Dhekra Ben Amara | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor, Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara is an agricultural economist and sustainability researcher specializing in environmental science, eco-innovation, climate change and circular economy, with a strong focus on sustainable development and green growth. She earned her Engineering degree in Agricultural and Agri-Food Economics and Management from the National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia in 2010, followed by an M.Sc. in Economy of Agriculture, Agri-Food and Environment in 2013 and completed her Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and Management at Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China, in 2021. Her professional experience includes serving as Administrative Officer in the Internship and International Cooperation Department at ESPRIT: Private High School of Engineering and Technologies in Tunisia (2021–2022), where she promoted student engagement and international partnerships, followed by her postdoctoral fellowship at Henan University, China (2022–2025), where she focused on eco-innovation, carbon emissions, foreign investment and Africa-China cooperation in green growth and food security. In 2025, she was appointed Associate Professor at the School of Industry and City, Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology, China. Her research interests center on sustainability, eco-innovation, climate change, circular economy, food security and resource and environmental management and she has actively contributed to international projects such as the China–Tunisia biomass valorization initiative promoting bio-circular green economies. Skilled in research tools such as IBM SPSS, SPSS AMOS, SmartPLS3, STATA, GeoDA and ArcMap, she demonstrates strong technical and analytical expertise. She has authored 12 Scopus-indexed publications with 245 citations and an h-index of 8, with articles published in leading journals including Journal of Cleaner Production and Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Her achievements have been recognized with the NEFU Outstanding Graduate Award (2021), a Second Prize at the NEFU International Students’ Academic Forum and an Excellence Award in the “My Story in NEFU” contest. With her international academic background, growing research impact and leadership in eco-innovation, Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara is well-positioned to advance environmental sustainability research and contribute to global solutions addressing climate change and sustainable development.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate | Sci Profiles | Web of Science | ACM Digital Library | LinkedIn  

Featured Publications

1. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). A mediation-moderation model of environmental and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable business growth. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 27(14), 16916–16928.

2. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2022). Driving factors for eco-innovation orientation: Meeting sustainable growth in Tunisian agribusiness. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 18(2), 713–732.

3. Ben Amara, D., & Qiao, J. (2023). From economic growth to inclusive green growth: How do carbon emissions, eco-innovation and international collaboration develop economic growth and tackle climate change? Journal of Cleaner Production, 425, 138986.

4. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). Investigating the effect of multidimensional network capability and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable performance. Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy, 22(6), 1297–1309.

5. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2021). The impact of participative decision-making on eco-innovation capability: The mediating role of motivational eco-innovation factors. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 23(5), 6966–6986.

 

Himani Karki | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Himani Karki | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor (Contractual), Kumaun University, Nainital, India

Dr. Himani Karki is an emerging researcher in the field of ecology with a strong academic and professional background centered on forest ecology, soil carbon dynamics, biodiversity conservation and agroforestry systems in the Kumaun Himalaya. She completed her Ph.D. in Botany (2016–2021) at the Department of Botany, DSB Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital, where her doctoral research focused on floral composition, regeneration status and carbon stock in cypress–oak mixed forests. Prior to this, she obtained her M.Sc. in Botany with a specialization in Forest Ecology (2012–2014) and her B.Sc. in Zoology, Botany and Chemistry (2010–2012) from the same institution. Professionally, she has served as a Project Fellow in an ICSSR-sponsored study on women’s roles in agroforestry systems, as a JRF and SRF in a UGC-funded project on homegarden agroforestry and as a Project Associate-I in a JICA-funded biodiversity assessment at the Wildlife Institute of India. Since 2022, she has been a Guest Faculty at Kumaun University, actively engaging in teaching and mentoring. Her research interests span sustainable land use, climate change mitigation through soil carbon sequestration, biodiversity assessment and ecosystem services. She is skilled in ecological field surveys, soil analysis, biodiversity assessment and has proficiency in scientific communication supported by her strong presentation record at national and international conferences, including the Indian Science Congress, UCOST and the International Conference on Sustainable Development. Her publication record includes 7 Scopus-indexed articles with 233 citations and an h-index of 7, reflecting her growing impact in the research community. She has also actively participated in workshops, training programs and outreach events on climate data analysis, intellectual property rights and bioinformatics, further strengthening her interdisciplinary expertise. Recognized for her sincerity, dedication and collaborative spirit, Dr. Himani Karki stands out as a promising ecologist whose work not only contributes to advancing scientific knowledge but also addresses pressing environmental challenges, making her highly deserving of recognition and future leadership roles in ecological research.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Manral, V., Bargali, K., Bargali, S. S., Karki, H., & Chaturvedi, R. K. (2023). Seasonal dynamics of soil microbial biomass C, N and P along an altitudinal gradient in central Himalaya, India. Sustainability, 15(2), 1651.

2. Karki, H., Bargali, K., & Bargali, S. S. (2021). Spatial and temporal trends in soil N-mineralization rates under the agroforestry systems in Bhabhar belt of Kumaun Himalaya, India. Agroforestry Systems, 95(8), 1603–1617.

3. Pandey, R., Bargali, S. S., Bargali, K., Karki, H., & Chaturvedi, R. K. (2024). Dynamics of nitrogen mineralization and fine root decomposition in sub-tropical Shorea robusta Gaertner f. forests of Central Himalaya, India. Science of the Total Environment, 921, 170896.

4. Awasthi, P., Karki, H., Bargali, K., & Bargali, S. S. (2016). Germination and seedling growth of pulse crop (Vigna spp.) as affected by soil salt stress. Current Agriculture Research Journal, 4(2), 159–170.

5. Karki, H., Bargali, K., & Bargali, S. S. (2022). Dynamics of fine roots and soil nitrogen in Mangifera indica-based agroforestry systems in the Central Himalayan region, India. Land Degradation & Development, 33(17), 3523–3538.

 

Caswell Munyai | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Caswell Munyai | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa

Dr. Caswell Munyai is a distinguished South African entomologist and academic whose expertise bridges biodiversity research, ecological education, and science communication. He is an Honorary Researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand and a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His work is rooted in macroecology, myrmecology, community ecology, and the sustainable management of invertebrate resources. A passionate educator, he has guided numerous postgraduate students to successful completion, fostering the next generation of scientists. Beyond academia, Dr. Munyai is dedicated to public engagement, contributing to nature documentaries such as Namuli and the Netflix impact feature Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey, which translate complex ecological science into compelling storytelling. His professional service includes leadership roles in academic societies, editorial activities, and national research funding panels. As a National Research Foundation–rated scientist and participant in the prestigious Future Professors Programme, Dr. Munyai exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and innovation. His career demonstrates a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while making it accessible and relevant to society, with a focus on conserving biodiversity and addressing the ecological challenges posed by invasive species, habitat change, and climate impacts.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Munyai holds a comprehensive academic background in environmental sciences, ecology, and resource management. His undergraduate training established a strong foundation in environmental science, followed by advanced specialization in ecology and resource management. His postgraduate studies expanded into macroecology and myrmecology, enabling him to develop deep expertise in ant ecology, biogeography, and ecosystem dynamics. His master’s research integrated large-scale ecological patterns with species-level behavioral insights, while his doctoral work advanced understanding of macroecological processes in invertebrate communities, particularly ants. Through these qualifications, he acquired a blend of theoretical knowledge, quantitative analysis skills, and field-based research experience. His educational journey also included competitive research placements, where he engaged with leading international scientists, refined laboratory and field methodologies, and developed strong collaborative networks. This multidisciplinary training has equipped him with the ability to address ecological questions from multiple perspectives, integrating biodiversity monitoring, species interactions, and conservation strategies. His academic formation reflects a dedication to bridging the gap between field observations and broader ecological theory, producing research that not only advances scientific understanding but also informs environmental management, conservation policy, and sustainable use of biodiversity resources in complex and changing ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Munyai’s professional career spans academic teaching, research leadership, and service to the scientific community at both national and international levels. As a senior faculty member in the School of Life Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, he teaches and coordinates undergraduate and postgraduate modules, supervises postgraduate research, and contributes to academic administration. He has held leadership roles such as Postgraduate Committee Coordinator, facilitating seminars, workshops, and research skills training. His experience also includes teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and international field instruction in biodiversity-rich environments, notably contributing to specialist ant courses in Africa. Dr. Munyai serves as an external examiner for numerous South African universities and has assessed both master’s dissertations and doctoral theses. He is actively involved in the governance of his institution through participation in examination boards, curriculum moderation, and faculty committees. Beyond academia, he plays a key role in national research evaluation processes, chairing funding panels and reviewing grant applications for the National Research Foundation and other funding bodies. His professional trajectory reflects a balance between high-quality research, committed teaching, and substantial academic service, positioning him as an influential figure in the advancement of ecological sciences in southern Africa.

Research Interest

Dr. Munyai’s research interests lie at the intersection of entomology, macroecology, and conservation biology, with a strong focus on myrmecology—the study of ants. His work examines biodiversity patterns, species interactions, and ecosystem functioning, particularly in the context of environmental change. He investigates the impacts of alien invasive plants and invertebrates on native biodiversity, as well as the potential for integrated pest management strategies to mitigate these effects. His studies extend to entomophagy, exploring the ecological, cultural, and economic implications of insect consumption. Community ecology is central to his research, providing insights into species distribution, habitat preferences, and the role of invertebrates in ecological resilience. He is especially interested in macroecological approaches that integrate large-scale biogeographic data with local ecological processes. Through his field and laboratory research, he addresses pressing conservation challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species management. His work contributes not only to the theoretical understanding of biodiversity patterns but also to the development of applied conservation and management strategies that benefit both ecosystems and human communities, particularly in biodiversity-rich but ecologically vulnerable regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Munyai possesses a versatile and advanced skill set encompassing field ecology, taxonomic identification, ecological data analysis, and science communication. He is an expert in sampling, identifying, and cataloguing invertebrate species, particularly ants, using both classical taxonomy and modern analytical tools. His macroecological expertise includes spatial modeling, biodiversity assessment, and statistical analysis of ecological datasets. He is skilled in designing and executing field surveys across diverse habitats, from savannas to montane forests, ensuring rigorous data collection for both short-term studies and long-term monitoring programs. His research incorporates experimental approaches to assess ecological interactions, invasive species dynamics, and biological control measures. In the realm of applied ecology, he develops strategies for integrated pest management and sustainable resource use. Dr. Munyai is also experienced in supervising research teams, mentoring postgraduate students, and coordinating multi-institutional projects. His strong peer-review record demonstrates his critical evaluation skills and engagement with cutting-edge scientific literature. Complementing his technical abilities, he excels in science communication, using publications, conferences, and media—including documentaries—to disseminate research findings to both scientific audiences and the broader public.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Munyai is a National Research Foundation Y2-rated scientist, recognized for his significant contributions to ecological research and potential for future leadership in his field. His selection for the Future Professors Programme reflects his standing as an emerging academic leader with the capacity to shape the future of higher education and research in South Africa. In addition to these distinctions, he serves as Deputy President of the Southern African Entomological Society, a role that underscores his leadership and influence within the entomological community. His expertise is further acknowledged through invitations to chair prestigious research funding panels, assess research proposals, and evaluate academic theses across multiple institutions. He has been entrusted with guiding national research priorities in agricultural sciences, biodiversity, and sustainability, demonstrating the high level of confidence placed in his judgment and expertise. These honors not only reflect his research achievements but also his dedication to building scientific capacity, fostering collaboration, and promoting biodiversity conservation. His blend of academic excellence, leadership roles, and service contributions positions him among the most respected and influential figures in his discipline.

Author Metrics

  • Citations: 1,325+

  • h-index: 16

  • i10-index: 23

Publications Top Notes

1. GlobalAnts: a new database on the geography of ant traits (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Citations: 186
Year: 2017

2. Ant assemblages have darker and larger members in cold environments
Citations: 153
Year: 2016

3. Nutritional composition of edible insects consumed in Africa: A systematic review
Citations: 137
Year: 2020

4. Indigenous knowledge about consumption of edible insects in South Africa
Citations: 125
Year: 2020

5. Climate mediates the effects of disturbance on ant assemblage structure
Citations: 101
Year: 2015

6. Ants on a mountain: spatial, environmental and habitat associations along an altitudinal transect in a centre of endemism
Citations: 79
Year: 2011

7. Changes in land use alter ant diversity, assemblage composition and dominant functional groups in African savannas
Citations: 63
Year: 2018

8. A global database of ant species abundances
Citations: 53
Year: 2017

9. Dominance–diversity relationships in ant communities differ with invasion
Citations: 48
Year: 2018

10. Temporal patterns of ant diversity across a mountain with climatically contrasting aspects in the tropics of Africa
Citations: 45
Year: 2015

Conclusion

Dr. Caswell Munyai exemplifies the integration of scientific excellence, educational leadership, and public engagement. His career is characterized by a commitment to advancing knowledge in entomology, macroecology, and conservation while ensuring that research outcomes have tangible benefits for biodiversity management and community awareness. As an educator, he has cultivated a strong record of student supervision, producing graduates who contribute to science and society. As a researcher, his work addresses urgent environmental challenges, from invasive species to climate impacts, using both theoretical frameworks and practical solutions. His leadership in scientific societies, research funding bodies, and academic governance highlights his influence in shaping the future of ecological science in South Africa and beyond. Through his involvement in documentaries and public outreach, he bridges the gap between science and the public, inspiring appreciation and stewardship of the natural world. Dr. Munyai’s career trajectory reflects a rare combination of scholarly depth, collaborative spirit, and dedication to conservation advocacy, making him a driving force in both academic and societal efforts to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.