Xiao Yang | Environmental Science| Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.Xiao Yang  Environmental Science| Best Researcher Award

Associated Professor at Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research  China

Dr. Xiao Yang is a distinguished environmental scientist and Associate Professor at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, recognized for his prolific research in soil remediation, wastewater treatment, and environmental geochemistry. With over 90 peer-reviewed publications, including seven ESI Highly Cited Papers, his work consistently appears in top-tier journals such as Environmental Science & Technology and Water Research. Dr. Yang’s interdisciplinary expertise spans materials chemistry, GIS, biochar engineering, and AI-driven environmental monitoring. He has led and contributed to several national research projects and collaborates internationally with leading scientists in Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong. A recipient of multiple reviewer and presentation awards, Dr. Yang was also named among the World’s Top 2% Scientists in 2022. His research has real-world impact, addressing global environmental challenges such as heavy metal contamination and plastic pollution. With his exceptional academic record, innovative approach, and dedication to sustainability, Dr. Yang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Xiao Yang has cultivated a robust and interdisciplinary academic foundation in the fields of environmental and material sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), where he developed expertise in environmental geochemistry and soil remediation. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed his undergraduate degree in Materials Chemistry, which laid the groundwork for his later research on biochar and advanced materials for environmental applications. Dr. Yang further enhanced his academic profile through prestigious postdoctoral and visiting research appointments at Korea University, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. These international experiences broadened his perspective and provided valuable exposure to global environmental issues and cutting-edge research methodologies. His educational journey reflects a strong commitment to academic excellence, cross-disciplinary learning, and global collaboration, positioning him as a leader in environmental research and a mentor for the next generation of scientists.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Xiao Yang possesses a rich and diverse professional background in environmental science and technology. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, he leads impactful research in soil and water remediation, waste valorization, and environmental monitoring. His professional journey includes notable postdoctoral research positions at Korea University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he worked on global environmental challenges such as heavy metal pollution, microplastics, and advanced adsorbent materials. He also served as a research fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, further expanding his international collaborations. Over the years, Dr. Yang has led and participated in several national and provincial research projects, contributing significantly to both fundamental science and applied environmental solutions. His expertise in integrating materials chemistry, GIS, and AI into environmental systems has earned him recognition as a forward-thinking researcher. Dr. Yang also actively contributes as a peer reviewer, editorial board member, and science communicator in his field

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Xiao Yang’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental chemistry, materials science, and sustainable technology, with a strong focus on soil and groundwater remediation. He is particularly interested in the development and application of engineered biochar, activated carbon, and iron-based materials for removing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and emerging contaminants such as microplastics from the environment. His work also explores the transformation of biomass and industrial waste into functional materials for environmental applications, promoting circular economy principles. Dr. Yang integrates advanced tools such as geostatistics, GIS mapping, and artificial intelligence to enhance the monitoring and prediction of pollutant behavior in complex environmental systems. Additionally, he investigates the fate, transport, and risk assessment of pollutants to support science-based environmental management and policy-making. Through interdisciplinary approaches, his research aims to address pressing global environmental challenges and contribute to cleaner, safer, and more resilient ecosystems.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Xiao Yang has received numerous awards and honors that reflect his outstanding contributions to environmental science and research excellence. He was recognized among the World’s Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University in 2022, highlighting his global scientific influence. His research papers have earned the distinction of ESI Highly Cited status on seven occasions, showcasing the high impact and relevance of his work. Dr. Yang has also received several accolades for his contributions as a peer reviewer, including Outstanding Reviewer Awards from leading journals such as Environmental Pollution, Science of the Total Environment, and Journal of Hazardous Materials. He has been honored for his academic presentations, notably receiving Best Presentation Awards at conferences like PYRO ASIA 2020 and the 2016 Asia Pacific Biochar Conference. These awards underscore his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering international collaboration in the field of environmental research.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Xiao Yang possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span experimental design, analytical techniques, and data-driven environmental modeling. He is highly proficient in synthesizing and characterizing advanced materials such as biochar, iron oxides, and nanocomposites for environmental remediation. His expertise includes a wide range of laboratory techniques, including spectroscopy (FTIR, XPS), microscopy (SEM, TEM), and surface area analysis (BET), which are essential for understanding material properties and pollutant interactions. Dr. Yang is also skilled in conducting soil and water contamination assessments, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and emerging contaminants like microplastics. He effectively integrates geostatistics and GIS tools for spatial analysis of environmental data and uses machine learning and AI techniques for predictive modeling and risk assessment. Additionally, he has experience in managing multidisciplinary projects, writing competitive research grants, and publishing in high-impact journals. These skills make him a dynamic researcher with both technical depth and strategic vision.

Conclusion💡

In conclusion, Dr. Xiao Yang is an accomplished environmental scientist whose research, leadership, and global collaborations position him as a leading figure in the field of environmental remediation and sustainability. With a strong academic foundation, extensive professional experience, and a proven record of impactful research, he has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of soil and water pollution. His innovative use of engineered materials, integration of advanced analytical and computational tools, and commitment to real-world environmental challenges have earned him wide recognition, including prestigious awards and international collaborations. Dr. Yang’s ability to bridge materials science with environmental engineering and policy reflects his interdisciplinary vision and problem-solving approach. As an active educator, mentor, and science communicator, he also contributes to the growth of future researchers. With his continued dedication to scientific excellence and environmental stewardship, Dr. Xiao Yang stands as a highly deserving candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Application of biochar for the removal of pollutants from aqueous solutions
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 1700+

  • Title: Biochar for environmental management: Mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, contaminant transport, and bioavailability
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 1300+

  • Title: Effects of aging on biochar’s physicochemical properties and environmental functions
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1000+

  • Title: Engineered biochar for environmental remediation: Current status and future prospects
    Authors: Yang, X., Tsang, D.C.W., Ok, Y.S., et al.
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 800+

  • Title: Biochar-supported nano zero-valent iron for contaminant removal from soil and water
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 600+

  • Title: A review of the interactions between biochar and soil contaminants
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 500+

  • Title: Application of geostatistics and GIS in mapping heavy metal contamination in soils
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 400+

  • Title: Transformation of industrial waste into engineered sorbents for environmental cleanup
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 350+

  • Title: Integrating AI and remote sensing in environmental risk assessment
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 300+

  • Title: Valorization of biomass waste through pyrolysis for sustainable environmental applications
    Authors: Yang, X., et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 250+

Reny Sawitri | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Mrs. Reny Sawitri | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Master of Science at BRIN, Indonesia

Reny Sawitri is a highly accomplished senior researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), specializing in forest ecology and ethnobiology. With over three decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to environmental sustainability and forest management in Indonesia. Holding degrees from Bogor Agricultural University and Mississippi State University, her academic background underpins a strong research portfolio focused on biodiversity conservation, carbon stock assessment, and socio-economic impacts of forestry. Her publications in international journals such as Land, Sustainability, and Forest reflect her interdisciplinary expertise and the practical relevance of her work. Despite not holding a doctoral degree, her leadership role, impactful studies, and commitment to integrating social and ecological perspectives in forestry make her a distinguished figure in her field. She exemplifies the values of the Women Researcher Award through her scientific excellence, long-term service, and contributions to national and community-based conservation strategies, making her a deserving candidate for recognition.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Reny Sawitri possesses a solid academic foundation in the field of forestry and environmental sciences. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Forest Management from the prestigious Agricultural University of Bogor (IPB) in 1985, one of Indonesia’s leading institutions in agricultural and environmental studies. Her pursuit of advanced education led her to the United States, where she completed her Master’s degree in Forest Management at Mississippi State University in 1995. This international academic experience enriched her research perspective and contributed to her expertise in sustainable forest ecosystems, biodiversity, and community-based resource management. Although she has not completed a doctoral program, her extensive research accomplishments, senior position as Peneliti Ahli Utama (Principal Researcher), and continuous professional development reflect a career marked by intellectual growth, leadership, and scientific integrity. Her educational journey has laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to advancing ecological research and promoting sustainable development in Indonesia and beyond.

Professional Experience📝

Reny Sawitri has built an extensive and impactful professional career as a Senior Researcher (Peneliti Ahli Utama) at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), specifically within the Research Center for Ecology and Ethnobiology. With more than 30 years of experience in the field of forest ecology, her work has focused on vegetation dynamics, biodiversity conservation, and the integration of socio-economic considerations into sustainable forest management. She has led and collaborated on numerous national and international research projects, contributing valuable insights into carbon stock estimation, peatland ecosystems, and community-based forestry. Her studies have been widely published in reputable journals, demonstrating both scientific rigor and policy relevance. Reny has played a crucial role in aligning ecological research with Indonesia’s sustainable development goals, particularly in areas such as food estate strategies and biodiversity preservation. Her professional journey reflects a strong dedication to environmental stewardship, research excellence, and science-based policy development.

Research Interest🔎

Reny Sawitri’s research interests lie at the intersection of forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management. She is particularly focused on the structure, composition, and regeneration of tropical rainforest ecosystems, with a strong emphasis on species such as Shorea spp. and Agathis dammara. Her work explores the ecological dynamics of vegetation, carbon stock assessments, and the socio-economic value of forest resources, aiming to balance environmental preservation with local community needs. She is also deeply engaged in the integration of social forestry practices and biodiversity conservation, addressing challenges in forest-dependent rural communities. More recently, her research has expanded into examining the ecological and social impacts of peatland development and food estate projects, aligning scientific inquiry with national economic recovery efforts. Her multidisciplinary approach reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge that supports both ecosystem resilience and sustainable livelihoods, making her work highly relevant to policy, conservation, and community-based forestry initiatives.

Award and Honor🏆

Throughout her distinguished career, Reny Sawitri has earned recognition for her contributions to ecological research, forest management, and sustainable development in Indonesia. As a Senior Researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), she holds one of the highest functional ranks in the Indonesian research system—Peneliti Ahli Utama—a prestigious acknowledgment of her expertise, leadership, and years of service in scientific research. Her impactful publications in internationally recognized journals and her involvement in national-level environmental strategies have further solidified her reputation in the academic and policy-making communities. She has been invited to contribute to conferences, collaborative research forums, and development programs aimed at integrating biodiversity conservation with socio-economic planning. While specific named awards are not detailed, her career trajectory and senior research position signify a high level of professional respect and honor. Her sustained commitment to forest ecology and community welfare reflects a legacy deserving of formal recognition such as the Women Researcher Award.

Research Skill🔬

Reny Sawitri possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that reflect her deep expertise in forest ecology, ethnobiology, and sustainable natural resource management. She is highly skilled in conducting vegetation analysis, carbon stock assessment, and ecological monitoring, particularly within tropical rainforest and peatland ecosystems. Her proficiency in integrating socio-economic data with ecological indicators allows her to evaluate the sustainability and economic potential of forest resources effectively. Reny is experienced in using both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including field surveys, biodiversity indexing, and community-based participatory research. She also excels in interdisciplinary collaboration, project coordination, and scientific writing, with several publications in international peer-reviewed journals. Her ability to translate complex ecological data into practical conservation strategies showcases her applied research competence. Additionally, she has contributed to policy recommendations and development planning, reflecting a skillful blend of scientific rigor and real-world impact in her research practice.

Conclusion💡

Reny Sawitri is highly suitable for the Women Researcher Award. Her proven track record, strong publication history, and dedicated service in ecological research and conservation make her a standout candidate. Despite the absence of a doctoral degree, her senior status, leadership in interdisciplinary research, and long-term contributions to sustainable development in Indonesia significantly outweigh that limitation.

Publication Top Noted✍️

Title: The Dynamics of Vegetation Structure, Composition and Carbon Stock in Peatland Ecosystem of Old Secondary Forest in Riau and South Sumatra Provinces
Authors: I Wayan Susi Dharmawan, Nur M. Heriyanto, Raden Garsetiasih, Rozza Tri Kwatrina, Reny Sawitri, Denny, Titiek Setyawati, Pratiwi, Budi Hadi Narendra, Chairil Anwar Siregar, Ilham Kurnia Abywijaya
Year: 2024
Journal: Land, Volume 13, Issue 5, Article 663; DOI: 10.3390/land13050663
Citation Count: As per available sources, the paper has been cited twice .