Dr. Rachid Aziam | Water Treatment | Best Research Article Award

Published on 21/07/202521/07/2025 by Physicist Particle

Dr. Rachid Aziam | Water Treatment | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Rachid Aziam at 1- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gheorghe Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; 2-Laboratory of Applied Chemistry and Environment, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ibnou Zohr University, BP 8106 Agadir, Morocco

Dr. Rachid Aziam is an accomplished researcher in physical chemistry, with a strong specialization in environmental remediation through innovative biomaterials. 🎓 With a Ph.D. from the Faculty of Sciences, Agadir, and international academic exposure in France and Romania, he brings a global edge to water purification science. 💧 His postdoctoral work explores eco-engineered composites for wastewater treatment, guided by artificial intelligence models. His scholarly contributions include international books, Springer chapters, and journal reviews, highlighting his expertise in dye and heavy metal removal from aqueous systems. 📘 As a reviewer and committee member of international scientific events, Dr. Aziam actively contributes to academic excellence. From hands-on chemical analysis to modeling pollution mitigation, his work bridges practical application with research innovation. 🌍 Passionate about green solutions, he is a rising voice in environmental chemistry and sustainable materials. 🧪

Professional Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Rachid Aziam’s academic journey exemplifies a cross-continental blend of expertise in chemistry and environmental sciences. He obtained his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (2015–2021) from Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, focusing on the valorization of local natural materials for azo dye removal. His master’s education is a unique dual-path: a Master’s in Water Chemistry (2012–2014) from the University of Oujda and an M2 in Water Treatment, Science & Technology from Lille, France (2013–2014), marking an international academic milestone. 🧬 His undergraduate foundation in Chemistry at Agadir, paired with rigorous training in chemical and water analyses, equipped him with analytical sharpness and environmental sensibility. These academic credentials laid the groundwork for a robust career centered on water purification and nano-composites for environmental safety. 📚

👨‍🏫 Professional Experience

Dr. Aziam has played critical roles in academia and applied training, reflecting his dedication to education and practice. Most recently, in late 2024, he served as a temporary lecturer at the Specialized Institute of Public Works in Agadir, delivering 100 hours of instruction, including real-world site visits to water treatment plants. In 2016–2017, he contributed to the Chemistry Department at the Faculty of Sciences, Agadir, with hands-on and tutorial sessions in chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and instrumental analysis. 🧑‍🔬 His instructional excellence is complemented by diverse internships and real-world roles in wastewater analysis and environmental assessment. From lab-based research to industrial training, his professional landscape blends academia with sustainable field applications, empowering students and colleagues alike. 🌱

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Aziam’s research interest lies at the intersection of green chemistry, water purification, and advanced biomaterials. His Ph.D. and postdoctoral works delve into adsorbent materials derived from natural polymers and clays, designed for removing dyes and phosphate ions from wastewater. 🧪 His projects explore material synthesis, physicochemical characterization, and performance modeling using AI and statistics. He is particularly passionate about macroalgal biomass, algal composites, and clay-based adsorbents, as detailed in his Springer and IntechOpen chapters. 📖 Through international research internships in Romania and Morocco, he has forged collaborations to develop eco-efficient solutions for water decontamination. His trajectory reflects a commitment to sustainability, green technology, and environmental resilience. 🌊

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Aziam’s scholarly excellence is reflected in multiple accolades and professional recognitions. He has earned certificates of excellence in reviewing for leading journals such as the Asian Journal of Research in Animal and Veterinary Sciences and the International Research Journal of Pure and Applied Chemistry. 🥇 He has also served as a scientific committee member for the International Conference on Water Depollution and Green Energy (CIDEEV 2024). His contributions to editorial processes underscore his dedication to upholding research integrity and mentoring new scientific voices. 📜 These honors reflect not only his expertise but also his commitment to peer development, international networking, and promoting impactful environmental science. 🌍

📚 Publications Top Note

1. Title: Synthesis, characterization, and comparative study of MgAl-LDHs prepared by standard coprecipitation and urea hydrolysis methods for phosphate removal

Authors: R. Benhiti, A. Ait Ichou, A. Zaghloul, R. Aziam, G. Carja, M. Zerbet, F. Sinan, et al.
Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
Year: 2020
Citations: 102
Summary: This work compares two synthesis methods for MgAl layered double hydroxides (LDHs)—coprecipitation and urea hydrolysis—for phosphate removal. The study focuses on structural, morphological, and surface properties and their impact on adsorption efficiency. Results show that synthesis method significantly affects phosphate uptake capacity.

2. Title: Kinetic modeling, equilibrium isotherm and thermodynamic studies on a batch adsorption of anionic dye onto eco-friendly dried Carpobrotus edulis plant

Authors: R. Aziam, M. Chiban, H. Eddaoudi, A. Soudani, M. Zerbet, F. Sinan
Journal: The European Physical Journal Special Topics
Year: 2017
Citations: 42
Summary: Investigates the potential of Carpobrotus edulis, a natural plant material, as a low-cost adsorbent for removing anionic dyes. Kinetic and thermodynamic models indicate a spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process with high affinity for the target dye.

3. Title: Adsorption of Crystal Violet from aqueous solution onto eco-friendly native Carpobrotus edulis plant

Authors: A. Dabagh, A. Bagui, M. Abali, R. Aziam, M. Chiban, F. Sinan, M. Zerbet
Journal: Materials Today: Proceedings
Year: 2021
Citations: 31
Summary: The study highlights the efficacy of native Carpobrotus edulis in removing the cationic dye Crystal Violet from water. Parameters like pH, dosage, and contact time are optimized to enhance adsorption efficiency.

4. Title: Synthesis of LDH/Alginate composite beads as a potential adsorbent for phosphate removal: kinetic and equilibrium studies

Authors: S. Nouaa, R. Aziam, R. Benhiti, G. Carja, S. Iaich, M. Zerbet, M. Chiban
Journal: Chemical Papers
Year: 2023
Citations: 27
Summary: Introduces LDH/alginate composite beads for removing phosphate from water. Detailed kinetic and isotherm studies confirm the enhanced adsorption performance due to the synergistic effect of LDH and alginate.

5. Title: Factors controlling the adsorption of acid blue 113 dye from aqueous solution by dried C. edulis plant as natural adsorbent

Authors: R. Aziam, M. Chiban, E. Eddaoudi, A. Soudani, M. Zerbet, F. Sinan
Journal: Arabian Journal of Geosciences
Year: 2016
Citations: 26
Summary: Focuses on various factors—pH, contact time, dosage—affecting the adsorption of Acid Blue 113 using dried C. edulis. Results suggest it is an eco-friendly alternative for dye removal.

6. Title: Adsorption of metal ions from single and binary aqueous systems on bio-nanocomposite, alginate-clay

Authors: R. Aziam, D.S. Stefan, S. Nouaa, M. Chiban, M. Boșomoiu
Journal: Nanomaterials
Year: 2024
Citations: 19
Summary: Evaluates the removal of metal ions using alginate-clay bio-nanocomposites in single and binary systems. Results demonstrate good selectivity and potential for water purification applications.

7. Title: Increasing the Adsorption Efficiency of Methylene Blue by Acid Treatment of the Plant Carpobrotus edulis

Authors: A. Dabagh, A. Bagui, M. Abali, R. Aziam, M. Chiban, F. Sinan, M. Zerbet
Journal: Chemistry Africa
Year: 2021
Citations: 19
Summary: Acid-modified C. edulis shows enhanced adsorption of Methylene Blue. Study explores surface modifications and their impact on uptake efficiency.

8. Title: Novel insights into crystal violet dye adsorption onto various macroalgae: Comparative study, recyclability and overview of chromium (VI) removal

Authors: L. Boukarma, R. Aziam, A. Aboussabek, S. El Qdhy, M. Zerbet, F. Sinan, et al.
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2024
Citations: 18
Summary: Compares different macroalgae for crystal violet removal, evaluating recyclability and also discussing their effectiveness in Cr(VI) adsorption—highlighting bio-based remediation.

9. Title: Evaluation of macroalgal biomass for removal of hazardous organic dyes from wastewater

Authors: R. Aziam, L. Boukarma, M. Abali, S. Nouaa, E. Eddaoudi, F. Sinan, M. Chiban
Book Chapter: Advanced removal techniques for dye-containing wastewaters
Year: 2021
Citations: 12
Summary: Reviews the potential of macroalgae for wastewater treatment, focusing on dye removal. Highlights key factors influencing adsorption and biomass regeneration.

10. Title: Kinetic and equilibrium isotherm studies for the removal of acid blue 113 dye by dried corallina officinalis alga as a novel eco-friendly adsorbent

Authors: L. Boukarma, R. Aziam, S. Baroud, E. Eddaoudi, F. Sinan, I. Sadki, et al.
Journal: E3S Web of Conferences
Year: 2021
Citations: 12
Summary: Demonstrates that Corallina officinalis, a red macroalga, can be an efficient and sustainable adsorbent for Acid Blue 113. Adsorption follows pseudo-second-order kinetics.

📌 Conclusion

In sum, Dr. Rachid Aziam stands as a promising researcher with a global academic footprint, a strong dedication to sustainable chemistry, and a portfolio of impactful work in water depollution. 🌱 His interdisciplinary approach integrates natural science, environmental engineering, and AI-based modeling to confront one of today’s critical challenges—clean water access. He is not only an educator and scientist but also a reviewer, collaborator, and knowledge sharer, constantly expanding the frontiers of eco-innovation. 🌐 With continued involvement in international collaborations and academic discourse, Dr. Aziam is poised to influence future directions in environmental materials science and green chemistry. 🚀

Elena Koumaki | Water Management | Best Researcher Award

Published on 12/04/202512/04/2025 by Physicist Particle

Dr. Elena Koumaki | Water Management | Best Researcher Award

Post Doctoral Researcher at Imperial College London, United Kingdom

Elena Koumaki 🇬🇷 is a passionate Environmental Scientist 🌍 with a PhD in Wastewater and Water Management from NTUA 🎓. She brings over a decade of experience in water quality, circular economy, and sustainable wastewater treatment ♻️. Having worked across Greece, the UK, Spain, USA, and Germany 🇪🇸🇺🇸🇩🇪, she has contributed to numerous EU-funded projects like Horizon Europe and Interreg 🌐. Her work focuses on innovative water reuse and pollution control 💧. Elena’s impactful research is recognized through high citation metrics 📈, reflecting her commitment to a greener, sustainable future 🌱.

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Scopus

Google Scholar

🔹 Education & Experience

🎓 Education

📚 PhD in Wastewater & Water Management – NTUA (2012–2018)
📘 MSc in Water Quality & Environmental Technology – NTUA (2008–2010)
🎓 BSc in Environmental Science – University of the Aegean (2004–2008)

💼 Work Experience

🧪 Research Fellow – NTUA (2025–Present)
🔬 Research Associate – Imperial College London (2023–2024)
💡 Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellow – Imperial College London (2023–2024)
📊 Project Manager & Research Fellow – NTUA (2020–2022)
🧫 Research Fellow – Satistica Ltd. (UK, 2019–2020)
🌊 Research Fellow – Various projects, NTUA (2018–2019)
👩‍🏫 Teaching Assistant – NTUA (2017–2018)
🌍 Research Visitor – Spain, USA, Germany (2016–2017)
🧪 Environmental Scientist – Roikos Engineering (2011–2012)

🔹 Professional Development

Elena Koumaki continually sharpens her expertise through active involvement in groundbreaking research projects across Europe and beyond 🌍. She has been part of international research teams and EU programs like Horizon Europe, Interreg, PRIMA, and MSCA 🚀. Her participation as both project manager and researcher reflects her leadership and collaborative spirit 🤝. As a thesis co-supervisor and teaching assistant, she has mentored future environmental scientists 📖. She engages in continuous learning through workshops, conferences, and scientific publications 📚, building a robust professional profile in environmental innovation and sustainable water management 💧♻️.

🔹 Research Focus

Elena’s research centers on sustainable water and wastewater management, resource recovery, and pollution control ♻️💧. She specializes in evaluating and enhancing the circular economy within aquatic systems 🌊. Her work includes early warning systems for pathogens, forward osmosis, water reuse, and mitigation of emerging contaminants 🧪. She contributes to smart water management technologies and bioremediation solutions for cleaner environments 🌿. Collaborating across countries and disciplines, she applies integrated approaches to manage water scarcity, particularly in Mediterranean regions 🏖️. Elena’s innovative research supports climate resilience and sustainable urban and agricultural water practices 🚰🌱.

🔹 Awards & Honors

🏆 1️⃣ Graduated 1st in Class – BSc Environmental Science, University of the Aegean
🧠 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship – UKRI-funded prestigious EU program
📈 High Citation Impact – 831 Google Scholar citations, h-index: 10
🌍 Horizon Europe Projects Leader – Leading multiple high-profile EU-funded initiatives
📘 20 Thesis Co-Supervisions – Contribution to academic development at NTUA

Publication Top Notes

1. Circular Water Management in Agriculture: Screening of Contaminants of Emerging Concern in a Real-World Water-Soil-Crop System and Human Health Risk Assessment

Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Publication Date: July 2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138167
Source: Crossref
Summary: This study evaluates the occurrence and risks of emerging contaminants within circular agricultural water systems, analyzing the fate of such contaminants across water, soil, and crops, and assessing potential human health risks.

2. Development of an Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge (IFAS) Reactor Treating Landfill Leachate for the Biological Nitrogen Removal through Nitritation-Denitritation

Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Publication Date: August 2024
DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121709
Source: Crossref
Summary: This paper presents an IFAS reactor system optimized for nitrogen removal from landfill leachate using nitritation-denitritation, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of treatment processes.

3. Removal of Contaminants of Emerging Concern from Wastewater Using an Integrated Column System Containing Zero Valent Iron Nanoparticles

Journal: Water
Publication Date: February 3, 2023
DOI: 10.3390/w15030598
ISSN: 2073-4441
Source: Elena Koumaki
Summary: This article investigates the use of zero-valent iron (ZVI) nanoparticles in a column system for the removal of pharmaceuticals and other contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) from wastewater.

4. Insights into Current Physical, Chemical and Hybrid Technologies Used for the Treatment of Wastewater Contaminated with Pharmaceuticals

Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
Publication Date: August 2022
DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.132079
Source: Crossref
Summary: This review highlights and evaluates existing physical, chemical, and hybrid technologies used in removing pharmaceutical contaminants from wastewater, with a focus on efficiency and environmental impact.

5. Assessing the Performance of Environmentally Friendly-Produced Zerovalent Iron Nanoparticles to Remove Pharmaceuticals from Water

Journal: Sustainability
Publication Date: November 17, 2021
DOI: 10.3390/su132212708
ISSN: 2071-1050
Source: Elena Koumaki
Summary: This study evaluates green synthesis methods for ZVI nanoparticles and their effectiveness in removing pharmaceutical compounds from water, aligning with sustainable development goals.

Conclusion

Dr. Elena Koumaki is highly deserving of a Best Researcher Award. Her research has had measurable academic and societal impact, particularly in addressing urgent global issues such as water scarcity, pollution control, and sustainable resource management. She represents an exemplary model of a modern researcher who combines scientific rigor, innovation, and practical implementation. Her profile aligns perfectly with the values of excellence, innovation, and global engagement that such an award celebrates.