Manu Thomas | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Manu Thomas | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Thanal Trust, India

Author Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Manu Thomas, hailing from Kochi, India, began his academic journey with a strong interest in the natural world. This curiosity led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Zoology from Sacred Heart College, Kochi, where he consistently demonstrated academic excellence, graduating with an impressive CGPA of 8.34/10. His undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation in ecological principles, biodiversity, and environmental dynamics. Driven by a passion for environmental sustainability 🌿, he chose to delve deeper into the field and pursued a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Environmental Science from Pondicherry University. During his postgraduate studies (Nov 2020 – Jun 2022), he achieved a commendable CGPA of 8.69/10, which reflected his dedication to scientific learning and research. His academic pursuits were guided by a growing awareness of the climate crisis 🌍 and a determination to contribute meaningfully to environmental protection and conservation.


👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Manu’s professional journey is marked by dynamic roles in environmental research and consultancy. His most recent role as a Research Consultant at Thanal Trust, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (Feb 2025 – Present), showcases his commitment to climate action. Here, he is engaged in analyzing local development projects with a focus on decentralized solid waste management systems 🗑️. He conducts environmental impact assessments and crafts informative materials to engage stakeholders and inspire sustainable practices.

Previously, Manu worked as a Project Associate – I at the CSIR – National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) in Nagpur from March 2023 to January 2025. His work covered a wide array of critical ecological projects, including:

  • Environmental impact analysis for a floating solar plant in Odisha ☀️,

  • Ecological assessment of construction impacts at Chatri Talao Wetland 🐦,

  • Biodiversity surveys and tree-related microhabitat studies in urban green spaces 🌳,

  • Contributions to the Environmental Status Reports (ESR) for Nagpur (2023 & 2024),

  • Long-term ecological monitoring within NEERI’s campus.

Before this, he served as a Project Assistant at CSIR-NEERI (Sept 2022 – Mar 2023), contributing to biodiversity mapping projects at industrial sites, including:

  • A bioaccumulation and biomagnification study near Adani Power Maharashtra Limited, highlighting the impact of fly ash on local ecosystems 🐟,

  • Assessment of mine closure activities at PEKB Opencast Coal Mine in Chhattisgarh.


🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Manu’s research interests lie at the intersection of ecology, environmental impact analysis, and sustainable development. His work bridges scientific research with real-world applications, such as the design and evaluation of solid waste management systems, hydropower projects, and urban biodiversity.

He has also contributed to pioneering tree microhabitat studies in urban green spaces, which offer critical insights into the ecological value of trees in city environments 🏙️. These studies not only help shape urban planning but also underline the importance of preserving biodiversity hotspots in urban settings.


🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Though still in the early stages of his professional journey, Manu’s consistent performance, scientific rigor, and multi-disciplinary contributions have earned him the trust of reputed research institutions like CSIR-NEERI and Thanal Trust. Being chosen for diverse and critical projects, often under the purview of national regulatory bodies such as the National Green Tribunal (NGT), reflects his reputation for meticulous fieldwork and research integrity.


🌎 Impact and Influence

Manu’s impact lies not just in the reports he writes or data he collects, but in the awareness he raises and the action he inspires. By actively engaging in projects that address wetland ecology, industrial pollution, and renewable energy, he contributes to shaping environmental policies and sustainable development strategies in India 🇮🇳. His work supports India’s progress toward UNSDG goals, particularly SDG 13: Climate Action and SDG 15: Life on Land 🐘.


🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Manu Thomas is poised to become a leading voice in environmental research and sustainability advocacy. His journey reflects a rare blend of academic depth, field-based experience, and practical impact. With his growing expertise in ecological assessments, climate action, and community engagement, he aims to drive systemic change in how development projects interact with the environment.

Looking forward, Manu is expected to contribute to policy frameworks, write scientific papers, and perhaps mentor the next generation of environmental scientists. His career promises a lasting legacy in protecting ecosystems, fostering resilience, and leading the transition to greener futures 💚.

Notable Publications 

Title: Relevance of community perceptions in mapping cultural ecosystem services: Lessons from bio-cultural landscape of Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha
Author: Manu Thomas
Journal: Ocean & Coastal Management
Year: 2025.

Title: 3-30-300 Benchmark: An Evaluation of Tree Visibility, Canopy Cover, and Green Space Access in Nagpur, India
Author: Manu Thomas
Journal: Urban Science
Year: 2025.

Title: Implementing the 3-30-300 Rule in Indian Cities: A Framework for Addressing Urban Challenges
Author: Manu Thomas
Journal: EGUsphere (Preprint)
Year: 2025.

Title: Tree and Tree-microhabitats of CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Author: Manu Thomas
Publisher: CSIR-NEERI
Year: 2024.

Title: Governing green change to improve resilience by assessing urban risks for localizing nature based solutions in fast sprawling Dehradun, India
Author: Manu Thomas
Journal: International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction
Year: 2024.

Apurva Goel | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Apurva Goel | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed To Be University) , Karad- India

Author Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Apurva Goel’s academic journey is a testament to her commitment to interdisciplinary excellence. Her formative years began in Karad, Maharashtra, where she completed her Secondary School Certificate at Holy Family Convent High School with a commendable 82.66% (Distinction) in April 1999 🎓. She continued her education at Y.C. College of Science, where she earned her Higher Secondary Certificate with 75.17% (First Class) in March 2001, showcasing a solid foundation in science and analytical thinking 🔬.

Her passion for engineering led her to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Government College of Engineering, Karad, graduating with First Class with Distinction (68.70%) in May 2005. However, her academic curiosity did not end there. Driven by a deeper interest in sustainability and environmental challenges, she completed her Master’s in Environmental Science from Savitribai Phule Pune University in 2021, graduating with an impressive 9.05 CGPA (A+ Grade) 🌍.

Currently, Apurva is pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Science at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad, beginning in April 2024. Her research focus lies at the intersection of digital transformation and environmental sustainability—a timely and critical domain that integrates technology with ecological responsibility 📡🌿.


💼 Professional Endeavors

Apurva Goel’s professional career spans nearly two decades and multiple domains, including scientific publishing, corporate consulting, training, and IT project management.

She currently holds the position of Associate Editor at Nature Environment and Pollution Technology, a role she assumed in April 2024 after serving as the Managing Editor since August 2015. In this capacity, she has been instrumental in overseeing the editorial and peer review processes, ensuring the publication of high-quality, peer-reviewed research articles 📚. Her editorial leadership contributes to maintaining scientific integrity and raising the journal’s impact in global research circles 🌐.

Apurva also has a robust background in the corporate training and consulting sector. From May 2022 to December 2023, she worked as a Training Consultant for NIIT, delivering specialized training on Veeva RIM Vault for Roche, a leading life sciences organization. As a freelance trainer and consultant since 2015, she has designed and executed training programs for Oracle CRM products, conducted “Train the Trainer” sessions, and provided expert CRM consulting to a diverse range of clients 💼💻.

Her prior roles at Hewlett Packard (2009–2015) and Wipro Infotech (2007–2009) involved end-to-end project management, consulting, presales, and solutioning in Oracle E-Business Suite CRM. She also played a key role in internal IT transformation projects at Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltd. (2005–2007), implementing Oracle Sales and Marketing modules for improved operational efficiency 🔧📊.


✨ Contributions and Research Focus

Apurva’s current research explores the transformative role of digital technologies in promoting environmental sustainability—a field that marries her background in IT with her passion for the environment. Her academic insight and editorial work aim to spotlight research that drives climate action, green innovation, and policy advancement, aligning with global goals such as UNSDG 13: Climate Action 🌏📈.

She has mentored young researchers in manuscript development, contributed to scientific writing and editing, and initiated strategies to improve journal impact factors. Her technical proficiency with tools like SQL+, Siebel CRM, Veeva Vault, Adobe InDesign, and Microsoft Visio enhances her ability to support interdisciplinary research projects efficiently 🧠🖥️.


🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Apurva Goel’s career reflects a consistent pattern of recognition and advancement. Her promotion to Associate Editor of a reputable journal in 2024 stands as a formal acknowledgment of her editorial excellence and leadership in scientific communication. Her contribution to training global teams for industry giants like Roche, and her ability to bridge scientific and corporate domains, has earned her respect in both academic and industrial ecosystems 🌟.


🌍 Impact and Influence

As both a scholar and practitioner, Apurva’s influence spans academic, corporate, and technological ecosystems. She has empowered professionals through advanced training, mentored researchers in environmental science, and played a critical role in enhancing publication quality and visibility. Her commitment to sustainability, digital innovation, and knowledge sharing positions her as a catalyst for meaningful change ♻️💡.


🌠 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Apurva Goel is poised to become a thought leader in the digital-environmental interface. Her ongoing doctoral research will likely yield new frameworks and insights for eco-friendly digital transformation strategies. With a strong foundation in engineering, environmental science, and digital systems, she is well-positioned to lead initiatives in green publishing, academic training, and corporate environmental responsibility 🔍📘.

She continues to inspire a new generation of scholars and professionals through her multidisciplinary expertise, commitment to sustainable development, and passion for lifelong learning 📖🌟.

Citations

A total of 21 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         21
  • h-index             2
  • i10-index          1

Notable Publications 

  1. Title: An Overview of Digital Transformation and Environmental Sustainability: Threats, Opportunities, and Solutions
    Authors: (Not explicitly listed; typically found in full article)
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2024.


  1. Title: An Overview of Digital Transformation and Environmental Sustainability: Threats, Opportunities and Solutions (Preprint version)
    Authors: (Same as above)
    Source: Crossref Preprints
    Year: 2024.


  1. Title: Application of Circular Economy in E-waste Management – A Review with an Indian Perspective
    Author: Apurva Goel
    Book: Strategies toward Green Deal Implementation – Water, Raw Materials & Energy (Part I)
    Year: 2022.


  1. Title: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Air Quality in Delhi, India
    Author: Apurva Goel
    Journal: Nature Environment and Pollution Technology
    Year: 2020.

Priyanka Yadav | Bioremediation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Priyanka Yadav | Bioremediation | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of technology, BHU, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📘

Dr. Priyanka Yadav’s journey into the fascinating realm of biotechnology commenced with her foundational studies at Shri Agrasen Kanya Inter College, Varanasi. She excelled in her secondary (2010) and higher secondary education (2012) under the U.P. Board, demonstrating a keen interest in the biological sciences despite challenging circumstances. Her academic curiosity blossomed further as she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from Shri Agrasen Kanya P.G. College, Varanasi, graduating in 2015 with a commendable 65.3%. This period was instrumental in shaping her scientific aptitude and work ethic.Her passion for advanced biotechnological studies led her to Singhania University, Rajasthan, where she earned her Master of Science in Biotechnology in 2017 with a remarkable 66.2%. Eager to delve deeper into research and innovation, she began her Ph.D. in Biotechnology at the University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, in 2019. She excelled in her doctoral journey with an impressive score of 80%, laying a strong foundation for her research-focused career.


Professional Endeavors 🔬

Dr. Yadav’s professional trajectory showcases a seamless blend of academic excellence and hands-on research. During her doctoral studies under the guidance of Prof. M.P. Singh, she worked on the innovative thesis titled “Mycoremediation of heavy metal pollutants in the industrial effluents using Pleurotus species”. This research highlights her commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges, particularly industrial pollution, through sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.She also gained valuable research experience at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where she collaborated with Dr. Subhashini on a project investigating the “Immunomodulatory role of nicotinic acid on structural, cellular, and stress markers in naphthalene-induced airway inflammation”. This project underscored her versatility in applying biotechnology to address pressing health concerns.Additionally, Dr. Yadav contributed significantly to a project at Cytogen Research & Development, Lucknow, led by Er. Madhulika Singh. Her work on the “Study of bioethanol production ability of Bacillus subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae from banana and orange peels” showcased her innovative approach toward renewable energy solutions, emphasizing sustainability.


Contributions and Research Focus 🌍

Dr. Yadav’s research contributions extend across environmental and biomedical biotechnology. Her Ph.D. work on mycoremediation demonstrates her pioneering efforts in utilizing fungi, specifically Pleurotus species, to detoxify industrial effluents laden with heavy metals. This groundbreaking research holds significant promise for mitigating environmental pollution.Her expertise spans advanced techniques such as UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, SEM, AAS, Fluorescence Microscopy, and LIBS, as well as molecular methods like PCR, DNA isolation, and gel electrophoresis. These technical proficiencies have positioned her as a versatile researcher capable of addressing diverse scientific challenges.Dr. Yadav’s exploration of immunomodulatory mechanisms and bioethanol production underscores her dedication to tackling issues that intersect human health and sustainability.


Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout her academic and research journey, Dr. Yadav has consistently been recognized for her commitment and excellence. From her academic achievements in high school to her advanced research endeavors, her journey reflects resilience, dedication, and intellectual prowess. Her ability to balance technical skills with innovative thinking has garnered her respect and admiration within the scientific community.


Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Yadav’s work has a far-reaching impact, particularly in environmental biotechnology. By focusing on mycoremediation, she has paved the way for sustainable methods to combat industrial pollution, addressing a critical global challenge. Her research on renewable energy sources, such as bioethanol, aligns with global efforts toward cleaner energy solutions.Her collaborative spirit and interdisciplinary projects reflect her ability to inspire and mentor budding researchers. By integrating molecular biology with environmental sustainability, she has set a benchmark for impactful scientific research.


Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Priyanka Yadav’s scientific journey is a testament to her dedication to addressing global challenges through biotechnological innovation. As she continues her work, her focus on sustainability, environmental health, and molecular research will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. Her research contributions are not only transformative but also inspire a generation of scientists to think critically and act responsibly.Looking ahead, Dr. Yadav envisions exploring cutting-edge areas in biotechnology, such as synthetic biology, CRISPR technology, and advanced bioinformatics, to expand the frontiers of her research. Her commitment to education and mentorship will further cement her role as a changemaker in the scientific community.In essence, Dr. Priyanka Yadav is a trailblazer whose work epitomizes the fusion of science, innovation, and sustainability, marking her as a luminary in the field of biotechnology. 🌟

Citations

A total of 1,223 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        1,223
  • h-index          111
  • i10-index       16

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of benzoxazine/benzothiazine appended 1,2,3-triazole hybrids
    Authors: Yadav, P., Kaushik, C.P., Kumar, D., Yadav, A., Yadav, J.
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Numerical modelling of the surface plasmon modes of a circular cylindrical three-layer graphene waveguide
    Authors: Ramnarayan, Singh, R., Yadav, P., Kumar, M., Prasad, S.
    Journal: Journal of Computational Electronics
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Novel frontiers through nitrogen substitution at 6th, 10th and 11th position of artemisinin: Synthetic approaches and antimalarial activity
    Authors: Yadav, P., Rawat, V., Love, S.K., Verma, V.P.
    Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Comprehending microplastic pollution in diverse environment: Assessing fate, impacts, and remediation approaches
    Authors: Yadav, P., Mishra, V.
    Journal: International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Repeated short-term thermal stress and its impact on reproductive fitness in parthenium beetle, Zygogramma bicolorata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
    Authors: Patel, A.K., Yadav, P., Kumar, B.
    Journal: Canadian Entomologist
    Year: 2024.

Indrajit Mondal | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Indrajit Mondal | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Jadavpur University, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Indrajit Mondal’s academic journey reflects his deep commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, particularly in the field of Physics. His foundational years were marked by stellar academic performances. He completed his secondary education from WBBSE in 2013 with an impressive 90%, showcasing an early aptitude in subjects like Mathematics, Physical Science, and Life Science. Continuing this momentum, he excelled in his higher secondary studies (H.S.) in 2015 under the WBCHSE board, where he secured 95.2% with a focus on core science subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.His passion for Physics led him to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Physics at Jadavpur University, where he graduated with an 80.17% in 2018. His academic prowess enabled him to qualify for the IIT Bombay JAM examination in 2018, further demonstrating his mastery of the subject. Indrajit continued to excel in his postgraduate studies at Jadavpur University, securing 84.88% in his M.Sc. in Physics (2020). Notably, his consistent academic excellence was recognized through his qualification in national-level competitive exams like NET (UGC-CSIR, 2018), SET (WBCSC, 2020), and GATE (IIT Delhi, 2020), positioning him among the elite in his field. 🌟

Professional Endeavors 🧑‍🏫

Indrajit’s professional trajectory has been just as impressive as his academic path. Since March 2021, he has been working as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) under the prestigious DST-INSPIRE fellowship at Jadavpur University. His role in research involves delving into cutting-edge experimental materials science, with a specific focus on the synthesis and characterization of transition metal oxide nanoparticles (TMONPs) and their incorporation into electroactive polymers. This work is part of his ongoing Ph.D. thesis under the supervision of renowned professors, Prof. Pabitra Kumar Paul and Prof. Sukhen Das.His expertise is not limited to his research. Indrajit has also taken on numerous teaching-related responsibilities. He has served as an invigilator during critical admission tests for both B.Sc. and M.Sc. students in the Department of Physics at Jadavpur University, ensuring the integrity and smooth conduct of these exams. He has also supervised M.Sc. Biophysics practical examinations, demonstrating his commitment to both education and academic mentorship. 📝

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Indrajit Mondal’s research is grounded in experimental materials science and biophysics, areas that align with global scientific challenges and future technological advancements. His Ph.D. work focuses on the “Synthesis and Characterizations of Transition Metal Oxide nanoparticles (TMONPs) decorated Carbon Nanofibers (CNFs) Composites and Their Incorporation Into Electroactive Polymers for Some Promising Applications.” This research holds significant promise for applications in fields such as energy storage, nanotechnology, and material sciences.Beyond his Ph.D., Indrajit has a strong interest in piezoelectric energy harvesting devices, as reflected in his M.Sc. project titled “A brief review on Piezoelectric energy harvesting devices.” This project explored how these devices convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, potentially revolutionizing energy solutions in the modern world. His research interests also extend to computational biophysics, an interdisciplinary field that merges biology and physics to study biological processes. 🧪Programming skills in C and FORTRAN have allowed Indrajit to further his research, particularly in simulation and modeling, essential tools in modern-day experimental materials science.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Indrajit has made significant professional contributions through his research and academic leadership. He has authored and co-authored several publications in peer-reviewed international journals, which speaks volumes about the quality and relevance of his research. Additionally, his ability to mentor six M.Sc. students and supervise five Ph.D. candidates at Jadavpur University, as well as a project student from IIEST Shibpur, underscores his role as a mentor and leader in the academic community. 🌐His DST-INSPIRE fellowship is a recognition of his potential and dedication to scientific research. This prestigious fellowship is awarded to only the most promising researchers in India, and it has allowed Indrajit to pursue his Ph.D. and contribute to advancements in materials science and biophysics.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Indrajit Mondal’s work has the potential to influence various sectors, including energy storage, nanomaterials, and biophysics. His research on TMONPs and carbon nanofibers could pave the way for significant breakthroughs in the development of more efficient energy storage systems, which are crucial in the era of renewable energy. His expertise in piezoelectric energy harvesting also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and green technologies. 🌱Moreover, his involvement in mentoring both M.Sc. and Ph.D. students reflects his influence as a guide and educator. His ability to shape future researchers through mentorship ensures that his contributions will extend beyond his immediate research, influencing the next generation of scientists.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As Indrajit continues his Ph.D. research and contributes to the academic world, his work will likely leave a lasting impact. The synthesis of TMONPs and their applications in various fields hold significant potential for future technological innovations. His commitment to teaching, mentoring, and counseling students ensures that his legacy will not only be in scientific discovery but also in nurturing the next wave of researchers and innovators.Looking forward, Indrajit is poised to continue contributing to the fields of materials science and physics, with potential collaborations and interdisciplinary research that can address some of the most pressing challenges in energy, sustainability, and biophysics. His blend of technical expertise, research acumen, and teaching prowess make him a figure to watch in the academic and scientific communities. 🧠In conclusion, Indrajit Mondal is not just a scholar with a deep understanding of physics and materials science; he is a mentor, leader, and innovator who is making strides in his field while preparing the ground for future contributions.

Citations

A total of 91 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         91
  • h-index           17
  • i10-index        6

Notable Publications 

  • Room temperature synthesis of freestanding 2D Mn3O4 nanostructures with enriched electrochemical properties for supercapacitor application
    Authors: B. Gourd, M. Kundu, I. Mondal, S. Das, A. Ghosh
    Journal: Materials Research Bulletin, 2024.
  • Revelation of room temperature liquid crystallinity and yellow-orange electroluminescence (EQE>7%) in a columnar self-assembled N-annulated perylene bisimide
    Authors: P. Kumar Behera, S. Lenka, F.-R. Chen, J.-H. Jou, A.S. Achalkumar
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2024.
  • Optimizing phosphorene nanosheets for high performance all-solid asymmetric supercapacitors: A theoretical and experimental insight
    Authors: P. Halder, I. Mondal, M. Kundu, D. Mondal, S. Das
    Journal: Journal of Energy Storage, 2024.
  • Superior electron mobility, red electroluminescence with high quantum efficiency from printable room temperature columnar liquid crystalline perylene bisimide
    Authors: P.K. Behera, F.-R. Chen, I. Mondal, J.-H. Jou, A.S. Achalkumar
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2024.
  • Enhancement of dielectric properties by modulating electroactive β-phase of copper doped nickel oxide nanoparticles incorporated thin film
    Authors: S. Biswas, I. Mondal, P. Halder, B.K. Paul, S. Das
    Journal: Journal of Polymer Research, 2024.