Dr Neeraj Pant | Hydrogeology | Best Researcher Award |

Dr Neeraj Pant | Hydrogeology | Best Researcher Award |

Western Sydney University,India

Professional Profiles:

SCOPUS

ORCID

GOOGLE SCHOLAR 

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Dr. Neeraj Pant is a dedicated researcher specializing in hydrology, hydrogeology, and sustainability sciences. Currently pursuing a second Ph.D. at Western Sydney University, Australia, he focuses on rejuvenating drying springs in the Himalayan region, aiming for sustainable water resource management. With a diverse academic and professional background, he has worked on hydrological investigations, isotopic studies, and community-based water conservation models. His work bridges scientific innovation and societal impact, contributing to environmental protection and sustainable development.

🎓 Educational Background:

Dr. Pant is pursuing his second Ph.D. (2021–2024) at Western Sydney University, focusing on strategies to rejuvenate Himalayan springs. He earned his first Ph.D. from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad (2017–2023), researching the morphotectonics and water sources of the Alaknanda River. He holds a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Geology from Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, and a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in Geology and Physics from JNPG College, Lucknow University. Additionally, he holds an NCC “C” Certificate, showcasing leadership and discipline.

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Pant’s research spans critical areas such as isotope hydrology, hydrogeology, mountain hydrology, glaciology, and water resource management. His work integrates geophysical investigations, hydro-geochemistry, and sustainability science to address pressing environmental challenges. Notable projects include assessing the impacts of climate change on Himalayan water resources and developing transdisciplinary approaches for spring rejuvenation.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

Dr. Pant has been recognized for his outstanding research and community contributions. His achievements include leading high-impact hydrological projects and serving as Vice President of the NGO “NEHIR Himalayan Sanstha,” where he works on watershed management and empowering local communities.

💼 Professional Experience:

Higher Degree Researcher, Western Sydney University (2021–present): Focuses on climate change and sustainable water resource management, funded under the SPARC program.

Consultant, Geoscience Consultancy Services (2016–present): Leads hydrological, geological, and environmental impact assessments.

Senior Research Fellow, National Institute of Hydrology (2016–2020): Conducted isotope and hydrological studies in the Upper Ganga Basin.

Junior Research Fellow, National Institute of Hydrology (2015–2016): Investigated hydro-geological and isotopic characteristics of groundwater in the Bundelkhand region.

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Impact of geology and anthropogenic activities over the water quality with emphasis on fluoride in water-scarce Lalitpur district of Bundelkhand region, India
Authors: N. Pant, S. P. Rai, R. Singh, S. Kumar, R. K. Saini, P. Purushothaman, P. Nijesh, et al.
Citations: 65
Index: Chemosphere 279, 130496
Year of Publication: 2021

Title: Multivariate investigation of heavy metals in the groundwater for irrigation and drinking in Garautha Tehsil, Jhansi District, India
Authors: N. Akhtar, M. I. Syakir, S. P. Rai, R. Saini, N. Pant, M. T. Anees, A. Qadir, U. Khan
Citations: 37
Index: Analytical Letters 53 (5), 774-794
Year of Publication: 2020

Title: Soil erosion and flood hazard zonation using morphometric and morphotectonic parameters in Upper Alaknanda River basin
Authors: N. Pant, R. K. Dubey, A. Bhatt, S. P. Rai, P. Semwal, S. Mishra
Citations: 31
Index: Natural Hazards 103, 3263-3301
Year of Publication: 2020

Title: Hydrogeochemical evolution and groundwater recharge processes in arsenic-enriched area in central Gangetic plain, India
Authors: S. Kumar, S. K. Joshi, N. Pant, S. Singh, B. Chakravorty, R. K. Saini, V. Kumar, et al.
Citations: 30
Index: Applied Geochemistry 131, 105044
Year of Publication: 2021

Title: Tracing the isotopic signatures of cryospheric water and establishing the altitude effect in Central Himalayas: A tool for cryospheric water partitioning
Authors: N. Pant, P. Semwal, S. D. Khobragade, S. P. Rai, S. Kumar, R. K. Dubey, J. Noble, et al.
Citations: 27
Index: Journal of Hydrology 595, 125983
Year of Publication: 2021

Conclusion:

Dr. Neeraj Pant is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary expertise, commitment to sustainability, and impactful community engagement align well with the award’s objectives. Addressing the noted areas for improvement would further enhance his profile and strengthen his case for recognition.

Dr Boniface Ndayambaza | Abiotic stresses | Best Researcher Award |

Dr. Boniface Ndayambaza | Abiotic stresses | Best Researcher Award

Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Rwanda

Professional Profiles:

SCOPUS

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Dr. Boniface Ndayambaza is a dedicated researcher and academic specializing in physical geography, with a focus on plant physiology and environmental stress mechanisms. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, his research addresses key global challenges such as drought and salt resistance in arid environments. Alongside his academic work, he is the Deputy Legal Representative of the Reviving Children’s Livelihood organization in Rwanda, where he combines research with practical solutions for community development. Fluent in multiple languages, Dr. Ndayambaza is an experienced leader in international collaborations aimed at improving agricultural sustainability and environmental resilience.

🎓 Educational Background:

Dr. Ndayambaza is pursuing his Ph.D. in Physical Geography at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, with a focus on the morpho-physiological and transcriptomic responses of Populus euphratica to salt and drought stress in arid regions. He holds a Master of Science in Agronomy and Crop Genetics from Lanzhou University, China, where his thesis explored the role of the bHLH gene family in various abiotic stresses in plants. Prior to this, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Crop Production and Sciences from the University of Rwanda, laying the foundation for his extensive knowledge in crop genetics, breeding, and environmental stress resilience.

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Ndayambaza’s research centers on eco-environmental sustainability, with a specific interest in plant physiology and how plants like Populus euphratica adapt to extreme conditions such as salt and drought in arid regions. His work addresses critical questions about the genetic and physiological mechanisms behind plant stress tolerance, which has implications for both environmental restoration and sustainable agriculture. His expertise also extends to the broader impacts of climate change on ecosystem resilience and food security in vulnerable areas.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

Dr. Ndayambaza has been recognized for his contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences, having presented his work at prestigious international forums such as the University Alliance of Belt and Road Forum and the International Grassland Agro-Ecosystems Conference. These opportunities highlight his commitment to advancing global knowledge on plant genetics and environmental sustainability, strengthening his reputation as an emerging expert in his field.

💼 Professional Experience:

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Ndayambaza serves as the Deputy Legal Representative and Founder of Reviving Children’s Livelihood (RCL) in Rwanda, where he develops strategic plans and oversees the organization’s work in community empowerment. His experience as a Research Technician at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) further demonstrates his ability to apply research insights to real-world agricultural challenges, particularly in improving food security for rural populations. His work spans both leadership and research roles, showcasing a unique combination of practical and scientific expertise.

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Coordinated Mechanisms of Leaves and Roots in Response to Drought Stress Underlying Full-Length Transcriptome Profiling in Vicia sativa L.
Authors: X. Min, X. Lin, B. Ndayambaza, Y. Wang, W. Liu
Citations: 42
Index: BMC Plant Biology 20, 1-21
Year: 2020

Title: Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling of the ERF Gene Family in Medicago sativa L. Under Various Abiotic Stresses
Authors: X. Jin, X. Yin, B. Ndayambaza, Z. Zhang, X. Min, X. Lin, Y. Wang, W. Liu
Citations: 36
Index: DNA and Cell Biology 38 (10), 1056-1068
Year: 2019

Title: Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Fatty Acid Desaturase Genes in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Z. Zhang, X. Wei, W. Liu, X. Min, X. Jin, B. Ndayambaza, Y. Wang
Citations: 34
Index: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 499 (2), 361-367
Year: 2018

Title: Genome-Wide Identification of NAC Transcription Factor Family and Functional Analysis of the Abiotic Stress-Responsive Genes in Medicago sativa L.
Authors: X. Min, X. Jin, Z. Zhang, X. Wei, B. Ndayambaza, Y. Wang, W. Liu
Citations: 32
Index: Journal of Plant Growth Regulation 39, 324-337
Year: 2020

Title: Transcriptome-Wide Characterization and Functional Analysis of MATE Transporters in Response to Aluminum Toxicity in Medicago sativa L.
Authors: X. Min, X. Jin, W. Liu, X. Wei, Z. Zhang, B. Ndayambaza, Y. Wang
Citations: 22
Index: PeerJ 7, e6302
Year: 2019

Conclusion:

Boniface Ndayambaza’s research is highly relevant to current global challenges, particularly in arid and semi-arid environments affected by drought and salt stress. His academic background, combined with leadership roles in community organizations, gives him a well-rounded profile. However, to strengthen his candidacy for a Best Researcher Award, he could benefit from expanding his publication record and leading more high-visibility projects. With these improvements, he would be an even stronger contender for such an award, given his contributions to both academic research and practical environmental solutions.