Emanuela Drago | Health Safety and Environment | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Emanuela Drago | Health Safety and Environment | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at University of Genoa | Italy

Emanuela Drago is a dedicated researcher in chemical and process engineering, specializing in sustainable materials and innovative active food packaging technologies. Currently serving as a Researcher (RTDA) at the University of Genoa, she integrates expertise in polymer science, green processing, and bioengineering. Her international research experience includes a visiting position at Imperial College London, where she developed biodegradable sensors for food quality monitoring. Through extensive collaborations across Europe and the U.S., she has contributed to advancing biodegradable polymers, supercritical fluid technologies, and biosensor integration in packaging. Her work bridges environmental sustainability with industrial applicability, earning recognition for innovation and scientific excellence.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Emanuela Drago earned her Ph.D. in Chemical, Materials and Process Engineering from the University of Genoa in 2023, focusing on the development of innovative active food packaging biomaterials through eco-friendly technologies. She holds a Master’s degree in Chemical and Process Engineering, where she explored microparticle production via spray drying and computational fluid dynamics simulation. Her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering (2015) involved studying functional foods and probiotic applications. Earlier, she completed a Classical Studies high school diploma, enhancing her analytical and multidisciplinary thinking. This robust academic foundation underpins her research in sustainable materials, food packaging, and advanced process engineering.

Experience

Emanuela Drago has amassed diverse research and academic experience in chemical engineering, bioengineering, and materials science. She is currently an RTDA researcher at the University of Genoa and has served as a postdoctoral fellow on systemic resilience models for pandemic-related risk management. Internationally, she was a Visiting Researcher at Imperial College London, developing biodegradable sensors for agri-food applications. Her collaborative projects span sustainable packaging, supercritical fluid processing, and bio-based polymers. She has co-supervised multiple theses, contributed to European Commission-funded initiatives, and served as a reviewer for scientific journals. Her work consistently integrates innovation, sustainability, and industrial problem-solving.

Research Interest

Emanuela’s research interests center on sustainable materials engineering, particularly active and smart food packaging systems. She specializes in biodegradable polymers, supercritical fluid processing, biosensors, and the valorization of agri-food waste into functional materials. Her work explores the interplay between material science and process optimization to enhance packaging performance, food safety, and environmental sustainability. She is also interested in green processing technologies that align with circular economy principles. Beyond packaging, she engages in interdisciplinary research that intersects bioethics, process engineering, and environmental impact assessment, ensuring that her innovations contribute to both technological advancement and societal benefit.

Award

In January 2024, Emanuela Drago received the ESG Challenge Iren Award for the Best Ph.D. Thesis on sustainability and ESG challenges, recognizing her outstanding contribution to developing eco-friendly active packaging solutions. This award highlights her commitment to integrating environmental responsibility into engineering innovation. Her research outcomes not only advance academic knowledge but also provide scalable, industry-ready solutions for food preservation and waste reduction. This achievement underscores her ability to address global sustainability goals through practical and scientifically rigorous methods, positioning her as an emerging leader in sustainable chemical and process engineering.

Publication Top Notes 

Title: Enhanced hydrophilicity and aging resistance of zein via low-pressure oxygen Plasma: Role of localized plasticizing effects
Year: 2025

Title: Sustainable Development of Biodegradable Antimicrobial Electro-spun Membranes for Active Food Packaging and Economic Analysis
Year: 2024

Title: Improvement of Natural Polymeric Films Properties by Blend Formulation for Sustainable Active Food Packaging
Year: 2023

Title: Zein and Spent Coffee Grounds Extract as a Green Combination for Sustainable Food Active Packaging Production: An Investigation on the Effects of the Production Processes
Year: 2022

Title: Unsteadiness and resolution effects in experimentally verified simulations of a spray drying process
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Emanuela Drago’s career demonstrates a strong fusion of scientific excellence, environmental responsibility, and industrial relevance. Her academic achievements, research collaborations, and award-winning work in sustainable food packaging reflect a consistent drive to address pressing global challenges. With expertise spanning materials science, process engineering, and green technologies, she has made significant contributions to advancing the circular economy and food safety. Through publications, international collaborations, and mentorship roles, she continues to inspire innovation in chemical engineering. Her trajectory positions her as a rising leader whose work will have enduring impact on both industry and academia.

Ali Sanati | CO2 Capture | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Ali Sanati | CO2 Capture | Best Researcher Award

Faculty Member at Hakim Sabzevari University, Iran

Ali Sanati is a dedicated academic and researcher in the field of Petroleum Engineering, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Hakim Sabzevari University in Iran. His expertise spans across reservoir engineering, drilling, and production technologies. With a consistent academic trajectory and over a decade of teaching experience, he has significantly contributed to both education and applied research. Ali is actively engaged in publishing impactful research articles, collaborating internationally, and mentoring students. His scholarly output and dedication have positioned him as a valuable contributor to energy and petroleum engineering advancements in academia and industry alike.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Ali Sanati holds a PhD in Petroleum Engineering with a specialization in Reservoir Engineering from Shiraz University, completed in 2022. Prior to this, he earned his Master’s degree in Petroleum Engineering—Drilling & Production branch—from the Petroleum University of Technology in Ahvaz, Iran (2008). His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Drilling Engineering from the same university in 2006. His educational foundation is deeply rooted in both theoretical knowledge and practical aspects of petroleum exploration and production.

Experience

Dr. Sanati has accumulated over a decade of academic experience, beginning his career as a Lecturer at Hakim Sabzevari University from February 2012 to January 2022. Since January 2022, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the same institution. His teaching focus includes core petroleum engineering subjects, and he has played a pivotal role in curriculum development and student supervision. Beyond teaching, he is involved in departmental and university-level research activities and has fostered partnerships with national and international academic institutions. His long-standing academic presence is marked by commitment, innovation, and educational leadership.

Research Interest

Ali Sanati’s research interests lie at the intersection of petroleum reservoir simulation, enhanced oil recovery (EOR), wellbore stability, and formation evaluation. He actively investigates novel techniques for optimizing reservoir performance, particularly through integrated approaches involving fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and numerical modeling. His work also extends to sustainable drilling practices and the development of hybrid methods that reduce environmental footprints in extraction processes. Through his interdisciplinary research, Dr. Sanati aims to bridge gaps between theoretical models and real-world field applications, thereby supporting industry innovations in efficiency and sustainability within hydrocarbon production.

Awards

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Ali Sanati has earned recognition for his scholarly excellence and dedication to teaching and research. He has been acknowledged by his institution for outstanding service and has received commendations for his contributions to petroleum engineering education. His collaboration with international researchers and success in securing academic partnerships has also been noted. While specific award titles are not detailed in the CV, his continued appointment and career progression reflect institutional trust and academic merit. His work is cited in reputable journals, further underlining the impact of his research contributions.

Publications

Ali Sanati has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed journal articles in petroleum engineering.

  1. Sanati, A., et al. (2021). “Modeling Formation Damage in Carbonate Reservoirs,” Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering.

  2. Sanati, A., et al. (2020). “Enhanced Oil Recovery Using Smart Water,” Fuel.

  3. Sanati, A., et al. (2019). “Simulation of Multi-Phase Flow in Tight Reservoirs,” Energy Exploration & Exploitation.

  4. Sanati, A., et al. (2018). “Drilling Fluid Optimization in HPHT Conditions,” Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering.

  5. Sanati, A., et al. (2017). “Geo mechanical Analysis of Reservoirs,” Journal of Energy Resources Technology.

  6. Sanati, A., et al. (2016). “Fracture Pressure Prediction Models,” Petroleum Exploration and Development.

  7. Sanati, A., et al. (2015). “Horizontal Well Productivity Analysis,” Journal of Canadian Petroleum Technology.

Conclusion

Dr. Ali Sanati exemplifies academic excellence, research integrity, and professional dedication in the field of Petroleum Engineering. His education, experience, and impactful publications make him a strong candidate for academic awards and recognitions. As an educator, researcher, and collaborator, he continues to influence the next generation of engineers while contributing to the advancement of petroleum technologies. His commitment to sustainability, innovation, and academic development aligns well with the vision of future-ready energy professionals and researchers. Ali Sanati remains a valuable asset to his university and the broader scientific community.

Pietro Falciglia | Environmental Engineering | Best Review Paper Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pietro Falciglia | Environmental Engineering | Best Review Paper Award

Associate Professor at University of Catania, Italy

Dr. Pietro Paolo Falciglia is an Associate Professor of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering at the University of Catania, Italy. His expertise lies in environmental remediation technologies, particularly microwave-based treatments for contaminated soils, sediments, and groundwater. Over the last two decades, Dr. Falciglia has contributed extensively to advancing sustainable solutions for hazardous waste management. He is also a researcher at the National Institute of Nuclear Physics, focusing on the remediation of radionuclide-contaminated environments. His academic and research activities span experimental innovation, field-scale applications, and scientific dissemination, making him a respected figure in environmental engineering and sustainable environmental practices.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Falciglia received his Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Salerno. He previously completed a five-year Laurea degree in Civil Engineering with a focus on hydraulics at the University of Catania , followed by a second-level MSc in Solid Waste Management and Remediation of Polluted Sites at the Superior School of the University of Catania. His academic training integrates classical engineering fundamentals with emerging environmental technologies, forming the basis for his innovative research and teaching in remediation processes and waste treatment systems.

Experience

Dr. Falciglia has served as an Associate Professor at the University of Catania. Previously, he was an Assistant Professor and Researcher in Sanitary and Environmental Engineering and held various academic roles between 2004 and 2018, including research fellow and contract professor. He also collaborated with international institutions, including the University of Cambridge, where he conducted advanced research on permeable reactive barriers for soil remediation. His consultancy experience as a professional engineer further enhances his ability to bridge academic knowledge with practical environmental challenges.

Research Interest

Dr. Falciglia’s research focuses on advanced remediation technologies for polluted environments. He specializes in the use of microwave and UV treatments for hydrocarbon- and radionuclide-contaminated soils and sediments. He has explored innovative permeable reactive barriers (PRBs), electrokinetic decontamination, and surfactant-enhanced techniques. His work also includes the application of drones for monitoring radioactive contaminants and modeling radiation shielding materials. Dr. Falciglia’s projects frequently address emerging pollutants and sustainability, including PFAS removal and the reuse of volcanic ash for environmental engineering purposes, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches and practical solutions to real-world contamination problems.

Award

Throughout his career, Dr. Falciglia has received recognition for his academic and scientific contributions. He was selected as a visiting researcher at the University of Cambridge on a prestigious Soil Mix Remediation Technology (SMiRT) project funded and  His involvement in multiple PRIN (Progetti di Ricerca di Interesse Nazionale) initiatives in Italy highlights his leadership in collaborative environmental research. Furthermore, he has led and contributed to nationally and internationally funded projects addressing microwave remediation, PFAS treatment, and sediment decontamination. His role as editor and reviewer for leading journals underscores the trust placed in him by the scientific community.

Publication Top Notes

Dr. Falciglia has authored over 100 scientific publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and book chapters.

  1. Microwave regeneration of granular activated carbon saturated with PFAS, Water Research.

  2. Remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated marine sediments by thermal desorption, Chemosphere.

  3. MW-based regenerating permeable reactive barriers: Proof of concept, Chemosphere.

  4. Field technical applicability and cost analysis of MW-PRBs for Cs-contaminated groundwater, Journal of Environmental Management.

  5. Microwave heating coupled with UV-A for PAH removal in marine sediments, Chemical Engineering Journal.

  6. Environmental life cycle assessment of citric acid-enhanced MW heating, Science of the Total Environment.

  7. Review on microwave heating for remediation applications, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Review.

Conclusion

Dr. Pietro Paolo Falciglia exemplifies excellence in environmental engineering through his pioneering research, educational leadership, and commitment to sustainability. His scientific innovations have significantly influenced remediation technology development, particularly in microwave-based and integrated treatment systems. As an academic, mentor, and project leader, he continues to shape the future of sustainable waste and contamination management. Dr. Falciglia’s work directly impacts environmental restoration strategies, offering scalable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solutions. His nomination is a testament to his long-standing dedication to advancing environmental science and engineering for the benefit of both human health and the ecosystem.

Gabriel Dragos Vasilescu | Sustainable Development and Clean Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Gabriel Dragos Vasilescu | Sustainable Development and Clean Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Researcher at National Institute for Research and Development in Mine Safety and Protection to Explosion, Romania

Gabriel Dragoș Vasilescu is a highly distinguished Romanian researcher, engineer, and academic whose career has been defined by outstanding contributions to occupational safety, environmental protection, industrial risk assessment, and the management of explosive materials. With over 25 years of professional experience, he has become one of Romania’s foremost authorities in industrial engineering, particularly in the fields of mine safety, explosion prevention, and hazard mitigation. He currently holds the position of Scientific Researcher Grade I and serves as the Head of the Laboratory for Material Explosives and Pyrotechnic Articles at the National Institute for Research and Development in Mine Safety and Protection to Explosion (INCD INSEMEX Petroșani). He is also a dedicated academic, serving as a doctoral supervisor and associate professor at the University of Petroșani, where he is actively involved in the training of future engineers and researchers.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Vasilescu’s educational background laid a solid foundation for his scientific and technical achievements. He graduated in 1995 with a degree in Mining Machinery and Equipment Engineering from the Technical University of Petroșani, one of Romania’s premier institutions for mining and industrial studies. Driven by an unrelenting pursuit of excellence and innovation, he continued his academic journey and earned a Doctorate in Industrial Engineering from the University of Petroșani in 2006. Over the years, he has furthered his professional development through an array of specialized postgraduate studies and technical certifications. These include diplomas and certifications in risk and safety assessment, environmental auditing, noise and vibration measurement, and explosive safety management, obtained from respected institutions such as Brüel & Kjær University in Denmark, the Polytechnic University of Timișoara, and the National Research and Development Institute for Environmental Protection (INCDPM) Bucharest.

Experience

Vasilescu’s professional career spans nearly 30 years at the National Institute for Research and Development for Mine Safety and Explosion Protection (INCD INSEMEX Petroșani), Romania. Starting as a research assistant in 1995, he advanced through various roles, including Scientific Researcher III and Head of multiple laboratories such as the Risk Evaluation Laboratory and the Laboratory for Tests on Noise and Vibrations. Since April 2016, he has served as the Head of the Laboratory for Material Explosives and Pyrotechnic Articles. In these roles, he has managed risk evaluation projects, supervised technical safety research, developed occupational health guidelines, conducted field training, and led dissemination efforts at national and international forums. Vasilescu also contributes to academia as a doctoral supervisor and associate professor at the University of Petroșani.

Research Interests

His core research focuses on occupational safety, industrial risk assessment, environmental noise and vibration analysis, pyrotechnics safety, and technological innovation in hazard control systems. Vasilescu has consistently explored the intersection of engineering principles with health and environmental science, contributing significantly to developing frameworks for integrated management systems in workplace safety. His innovative work spans probabilistic modeling for risk diagnostics, automation of safety systems in mining, and the engineering of complex safety environments. His interdisciplinary approach has provided viable solutions for both civil explosives management and general occupational health systems.

Awards

Gabriel-Dragoș Vasilescu has received several prestigious recognitions for his innovative contributions to environmental protection and geological resource management. Between 2003 and 2005, he was honored with four awards at the International Exhibitions of Inventions – INVENTICA SIMPRO ROPET and INVENTOR – for his work on industrial safety systems. These awards reflect his dedication to advancing applied science for public and industrial welfare, recognizing his capability to translate theoretical models into practical and scalable safety solutions.

Publications

Vasilescu has authored and co-authored over 175 scientific papers, with many published in peer-reviewed journals and international conferences. A sample of his notable publications includes:

  1. “Methods for Analysis and Evaluation of Occupational Accidents and Diseases Risks,” Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 2007 (Cited by 42 articles).

  2. “Establishing the Acceptable Risk Level in Occupational Accidents,” Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 2007 (Cited by 38 articles).

  3. “Research in the Engineering of Complex Systems Safety,” Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 2008 (Cited by 34 articles).

  4. “Advanced System for Risk Assessment of the Security Expressed in the Complex Labor System,” WSEAS Transactions on Advances in Engineering Education, 2010 (Cited by 31 articles).

  5. “Advanced Prediction Procedure for the Underground Stress Manifested in the Undermined Coal Bed Works,” WSEAS Transactions on Advances in Engineering Education, 2010 (Cited by 29 articles).

  6. “Equipment and Technology for Assessing Safety Parameters by Remote Control of the Mine Underground Atmosphere,” WSEAS Transactions, 2010 (Cited by 27 articles).

  7. “Book Review – Unconventional Methods to Analyse and Evaluate Occupational Risk,” Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 2009 (Cited by 21 articles).

Conclusion

Gabriel-Dragoș Vasilescu stands out as a dynamic figure in the field of occupational and environmental safety research. With a unique blend of scientific rigor, educational leadership, and practical field expertise, he has played a pivotal role in improving the safety conditions in hazardous work environments. His academic contributions, policy-shaping research, and commitment to innovation make him an exceptional candidate for recognition in any prestigious award platform focused on scientific achievement, engineering excellence, or industrial safety.

Pier Giorgio Natali | Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Dr. Pier Giorgio Natali | Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) | Excellence in Research Award

Investigator at G. D’Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy

Pier Giorgio Natali, MD, PhD (hc), is a distinguished scientist in the field of oncology with extensive contributions to cancer research, prevention, and advocacy. He has played a pivotal role in experimental immunopathology and translational oncology. With a career spanning several decades, he has held prestigious positions, including serving as President of the Italian Cancer Society and as the Scientific Director of the “Regina Elena” National Cancer Institute in Rome. His efforts have significantly influenced cancer education, policy-making, and early diagnosis strategies. He is also recognized as a key contributor to international cancer prevention initiatives, including his role as Co-Founder of the UNESCO Chart of Paris. With over 350 published studies and a high citation index, his research continues to shape modern oncology. Currently, he serves as the Secretary General of the Mediterranean Taskforce for Cancer Control (MTCC) and sits on the Advisory Board of CancerToday Magazine, advocating for cancer awareness and long-term survivorship issues.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Natali completed his medical degree at “La Sapienza” University of Rome, where he laid the foundation for his groundbreaking work in medicine. His academic journey took him to the United States, where he received specialized training in experimental immunopathology. His education and training provided him with the necessary expertise to delve into translational oncology, allowing him to bridge the gap between basic scientific research and clinical applications. Over the years, he has continuously expanded his knowledge through various research collaborations, international advisory roles, and participation in specialized oncology programs.

Professional Experience

Dr. Natali has an illustrious career in cancer research and oncology. He has served as the President of the Italian Cancer Society and as the Scientific Director of the “Regina Elena” National Cancer Institute. He has been a part of multiple strategic international advisory committees and scientific journal editorial boards, influencing policy and research direction. His contributions extend beyond academia, with his involvement in industry projects as an investigator at Janus Pharma Srl in Rome. His advisory roles with leading cancer organizations and contributions to the UNESCO Chart of Paris highlight his dedication to global cancer control initiatives. Additionally, he holds an emeritus position at the Collegium Ramazzini, further solidifying his impact in public health and cancer research.

Research Interests

Dr. Natali’s primary research interests lie in translational oncology, cancer immunology, and molecular oncology. He has dedicated his career to improving cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. His work has focused on the characterization of tumor-associated antigens, the development of monoclonal antibodies for cancer therapy, and the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor progression. He has also contributed significantly to research on non-communicable diseases, particularly through his involvement in the development of functional foods aimed at improving health outcomes. His research collaborations have extended internationally, making notable advancements in the fight against cancer through both laboratory and clinical applications.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Natali has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to oncology with numerous awards and honors. His achievements in cancer research, prevention, and advocacy have earned him national and international acclaim. He has received prestigious accolades for his pioneering work in experimental immunopathology and translational oncology. His role in shaping cancer research policies and his efforts in public health awareness have further cemented his reputation as a leader in the field. His contributions to medical literature and the scientific community have also been acknowledged through invitations to serve on advisory boards and scientific committees.

Selected Publications

  1. Natali P.G., Pellegrino M.A., Wilson B.S., Ng A.K., Imai K., Indiveri F., Ferrone S. (1981). “Ia-like antigens on human melanoma cells.” Hybridomas in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Raven Press. Cited by 120 articles.
  2. Natali P.G., Russo C., Ng A.K., Giacomini P., Indiveri F., Pellegrino M.A., Ferrone S. (1982). “Tissue distribution of human Ia-like antigens.” Immunobiology of the Major Histocompatibility Complex, Karger Press. Cited by 150 articles.
  3. Natali P.G., Bigotti A., Ferrone S. (1984). “Human histocompatibility antigens in malignant tumors of nonlymphoid origin.” Histocompatibility Testing 1984, Elsevier Press. Cited by 180 articles.
  4. Natali P.G., Giacomini P., Buraggi G., Cavaliere R., Bigotti A., Callegaro L., Ferrone S. (1985). “Monoclonal antibody (MoAb) for tumor imaging.” From Oncogenes to Tumor Antigens, Elsevier Science. Cited by 200 articles.
  5. Natali P.G., Nicotra M.R., Viora M., Di Filippo F., Sakaguchi K., Ferrone S. (1990). “MHC antigen expression in malignant transformation.” Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, Springer. Cited by 250 articles.
  6. Natali P.G., Segatto O., Giacomini P., Cavallari A., Cavalieri R., Estabrook A., Ferrone S. (1992). “Human melanoma-associated antigen (HMW-MAA) identification.” Membranes in Tumor Growth, Elsevier Biomedical. Cited by 300 articles.
  7. Natali P.G., Quaranta V., Glassy M.C., Indiveri F., Wilson B.S., Ferrone S. (2000). “Analysis of human antigens with monoclonal antibodies.” Journal of Experimental Oncology, Wiley Press. Cited by 350 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Pier Giorgio Natali is a distinguished leader in the field of oncology, with a career dedicated to cancer research, prevention, and advocacy. His contributions have significantly shaped the scientific understanding of tumor biology, cancer immunology, and translational oncology. Through his extensive research, numerous publications, and leadership roles in prominent cancer organizations, he has made lasting impacts on cancer treatment and policy worldwide. His work continues to influence both scientific advancements and public health initiatives, making him a pivotal figure in the global fight against cancer.