Dr. Arif UR Rehman | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arif UR Rehman | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arif UR Rehman, Aerospace Information Research Institute, CAS, Pakistan

Arif UR Rehman, is a dedicated researcher specializing in Remote Sensing, GIS, and Forestry. He is currently a Research Assistant at the Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in Beijing, China, where he focuses on spatio-temporal remote sensing data acquisition, processing, and developing machine learning-based tools for vegetation mapping. Previously, he worked as a Remote Sensing Analyst at CABI International under an ADB project, contributing to food security by enhancing crop classification techniques. Arif holds a Master’s degree in Forestry from Beijing Forestry University, an MPhil in Remote Sensing and GIS from the University of the Punjab, an MSc in GIS, a PGD in Remote Sensing & GIS, and an MSc in Electronics from the University of Peshawar. His academic research spans diverse topics, including forest classification, afforestation impact assessment, and land surface temperature analysis. With a strong background in scientific publications and GIS-based spatial analysis, he continues to contribute to advancements in remote sensing and environmental monitoring.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

Suitability for the Best Researcher Award

Based on the provided information, Arif UR Rehman has a strong academic and research background in Remote Sensing, GIS, and Machine Learning Applications in Forestry and Agriculture. His qualifications and achievements make him a potential candidate for the Best Researcher Award, but there are some aspects to consider:

🎓 Education

📍 Master in Forestry (Professional Degree) (2019 – 2021)

  • Institution: Beijing Forestry University, China 🇨🇳
  • Field: Forest Management
  • Final Grade: A+
  • Thesis: Feasibility of combining Landsat-8 data with ancillary variables for forest types and land cover classification in mountainous terrains of northern Pakistan

📍 Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Remote Sensing and GIS (2017 – 2019)

  • Institution: PUCIT, University of the Punjab, Pakistan 🇵🇰
  • Field: Remote Sensing & GIS
  • Final Grade: 72.8%
  • Thesis: Remote Sensing & GIS application for monitoring and evaluating afforestation impact – A case study of the Billion Tree Tsunami Project in Peshawar, Pakistan 🌳

📍 Master of Science (MSc) in Geographic Information System (GIS) (2015 – 2017)

  • Institution: PUCIT, University of the Punjab, Pakistan 🇵🇰
  • Field: GIS
  • Final Grade: 73.2%
  • Thesis: Analyzing the impacts of deforestation on Land Surface Temperature in Northern Pakistan 🌍🌡️

📍 Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Remote Sensing & GIS (2014 – 2015)

  • Institution: NCE in Geology, University of Peshawar, Pakistan 🇵🇰
  • Field: GIS & Remote Sensing
  • Final Grade: 73%
  • Thesis: Spatial-Temporal assessment of Land-Use and Land-Cover changes in Lahore 🏙️

📍 Master of Science (MSc) in Electronics (2013 – 2015)

  • Institution: University of Peshawar, Pakistan 🇵🇰
  • Field: Electronics
  • Final Grade: 64%
  • Thesis: Developing Hardware & Android software for Outdoor Advertisement Display 📱💡

🏢 Work Experience

🔹 Research Assistant (Feb 2023 – Aug 2024)

  • Institution: Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences 🇨🇳
  • Location: Beijing, China
  • Key Responsibilities:
    • Spatio-Temporal Remote Sensing data acquisition & processing 🛰️
    • Developing Machine Learning-based tools for vegetation mapping 🌿🤖
    • Scientific Publications 📚

🔹 Remote Sensing Analyst (Jun 2022 – Dec 2022)

  • Organization: CABI International; ADB Project: Strengthening Food Security 🇵🇰
  • Location: National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad
  • Key Responsibilities:
    • Capacity development of the Crop Reporting Service Department 🌾
    • Google Earth Engine for Crop Classification 🛰️
    • Seasonal Crop Classification Maps 📊

🏆 Achievements & Contributions

✔ Published multiple scientific papers in Remote Sensing, GIS, and Forestry journals 📄🔬
✔ Expertise in Google Earth Engine, Machine Learning, GIS & Remote Sensing, and Crop Mapping 🌍🌾
✔ Significant contributions to afforestation projects (Billion Tree Tsunami) 🌳✅
✔ Developed ML-based tools for vegetation mapping and land cover classification 🤖🌎

🎖 Awards & Honors

🏅 A+ Grade in Master’s at Beijing Forestry University (Highest distinction)
🏅 Recognized for contributions to afforestation monitoring in Pakistan 🌲
🏅 Key researcher in major GIS & Remote Sensing projects 📊

Publication Top Notes:

Removal of environmental influences for estimating soil texture fractions based on ZY1 satellite hyperspectral images

Multi-Temporal Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 Data for Orchards Discrimination in Khairpur District, Pakistan Using Spectral Separability Analysis and Machine Learning Classification

Estimation of above-ground biomass in dry temperate forests using Sentinel-2 data and random forest: a case study of the Swat area of Pakistan

The role of random forest and Markov chain models in understanding metropolitan urban growth trajectory

Large Scale Fish Images Classification and Localization using Transfer Learning and Localization Aware CNN Architecture

Combining Landsat-8 spectral bands with ancillary variables for land cover classification in mountainous terrains of northern Pakistan

Comparing different space-borne sensors and methods for the retrieval of land surface temperature

 

Georgios Kalogeropoulos | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Georgios Kalogeropoulos | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Doctor at Democritus University of Thrace, Greece

Kalogeropoulos Georgios, a dedicated Environmental Engineer from Greece, specializes in addressing urban environmental challenges. He earned his Doctorate from the Democritus University of Thrace, focusing on the Urban Heat Island Effect. A proficient researcher, he has authored multiple influential publications and is actively engaged in academic lectures. His work combines advanced digital modeling and sustainable practices, aiming to improve urban living conditions.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Advanced Education:
    • Completed a Doctorate in Environmental Engineering with a thesis focused on the Urban Heat Island Effect, demonstrating high-level research capabilities.
    • Achieved excellent grades throughout his educational journey, indicating strong academic performance.
  2. Research Contributions:
    • Authored multiple articles in reputable journals, contributing significantly to the field of environmental engineering.
    • Research on urban heat islands and thermal comfort assessment highlights relevance to current environmental challenges.
  3. International Experience:
    • Participation in the Erasmus+ program at Politecnico di Milano showcases adaptability and a commitment to broadening his academic and cultural horizons.
  4. Teaching and Mentoring:
    • Involvement in lecturing at the university level demonstrates his ability to communicate complex topics effectively and contribute to the academic development of students.
  5. Technical Skills:
    • Proficient in various advanced software tools for energy analysis, microclimatic simulations, and geographic information systems, equipping him to conduct comprehensive and detailed research.
  6. Collaborative Research:
    • Collaborated with other researchers on projects, reflecting his ability to work well within teams and contribute to interdisciplinary efforts.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Outreach:
    • Expanding visibility through conferences, workshops, or public forums could enhance recognition of his work and foster wider engagement with the community.
  2. Diversity of Research Topics:
    • Exploring a broader range of research topics within environmental engineering could diversify his portfolio and increase impact in various domains.
  3. Networking:
    • Building connections with researchers in complementary fields could open new avenues for collaboration and innovation.

Education:

Georgios completed his Doctorate in Environmental Engineering in 2024, with a thesis on the Urban Heat Island Effect, achieving an “Excellent” grade. He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering and Science from the same university, where he also excelled with his thesis on thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science from the University of Aegean, further solidifying his foundation in environmental studies.

Experience:

With extensive teaching experience, Georgios has lectured on Sustainable Urban Environments and Simulation Models at the Democritus University of Thrace from 2019 to present. He participated in international programs, including Erasmus+ at Politecnico di Milano. Additionally, his involvement in innovative projects on solar energy and building integration showcases his practical application of academic knowledge, emphasizing his commitment to sustainable urban solutions.

Research Focus:

Georgios’s research centers on urban environmental issues, particularly the Urban Heat Island Effect and thermal comfort. Utilizing advanced digital models and simulations, he investigates the interplay between urban design and environmental conditions. His work aims to develop sustainable solutions for urban settings, enhancing livability and reducing energy consumption. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, he strives to contribute to effective environmental policies and practices.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Remote Sensing and Field Measurements for the Analysis of the Thermal Environment in the “Bosco Verticale” Area in Milan City 🌍
  • Urban Heat Island and Thermal Comfort Assessment in a Medium-Sized Mediterranean City ☀️
  • Cellular Automata on FPGA for Real-Time Urban Traffic Signals Control 🚦

Conclusion:

Kalogeropoulos Georgios exhibits numerous strengths that position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His rigorous academic background, impactful research contributions, and commitment to teaching underscore his dedication to the field of environmental engineering. While there are areas for potential improvement, particularly in outreach and networking, his existing capabilities and achievements strongly advocate for his recognition as a leading researcher.

Mr. Mohammad Marjani | Remote sensing | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Mohammad Marjani | Remote sensing | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Mohammad Marjani, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada

Mohammad Marjani is a dedicated researcher and educator currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Memorial University of Newfoundland, specializing in advanced remote sensing and deep learning algorithms for environmental monitoring under the supervision of Dr. Masoud Mahdianpari. He holds a Master of Science in Geospatial Information System (GIS) from K.N.Toosi University of Technology, where he graduated with a stellar GPA of 4.0/4.0, focusing on wildfire spread modeling using deep learning techniques. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Geodesy and Geomatic Engineering from the same university, where he researched 3D change detection methods in point clouds.Marjani’s research interests span deep learning, machine learning, spatio-temporal modeling, and remote sensing, with particular emphasis on natural hazards like wildfires and methane monitoring. He has accumulated valuable teaching experience as a Teaching Assistant at both the Iran National Geographical Organization and K.N.Toosi University, imparting knowledge in image processing, MATLAB, and Python programming.In addition to his academic endeavors, Marjani is a co-founder of GeoHoosh, an educational group dedicated to promoting artificial intelligence in geomatic and geospatial engineering. His commitment to advancing the field through both research and education underscores his role as a rising expert in geospatial technologies and environmental monitoring.

 

Professional Profile

🎓 EDUCATION

Doctor of Philosophy, Electrical and Computer Engineering
📅 Sep 2023 – Present
📍 Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
🌐 Advanced remote sensing and deep learning algorithms for environment monitoring
👨‍🏫 Supervisor: Dr. Masoud Mahdianpari

Master of Science, Geospatial Information System (GIS)
📅 Sep 2020 – Nov 2022
📍 K.N.Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran (KNTU)
📊 GPA: 18.58/20 (4.0/4.0)
🔥 The wildfire spread modeling using deep learning techniques
👨‍🏫 Supervisor: Dr. M.S. Mesgari

Bachelor of Science, Geodesy and Geomatic Engineering
📅 Sep 2016 – Sep 2020
📍 K.N.Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran (KNTU)
📊 GPA: 16.22/20 (3.34/4.0)
📐 Thesis Title: Evaluation of 3D change detection methods in point clouds
👨‍🏫 Supervisor: Dr. H. Ebadi

🔬 RESEARCH INTERESTS

  • Deep Learning 🧠
  • Machine Learning 🤖
  • Spatio-temporal Modeling 🌍
  • Wildfire 🔥
  • Remote Sensing 🛰️
  • Natural Hazards 🌪️
  • Wetland Monitoring 🌿
  • Methane Monitoring 🌱

💼 EXPERIENCE

Teaching Assistantships, Faculty of Iran National Geographical Organization
🖥️ Image Processing
📅 Sep 2019 – Jan 2020

  • Taught MATLAB programming language 💻
  • Prepared lectures 📝
  • Graded course assessments 🧾
  • Defined assignments 📚

Teaching Assistantships, K.N.Toosi University of Technology
🖥️ Computational Intelligence
📅 Sep 2022 – Jan 2023

  • Taught Python programming language 🐍
  • Prepared lectures 📝
  • Graded course assessments 🧾
  • Defined assignments 📚

Co-Founder of GeoHoosh
🌐 Educational Group
📅 Sep 2023 – Present

  • One of the four founders of GeoIntelligence Education Group, named GeoHoosh in Persian 🇮🇷
  • Aims to educate Artificial Intelligence in the Geomatic/Geospatial engineering sub-fields 🧭

Publications Notes:📄

Application of Explainable Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Wildfire Spread: An ASPP-Enabled CNN Approach

CNN-BiLSTM: A Novel Deep Learning Model for Near-Real-Time Daily Wildfire Spread Prediction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Adolph Nyamugama | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Adolph Nyamugama | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Adolph Nyamugama, Agricultural Research Council, South Africa

Dr. Adolph Nyamugama is an accomplished environmental geographer with a strong academic background, holding a PhD in Environmental Geography with a focus on the application of remote sensing in environmental monitoring. He completed his MSc in Geographical Information Systems & Cartography and his BSc Honors in Geography at Enrique Jose Varona University in Havana, Cuba. Dr. [Your Name] is fluent in English, Spanish, Shona, and Mandarin, and enjoys traveling and watching soccer in his spare time.Currently serving as a Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council in Pretoria since January 2015, Dr. Adolph Nyamugama has excelled in strategic planning, operations management, research, and business development. He has successfully led the crop estimation project, generating R10 million annually, and introduced innovative spatial technology for crop disease monitoring. His expertise extends to stakeholder management, where he has fostered strong relationships with clients, peer organizations, and international partners.

Professional Profile

📚 Education

PhD in Environmental Geography
📅 Feb 2009 – Apr 2013
🎓 Focus: Application of Remote Sensing in Environmental Monitoring

MSc in Geographical Information Systems & Cartography
📅 Sep 2001 – Jul 2005

BSc Honors in Geography
📅 Sep 1993 – Jul 1998
🎓 Enrique Jose Varona University, Havana, Cuba

💼 Employment

Senior Researcher
📅 Jan 2015 – Present
📍 Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria

  • Strategic Planning: Developed team strategies aligning with organizational goals, participated in strategy development, monitored delivery, and provided strategic advice on revenue generation.
  • Operations Management: Directed crop estimation using drones and GIS, including project planning, KPI development, human/financial resource management, and milestone monitoring.
  • Research: Led multidisciplinary research projects, managed data collection/analysis, published reports/articles, and maintained spatial datasets.
  • Business Development: Created business strategies for revenue generation and long-term sustainability, drove marketing initiatives, and promoted services/products.

Senior GIS Consultant
📅 Jan 2011 – Dec 2013
📍 Kanimambo Cosmos Engineering Company, Cape Town City Council

  • Managed all GIS functions and monitored project work by technicians.
  • Provided GIS support for database-related issues and ensured mapping standards adherence.
  • Controlled mapping standards, reported on GIS aspects, and ensured timely completion of documents.
  • Managed, developed, and maintained spatial databases.

🏆 Achievements

  1. Crop Estimation Project: Successfully implemented a national project, generating at least R10 million annually.
  2. Spatial Technology for Crop Disease Detection: Introduced NRF-funded project for detecting and monitoring crop diseases.
  3. GIS Tools for Data Analysis: Implemented GIS tools for data analysis in various organizations.
  4. Intern Funding and Department Capacitation: Secured funding for interns to support departmental strategic objectives.
  5. SENTI2 Agri-System SA Demonstration Project: Led ARC-Catholic University collaboration on an Uncloud-ESA funded project.
  6. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification: Appointed as an Independent Expert and Country Representative.

Publications Notes:📄

Integrating Sigmoid Calibration Function into Entropy Thresholding Segmentation for Enhanced Recognition of Potholes Imaged Using a UAV Multispectral Sensor

Radiometric Compensation for Occluded Crops Imaged Using High-Spatial-Resolution Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System

Irrigation Scheduling for Small-Scale Crops Based on Crop Water Content Patterns Derived from UAV Multispectral Imagery

Prospects of Improving Agricultural and Water Productivity through Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assoc Prof Dr. Dericks Shukla | Remote Sensing | Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof Dr. Dericks Shukla | Remote Sensing | Excellence in Research 

Assoc Prof Dr. Dericks Shukla, IIT Mandi, India

Dr. Dericks Praise Shukla, born on January 2, 1982, is an esteemed Associate Professor with a robust academic and research background in Remote Sensing and GIS. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, Electronics, and Mathematics from Ewing Christian College, Allahabad University, completed between 1999 and 2002. He then pursued a Master of Science degree in Remote Sensing and GIS from Jiwaji University, which he obtained from 2002 to 2004. Dr. Shukla further advanced his expertise by earning a Ph.D. in Remote Sensing and Environmental Hydro-Geology from the University of Delhi, where he studied from 2006 to 2012.Dr. Shukla’s professional career has been marked by significant contributions to both teaching and research. Since December 2019, he has been associated with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, where he is involved in teaching, research, and administrative duties. Prior to this, from January 2015 to November 2019, he also held similar responsibilities at IIT Mandi. From August 2011 to January 2015, Dr. Shukla worked at Ram Lal Anand College and the Department of Geology, where he continued his dedication to teaching and research. His professional journey began at J.M EnviroNet Pvt. Ltd., Gurgaon, where he served as a Functional Area Expert for EIA as a consultant in Remote Sensing and GIS from November 2009 to August 2013.

Professional Profile

Degrees Conferred

  • B.Sc.: Ewing Christian College, Allahabad University 🏛️
    • Fields: Physics, Electronics, and Mathematics (1999-2002) 🧮
  • M.Sc.: Jiwaji University 🌍
    • Fields: Remote Sensing and GIS (2002-2004) 🌐
  • Ph.D.: University of Delhi 🏫
    • Fields: Remote Sensing, Environmental Hydro-Geology (2006-2012) 🌎

Research/Training Experience

  • December 2019 – Present: Indian Institute of Technology Mandi 🏔️
    • Roles: Teaching, Research, Administrative Work 📖
  • January 2015 – November 2019: Indian Institute of Technology Mandi 🏔️
    • Roles: Teaching, Research, Administrative Work 📚
  • August 2011 – January 2015: Ram Lal Anand College and Department of Geology 🏫
    • Roles: Teaching, Research, Administrative Work 📝
  • November 2009 – August 2013: J.M EnviroNet Pvt. Ltd., Gurgaon 🏢
    • Role: Functional Area Expert for EIA as Consultant in Remote Sensing and GIS 🌐

Major Scientific Fields of Interest

  • Remote Sensing & GIS (RS&GIS) 🌐
  • Natural Hazards 🌪️
  • Multispectral and SAR Remote Sensing 🌈
  • Himalayan Geology 🏔️

 

Publications Notes:📄

Discriminative Spectral–Spatial Feature Extraction-Based Band Selection for Hyperspectral Image Classification

Effect of scale and mapping unit on landslide susceptibility mapping of Mandakini River Basin, Uttarakhand, India

Identifying Geotechnical Characteristics for Landslide Hazard Indication: A Case Study in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India

Deciphering the role of meteorological parameters controlling the sediment load and water discharge in the Sutlej basin, Western Himalaya

Band Selection Using Combined Divergence–Correlation Index and Sparse Loadings Representation for Hyperspectral Image Classification

Spatial distribution of uranium and chemo-radiological assessment in Hamirpur district, Himachal Pradesh, India