Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang | Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang is a distinguished scientist and academic leader in the fields of remote sensing, GIS, and hydrology. With decades of professional experience across China and Japan, he has established himself as a pioneer in applying space technology, geospatial data, and digital earth methodologies to disaster monitoring, water resource management, and environmental studies. He currently serves as a Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor at the Institute of Remote Sensing & Digital Earth (RADI), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), where he directs the Global Disaster Division and holds the position of Vice Director at the CAS-TWAS Centre of Excellence on Space Technology for Disaster Mitigation. Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang has played a critical role in advancing global change research, hydrological modeling, and geospatial integration for disaster mitigation and sustainable resource management.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang is an internationally recognized scholar in remote sensing, GIS, hydrology, and environmental monitoring, with over three decades of impactful research. His academic journey spans China and Japan, where he earned advanced degrees in geography, hydrospheric-atmospheric science, and remote sensing, culminating in a Ph.D. from Nagoya University.

Education

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang earned a strong multidisciplinary academic foundation, beginning with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Geology from Chengdu Science & Technology University. He pursued a Master’s degree in Geography from the Cold and Arid Regions Environmental and Engineering Research Institute (CAREERI), CAS, where he focused on glaciology and paleo-climate studies through snow and ice chemistry. His academic path then expanded internationally when he studied at Nagoya University, Japan, under the UNESCO Special Program with Monbusho Scholarship support, where he obtained a second Master’s degree in Hydrospheric-Atmospheric Sciences. He later advanced into doctoral studies at Nagoya University with a prestigious JSPS Fellowship, completing a Ph.D. in Earth System Sciences with a specialization in Remote Sensing and GIS. This progression reflects his deep expertise in both fundamental geosciences and advanced space-based monitoring systems.

Experience

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang has held influential academic and research positions at several leading institutions. He began his research career at CAREERI, CAS, where he worked on ice core science and environmental reconstructions. After earning his doctorate in Japan, he was promoted as a research fellow and later returned to China, where he joined Nanjing University as a full professor and Ph.D. supervisor. At Nanjing, he contributed significantly to teaching and research in hydrology, water science, and environmental monitoring, and also served as Deputy Director of the International Institute of Earth System Sciences. Later, he was recruited into the prestigious “100 Talent Program” of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, an honor that positioned him at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics. Since then, he has been leading major research divisions at RADI, CAS, overseeing programs in global disaster mitigation, hydrological modeling, and remote sensing applications. Alongside his research, he has taught courses in remote sensing physics, GIS, ecological remote sensing, and resource monitoring, influencing generations of undergraduate and graduate students.

Research Interests

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang research interests are wide-ranging but unified by a focus on remote sensing and GIS applications in hydrology, disaster monitoring, and environmental management. His work has advanced the application of remote sensing data to surface radiation and energy budget measurement, hydrological modeling in arid and semi-arid regions, and integration of spatial data into hydro-climatic models. He has pioneered methods to resolve spatio-temporal scaling challenges in global change studies and land-use analyses, as well as applied geo-statistics to soil and water resource management. His recent research emphasizes developing land data assimilation systems, integrating global climate models with distributed land surface models, and innovating flood and drought monitoring techniques through satellite-based remote sensing. His vision integrates technology and environmental science to provide practical solutions for climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and water sustainability.

Awards

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang has received multiple academic honors and recognition for his outstanding contributions to earth observation and hydrological sciences. He was selected for the highly competitive “100 Talent Program” of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, an award that identifies promising leaders in scientific research. He has also been recognized by international organizations for his contributions, serving as a committee member of IEEE since frequently invited as co-chair of major international conferences. His achievements are further marked by domestic invention patents, registered software, and professional service as an editorial board member and reviewer for numerous international journals.

Publication Top Notes

Semantic segmentation of urban buildings from VHR remote sensing imagery using a deep convolutional neural network

Year: 2019

Citations: 264

Landslide susceptibility mapping using multiscale sampling strategy and convolutional neural network: A case study in Jiuzhaigou region

Year: 2020

Citations: 223

Mapping favorable groundwater potential recharge zones using a GIS-based analytical hierarchical process and probability frequency ratio model: A case study from an agro-urban

Year: 2020

Citations: 194

Assessment of water quality and identification of polluted risky regions based on field observations & GIS in the Honghe River Watershed, China

Year: 2015

Citations: 192

Long-term groundwater storage variations estimated in the Songhua River Basin by using GRACE products, land surface models, and in-situ observations

Year: 2019

Citations: 150

Genetic correlation of fatty acid composition with growth, carcass, fat deposition and meat quality traits based on GWAS data in six pig populations

Year: 2019

Citations: 137

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang is a leading figure in the integration of remote sensing, GIS, and hydrology for global environmental and disaster research. His career reflects a blend of rigorous academic training, innovative research contributions, and leadership in major international collaborations. With more than 300 scientific publications, multiple patents, and global recognition, he has significantly advanced scientific understanding of water resources, climate impacts, and disaster risk management. His work continues to inspire interdisciplinary research and technological development for sustainable environmental solutions. Prof. Dr. Wanchang Zhang contributions make him a highly deserving candidate for award nomination, reflecting his commitment to both scientific excellence and societal impact.

Mr. Faruk Hossain | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Faruk Hossain | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Faruk Hossain | Geological Survey of Bangladesh | Bangladesh

Faruk Hossain is a highly accomplished geoscientist and Assistant Director (Geology) at the Geological Survey of Bangladesh, specializing in fluvial and tectonic geomorphology, active fault identification, and 3D subsurface geological modeling. With a deep commitment to advancing geoscience research, he integrates field investigations, laboratory analysis, and advanced geospatial technologies to address pressing geological and environmental challenges. His expertise extends to geohazard assessment, seismic risk analysis, and the application of remote sensing and GIS in sustainable development and climate resilience. Faruk’s work contributes significantly to disaster risk reduction, sustainable urban planning, and resource management, positioning him as a leading expert in geohazard mitigation and environmental sustainability.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Summary of Suitability

Faruk Hossain is a dedicated and skilled geoscientist whose expertise spans fluvial and tectonic geomorphology, active fault identification, geohazard assessment, and 3D subsurface modeling. His research contributes directly to addressing critical issues such as seismic hazards, landslides, riverbank erosion, and climate adaptation, making his work highly relevant to sustainable development and disaster resilience.

Education

He holds an M.Sc. in Engineering Geology from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, where his research focused on landslide density analysis using GIS in the Cameron Highlands, building a strong foundation in geohazard investigation, engineering geology, and geotechnical engineering. He also earned an M.Sc. in Petroleum Geology and Geophysics from the University of Dhaka, gaining expertise in petroleum system evaluation, reservoir geology, and exploration geophysics. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Geology from the University of Dhaka, covering a broad range of earth sciences disciplines including geomorphology, hydrogeology, sedimentology, and engineering geology. This multidisciplinary education has equipped him with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex geological and environmental challenges.

Experience

Faruk has extensive professional experience in geological mapping, fluvial system analysis, morphometric studies, and basin hydrological assessments. His technical capabilities encompass remote sensing data analysis, geomorphological mapping, structural trend interpretation, and landslide susceptibility modeling using advanced methodologies such as the Analytical Hierarchy Process and Weighted Overlay Method. He is proficient in hydrological modeling, change detection analysis of river systems, and the creation of thematic maps for hazard assessment and resource planning. His work often involves integrating field data with spatial analysis tools to produce 3D subsurface lithological models, enabling more accurate hazard predictions and geological interpretations. Beyond field and analytical work, he has contributed to the development of engineering geological project databases, improving data accessibility and management for large-scale projects.

Research Interests

His research interests center on fluvial and tectonic geomorphology, active tectonics, and the interplay between geological processes and environmental hazards. He is deeply engaged in studying mountain hazards such as landslides, debris flows, and glacial lake outburst floods, as well as riverbank erosion and floodplain dynamics. Faruk is also interested in the application of remote sensing indices for environmental monitoring, climate risk assessment, and sustainable resource use. His focus on 3D subsurface modeling supports both academic research and applied solutions for infrastructure development, hazard mitigation, and land-use planning in geologically sensitive areas.

Awards

Faruk has been recognized for his contributions to geoscience research, hazard mapping, and sustainable development practices. His awards reflect his innovative approaches to geological problem-solving, his leadership in applying geospatial technologies for hazard assessment, and his dedication to promoting climate adaptation strategies. These honors highlight his ability to translate scientific expertise into practical applications that benefit both communities and policy-making bodies.

Publication Top Notes

Fluvio-geomorphic change of the Padma-Meghna river course using the NDWI and MNDWI techniques

Digital Elevation Modeling Of Saint Martin Island, Bangladesh: A Method Based On Open Source Google Earth Data

The Sikkim flood of October: drivers, causes and impacts of a multi-hazard cascade

Conclusion

Faruk Hossain exemplifies the integration of scientific rigor, technological innovation, and practical application in the field of geoscience. His multidisciplinary expertise, from hazard assessment to 3D geological modeling, addresses critical environmental and societal needs, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters and climate-related risks. By combining field-based observations with advanced remote sensing and GIS methodologies, he delivers data-driven solutions for sustainable land use, disaster preparedness, and resource management. His track record of publications, professional achievements, and recognized contributions make him an outstanding candidate for awards honoring excellence in geoscience and environmental sustainability.

 

Dr. Hao Cui | Remote sensing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hao Cui | Remote sensing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hao Cui, Wuhan University, China

Hao Cui is a postdoctoral researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Geospatial Information Science at Wuhan University, specializing in the intelligent interpretation of remote sensing imagery. Since July 2021, he has been working under the mentorship of Professor Li Deren, building on his previous academic experiences. Hao earned his Ph.D. in Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing from Wuhan University, where he studied under Professor Zhang Guo from September 2018 to July 2021. His academic journey also includes a master’s degree obtained through a joint training program at the China Academy of Surveying and Mapping, as well as studies in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems at Lanzhou Jiaotong University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Measurement and Control Engineering from Datong University of Science and Technology. Hao has hosted several prestigious projects, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Project and the China Postdoctoral Innovation Talents Support Plan Project. He has made significant contributions to his field, authoring or co-authoring 13 published papers, with 10 featured in top-tier journals, including ISPRS and TGRS.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

Summary of Suitability for the Best Researcher Award: Hao Cui

Hao Cui is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating exceptional expertise and a strong research background in remote sensing and image interpretation. His research direction focuses on the mechanisms and interpretation theory methods of remote sensing images applied in engineering, which aligns well with contemporary advancements in geospatial sciences.

🎓 Education

  • Postdoctoral Researcher
    State Key Laboratory of Geospatial Information Science, Wuhan University
    Intelligent Interpretation of Remote Sensing Imagery
    Advisor: Li Deren
    Duration: July 2021 – Present
  • Ph.D. Student
    State Key Laboratory of Geospatial Information Science, Wuhan University
    Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
    Advisor: Zhang Guo
    Duration: September 2018 – July 2021
  • Master’s Joint Training
    China Academy of Surveying and Mapping
    Cartography and Geographic Information Systems
    Advisor: Zhang Li
    Duration: August 2016 – June 2018
  • Master’s Student
    School of Surveying and Geographic Information, Lanzhou Jiaotong University
    Cartography and Geographic Information Systems
    Advisor: Zhang Li
    Duration: September 2015 – July 2016
  • Bachelor’s Student
    Datong University of Science and Technology
    Measurement and Control Engineering
    Major: Surveying and Mapping Engineering
    Advisor: Han Liang
    Duration: September 2011 – July 2015

💼 Work Experience

  • Postdoctoral Researcher
    State Key Laboratory of Geospatial Information Science, Wuhan University
    Focus: Intelligent Interpretation of Remote Sensing Imagery
    Duration: July 2021 – Present

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (Youth Project)
  • China Postdoctoral Innovation Talents Support Plan Project
  • China Postdoctoral Excellent Young Talents Project
  • China Association for Science and Technology Think Tank Young Talent Plan Project
  • East Asian Satellite Remote Sensing Application Key Laboratory of Natural Resources Ministry of China Fund Project

Publication Top Notes:

Rice recognition from Sentinel-1 SLC SAR data based on progressive feature screening and fusion

SparseFormer: A Credible Dual-CNN Expert Guided Transformer for Remote Sensing Image Segmentation with Sparse Point Annotation

Mr. Harsh Vazirani | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Harsh Vazirani | Remote Sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Harsh Vazirani, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Australia

This individual is currently pursuing PhD studies at the University of Sydney, having secured a scholarship from the Ministry of Social Justice to pursue their research abroad. With over 11 years of experience in the fields of Information Technology (IT), GIS, Remote Sensing, and Library and Information Science, they have demonstrated expertise across various sectors, including teaching, consulting, and project development. Notably, they worked as a Consultant (IT) in the Department of Disability Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi, and contributed to the development of GIS and Remote Sensing projects for the Madhya Pradesh Agency for Promotion of Information Technology.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

The candidate is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Sydney, building on a solid foundation with an M.Tech in Information Technology and an M.Sc. in GIS & Remote Sensing. Their academic journey also includes certifications in Geo-informatics and a 5-year integrated M.Tech & B.Tech program from the Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Gwalior.

🎓 Academic Excellence:

Harsh Vazirani is currently pursuing a Ph.D. from the University of Sydney, supported by a prestigious scholarship from the Ministry of Social Justice, Government of India. He holds an integrated M.Tech and B.Tech in Information Technology from ABV-IIITM, Gwalior (2005-2010), completed with distinction. Additionally, he earned an M.Sc. in GIS & Remote Sensing from Mahatma Gandhi Gramodya Vishwavidyalaya (2015-2017). 📚

💻 Technical Expertise:

Harsh is an innovative thinker with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies including Python, MATLAB, PHP, AJAX, XML, and platforms such as Open Layer, D-Space, Arc GIS, Q-GIS, and Postgres SQL. His skillset extends to cloud computing, library automation systems (KOHA, D-Space), and web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. 🌐

📊 Professional Experience:

With over 11 years of experience, Harsh has excelled in both teaching and non-teaching roles:

  • Consultant (IT): Department of Disability Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi 🏛️
  • GIS Executive: Madhya Pradesh Agency for Promotion of Information Technology 🗺️
  • Assistant Professor: Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal 🏫
  • Head of Department: Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research, Bhopal 💼
  • Project Fellow: Regional Institute of Education, Bhopal 📖

📌 Additional roles include positions in software development, web design, and GIS projects, making significant contributions to national and regional-level initiatives.

🛰️ Research Aspirations:

Harsh aims to deepen his expertise in Aerospace and Spacecraft System Engineering, leveraging his strong foundation in physics, engineering, GIS, and IT.

Publication top Notes:

Evolutionary radial basis function network for classificatory problems

Diagnosis of breast cancer by modular neural network

Fusion of speech and face by enhanced modular neural network

 

Dr. Gabriela Adina Morosanu | Remote sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gabriela Adina Morosanu | Remote sensing Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gabriela Adina Morosanu, Institute of Geography of the Romanian Academy,Romania

Gabriela Adina Morosanu is a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Bucharest, specializing in hydrology and river basin management. She holds a Joint International Ph.D. from the University of Bucharest and the University of Grenoble Alpes, focusing on hydro-sedimentary dynamics. Her academic background includes a Master’s in Climatology-Hydrology and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Geography and Law. Fluent in multiple languages, Gabriela is actively involved in research projects on river restoration, sediment transport, and environmental impact assessments. She has also contributed to numerous international conferences and scientific journals

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Awards: Dr. Gabriela Adina Morosanu

Gabriela Adina Morosanu is an outstanding candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” due to her impressive research trajectory and significant contributions in the fields of hydrology, environmental management, and geography. Here’s a summary of her suitability for the award:

🎓Education:

Gabriela Adina Morosanu holds a Ph.D. in Hydrology from a Joint International Program between the University of Bucharest and the University of Grenoble Alpes, where she focused on the hydro-sedimentary dynamics of the Jiu River Basin. She earned her Master’s in Climatology – Hydrology from the University of Bucharest with valedictorian honors, achieving a perfect average grade of 10/10. Gabriela completed her Bachelor’s in Geography at the University of Bucharest, also as the valedictorian with an impressive average of 9.92/10. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor’s in Law from the University of Craiova. Her educational journey began at “Frații Buzești” National College in Craiova, where she graduated as valedictorian in the Mathematics – Informatics Bilingual English profile, with a high average grade of 9.97/10.

🏢Work Experience:

Gabriela Adina Morosanu has been serving as a Post-doctoral Researcher at the University of Bucharest’s Centre for Water Resources and River Basin Management Research since May 2022. In addition, she has been a Collaborating Teaching Assistant at the University of Bucharest’s Faculty of Geography since October 2018. She coordinated the post-doctoral project “Field Investigation within Jiu River Basin” (COMPASS) from November 2020 to November 2021. Gabriela was also a member of the AMIPAHYR Project, which focused on methodological approaches for analyzing anthropic impacts on rivers, from August 2016 to December 2017. Additionally, she contributed to the design and development of a bibliographic database on Forest Hydrology at the FAO from December 2015 to January 2016.

🏆Awards and Recognitions:

Gabriela Adina Morosanu has been honored with several awards for her contributions to environmental research and scientific organization. She received the Young Team of Researchers Award for her research on water quality between Morii Lake and the Glina wastewater treatment plant. She was also recognized with the Scientific Congress Coordinator Award for her role in organizing the Scientific Congress of Eastern European Students titled “Energy Challenges and Transitions in Geosciences.” Additionally, Gabriela earned the European Geosciences Union General Assembly Oral Communication Award for her presentation on “Sediment Connectivity Assessment in a Romanian Catchment Affected by Coal Mining.”

Publication Top Notes:

  • Stakeholders’ Interaction in Water Management System: Insights from a MACTOR Analysis in the R’Dom Sub-basin, Morocco
    • Citations: 7
  • Assessment of Restoration Effects in Riparian Wetlands using Satellite Imagery. Case Study on the Lower Danube River
    • Citations: 5
  • Mining Hazard Risk Reduction and Resilience
    • Citations: 1
  • The use of low impact development technologies in the attenuation of flood flows in an urban area: Settat city (Morocco) as a case
    • Citations: 15
  • Integrated water resources management: An indicator framework for water management system assessment in the R’Dom Sub-basin, Morocco
    • Citations: 17

 

 

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