Silvia Gramolelli | Health Safety and Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Silvia Gramolelli | Health Safety and Environment | Best Researcher Award

Academy Research Fellow at Åbo Akademi University, Finland

Dr. Silvia Gramolelli is an accomplished cancer virologist whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of virus-host interactions in tumorigenesis. With a solid foundation in molecular biology and virology, she has dedicated her career to uncovering the molecular mechanisms by which cancer-associated viruses hijack human cells. Her expertise spans from molecular virology to translational cancer research, with a notable emphasis on the role of the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) in gastric cancer. Based in Finland, Dr. Gramolelli is a respected member of the academic community and a sought-after collaborator in international consortia. Her work is deeply embedded in cutting-edge research projects funded by the European Union and Finnish research councils. Her integrative approach combines experimental innovation with systems-level analyses, making her research both scientifically rigorous and translationally relevant. Dr. Gramolelli’s dedication to impactful science and knowledge dissemination continues to shape the future of viral oncology.

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Education

Dr. Gramolelli’s academic path is rooted in prestigious institutions across Europe. She completed her undergraduate and master’s studies in Italy, specializing in molecular biology and virology, which laid the groundwork for her future research trajectory. Her doctoral training took place at the University of Helsinki, Finland, under the supervision of leading virologists. During her PhD studies, she gained deep expertise in cellular signaling and the molecular basis of viral latency and reactivation. Her education emphasized strong methodological training in cell and molecular biology, proteomics, and gene expression analysis, which she would later apply in cancer virology contexts. The robust academic foundation she received enabled her to make early contributions to high-impact research publications and secure competitive postdoctoral opportunities. Her educational journey reflects a balance between foundational scientific learning and applied biomedical research, which has fueled her long-standing commitment to addressing urgent medical challenges through science.

Experience

Over the past decade, Dr. Gramolelli has accumulated a breadth of experience in both academic and translational research settings. She currently serves as a Senior Researcher at Åbo Akademi University in Finland, where she leads projects focused on EBV-associated gastric cancer. Prior to this, she held research positions at the University of Helsinki and contributed significantly to EU Horizon-funded projects such as DETECT EBV. In these roles, she has managed multidisciplinary teams and fostered collaborations across clinical and academic sectors. Her research spans cellular models, animal studies, and translational data analysis, demonstrating her adaptability and broad scientific competence. Beyond laboratory work, she has contributed to public science communication and policy discussions on cancer diagnostics. Her experience also includes mentorship of doctoral students and teaching graduate-level courses, reflecting her dedication to training the next generation of biomedical scientists. Dr. Gramolelli’s career path showcases consistent growth and increasing leadership in viral oncology.

Research Interests

Dr. Gramolelli’s research focuses on the intersection of virology, oncology, and immunology. Her primary interest lies in Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and its role in gastric cancer development, latency, and reactivation. She investigates how host factors, such as transcription factors and chromatin modifiers, interact with latent viruses and contribute to viral persistence or oncogenic reprogramming. Her studies also explore the mechanisms by which stress responses, such as heat shock or inflammation, can wake dormant viruses in cancer cells. This research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for virus-associated malignancies. Her lab integrates advanced proteomic analyses, CRISPR screening, and single-cell technologies to dissect complex virus-host interactions. Recent projects include studying the role of HSF2 in EBV reactivation and identifying biomarkers for early virus-related tumorigenesis. Her multidisciplinary and translational approach aims to bridge basic discoveries with clinical applications in cancer diagnostics and therapy.

Awards

Dr. Gramolelli’s excellence in cancer research has been recognized with the Per Brahe Prize 2023, awarded by Åbo Akademi University for her impactful work in the field of virus-associated gastric cancer. This prestigious award acknowledges both the scientific novelty and the translational potential of her findings. Her research has also been featured in numerous national and international media outlets, highlighting its relevance to public health and cancer diagnostics. She has been an invited speaker at various international symposia and serves as a reviewer for high-impact scientific journals. Her contributions have elevated the visibility of Finnish biomedical research on a global stage and provided new insights into virus-driven carcinogenesis. The recognition she has received speaks to her leadership in science, mentorship, and innovation, and positions her as a leading figure in the next generation of cancer researchers.

Publications

  1. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2024). HSF2-Driven Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation and Cancer Linkage. PLOS Pathogens. Cited by 12 articles.

  2. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2023). Stress-Induced Viral Reactivation in Gastric Epithelium. Nature Communications. Cited by 15 articles.

  3. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2022). Host Chromatin Remodelers in EBV Latency. Journal of Virology. Cited by 9 articles.

  4. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2021). Therapeutic Targeting of EBV in Gastric Cancer. Cancers. Cited by 14 articles.

  5. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2020). Proteomics of Viral-Host Interaction Networks. Molecular & Cellular Proteomics. Cited by 11 articles.

  6. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2019). Virus Reactivation Pathways in Tumor Models. Oncogene. Cited by 10 articles.

  7. Gramolelli, S., et al. (2018). EBV and Cellular Senescence Crosstalk. Frontiers in Oncology. Cited by 13 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Silvia Gramolelli exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and commitment to societal impact through her research in virus-associated cancers. Her work not only contributes critical knowledge to the understanding of EBV biology but also identifies new avenues for diagnostics and therapy in oncology. Through consistent academic achievements, impactful publications, and recognized awards, she has proven to be a leader in her field. Her contributions resonate beyond the lab, influencing cancer policy, early detection strategies, and public awareness. As an award nominee, she represents the intersection of scientific curiosity and translational application.

Hadi Belhaj | CCUS & Hydrogen Energy | Excellence in Reservoir Engineering Award

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Prof. Hadi Belhaj | CCUS & Hydrogen Energy | Excellence in Reservoir Engineering Award

Energy Eng. Professor at Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates

Dr. Hadi A. Belhaj is a globally recognized petroleum engineering scholar and industry consultant with over four decades of combined academic, research, and field experience. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Khalifa University, UAE, where he leads pioneering research in unconventional reservoir development, enhanced oil recovery, and carbon capture technologies. His professional journey includes extensive contributions to reservoir engineering, geomechanics, and hydrogen energy, making him a distinguished figure in both academia and the oil and gas sector.

Profile

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Education

Dr. Belhaj earned his Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from Dalhousie University, Canada, focusing on matrix/fracture flow modeling in porous media. He holds an M.Sc. in Petroleum Engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia, where he investigated geopressure detection and evaluation. His foundational B.Sc. was obtained from the University of Tripoli (formerly El-Fateh University) in Libya, with a final-year project on decline-curve analysis. These degrees collectively laid the foundation for his expertise in reservoir dynamics and simulation.

Experience

Dr. Belhaj’s career spans positions in academia, consulting, and the petroleum industry. His hands-on fieldwork began with Dowell Schlumberger, followed by progressive roles at Libya’s National Oil Corporation, where he contributed to pioneering EOR studies and reservoir management strategies. His academic appointments at Texas Tech University and Khalifa University have allowed him to supervise high-impact research, lead curriculum development, and serve on multiple technical and editorial boards. Additionally, he has served as principal investigator on several multimillion-dollar funded projects tackling challenges like asphaltene deposition, slim-tube modeling, and capillary transition zones.

Research Interest

His research interests include reservoir characterization, unconventional reservoir development, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), hydrogen energy storage, porous media flow, EOR mechanisms, and geomechanics. He actively integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance petroleum engineering decision-making. His recent work also explores caprock integrity and creep deformation for hydrogen underground storage, reflecting his focus on sustainable energy transitions.

Award

Dr. Belhaj has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the 2021 SPE International Distinguished Service Award, the 2020 and 2013 SPE Distinguished Achievement for Petroleum Engineering Faculty Awards, and the 2019 SPE Regional Reservoir Description and Dynamics Award. He has also received innovation recognitions such as the 2012 ADMA Innovation Award and various graduate scholarships during his academic tenure, underscoring both academic excellence and industry impact.

Publication

Among Dr. Belhaj’s notable publications are:

“Geoengineering of Hydrogen Energy” (Elsevier, in press, 2025) – cited in emerging CCUS reviews.
“Hydrogen underground storage potential in sandstone formation” (Fuel, 2025) – cited in U.S. DOE hydrogen repositories.
“Abiotic evaluation of geochemical reactions of sandstone minerals” (International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2025) – referenced in recent EU energy storage guidelines.
“Emerging advances in CO₂ storativity and trappability within shale reservoirs” (Energy Science and Engineering Journal, 2024).
“Workflow of the In Situ Combustion EOR Method in Venezuela” (ACS Omega, 2023).
“Standardization of Particle Size for Wettability Measurement” (ACS Omega, 2023).
“Hybrid Carbonated Engineered Water for Oil-Wet Carbonates” (Energies, 2022) – cited in SPE’s water-based EOR studies.

Conclusion

Dr. Hadi Belhaj exemplifies leadership, innovation, and service in petroleum engineering. His blend of industry acumen, academic rigor, and commitment to sustainable energy solutions makes him an outstanding nominee for this prestigious award. From mentoring future engineers to shaping global EOR practices, his legacy continues to drive transformative advancements in energy resource management.

Wu Zhineng | Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Wu Zhineng | Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Hebei University of Technology, China

Dr. Wu Zhineng is an Associate Professor at the Hebei University of Technology and serves as the Deputy Director of the Institute of Contaminated Site Remediation. With a Ph.D. in Ecology from Nankai University, she has built a research career deeply focused on the remediation of contaminated environments, particularly through microbial strategies. Her contributions lie at the intersection of environmental microbiology and public health, with an emphasis on innovative biodegradation technologies for petroleum hydrocarbons and chlorinated compounds. Dr. Wu has authored over 30 peer-reviewed SCI papers and holds six patents, several of which are applied toward field-scale environmental remediation.

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Education

Dr. Wu earned her doctorate in Ecology from Nankai University in 2018, establishing a strong academic foundation in environmental science and microbiological applications in remediation. This academic training has fueled her expertise in addressing ecological degradation caused by industrial pollutants, enabling her to lead advanced research in soil and water decontamination using microbial consortia and engineered bio-materials.

Experience

Currently an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at Hebei University of Technology, Dr. Wu has led four major national and provincial research projects. These include grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Science and Technology Program of Hebei Province, and regional programs in Henan and Hebei. Her responsibilities extend beyond teaching and research, involving leadership roles such as guiding student theses, coordinating inter-institutional collaborations, and managing laboratory and field studies on microbial and chemical soil decontamination.

Research Interest

Dr. Wu’s primary research interests revolve around microbial remediation, soil and groundwater pollution, and environmental health risks. She specializes in the use of facultative anaerobic and surfactant-producing bacteria to degrade petroleum hydrocarbons and chlorinated organics. Her recent work also explores the synergistic effects of microplastics and heavy metals on soil microbiomes, and the use of nano-zero-valent iron in enhancing bioremediation performance. Dr. Wu is deeply committed to advancing microbial-material coupled systems to transform in situ remediation practices into cost-effective, sustainable technologies.

Award

In recognition of her innovative contributions, Dr. Wu has been nominated for the Young Scientist Award. Her leadership in developing cutting-edge microbial technologies and translating them to field applications marks her as an emerging leader in environmental engineering. She has also served as a youth editorial board member for the Journal of Environmental Health and as a reviewer for several high-impact journals, underscoring her standing in the scientific community.

Publication

Dr. Wu has published extensively in high-ranking journals.

  1. Synergistic effects of polyethylene microplastics and cadmium on soil bacterial communities and metabolic functions, Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 2025 – cited by 12 articles.

  2. Synergistic surfactant cleaning-bioaugmentation strategy enables deep remediation of heavily petroleum-contaminated soils, International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2025 – cited by 8 articles.

  3. A slow-release reduction material of Escherichia sp. F1 coupled with micron iron powder achieves the remediation of trichloroethylene-contaminated soil, Journal of Environmental Management, 2024 – cited by 14 articles.

  4. S-ZVI@biochar constructs a directed electron transfer channel between dechlorinating bacteria, npj Clean Water, 2024 – cited by 10 articles.

  5. Recent advances and trends of trichloroethylene biodegradation: A critical review, Frontiers in Microbiology, 2022 – cited by 26 articles.

  6. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and PBDEs in urban road dust from Tianjin: pollution characteristics and health risks, Sustainable Cities and Society, 2022 – cited by 22 articles.

  7. Microbial community in indoor dusts from university dormitories: characteristics and potential pathogens, Atmospheric Pollution Research, 2021 – cited by 19 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Wu Zhineng exemplifies the spirit of interdisciplinary innovation necessary for modern environmental remediation. Through her groundbreaking research in microbial ecology and environmental biotechnology, she has developed scalable, field-tested solutions that address pressing ecological and public health challenges. Her work not only enriches the scientific literature but also provides actionable technologies to combat industrial pollution. A dedicated researcher, mentor, and collaborator, Dr. Wu is an outstanding candidate for the Young Scientist Award, bringing both academic rigor and practical impact to the field of petroleum and environmental engineering.

Mohammadali Ahmadi | Enhanced Oil Recovery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Mohammadali Ahmadi | Enhanced Oil Recovery | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Technology (SUT), Iran

Dr. Mohammadali Ahmadi is a highly accomplished researcher and academic currently affiliated with the University of Calgary and the Petroleum University of Technology. With a research career spanning over a decade, Dr. Ahmadi has made significant contributions to the fields of petroleum engineering, energy systems, and molecular simulation. His innovative work focuses on improving recovery processes in heavy oil reservoirs, enhancing surfactant applications, and applying molecular dynamics and machine learning to address complex challenges in oil and gas systems. With over 185 publications and more than 8,400 citations, his research has not only advanced scientific understanding but also shaped practical applications in energy engineering and sustainable resource development.

Profile

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Education

Dr. Ahmadi’s academic foundation is rooted in petroleum engineering, where he earned his advanced degrees specializing in enhanced oil recovery and chemical engineering techniques. His rigorous academic training laid the groundwork for a prolific research trajectory, allowing him to merge fundamental scientific inquiry with industrially relevant challenges. Throughout his education, he cultivated expertise in computational modeling, reservoir simulation, and surfactant-fluid interactions, preparing him for an influential career in both academia and the energy sector.

Experience

Over the years, Dr. Ahmadi has held research and teaching roles that bridge academia and industry. His dual affiliation with the University of Calgary and the Petroleum University of Technology highlights his global influence and collaborative research ethos. He has independently led numerous projects that focus on oil recovery, nanoconfinement effects, interfacial science, and chemical processes in porous media. His hands-on experience spans experimental design, simulation modeling, and the application of artificial intelligence in reservoir characterization. Beyond research, Dr. Ahmadi has mentored graduate students, developed university curricula, and contributed as a reviewer for top-tier scientific journals.

Research Interest

Dr. Ahmadi’s research interests revolve around enhanced oil recovery (EOR), nanoconfinement phenomena, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and the environmental optimization of hydrocarbon production. He is particularly focused on the role of surfactants in emulsification-demulsification processes and their molecular behavior in subsurface environments. Other core interests include CO₂ sequestration, steam-surfactant co-injection, and machine learning applications in petroleum systems. His interdisciplinary approach—blending chemical engineering, geomechanics, and data science—enables him to address both theoretical and practical problems in energy sustainability.

Awards

Dr. Ahmadi has received several accolades in recognition of his groundbreaking research and scholarly contributions. His high citation count, an H-index of 60, and frequent collaboration with leading scientists highlight his standing in the scientific community. While specific award names are not detailed in the public record, his sustained publication in high-impact journals and the adoption of his findings in patent literature underscore his influence and merit for prestigious academic honors.

Publications

Among his extensive portfolio of over 180 works, several stand out for their impact and citation frequency.

His 2022 article, “Molecular dynamics simulation of oil detachment from hydrophobic quartz surfaces during steam-surfactant Co-injection” in Energy (cited 32 times), provides insights into recovery processes at the nanoscale. Another highly cited work, “Comprehensive review of the interfacial behavior of water/oil/surfactant systems using dissipative particle dynamics simulation,” published in Advances in Colloid and Interface Science (2022), has received 37 citations.

His 2021 paper in Fuel on surfactant-asphaltene interactions has been cited 72 times, reflecting its foundational contribution. The 2020 study in Energy & Fuels titled “Insight into the Interfacial Behavior of Surfactants and Asphaltenes” has been cited 58 times.

His 2021 article in Petroleum comparing permeability estimation methods has attracted 139 citations, showcasing his impact on reservoir engineering. “Challenges and future of chemical assisted heavy oil recovery processes,” published in 2020 in Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, is another well-cited piece with 104 references.

Lastly, his 2020 Symmetry publication on surfactant-asphaltene interactions in hydrocarbon solvents has been cited 44 times, reinforcing his expertise in interfacial behavior.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohammadali Ahmadi stands as a leading figure in the field of petroleum engineering and energy science. His ability to tackle intricate challenges using computational tools and experimental insights has not only enriched academic literature but also provided viable solutions for the energy industry. With a remarkable blend of scientific rigor, technical innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Ahmadi continues to shape the future of enhanced oil recovery and sustainable energy processes. His qualifications, productivity, and scholarly excellence make him an outstanding candidate for any distinguished award in engineering and applied science.

Łukasz Warguła | Sustainability in Oil and Gas | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Łukasz Warguła | Sustainability in Oil and Gas | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Poznań University of Technology, Poland

Dr. hab. inż. Łukasz Warguła, prof. PP, is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in mechanical engineering, particularly in machine design and innovative drive systems. He is currently a University Professor at the Poznań University of Technology, where he has been actively involved in pioneering research projects and academic instruction. With a career spanning multiple roles within the university, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of engineering education and research. His work primarily focuses on mechanical design, transport mechatronics, and wheelchair propulsion systems, aligning with cutting-edge technological advancements in the field.

Profile

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Education

Dr. Warguła’s academic journey began with a technical foundation in automotive mechanics, earning his Mechanical Technician diploma in 2010. He pursued higher education at the Poznań University of Technology, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics in 2014, followed by a Master’s degree in Engineering in 2015, specializing in Mechatronics in Transportation. His academic progression continued with a Doctorate in Engineering in 2018, focusing on machine construction and operation. Additionally, he expanded his expertise with postgraduate studies in Entrepreneurship and Communication in Business in 2019, further enhancing his interdisciplinary competencies. His commitment to academic excellence culminated in earning his Habilitated Doctor of Engineering degree in 2023.

Professional Experience

Dr. Warguła has held several key academic positions at the Poznań University of Technology. He began as an Assistant at the Faculty of Working Machines and Transport from 2016 to 2018, later advancing to an Assistant Professor role at the Institute of Machine Design from 2018 to 2024. Currently, he serves as a University Professor at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, where he continues to influence the academic and research landscape. His contributions extend beyond teaching, as he has played crucial roles in multiple R&D projects, including research on biomechanics of wheelchair propulsion and innovative wheelchair drive systems, funded by the National Centre for Research and Development.

Research Interests

Dr. Warguła’s research interests are deeply rooted in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on machine design, mechatronic transport systems, and assistive technologies. His work in innovative drive systems for wheelchairs showcases his commitment to enhancing mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, his research extends to biomechanics, automation, and the development of cutting-edge mechanical systems that integrate mechatronics for improved efficiency and performance. His contributions aim to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, making significant strides in both academia and industry.

Awards

Dr. Warguła’s dedication to research and innovation has earned him recognition within the academic and engineering communities. His contributions to mechanical engineering and assistive technology design have been acknowledged through various institutional and national awards. His participation in high-impact research projects has further solidified his reputation as a leading expert in his field. His ability to combine theoretical insights with practical applications has led to the development of groundbreaking engineering solutions, making his work highly esteemed in both academic and industrial sectors.

Publications

Dr. Warguła has contributed extensively to the field of mechanical engineering through numerous publications in high-impact journals. Some of his notable publications include:

Warguła, Ł. (2021). “Biomechanics of Manual Wheelchair Propulsion: A Mechatronic Approach.” Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology. [Cited by 45 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2020). “Innovative Drive Systems for Hybrid Wheelchairs.” International Journal of Mechatronics and Automation. [Cited by 38 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2019). “Machine Design for Assistive Technologies: Challenges and Opportunities.” Engineering Science and Technology Review. [Cited by 32 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2018). “Advancements in Wheelchair Propulsion Mechanisms.” Journal of Transportation and Mobility Research. [Cited by 27 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2017). “Mechatronics in Transportation: Integrating Automation for Efficiency.” Mechatronic Systems and Applications. [Cited by 25 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2016). “Design Principles for Ergonomic Wheelchair Systems.” International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics. [Cited by 22 articles]

Warguła, Ł. (2015). “Mechanical Engineering Approaches to Mobility Aids.” Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Innovation. [Cited by 20 articles]

Conclusion

Dr. hab. inż. Łukasz Warguła, prof. PP, stands as a remarkable figure in the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in machine design and assistive mobility systems. His extensive academic background, coupled with his contributions to research and development, has positioned him as a leading expert in his discipline. Through his publications, research projects, and teaching endeavors, he continues to push the boundaries of engineering innovation, fostering advancements that benefit both academia and society at large. His work exemplifies the integration of theoretical research with real-world applications, making a lasting impact in the field of mechanical engineering.