Amadou Abdourhamane Toure | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research

Mr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré| Environmental Science | Excellence in Research

Teacher-Researcher at Université Abdou Moumouni Niger

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré is an accomplished environmental geoscientist whose research focuses on soil degradation, wind erosion, and water quality in the Sahel region. With extensive academic and leadership experience at the University Abdou Moumouni, he has led over 20 interdisciplinary research projects, many of which involved international collaboration aimed at tackling climate-related challenges. His publication record includes peer-reviewed articles in respected journals such as Catena and British Journal of Applied Science & Technology. Beyond academia, Dr. Touré actively mentors graduate students and promotes scientific education at the secondary level. He also plays a leading role in long-term environmental monitoring programs and regional research networks. While increasing high-impact publications and global scientific engagement would further enhance his profile, his contributions to both science and society are already substantial. Dr. Touré’s proven leadership, dedication to sustainable development, and commitment to research excellence make him a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré possesses a strong academic background rooted in environmental geosciences, with a specialization in soil degradation, wind erosion, and hydrology. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Geosciences, where his research focused on the dynamics of wind erosion and land degradation in the Sahel, contributing valuable insights into sustainable land management. His academic journey is marked by a strong integration of field-based research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied environmental science. As a university educator, he has supervised three doctoral theses and over thirty Master’s dissertations, demonstrating his dedication to training the next generation of scientists. Dr. Touré currently coordinates the Master’s program in Environmental Sciences at the Faculty of Science and Technology, University Abdou Moumouni in Niamey. His educational background, combined with his hands-on teaching and mentorship experience, highlights his commitment to both academic excellence and capacity building in environmental science across West Africa.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré has amassed extensive professional experience as a researcher, academic leader, and scientific coordinator in the field of environmental geosciences. He has served as Head of the Department of Geology and President of the Scientific Committee at the University Abdou Moumouni, where he played a pivotal role in academic development and research strategy. From 2017 to 2023, he held successive leadership roles including Deputy Head and Head of Department, and has coordinated the Master’s program in Environmental Sciences since 2018. He has also been actively involved in organizing major scientific events, such as chairing the first Faculty Science Days in 2023. In addition to academic duties, Dr. Touré is a Principal Investigator for long-term environmental monitoring programs and a collaborator on over 20 national and international research projects. His work bridges academia, research policy, and community impact, making him a key contributor to environmental resilience and sustainable development in the Sahel.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental geosciences, climate change, and sustainable natural resource management. His primary focus is on understanding and mitigating soil degradation, wind erosion, and land desertification in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly within the Sahel. He is also deeply engaged in surface water quality assessment, investigating both the biological and physico-chemical parameters to evaluate ecological health and public health risks. Dr. Touré’s interdisciplinary approach incorporates remote sensing, field-based monitoring, and hydrological modeling to explore the impacts of climate variability and land use change on ecosystems. His interest extends to resilience of agropastoral systems, aiming to strengthen communities’ adaptation to environmental stressors. With over two decades of experience, he has contributed to regional and international projects that address environmental challenges, making his research highly relevant to sustainable development, climate adaptation policies, and the conservation of fragile ecosystems in West Africa.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré has earned widespread recognition for his outstanding contributions to environmental research and academic leadership in the Sahel region. While specific named awards or honors are not detailed in his curriculum vitae, his repeated appointments to high-level roles—such as President of the Scientific Committee, Head of the Department of Geology, and Coordinator of the Master’s Program in Environmental Sciences—reflect the trust and esteem of the academic community. His selection as Principal Investigator for major international research initiatives, such as INDAAF and AMMA-CATCH, and his leadership in organizing scientific conferences highlight his stature in the field. Dr. Touré has also served as an evaluator for multiple scientific journals and academic committees, further underscoring his peer recognition. His impactful work across research, education, and capacity building positions him as a leading figure deserving of national and international honors in environmental science, sustainable development, and academic excellence.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span fieldwork, data analysis, project coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He is highly skilled in environmental monitoring techniques, particularly in assessing wind erosion, soil degradation, and surface water quality using both field-based measurements and remote sensing tools. As Principal Investigator for long-term research stations such as INDAAF and AMMA-CATCH, he has developed strong expertise in managing large-scale environmental datasets and ensuring data integrity. Dr. Touré is proficient in designing and implementing multi-institutional research projects, having co-led more than 20 regional and international initiatives. He excels in formulating research proposals, securing funding, and managing research teams across academic and governmental institutions. His ability to integrate environmental science with climate resilience and sustainable development practices reflects his strategic and solution-oriented research mindset. Furthermore, his mentoring of graduate students showcases his strengths in academic supervision, research communication, and capacity building.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Amadou Abdourhamane Touré is a highly deserving candidate for the Excellence in Research due to his outstanding contributions to environmental geosciences, climate resilience, and sustainable land and water management in the Sahel region. His leadership in coordinating multi-institutional research projects, mentoring graduate students, and advancing scientific understanding of soil degradation and hydrological change demonstrates a deep commitment to both academic excellence and societal impact. Dr. Touré’s work directly supports the goals of sustainable development and climate adaptation, making tangible differences in vulnerable communities. With his strong foundation, international collaborations, and growing influence in policy-relevant science, he holds exceptional potential to lead future research initiatives and shape environmental resilience strategies across Africa and beyond.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Performance of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) Mission for Monitoring Small Lakes in West Africa
    Authors: Félix Girard, Laurent Kergoat, Ibrahim Mainassara, Maxime Wubda, Edwige D. Nikièma, Amadou Abdourhamane Touré, Julien Renou, Maxime Vayre, Nicolas Taburet, Nicolas Picot, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing
    DOI: 10.1109/JSTARS.2025.3570859

  • Title: Wind Erosion Dynamics Associated With Land Use on Sandy Soils Under Heavy Anthropogenic Pressure (Southwestern Niger)
    Authors: Issoufou Ide, Amadou Abdourhamane Toure, Jean Louis Rajot, Béatrice Marticorena, Salifou Noma Adamou, Caroline Pierre, Bouba Hassane, Zibo Garba
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Land Degradation & Development
    DOI: 10.1002/ldr.70037

  • Title: Comparison of Methods to Derive the Height‐Area Relationship of Shallow Lakes in West Africa Using Remote Sensing
    Authors: F. Girard, L. Kergoat, H. Nikiema, M. Wubda, R. Yonaba, T. Fowé, A. Abdourhamane Touré, I. Mainassara, M. de Fleury, M. Grippa
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Water Resources Research
    DOI: 10.1029/2024WR037411

  • Title: Wind Erosion Dynamics Associated With Land Use on Sandy Soils Under Heavy Anthropogenic Pressure (Southwestern Niger)
    Authors: Issoufou IDE, Amadou Abdourhamane Touré, Jean-Louis Rajot, Noma Adamou Salifou, Bouba HASSANE
    Year: 2024 (Preprint)
    DOI: 10.22541/au.173533899.95869818/v1

  • Title: Potential for Wind Farming in West Africa from an Analysis of Daily Peak Wind Speeds and a Review of Low-Level Jet Dynamics
    Authors: Yanni Gunnell, Michel Mietton, Amadou Abdourhamane Touré, Kenji Fujiki
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2023.113836

 

Alain Póvoa | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Alain Póvoa | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Estudante de Doutorado at UFF, Brazil

Alain Póvoa is a dedicated researcher and Ph.D. candidate in Ocean and Earth Dynamics at Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Brazil. His research primarily focuses on marine litter, including microplastics, plastisphere, and benthic organisms attached to debris (rafting). He has contributed to the understanding of solid waste distribution in marine and coastal environments and its ecological impacts. Póvoa is also involved in environmental education and public awareness through initiatives such as the Praia Limpa é a Minha Praia Extension Project and the Instituto Mar Adentro. His work highlights the critical need for sustainable coastal management and the role of education in enhancing environmental perception. He has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in esteemed journals and is actively engaged in research on coastal resilience and adaptation strategies.

Professional Profile 

Education

Alain Póvoa holds a Master’s degree in Marine Biology and Coastal Environments from Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), completed in 2021. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Ocean and Earth Dynamics at the same institution, expected to enhance his expertise in marine science. Póvoa also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), obtained in 2017. His academic journey has focused on marine ecosystems, environmental challenges, and the impact of human activity on coastal environments. Through his education, Póvoa has developed a strong foundation in marine biology, environmental science, and coastal management.

Professional Experience

Póvoa has extensive professional experience in marine research, contributing to several significant projects and publications. He is a key collaborator in the Praia Limpa é a Minha Praia Extension Project at UERJ, which promotes environmental awareness regarding marine litter. He also works with Instituto Mar Adentro, focusing on marine conservation. Póvoa’s research includes the analysis of solid waste and microplastics in Brazilian coastal regions and their ecological implications. Additionally, he is involved in the Liga Acadêmica de Diversidade Animal (LADA – UFF), further contributing to the scientific community. His professional work bridges the gap between academia and real-world environmental challenges, combining research with hands-on conservation efforts.

 

Research Interest

Alain Póvoa’s research interests primarily focus on marine litter, particularly the impact of solid waste on marine and coastal ecosystems. His work emphasizes the study of benthic organisms that adhere to debris (rafting), microplastics, and the plastisphere. Póvoa is dedicated to understanding the distribution of marine litter in Brazilian coastal areas and its ecological consequences, such as biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruption. Additionally, his research explores environmental education and public perception of litter on sandy beaches, aiming to promote awareness and drive behavioral changes. His interdisciplinary approach combines marine biology, environmental science, and coastal management, contributing to solutions for sustainable environmental practices. Póvoa’s work is vital in addressing pressing issues such as pollution, habitat degradation, and the role of coastal habitats in mitigating climate change.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and research career, Alain Póvoa has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to marine science and environmental research. His dedication to understanding the impact of marine litter and his commitment to promoting environmental sustainability have earned him numerous accolades. As an active collaborator in various research projects, Póvoa has been honored for his scientific output, including publications in high-impact journals. His involvement in initiatives like Praia Limpa é a Minha Praia and Instituto Mar Adentro showcases his passion for both research and outreach, earning recognition in academic and environmental circles. These achievements reflect his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering positive change in coastal conservation efforts. Póvoa’s continuous pursuit of knowledge and solutions to marine pollution positions him as a prominent figure in the field of marine and environmental science.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Macrofouling on marine litter in a Southwest Atlantic urban tropical bay and surrounds
    Authors: Póvoa, A.A., de Souza, L.R., Henud, I.R., Amorim, R.M., Soares-Gomes, A.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Coastal resilience and adaptation strategies: Natural habitats for coastal protection and Atlantic forest restoration on the coast of the Rio de Janeiro state
    Authors: Henud, I.R., Póvoa, A.A., Gonçalves Tavares, M., Soares-Gomes, A.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Abundance and distribution of solid waste and microplastics in southeastern Brazilian islands: a comprehensive analysis
    Authors: Imsaurriaga, C.S.A., Póvoa, A.A., Derviche, P., Castro, R.O., de Araújo, F.V.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Marine litter on Atlantic Ocean sandy beaches: Current state of knowledge by scientometric analysis and proposal for discussion of amelioration by coastal management
    Authors: Póvoa, A.A., de Souza, L.R., Henud, I.R., De-La-Torre, G.E., Soares-Gomes, A.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Marine litter colonization: Methodological challenges and recommendations
    Authors: De-la-Torre, G.E., Romero Arribasplata, M.B., Lucas Roman, V.A., Póvoa, A.A., Walker, T.R.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 12
  • Title: Cigarette butts in two urban areas from Brazil: Links among environmental impacts, demography and market
    Authors: Ribeiro, V.V., Lopes, T.C., Amaral dos Santos Pinto, M., Szklo, A.S., Castro, Í.B.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 39
  • Title: Macroorganisms fouled in marine anthropogenic litter (rafting) around a tropical bay in the Southwest Atlantic
    Authors: Póvoa, A.A., de Araújo, F.V., Skinner, L.F.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 20
  • Title: Fouling organisms in marine litter (rafting on abiogenic substrates): A global review of literature
    Authors: Póvoa, A.A., Skinner, L.F., de Araújo, F.V.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 54
  • Title: Marine litter and wood debris as habitat and vector for the range expansion of invasive corals (Tubastraea spp.)
    Authors: Mantelatto, M.C., Póvoa, A.A., Skinner, L.F., Araujo, F.V.D., Creed, J.C.
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 46

Rui Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rui Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Member at China Institute of Geo-Environment Monitoring, China

Dr. Rui Liu, a hydrogeologist and environmental scientist, specializes in groundwater pollution prevention, water resources protection, and environmental geochemistry. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering and a doctorate in Hydrogeology from the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan). His research explores organic carbon dynamics, ammonium transport, and the impact of clay aquitards on groundwater quality, with findings published in top-tier journals like Science of the Total Environment and Environmental Pollution. Dr. Liu has contributed to significant national projects on aquitard evolution and environmental geology in the Jianghan Plain. He is proficient in advanced analytical techniques and modeling tools and has presented his work internationally, notably at the Goldschmidt Conference in Spain. With strong technical expertise, a track record of impactful publications, and practical experience, Dr. Liu demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges and advancing sustainable water resource management.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Rui Liu has a distinguished educational background that forms the foundation of his expertise in hydrogeology and environmental geochemistry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering in 2016 from the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), where he gained a strong grounding in hydrological processes and water resource management. Pursuing his passion for groundwater research, he embarked on a combined master’s and doctoral program in Hydrogeology at the same institution, earning his Ph.D. in 2021. During his doctoral studies, Dr. Liu focused on the geochemical interactions within aquitards and their environmental implications, producing high-impact research. He also enhanced his global perspective through participation in the Goldschmidt Conference in Spain, where he presented his findings to an international audience. This comprehensive education, combining technical skills, research excellence, and international exposure, has equipped Dr. Liu with the knowledge and capabilities to address complex environmental challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Rui Liu has a robust professional background in hydrogeology, with significant contributions to groundwater pollution prevention and water resources protection. His expertise encompasses advanced geochemical modeling, field investigations, and the use of high-precision analytical instruments like IC, GC, and TOC. Dr. Liu has played a pivotal role in national research projects, such as studying the water-rock interactions in aquitard evolution and environmental geological investigations in the Jianghan Plain. His work has produced practical insights into clay aquitard dynamics, organic carbon distribution, and ammonium transport, directly influencing sustainable water management strategies. Dr. Liu’s experience extends to developing and applying innovative online geochemical simulation devices, further showcasing his technical ingenuity. He has also presented his findings at esteemed forums like the Goldschmidt Conference in Spain, highlighting his ability to engage with the international research community. Dr. Liu’s professional journey exemplifies his dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Research Interest

Dr. Rui Liu’s research interests lie at the intersection of hydrogeology, environmental geochemistry, and groundwater management, with a particular focus on groundwater pollution prevention and sustainable water resource protection. His work delves into the complex dynamics of water-rock interactions, organic carbon cycling, and the geochemical processes within aquitards. Dr. Liu is particularly interested in understanding how aquitards influence groundwater quality, including the transfer and transformation of organic carbon and ammonium. His research also explores innovative approaches to mitigate groundwater contamination and improve resource sustainability. Dr. Liu integrates field investigations, advanced geochemical modeling, and state-of-the-art analytical techniques to address these challenges. His multidisciplinary approach has yielded insights into the environmental significance of clayey sediments and their role in aquifer systems. With a commitment to advancing the understanding of critical zone processes, Dr. Liu’s research contributes to developing effective solutions for global water resource challenges.

Award and Honor

Dr. Rui Liu has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to hydrogeology and environmental geochemistry through various accolades and honors. During his academic and professional journey, he was selected to present his pioneering research at the prestigious Goldschmidt Conference in Spain, a testament to the global significance of his work on aquitards and groundwater quality. His innovative studies on water-rock interactions and organic carbon dynamics have earned him recognition within the scientific community, with several publications in high-impact journals like Science of the Total Environment and Environmental Pollution. Dr. Liu has also played a vital role in nationally funded research projects, underscoring his expertise and leadership in the field. These accomplishments reflect not only his technical proficiency and academic excellence but also his commitment to addressing critical environmental issues, positioning him as a distinguished researcher in the domain of sustainable water resource management.

Conclusion

Rui Liu is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” with exceptional academic credentials, significant scientific contributions, and expertise in hydrogeology and environmental geochemistry. His work addresses pressing environmental challenges, supported by high-quality publications and impactful research projects. Expanding his interdisciplinary and public engagement efforts could elevate his profile further.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Enrichment of geogenic ammonium in quaternary alluvial–lacustrine aquifer systems: evidence from carbon isotopes and DOM characteristics
    Authors: Y Du, Y Deng, T Ma, Y Xu, Y Tao, Y Huang, R Liu, Y Wang
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 102
  • Title: The effect of temperature and moisture on the source of N2O and contributions from ammonia oxidizers in an agricultural soil
    Authors: R Liu, HL Hayden, H Suter, H Hu, SK Lam, J He, PM Mele, D Chen
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 101
  • Title: Construction of a highly active secretory expression system via an engineered dual promoter and a highly efficient signal peptide in Bacillus subtilis
    Authors: C Guan, W Cui, J Cheng, R Liu, Z Liu, L Zhou, Z Zhou
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 101
  • Title: Nitrification is a primary driver of nitrous oxide production in laboratory microcosms from different land-use soils
    Authors: R Liu, H Hu, H Suter, HL Hayden, J He, P Mele, D Chen
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 85
  • Title: The effect of nitrification inhibitors in reducing nitrification and the ammonia oxidizer population in three contrasting soils
    Authors: R Liu, H Suter, J He, D Chen
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 82
  • Title: Influence of temperature and moisture on the relative contributions of heterotrophic and autotrophic nitrification to gross nitrification in an acid cropping soil
    Authors: R Liu, H Suter, J He, H Hayden, D Chen
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 64
  • Title: How nitrification-related N2O is associated with soil ammonia oxidizers in two contrasting soils in China?
    Authors: L Yang, G Zhu, X Ju, R Liu
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 39
  • Title: Co-incorporating leguminous green manure and rice straw drives the synergistic release of carbon and nitrogen, increases hydrolase activities, and changes the composition of microbial communities
    Authors: G Zhou, D Chang, S Gao, T Liang, R Liu, W Cao
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 34
  • Title: Effects of Fe oxides on organic carbon variation in the evolution of clayey aquitard and environmental significance
    Authors: R Liu, T Ma, W Qiu, Y Du, Y Liu
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 30
  • Title: Effects of the nitrification inhibitor acetylene on nitrous oxide emissions and ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms of different agricultural soils under laboratory incubation
    Authors: R Liu, HL Hayden, H Hu, J He, D Chen
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 30
  • Title: Effects of nitrification inhibitors on gross N nitrification rate, ammonia oxidizers, and N2O production under different temperatures in two pasture soils
    Authors: T Lan, H Suter, R Liu, S Yuan, D Chen
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 27
  • Title: Nitrate production is mainly heterotrophic in an acid dairy soil with high organic content in Australia
    Authors: R Liu, H Suter, H Hayden, J He, D Chen
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 27
  • Title: Distribution and hydrogeochemical behavior of arsenic enriched groundwater in the sedimentary aquifer comparison between Datong Basin (China) and Kushtia District (Bangladesh)
    Authors: ME Huq, C Su, S Fahad, J Li, MS Sarven, R Liu
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 25