In addition to a $3,500 award, recipients receive membership in NJSWEP, providing valuable opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and networking within the environmental industry.

Oluwaseun’s selection reflects her dedication to environmental scholarship and her promise as an emerging leader in the field. Her work contributes to the broader mission of advancing sustainable solutions and fostering inclusive pathways into environmental careers.

The scholarship recipients will be formally recognized at the NJSWEP 18th Annual Gala in June 2026.

His presentation highlighted the major contributing threats to the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) crisis in the state, the growing challenges posed by these chemicals in our water systems, and out-of-the-box mitigative approaches. Odera’s talk left water professionals inspired and earned him recognition from the conference judging panel with the second-best presenter award, placing him among the top presenters at one of New Jersey’s premier water industry gatherings.

We are proud of this achievement and look forward to your continued contributions to the field.

The selection process involves nomination by water professionals and subject-matter experts across the United States, followed by the submission of creative and peer-reviewed research outputs by nominated researchers. The recipient is ultimately chosen by the AWWA-NJ Research & Technology Transfer Committee, a panel of leading professionals in the field, as the most outstanding researcher among all nominees.

This recognition highlights Odera’s outstanding peer-reviewed publications and continuous scientific advancements in PFAS research, which are steadily improving scientific understanding and professional practice in the water industry. His research outputs have been indexed by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and the National Library of Medicine, further demonstrating their significance to scientific advancements.

Congratulations, Odera!

The ERI scholarship is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate or graduate student whose academic focus aligns with the mission of ERI in areas such as civil and environmental engineering, GIS, land use planning, and related fields. Scholarship winner is chosen through a competitive screening process that considers recommendation letters, a written essay, and academic performance.

Using complex geophysical analysis, machine learning and environmental risk assessment models, Shahnul’s study focuses on assessing the ecological and human health concerns associated with the toxicity of environmental heavy metals. His efforts enhance the stability and health of the urban environment.

The Scholarship Committee, Principals and Partners of Environmental Resolutions, Inc., had the opportunity to learn about Shahnul’s research and career goals at the formal award ceremony held at the ERI offices in South Jersey in August.

The TLCNJ scholarship panel praised his impressive combination of academic excellence and extracurricular achievements following a thorough evaluation of his essay, resume, and interview performance. The panel expressed excitement about his potential contributions to the environmental field.

The Land Conservancy of New Jersey has awarded scholarships totaling over $400,000 since the program’s inception in 1985, supporting exceptional students pursuing careers in environmental fields and related disciplines. The scholarship program reflects the conservancy’s broader commitment to preserving, restoring, and caring for natural resources while inspiring communities to protect open space.

Odera’s recognition acknowledges �鶹��ý����’s continued excellence in environmental science education and research, particularly in addressing real-world challenges facing the nation.

The NJWEA, a venerable organization with over a century of unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s precious drinking water, environment, and public health, provided the ideal stage for Odera to showcase his work. As the nation grapples with increasingly complex water quality issues, Odera’s research is more vital than ever. His dedication and passion for finding solutions to these pressing problems have positioned him as a rising star in the field, making him a source of immense pride for all those who have supported his journey.

Under the guidance of Dr. Duke Ophori, Odera aims to progress PFAS research in the United States. This grant recognizes Odera as one of only four exceptional graduate students across the state whose innovative research ideas have the potential to significantly advance our understanding of critical drinking water issues facing New Jersey and beyond.

Founded in 1984 as one of the first regional chapters of SETAC North America, HDC-SETAC brings together environmental scientists to share research and educate on current issues through annual meetings and workshops. Odera’s innovative and compelling research outputs impressed the judges with its novel approach and potential impact on environmental science and toxicology, exemplifying the scientific excellence HDC-SETAC fosters.

This prestigious award recognizes Odera’s hard work, expertise, and dedication to advancing understanding of critical environmental challenges in the United States. His research provides valuable insights into PFAS contamination patterns and hotspots across New Jersey.

The land of Ice and Fire is unlike any other. I have never seen such incredible landscapes and natural phenomenon. Dr. P & Dr. G are fantastic guides.

I never truly believed the wonders that have been created by our Earth until I traveled on this study abroad trip. Seeing the spectacular views and natural beauty was the most incredible experience I’ve ever had.

One week in Iceland for a lifetime of Earth History

An unforgettable week, filled with adventure and knowledge that combined fantastic landscapes with great history”

This trip was filled with so many core memories and seeing everything I’ve been learning about throughout college firsthand was an amazing experience that really solidified my love for environmental science.”

Iceland did not disappoint. From the glaciers to the waterfalls, the landscapes and the lava rocks, and the cities and towns, I knew it was the right place to travel to. Seeing all the beautiful landscapes and learning about Iceland made the best spring break imaginable.

Emma Miranda, junior, marine biology- “ Iceland is a land of beauty, nature, and marvels. From freezing glaciers to fiery volcanoes, and majestic waterfalls, this trip is one to cherish and I truly will never forget such a unique experience.

Our guides for this trip are so knowledgeable and friendly. The land of fire and ice is a one of a kind place filled with many mysteries and picturesque sites. People should not go through life without witnessing the breathtaking scenery.

When studying the Earth, the timescales involved can be hard to understand at times since some things happen over thousands or millions of years. In Iceland, time seems sped up, and events happen over months or years. Students saw geysers erupt in seconds, lava flows that were months old, measured cracks between tectonic plates moving apart, and witnessed glaciers melting in front of them. One of my central roles as a science professor is to have students be more curious and appreciative of the world around them, and bringing students to Iceland is a unique opportunity to do that.