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.

KondaReddy Girija | Toxicology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. KondaReddy Girija | Toxicology | Best Researcher Award

Mother Theresa Post Graduate and Research Institute of Health Sciences, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. K. Girija’s journey in academia began with an exceptional scholastic record. Born with an innate curiosity for science and medicine, she displayed outstanding academic performance from an early age. She completed her S.S.L.C from Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Serkadu, North Arcot Dist., Tamil Nadu, in March 1982, securing a Distinction 🏆.

Her passion for pharmaceuticals led her to pursue a Diploma in Pharmacy (D. Pharm) at S.P.W Polytechnic, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, under the State Board of Technical Education, Andhra Pradesh. She successfully graduated in May/June 1984, securing a First-Class 🥇.

Recognizing the importance of further education, she earned her Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) degree from Madras Medical College, Madras-3, affiliated with Madras University, in April 1990, again with a First-Class ranking. She continued to push academic boundaries, pursuing an M. Pharm at C.L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, Thoraipakkam, Madras, affiliated with The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University. Her dedication and brilliance earned her a Gold Medal 🏅 upon completion in March 1994.

Her academic journey reached its pinnacle with a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, awarded by The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University in August 2001. This milestone cemented her place as a leading expert in the field of pharmaceutical research and education.


Professional Endeavors 💼

With an illustrious career spanning over 27 years in teaching and 25 years in research, Dr. K. Girija has made an indelible mark in the field of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She has held significant roles in both academia and research, guiding numerous Diploma, Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG), and Ph.D. students. Her extensive experience has contributed to shaping the next generation of pharmaceutical professionals.

Her expertise extends across various disciplines, including pharmacology, drug formulation, and pharmaceutical chemistry 🔬. She has served as a mentor, guiding students through the complexities of the field while fostering innovation and scientific curiosity.


Contributions and Research Focus 🧪

Dr. K. Girija’s research primarily focuses on drug formulation, novel drug delivery systems, and pharmacokinetics. Over the past 25 years, she has conducted groundbreaking research 📖 in the field, with multiple publications in high-impact journals.

Her work on innovative drug delivery mechanisms has led to significant advancements in pharmaceutical sciences. She has actively participated in national and international conferences 🌍, presenting her research findings and engaging in scholarly discussions with fellow researchers.

Additionally, she has played a crucial role in curriculum development for pharmacy education, ensuring that academic programs remain aligned with industry advancements. Her contributions have helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the pharmaceutical domain.


Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. K. Girija’s dedication and excellence have been recognized through various accolades and honors. Some of her notable achievements include:

  • Gold Medalist in M. Pharm, reflecting her academic brilliance.
  • Recognition for her exceptional contributions in pharmaceutical research.
  • Invitations as a guest speaker 🎤 at reputed conferences and seminars.
  • Awards for best research papers at multiple national and international events.
  • Mentorship awards for her outstanding guidance to Ph.D. scholars.

Her relentless pursuit of excellence continues to inspire both her colleagues and students.


Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. K. Girija’s influence in the pharmaceutical field extends beyond academia. Her research findings have been instrumental in the development of new drug formulations, influencing pharmaceutical practices and policies.

As a dedicated educator, she has shaped the careers of countless students, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and regulatory sectors. Her guidance has been pivotal in fostering a new generation of scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals.

Her commitment to innovation has also encouraged industry collaborations, leading to the development of advanced pharmaceutical technologies 💊. Through these efforts, she has helped bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into real-world benefits.


Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. K. Girija’s legacy in pharmaceutical education and research is one of unwavering dedication and innovation. Moving forward, she aims to:

  • Expand research in biopharmaceuticals and personalized medicine.
  • Continue mentoring Ph.D. scholars and young researchers.
  • Develop new drug delivery technologies that enhance treatment efficacy.
  • Strengthen industry-academia collaborations to drive innovation.
  • Contribute to policy-making in pharmaceutical education and research.

Her vision for the future is to create a world where pharmaceutical sciences continue to evolve, improving healthcare outcomes globally. Through her teaching, research, and leadership, she remains committed to making a lasting impact on the field.


Conclusion 🎯

Dr. K. Girija’s journey from a passionate student to a distinguished educator, researcher, and mentor is nothing short of inspiring. With over 27 years of teaching experience and 25 years in research, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of pharmaceutical sciences.

Her contributions to academia, research, and industry continue to influence the field, leaving a lasting legacy. As she forges ahead, her commitment to innovation, education, and scientific excellence will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. 🌍🔬📚

Citations

A total of 431 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        431
  • h-index          12
  • i10-index       15

Notable Publications 

  • Growth and Biochemical Composition of Three Cultured Marine Diatoms
    Authors: A. Hemalatha, M. Suresh, K. Girija, N. Thajuddin, P. Anantharaman
    Journal: Seaweed Research and Utilization
    Year: 2016.

  • Dihydrofolate Reductase Inhibitors: Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Some Novel 2,3-Disubstituted Quinazolinones
    Authors: K. Hemalatha, M.S. Kumar, K. Girija
    Journal: Indian Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry
    Year: 2014.

  • Computational Design and Structural Insights into Quinazoline-Based Lead Molecules for Targeting PARP10 in Cancer Therapy
    Authors: R. Gnanavelou, M. Jayaraman, J. Jeyaraman, K.R. Girija
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modelling
    Year: 2025.

  • Molecular Docking Analysis of Pyrrole Derivatives with Different Breast Cancer Targets
    Authors: S. Ilango, K. Girija, V.K. Kulothungan
    Journal: Bioinformation
    Year: 2024.

  • Virtual Screening and Development of Novel Substituted Quinazoline Derivatives Against Targeted Enzymes for Its Antiproliferative Activity
    Authors: G. Revathi, K. Girija
    Journal: XXIX International Symposium on Bioinformatics and Computer-Aided Drug Design
    Year: 2023.