Angela Boggero | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Angela Boggero | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

CNR-Water Research Institute (IRSA) | Italy

Dr. Angela Boggero is a distinguished Italian researcher specializing in freshwater ecology, with a primary focus on macroinvertebrates and invasive species in aquatic ecosystems. She is currently a senior researcher at the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) – Water Research Institute (IRSA) in Verbania Pallanza, where she leads research activities related to the ecological assessment and management of freshwater biodiversity. Over the years, she has made significant contributions to the study of lake and river ecosystems, particularly in understanding the role of benthic communities as indicators of ecological quality in compliance with the EU Water Framework Directive. Her previous experience includes serving as a researcher with LifeWatch Italy, the Italian component of the European LifeWatch infrastructure, where she was responsible for studies on the vulnerability of freshwater ecosystems to the introduction of alien species. She has also worked extensively with the Institute of Ecosystem Study (ISE-CNR), focusing on the ecological monitoring and assessment of macroinvertebrate communities in subalpine and alpine water bodies. Angela’s academic background includes a degree in Biological Sciences with an ecological focus from the University of Turin, where she studied reproductive mechanisms and genetic variability in marine organisms. Throughout her career, she has participated in numerous national and international research programs and has contributed to advancing methodologies for aquatic biomonitoring, biodiversity conservation, and invasive species management. Her scientific expertise and leadership have supported Italy’s compliance with European environmental directives and fostered collaboration within the broader scientific community. Fluent in English and proficient in other European languages, she continues to play a vital role in promoting interdisciplinary research and sustainable management of freshwater ecosystems.

Featured Publications

Pawlowski, J., Kelly-Quinn, M., Altermatt, F., Apothéloz-Perret-Gentil, L., Beja, P., … (2018). The future of biotic indices in the ecogenomic era: Integrating (e)DNA metabarcoding in biological assessment of aquatic ecosystems. Science of the Total Environment, 637, 1295–1310.

Leese, F., Altermatt, F., Bouchez, A., Ekrem, T., Hering, D., Meissner, K., … (2016). DNAqua-Net: Developing new genetic tools for bioassessment and monitoring of aquatic ecosystems in Europe. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 2, e11321.

Füreder, L., Ettinger, R., Boggero, A., Thaler, B., & Thies, H. (2006). Macroinvertebrate diversity in Alpine lakes: Effects of altitude and catchment properties. Hydrobiologia, 562(1), 123–144.

Marchetto, A., Mosello, R., Psenner, R., Bendetta, G., Boggero, A., & Tait, D., … (1995). Factors affecting water chemistry of alpine lakes. Aquatic Sciences, 57(1), 81–89.

Rossaro, B., Lencioni, V., Boggero, A., & Marziali, L. (2006). Chironomids from southern Alpine running waters: Ecology and biogeography. Hydrobiologia, 562(1), 231–246.

Boggero, A., Füreder, L., Lencioni, V., Simčič, T., Thaler, B., Ferrarese, U., … (2006). Littoral chironomid communities of Alpine lakes in relation to environmental factors. Hydrobiologia, 562(1), 145–165.

Thitisuda Kanchana-at | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Thitisuda Kanchana-at | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Thitisuda Kanchana-at, Thammasat University, Thailand

Thitisuda Kanchana-at is a passionate and skilled researcher in analytical chemistry and environmental toxicology, with a strong emphasis on air pollution and its effects on human health. With a background in forensic science and chemistry, she brings an interdisciplinary approach to understanding environmental contaminants, especially polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals in airborne particles. Currently serving as a research assistant at Thammasat University, she conducts in-depth analysis of particulate matter and its biological impacts on dermal and bronchial airway cells. Her role also includes operating advanced instrumentation like ICP-MS at Chulalongkorn University, where she collaborates on sustainable engineering projects. Thitisuda’s academic and professional path reflects her dedication to solving real-world problems at the intersection of chemistry, health, and the environment. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at leading academic symposia. Her work is rooted in scientific rigor, health impact awareness, and a drive for innovative environmental solutions.

Publication Profile

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Education

Thitisuda Kanchana-at holds an MSc in Forensic Science from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University (2022–2025), where her thesis focuses on characterizing particulate-bound PAHs and heavy metals in indoor air from religious sites in Bangkok and correlating findings with human exposure risks. This work is done in collaboration with the Environmental Engineering graduate program at Chulalongkorn University, integrating forensic analysis and environmental health research. She also completed her BSc in Chemistry from Chulalongkorn University (2018–2022), graduating with upper-second class honors and finishing one semester early. Her senior project centered on synthesizing an adsorbent from chitosan, nanocellulose, and zero-valent iron for arsenic removal, reflecting her early interest in pollution control and remediation. Her education has equipped her with strong foundations in analytical chemistry, instrumentation, environmental science, and interdisciplinary research, forming a solid base for her growing career in environmental health and forensic applications.

Experience

Thitisuda has extensive research experience across prestigious Thai institutions. Since October 2023, she has been a Research Assistant at Thammasat University’s Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, conducting in-depth studies on ultrafine particulate matter, specifically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals, and their biological effects on skin and lung cells. Concurrently, since September 2022, she has worked as an ICP-MS Technician and Research Assistant at the Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, Chulalongkorn University. There, she supports environmental research in collaboration with local authorities, specializing in trace metal analysis using ICP-MS. Her early practical exposure includes internships at STREC, where she trained on instruments like TEM, SEM, NMR, and HPLC, and forensic anthropology training at Siriraj Hospital in 2024. Her experience merges practical laboratory skills, interdisciplinary research, and environmental health science, enabling her to contribute to academic research, environmental monitoring, and public health assessments.

Awards and Honors

Thitisuda Kanchana-at has demonstrated academic excellence and professional engagement, earning recognition throughout her education and early career. While specific award titles are not detailed, her achievements include graduating with upper-second class honors from Chulalongkorn University, completing her BSc in Chemistry one semester early, and being selected to present as a Speaker at the 11th Joint Symposium 2025—“Frontiers in Allied Health Sciences for All,” a prestigious platform highlighting significant research advancements. Her inclusion as a first author in the journal Atmosphere and co-author of a conference paper in IOP Publishing proceedings further attest to her scholarly contributions. Her forensic anthropology training at Siriraj Hospital and technical training at STREC underline her proactive pursuit of specialized knowledge and hands-on proficiency. These accomplishments collectively reflect her outstanding performance in research, communication, and scientific contribution in environmental health and forensic chemistry.

Research Focus

Thitisuda’s research is focused on the intersection of environmental chemistry and public health, particularly the toxicological impacts of air pollution. Her primary research investigates the presence and effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals in ultrafine particulate matter (PM0.1), especially from indoor air environments such as religious spaces. She examines how these pollutants affect human health at the cellular level, studying their impact on keratinocytes and bronchial airway cells. Her work involves advanced analytical techniques such as ICP-MS, AAS, chromatography, and mass spectrometry to characterize contaminants and assess exposure risk. Thitisuda’s interdisciplinary approach also includes collaboration with environmental engineers to develop data-driven health assessments. She aims to translate chemical and toxicological data into meaningful insights for public health policy and environmental regulations. Her research serves as a vital bridge between forensic science, environmental analysis, and biomedical health risk evaluation.

Publication Top Notes

  • “Characterization of Particulate-Bound PAHs and Heavy Metals in Religious Indoor Air in Bangkok and Human Exposure Assessment”Atmosphere (First Author)

  • “Integrating Environmental Forensics and Toxicology in Urban Air Quality Studies”IOP Publishing (Conference Proceeding – Co-author)

Wonder Dlamini | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Wonder Dlamini | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wonder Dlamini, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan

Dr. Wonder Nathi Dlamini is an accomplished research scientist and educator from Eswatini, currently based in Taiwan. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Technology from NYCU and an MSc in Soil and Environmental Sciences from NCHU, he focuses on nanotechnology, environmental sustainability, and microbial biotechnology. Dr. Dlamini has made significant strides in pollution remediation, viral/bacterial inactivation, and sustainable agriculture. His innovations in air and water purification using nanomaterials have earned him international recognition, research grants, and leadership roles in global scientific communities. He actively contributes to science communication as a writer, reviewer, and speaker and has presented at major conferences across the globe. Known for his interdisciplinary collaboration, strategic thinking, and mentorship, Dr. Dlamini remains committed to developing sustainable solutions for global health and environmental challenges. Fluent in English and rooted in African values, he blends scientific excellence with cultural awareness and global engagement.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Dlamini earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Technology from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taiwan, where he conducted award-winning research on nanomaterials for viral inactivation and air pollution control. He received multiple scholarships and research grants throughout his doctoral journey. Before that, he completed his M.Sc. in Soil and Environmental Sciences at National Chung Hsing University (NCHU), Taiwan, where he gained hands-on experience in microbial research, sustainable agriculture, and environmental biotechnology. His academic career was further enriched by his earlier studies and teaching experience in Eswatini and South Africa, where he laid a strong foundation in environmental science and education. Dr. Dlamini’s educational path is marked by interdisciplinary training, international exposure, and consistent academic excellence. Through his degrees, he has developed a robust understanding of environmental systems, nanoscience, and health impacts, equipping him with the skills needed to address complex global issues.

Experience

Dr. Dlamini brings over a decade of diverse professional experience spanning research, teaching, and leadership. Since 2021, he has served as a Research and Teaching Assistant at NYCU, leading projects on nanomaterials for air and water purification. Between 2019–2021, he was a Chief Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant at NCHU, focusing on microbial diversity and environmental biotechnology. Earlier, he taught at several language institutions in Taiwan, enhancing science communication across cultures. He also served as an Operations Supervisor and Educator in Eswatini and South Africa, managing education programs and administrative operations. In 2025, he chaired the WERESA MIREC Conference, showcasing his leadership in international research networking. With experience in grant writing, statistical modeling, and mentoring, Dr. Dlamini has contributed meaningfully to academia, policy, and public health. His career reflects a passion for sustainability, education, and cross-sector collaboration.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Dlamini’s work has been recognized through several prestigious awards and honors. During his Ph.D. at NYCU and MSc at NCHU, he received multiple scholarships and research grants for academic excellence and innovation in nanotechnology and environmental sciences. His award-winning work on bimetallic nanomaterials for viral inactivation gained recognition at major conferences, such as ISIAQ and TOHA. As Conference Chair of WERESA’s MIREC 2025, he was honored for leadership and scientific contributions. Additionally, his role as a reviewer for top journals, including Sustainable Cities & Society and Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, showcases his respected status in the academic community. He is a recognized member of IEEE NTC, ISIAQ, ISEE, and TOHA, reflecting his global scientific engagement. These honors reflect Dr. Dlamini’s impact on environmental health, research integrity, and international collaboration.

Research Focus

Dr. Dlamini’s research focuses on sustainable nanotechnology, environmental biotechnology, and microbial applications for global health. His key innovations involve fabricating Cu/Ag/TiO₂ nanomaterials for effective viral and bacterial inactivation, including enhancing viral aerosol removal through chitosan-based filters and ionization. He develops air and water purification systems for healthcare and public settings, aiming to mitigate airborne diseases and improve environmental quality. His microbial studies isolate stress-tolerant bacteria to support sustainable agriculture and land restoration. Dr. Dlamini also explores the effects of biomass fuels and air quality on climate change and public health, emphasizing eco-friendly cooking solutions and emission reduction. His interdisciplinary approach bridges environmental science, public health, and occupational safety. Through data modeling, risk assessment, and industry collaboration, he contributes to technology transfer and policy solutions, targeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. His work is impactful, forward-looking, and centered on equitable environmental innovation.

Publication Top Notes

 

  • 🦠 Optimizing Viral Aerosol Removal with Chitosan-Based Ag-TiO₂ Filters and Ionization – ISIAQ Healthy Buildings 2025, Reykjavik

  • 🌫️ Smart Purification and Cloud Monitoring for Healthcare Air Quality – ISIAQ Healthy Buildings 2025, Reykjavik

  • 💧 Enhanced Antiviral Efficacy of Bimetallic Ag-Cu/TiO₂ Nanocomposites for Water Disinfection – TOHA Conference 2025, Tainan

  • 🌍 Sustainable Water Purification – Enhancing Antiviral Efficacy for Public Health & Climate Resilience – MIREC 2024, Tokyo

  • 🧪 Ag/TiO₂-CS Nanocomposite Filters for Viral Aerosol Removal – ISIAQ 2024, Hawaii

  • 🏥 Advanced Air Purification & Cloud-Enabled Monitoring in Healthcare – ISIAQ 2024, Hawaii

  • 🦠 Virus Aerosol Filter for COVID-19 – ISEE 2023 Conference, DOI: 10.1289/isee.2023.SA-097