid the groundwork for his pioneering career.

Professional Endeavors:

his swiftly ascended the academic ladder, assuming diverse roles that shaped the landscape of statistical analysis. He led several groundbreaking research projects funded by prestigious institutions, such as the Spanish Institute of Meteorology and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Spain. His directorship in studies like "The Impact of Meteorology on the Spanish Economy" and "Statistical Methodology for Qualitative Data Analysis" demonstrated his multidisciplinary expertise.

Contributions and Research Focus:

His contributions transcend traditional statistical analyses. His research delved into the economic implications of meteorological phenomena, the integration of currencies into monetary systems, and the structural dynamics of various sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and finance. His emphasis on qualitative data analysis and spatial information added new dimensions to conventional statistical methodologies.

Accolades and Recognition:

His scholarly excellence earned him accolades from both academic and governmental bodies. His meticulous approach to research, evident in projects funded by esteemed entities like the Spanish Ministry of Commerce and Tourism, garnered respect and recognition in statistical circles.

Impact and Influence:

His work bridged theoretical statistical concepts with practical applications, influencing policy-making in various sectors. His studies on the impact of weather on the economy and the assessment of financial advisors' knowledge had tangible implications, shaping decisions in relevant industries.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

His leaves behind a legacy of interdisciplinary statistical research that redefined conventional approaches. His commitment to exploring new methodologies for analyzing qualitative data and his emphasis on the economic repercussions of natural phenomena have set a precedent for future researchers. His pioneering work continues to inspire the next generation of statisticians to explore uncharted territories in statistical analysis.

Notable Publications:

1 Post-Brexit exchange rate volatility and its impact on UK exports to eurozone countries: A bounds testing approach
Naimy, V., El Khoury, R., Montero, J.-M., Souk, J.(1)

2 Editorial: National health services: Efficiency, welfare and economy
Valls Martínez, M.D.C., Montero, J.-M., Biggeri, A.

3 Regional well-being inequalities arising from healthcare expenditure public policies in Spain
Valls Martínez, M.D.C., Grasso, M.S., Montero, J.-M. (2)

4 An extended CAViaR model for early-warning of exceedances of the air pollution standards. The case of PM10 in the city of Madrid
Sanchis-Marco, L., Montero, J.-M., Fernández-Avilés, G. (1)

5 A local spatial STIRPAT model for outdoor NOx concentrations in the community of Madrid, Spain
Montero, J.-M., Fernández-Avilés, G., Laureti, T.(7)

6 A Stochastic Model with Penalized Coefficients for Spatial Price Comparisons: An Application to Regional Price Indexes in Italy
Montero, J.-M., Laureti, T., Mínguez, R., Fernández-Avilés, G. (2)

7 Extreme downside risk co-movement in commodity markets during distress periods: a multidimensional scaling approach
Fernández-Avilés, G., Montero, J.-M., Sanchis-Marco, L. (17)

8 Market volatility of the three most powerful military countries during their intervention in the Syrian war
Naimy, V., Montero, J.-M., El Khoury, R., Maalouf, N.(5)

9 Estimating environment impacts on housing prices
Montero, J.-M., Fernández-Avilés, G., Mínguez, R.(6)

10 Functional kriging prediction of atmospheric particulate matter concentrations in Madrid, Spain: Is the new monitoring system masking potential public health problems?
Montero, J.-M., Fernández-Avilés, G.