Jeronimo Rafael Kreiker | Environmental | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Jeronimo Rafael Kreiker | Environmental | Innovative Research Award

National Scientific and Technical Research Council | Argentina

Dr. Jeronimo Rafael Kreiker is an Independent Researcher in the New Materials Area at the Centro Experimental de la Vivienda Económica under the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas in Argentina, where he also serves as Deputy Director. Born in Almafuerte in the province of Córdoba, he holds advanced qualifications in chemistry and quality engineering, supported by an early technical background in the same field. His work centers on the development of sustainable construction materials created from urban and industrial waste, low-energy resources, and circular-economy strategies. He has made significant contributions to cementitious and polymeric composites, recycling of discarded plastics from electrical and electronic equipment, and the valorization of agricultural and paper residues, with a strong emphasis on producing environmentally responsible building components suitable for affordable housing. Throughout his career, Dr. Kreiker has coauthored a wide range of peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and conference contributions in respected scientific outlets, covering topics such as recycled plastic aggregates, biopolymer-based materials, fungal-derived composites, natural fiber reinforcements, and innovative construction technologies. His achievements also include patents related to recycled plastic processing and novel composite formulations, along with extensive technical services, technology transfer initiatives, and collaboration with public institutions and private companies engaged in circular-economy activities. He has successfully led funded research projects at local and national levels and has mentored doctoral candidates who have completed their studies with high distinction. Dr. Kreiker’s innovations have earned him recognition in the field of sustainable materials, particularly for advances in recycled rubber components and PET-based building products, which have been acknowledged in national and international innovation platforms. His work has resulted in 22 documents, cited 223 times across 189 publications, and an h-index of 8 according to Scopus, reflecting his growing scholarly impact. Through his research, leadership, and commitment to community-oriented technological development, he stands as a prominent figure driving eco-efficient construction solutions and advancing circular-economy practices across Latin America. This profile strongly aligns with the Innovative Research Award category, highlighting contributions that exemplify outstanding creativity, sustainability, and impact in materials science.

Publication Profile

Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Fernández, N., Basso, A. V., Peisino, L. E., López, S., Tapia, A., & Kreiker, J. (2025). A novel biocomposite made of citrus peel waste and mushroom mycelium: Mechanical, thermal, and bio-repellency studies. Recycling.

Fernandez, N., Strzelecki, F., Floreano, A., & Kreiker, J. (2025). Sustainable alternative masonry units to replace the fired clay vault in the BENO system. Construction Reports.

Fernandez, N., Kreiker, J., Strzelecki, F., & Floreano, A. (2025). Beno system with masonry as an alternative to baked clay vaults. Architect.

Gaggino, R., Kreiker, J., Peisino, L. E., Sánchez Amono, M. P., & Fernández, N. (2024). Proposal for the recycling of urban solid waste in municipalities of Córdoba for the development of construction components for social purposes. Urban Notebook.

Granados, A. M., Kreiker, J., & De Rossi, R. H. (2002). Insertion of Fischer carbene complexes into the carbon–carbon bond: Ring expansion of a sulfur heterocycle from five- to six-membered. Tetrahedron Letters.

Willi Haas | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Willi Haas | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

scientist at BOKU University, Austria

Dr. Willi Haas is a distinguished researcher at the Institute of Social Ecology, BOKU University, Vienna. He holds a mechanical engineering degree, a doctorate in philosophy specializing in sociology, and a habilitation in social ecology. His work focuses on analyzing society-nature interactions over time and space to explore sustainable transitions towards a post-fossil society. With an interdisciplinary approach integrating social, cultural, and natural sciences, he examines governance, policy integration, conflicts, and barriers affecting change processes. Dr. Haas has made significant contributions to the understanding of environmental sustainability and circular economy, influencing both academia and policy-making.

professional profiles📖

ORCID

Google Scholar

Scopus Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Haas’s academic journey began with a degree in mechanical engineering, followed by a PhD in philosophy with a focus on sociology. His pursuit of interdisciplinary knowledge led him to attain a habilitation in social ecology, where he studied the complex interplay between society and the environment. His educational background has equipped him with a unique perspective, allowing him to apply sociological theories to ecological transitions. Through his academic training, Dr. Haas has developed expertise in material flow analysis, sustainability transitions, and socio-metabolic systems, positioning him as a leading scholar in social ecology.

work Experience💼

With years of experience in social ecology and sustainability research, Dr. Haas has contributed to various high-impact projects on climate policy, circular economy, and environmental governance. He has been an integral part of multiple European research initiatives, such as the Horizon Europe-funded CircEUlar project and the ACRP-funded Q2-PATHWAYS project. His work extends beyond research, engaging in policy discussions and advising governments and institutions on sustainability strategies. Additionally, he is a sought-after speaker and collaborator in academic and policy-making circles, contributing to conferences, workshops, and interdisciplinary research networks.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Haas has been recognized for his contributions to social ecology and sustainability studies through various awards and honors. His research excellence has earned him accolades from academic institutions and international sustainability organizations. He has received awards for his innovative approaches to climate-friendly living and circular economy frameworks. His influence in bridging the gap between policy and academia has been acknowledged by governmental and environmental agencies. As a thought leader in the field, his work continues to shape global discussions on ecological transitions and sustainability governance.

Research Focus

Dr. Haas’s research centers on understanding and promoting sustainability transitions through an interdisciplinary lens. He explores socio-metabolic processes, material flow dynamics, and the governance of environmental change. His work delves into the circular economy’s challenges, identifying socio-political and economic barriers to its implementation. Additionally, he examines the impact of climate change on public health and infrastructure, advocating for systemic transformations. By combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies, Dr. Haas provides insights into sustainable policy development, resource efficiency, and environmental justice.

Skills 💡

Dr. Haas possesses a diverse skill set that includes expertise in social ecology, sustainability analysis, and interdisciplinary research. He is proficient in material flow accounting, socio-metabolic system modeling, and policy integration strategies. His ability to apply sociological theories to ecological transitions makes him a valuable contributor to sustainability discourse. Additionally, he excels in stakeholder engagement, facilitating discussions between policymakers, researchers, and communities. His communication skills enable him to present complex environmental issues in an accessible manner, making a significant impact in both academic and public spheres.

 

Conclusion✅

Dr. Willi Haas is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his interdisciplinary research, substantial contributions to sustainability science, and policy impact. While his citation index and industry engagement could be further improved, his extensive publication record, ongoing projects, and scholarly influence make him a deserving nominee.

 

📚Publications to Noted

 

How circular is the global economy? An assessment of material flows, waste production and recycling in the EU and the world in 2005

Authors: W. Haas, F. Krausmann, D. Wiedenhofer, M. Heinz

Citations: 1522

Year: 2015

Global socioeconomic material stocks rise 23-fold over the 20th century and require half of annual resource use

Authors: F. Krausmann, D. Wiedenhofer, C. Lauk, W. Haas, H. Tanikawa, T. Fishman, …

Citations: 732

Year: 2017

Between activism and science: grassroots concepts for sustainability coined by Environmental Justice Organizations

Authors: J. Martinez-Alier, I. Anguelovski, P. Bond, D. Del Bene, F. Demaria

Citations: 443

Year: 2014

From resource extraction to outflows of wastes and emissions: The socioeconomic metabolism of the global economy, 1900–2015

Authors: F. Krausmann, C. Lauk, W. Haas, D. Wiedenhofer

Citations: 438

Year: 2018

Measuring Progress towards a Circular Economy: A Monitoring Framework for Economy‐wide Material Loop Closing in the EU28

Authors: A. Mayer, W. Haas, D. Wiedenhofer, F. Krausmann, P. Nuss, G.A. Blengini

Citations: 407

Year: 2018

Maintenance and Expansion: Modeling Material Stocks and Flows for Residential Buildings and Transportation Networks in the EU25

Authors: D. Wiedenhofer, J.K. Steinberger, N. Eisenmenger, W. Haas

Citations: 267

Year: 2015

Red meat, diseases and healthy alternatives: A critical review

Authors: C. Ekmekcioglu, P. Wallner, M. Kundi, U. Weisz, W. Haas, H.P. Hutter

Citations: 223

Year: 2016

Integrating material stock dynamics into economy-wide material flow accounting: concepts, modelling, and global application for 1900–2050

Authors: D. Wiedenhofer, T. Fishman, C. Lauk, W. Haas, F. Krausmann

Citations: 219

Year: 2019

The environmental effect of car-free housing: A case in Vienna

Authors: M. Ornetzeder, E.G. Hertwich, K. Hubacek, K. Korytarova, W. Haas

Citations: 187

Year: 2008

Spaceship earth’s odyssey to a circular economy-a century long perspective

Authors: W. Haas, F. Krausmann, D. Wiedenhofer, C. Lauk, A. Mayer

Citations: 174

Year: 2020

 

 

Rauoof Ahmad Rather | Environmental Pollution | Best Researcher Award

fatemehalsadat afsahhosseini | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. fatemehalsadat afsahhosseini | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Sultan Qaboos University, Iran

Dr. Fatemehalsadat Afsahhosseini is a distinguished researcher with a broad expertise spanning Urban Planning, Geospatial Data Engineering, Climate Change, Sustainability, and Smart Cities. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Urban Planning from SRBIAU University, Tehran, and a Postdoctoral fellowship at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. Dr. Afsahhosseini has contributed significantly to various fields, including urban heritage and sustainability, where her recent works address the impact of Iran’s urban heritage on climate change and sustainability.

 

📝professional profile

Scopus Profile

ORCID

👨‍🏫Academic and Professional Contributions:

Dr. Afsahhosseini has made noteworthy contributions through her research, particularly in understanding the relationship between urban heritage and sustainability. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates urban planning with modern technologies such as GIS and remote sensing, providing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges like climate change. Her role as a scientific researcher and data engineer demonstrates her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical, real-world problems.

Her academic contributions are further highlighted by her active participation in reviewing scholarly articles and her involvement in strategic urban planning initiatives. Dr. Afsahhosseini’s work on the sustainability of UNESCO sites and forecasting housing units in Iran showcases her ability to address complex issues with a combination of academic rigor and practical insight.

Technical Proficiency:

Dr. Afsahhosseini’s technical expertise is exceptional, encompassing programming languages such as SQL, Python, Java, and JavaScript, as well as tools like ArcGIS Pro, WebGIS, and CityEngine. Her work in data science, particularly in AI, machine learning, and cloud computing, further exemplifies her capability to leverage advanced technologies for urban and environmental research.

Conclusion:

Dr. Fatemehalsadat Afsahhosseini is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her extensive academic background, technical expertise, and impactful research in urban planning, sustainability, and smart cities make her a standout researcher. Dr. Afsahhosseini’s work not only advances knowledge in her field but also offers practical solutions to pressing global issues, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

📚Publications to Noted

The Impact of Iran’s Urban Heritage on Sustainability, Climate Change and Carbon Zero

Author: Afsahhosseini, F.

Journal: Environment, Development and Sustainability

Year: 2024

Citations: 1

Smart, Hybrid and Context-Aware POI Mobile Recommender System in Tourism in Oman

Authors: Afsahhosseini, F., Al-Mulla, Y.

Journal: Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development

Year: 2023

Citations: 3

Machine Learning in Tourism

Authors: Afsahhosseini, F., Al-Mulla, Y.

Conference: ACM International Conference Proceeding Series

Year: 2020

Citations: 11

Forecasting Housing Units in Iran

Author: Afsahhosseini, F.

Journal: International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis

Year: 2019

Citations: 1

 

Mélanie Di Mario | Sustainable Materials | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Mélanie Di Mario | Sustainable Materials | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at Sciensano, Belgium

Ms. Mélanie Di Mario is a highly skilled scientist specializing in the field of analytical toxicology and biomedical sciences. Currently, she serves as a Scientist at Sciensano in Brussels, Belgium, where she oversees the Food Contact Materials National Reference Laboratory and represents Belgium at the European Reference Laboratory for food contact materials. Mélanie excels in developing and validating analytical methods for detecting and quantifying substances in food matrices and food contact materials using advanced techniques such as GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, LC-UV, LC-FLUO, GC-FID, and LC-HRMS.

📝professional profile

Scopus Profile

🎓Educational Details:

Since March 1, 2021, I have been pursuing my PhD at the University of Liège in collaboration with Sciensano in Liège, Belgium. My research is focused on advancing the field of biomedical sciences, leveraging the extensive resources and expertise available at both institutions. For more information about the University of Liège, you can visit their website. From September 1, 2012, to September 15, 2017, I completed my Bachelor and Master degrees in Biomedical Sciences with a specialty in Biological Analyses at the University of Liège. This comprehensive program provided me with a strong foundation in biomedical sciences and specialized skills in biological analyses, preparing me for my current research and professional roles.

👨‍🏫Professional Experience:

From February 5, 2019, to the present, I have been working as a Scientist at Sciensano in Brussels, Belgium. In this role, I am responsible for the Food Contact Materials National Reference Laboratory and serve as the Belgian representative at the European Reference Laboratory for food contact materials. I manage the practical organization of daily laboratory activities in accordance with ISO 17025 and oversee routine analysis of food additives and food contact materials. My work includes the development and validation of analytical methods for detecting and quantifying various substances in food matrices and food contact materials using advanced techniques such as GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, LC-UV, LC-FLUO, GC-FID, and LC-HRMS. Additionally, I participate in proficiency tests, write scientific reports, papers, and procedures, supervise junior scientists, analysts, and interns, and organize workshops for Belgian official control laboratories. As the lead scientist, I also spearhead research projects related to food contact materials and food. Between January 2, 2019, and April 15, 2019, I worked as an Assistant Project Manager at Eurofins Amatsi Analytics in Toulouse, France. My responsibilities included checking raw data, results, and reports of clinical trials, writing and reviewing protocols, analytical reports, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), and participating in the GMP environment within the laboratory. Prior to that, from February 19, 2018, to January 2, 2019, I served as a Bioanalyst at Amatsigroup in Toulouse, France. My duties involved performing routine analyses on biological matrices for clinical trials, developing and validating analytical methods on biological matrices, identifying and resolving technical issues, and calibrating HPLC-MS/MS instruments.

Skills:

Ms. Mélanie Di Mario possesses a diverse set of digital skills essential for modern scientific research and collaboration. Her expertise includes information and data literacy, which enables her to effectively gather, analyze, and interpret complex data sets. She excels in communication and collaboration, facilitating seamless interaction with colleagues, stakeholders, and the scientific community through various digital platforms. Mélanie is also proficient in digital content creation, allowing her to produce high-quality scientific reports, presentations, and publications. Additionally, she prioritizes safety in all digital endeavors, ensuring secure data handling and adherence to best practices. Her problem-solving skills further enhance her ability to address and overcome technical and analytical challenges in her work.

📚Publications to Noted

Cannabinoids and Therapeutics | Cannabinoïdes et Thérapeutique

Authors: Fabresse, N., Becam, J., Carrara, L., Senechal, H., Salle, S.

Journal: Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique

Year: 2019

Volume: 31

Issue: 3

Pages: 153–172

Citations: 7

Fatal Nefopam (Acupan®) Overdose | Overdose Fatale de Nefopam (Acupan®)

Authors: Di Mario, M., Luisi, C., Martrille, L., Tournebize, J., Roman, E.

Journal: Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique

Year: 2018

Volume: 30

Issue: 4

Pages: 239–245

Citations: 1