Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

North University of China | China

Dr. Jianguang Xiao is an Associate Professor of Ordnance Science and Technology at North University of China, Ph.D., and supervisor for master’s degree candidates. Recognized as a Young Outstanding Talent of Shanxi Province’s “Sanjin Elite” Program, Dr. Xiao has made significant contributions to the study of reactive materials, explosion and shock dynamics, and target vulnerability assessment, particularly for UAVs, vehicles, and ammunition systems. His research integrates mechanics, thermotics, and chemistry, providing advanced modeling and simulation methods for reactive material behavior under high-velocity impact, energy release, and deflagration conditions. Dr. Xiao has led and participated in over twenty vertical and horizontal research projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Defense Foundation Projects, and Shanxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation. Notable projects include studies on the preparation and energy release characteristics of Tetrafluoroethylene-Hexafluoropropylene-Vinylidene Fluoride-based reactive materials and the development of integrated shock/deflagration material models. He has authored 28 high-level academic documents, including SCI and EI journal papers, one academic monograph, and holds three invention patents. His work has garnered 391 citations from 279 documents, achieving an h-index of 10, reflecting the significant impact of his research on the field of reactive materials and defense engineering. Dr. Xiao’s publications cover topics such as molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions, impact-induced deflagration behavior, and enhanced damage effects of reactive materials on concrete targets. Beyond research, Dr. Xiao actively contributes to the academic community. He serves on the youth editorial boards of journals including Journal of China Ordnance, Aeronautical Weaponry, and Journal of North University of China, and is a peer reviewer for prominent journals like Defence Technology and International Journal of Impact Engineering. He has been consecutively recognized as an Excellent Reviewer by multiple journals, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining high scholarly standards. Dr. Xiao’s interdisciplinary expertise, innovative contributions to reactive materials research, and active academic engagement make him a leading figure in his field, demonstrating both scientific excellence and practical impact.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Xiao, J., Zhang, J., Ma, J., et al. (2024). Mechanics–thermotics–chemistry coupling response model and numerical simulation of reactive materials under impact load. Advances in Engineering Software, 192, 103647.

  • An, D., Xiao, J.*, Ma, J., et al. (2024). Molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions in polytetrafluoroethylene-based reactive materials. Journal of North University of China (Natural Science Edition), 45(02), 222–228.

  • Nie, Z., Xiao, J., Wang, Y., & Xie, Z. (2022). Mechanical properties and ignition reaction characteristics of THV-based reactive materials. Journal of China Ordnance, 43(12), 3030.

  • Xiao, J., Nie, Z., Wang, Z., Du, Y., & Tang, E. (2020). Energy release behavior of Al/PTFE reactive materials powder in a closed chamber. Journal of Applied Physics, 127(16), 165106.

  • Xiao, J., Wang, Z., Nie, Z., Tang, E., & Zhang, X. (2020). Evaluation of Hugoniot parameters for unreacted Al/PTFE reactive materials by modified SHPB test. AIP Advances, 10(4), 045211.

 

Shengda Liu | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shengda Liu | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Changchun University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Shengda Liu is a distinguished researcher in the field of chemistry and materials science, currently serving at the School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology (CUST). He earned his Ph.D. from the State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, one of China’s leading research institutions in chemical sciences. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Liu pursued postdoctoral research at Hangzhou Normal University (HZNU) and Central South University (CSU), where he further advanced his expertise in signal transduction, ion transport, and enzyme design. Dr. Liu’s research integrates molecular chemistry, biophysics, and materials engineering to address critical challenges in energy, catalysis, and biochemical sensing. His innovative work on Bi³⁺-activated perovskite Sr₃LiSbO₆ blue phosphors has gained significant attention for introducing a novel narrow-band violet emission with high thermal stability and color purity, offering potential applications in anti-counterfeiting, lighting, and optoelectronic technologies. This research exemplifies his ability to combine theoretical insight with practical application, contributing to advancements in sustainable and functional materials. Over his career, Dr. Liu has demonstrated exceptional productivity and impact, having published 68 papers in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals with a citation count exceeding 1,165 and an h-index of 18. He has successfully completed or led seven research projects, reflecting both academic excellence and strong leadership in collaborative scientific research. Notably, his collaboration with Professor Liu Junqiu at Hangzhou Normal University in the field of enzyme catalysis underscores his interdisciplinary approach and commitment to advancing modern chemistry. As a member of the Chinese Chemical Society, Dr. Shengda Liu continues to make substantial contributions to the scientific community, establishing himself as an emerging leader in environmental chemistry, molecular design, and functional materials innovation.

Profiles : Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Li, S., Guo, N., Liang, Q., Ding, Y., Zhou, H., Ouyang, R., & Lü, W. (2025). Color-tunable emission and energy transfer in K₃Lu(PO₄)₂:Bi³⁺, Eu³⁺ phosphors for white lighting and anti-counterfeiting. Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Li, S., Guo, N., Liang, Q., Ding, Y., Zhou, H., Ouyang, R., & Lü, W. (2025). Molecular machines for transmembrane ion transport. Chemical Communications.

Li, S., Guo, N., Liang, Q., Ding, Y., Zhou, H., Ouyang, R., & Lü, W. (2025). A narrow-band Bi³⁺-activated blue phosphor with high thermal stability for multiple applications. Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Li, S., Guo, N., Liang, Q., Ding, Y., Zhou, H., Ouyang, R., & Lü, W. (2025). A novel phosphate-based phosphor for multifunctional applications realized by energy transmission and color change. Ceramics International.

Li, S., Guo, N., Liang, Q., Ding, Y., Zhou, H., Ouyang, R., & Lü, W. (2025). Selective activation of peroxymonosulfate through gating heteronuclear diatomic distance for flexible generation of high-valent cobalt-oxo species or sulfate radicals. Water Research.

Fengjiao Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fengjiao Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Minnan Normal University | China

Prof. Dr. Feng-jiao Liu is an accomplished environmental chemist and Associate Professor at Minnan Normal University, where she also serves as a Master’s supervisor. Since joining the university, she has established herself as a leading researcher in marine environmental science and ecological chemistry, with a primary focus on the ecological risk assessment of coastal environmental changes and the biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in marine systems. Her research explores critical environmental issues such as microplastic pollution, eutrophication, petroleum hydrocarbon contamination, and antibiotic residues, emphasizing their combined impacts on marine ecosystems, trace metal bioavailability, and carbon sequestration processes. Prof. Liu’s pioneering studies on the interactions between nanoplastics, heavy metals, and phytoplankton have provided vital insights into the changing dynamics of marine biogeochemistry in the era of global climate change. Prof. Liu has published numerous high-impact research papers in leading international journals, including Journal of Hazardous Materials, Science of the Total Environment, Chemosphere, and Marine Chemistry. Her works are widely recognized for their innovation and scientific depth, addressing global environmental challenges with quantitative, mechanism-based approaches. Beyond academic publications, she holds three national patents, including methods for detecting microplastics in living organisms and evaluating trace metal bioavailability, demonstrating her strong commitment to applied research and environmental monitoring technologies. Her interdisciplinary expertise bridges analytical chemistry, marine ecology, and environmental risk science, contributing to the sustainable management of coastal and oceanic environments. Through her research, mentorship, and innovation, Prof. Liu continues to advance the understanding of pollutant interactions in marine ecosystems, making significant contributions to the global field of environmental chemistry and ocean sustainability.

Profiles : Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Zhang, Y. L., Li, H. L., Li, H. J., Shi, K., Li, S. X., Huang, Z. J., Luo, J. Y., Wang, F., Zheng, F. Y., & Liu, F. J. (2025). Home-based smart colorimetric sensor for urinary albumin via electrospun nanofibers and deep learning. Microchemical Journal, 192, Article 109084.

  • Du, Y. T., Huang, Q. Y., Li, S. X., Cai, M. G., Liu, F. J., Huang, X. G., Zheng, F. Y., & Lin, L. X. (2024). Carbon sequestration reduced by the interference of nanoplastics on copper bioavailability. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 468, 133841.

  • Liu, F. J., Su, L. L., Du, Y. T., Li, H. L., Luo, J. Y., Huang, X. G., Li, S. X., & Zheng, F. Y. (2024). No-interfered and visual evaluation of global warming impacts on phytoplankton-based copper bioavailability and then carbon sequestration. Science of the Total Environment, 948, 174762.

  • Du, Y. T., Huang, Q. Y., Li, S. X., Cai, M. G., Liu, F. J., Huang, X. G., Lin, L. X., Zheng, F. Y., Chen, W. J., & Yang, Y. (2024). Microplastics reduce trace metal bioavailability in Thalassiosira weissflogii by impairing physiological functions. Marine Chemistry, 263–264, 104402.

  • Liu, F. J., Huang, Q. Y., Du, Y. T., Li, S. X., Cai, M. G., Huang, X. G., Zheng, F. Y., & Lin, L. X. (2023). The interference of marine accidental and persistent petroleum hydrocarbons pollution on primary biomass and trace elements sink. Science of the Total Environment, 883, 163812.

 

Sibel Dikmen Kucuk | Chemical Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

Dr. Sibel Dikmen Kucuk | Chemical Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

Düzce University | Turkey

Dr. Sibel Dikmen Küçük is a distinguished researcher and lecturer at Düzce University, where she has been serving in the Rectorate. With a strong academic foundation in chemical and composite materials engineering, she has developed a dynamic research portfolio focused on sustainable materials, nanotechnology, and bio-based cosmetic applications. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Hacettepe University. Driven by a passion for advanced materials, she pursued her graduate studies at Düzce University’s Institute of Science, completing a thesis-based Master’s program in Composite Material Technologies. Her master’s thesis examined the impact of ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers on rubber-based automotive sealing profiles. Continuing her academic journey in the same field, she obtained her Ph.D. in Composite Material Technologies (Interdisciplinary). Her doctoral thesis explored the development of an innovative composite facial mask containing natural nanocellulose with stain-removing and ultra-moisturizing properties. Dr. Küçük has actively contributed to numerous national scientific research projects, including TÜBİTAK-supported studies. She has taken on both researcher and coordinator roles in over ten projects, reflecting her leadership and collaborative expertise. Her work spans various topics such as biopolymer-based EPDM profiles, botanical extract-infused cosmetics, activated carbon production from agricultural waste, and the development of dual-phase hair sprays for treating androgenic alopecia. She holds a national patent for a stain-removing facial serum containing bacterial nanocellulose, showcasing her commitment to practical innovation and product development. Her publication record includes several articles in respected international journals like South African Journal of Botany, BioResources, and the Journal of Rubber Research, alongside multiple national publications and conference proceedings. Her research contributions often bridge the gap between materials science and biotechnology, with an emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable product design. In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Küçük has served as a consultant on cosmetic formulation projects involving bacterial nanocellulose and plant-based actives, further reflecting the translational impact of her research. Through her interdisciplinary work, she continues to advance the fields of composite materials, nanocellulose applications, and natural product-based innovations. With a growing reputation in both academic and industrial circles, Dr. Sibel Dikmen Küçük exemplifies the integration of scientific excellence, innovation, and societal relevance in research.

Profiles : ORCID | ScopusGoogle Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Dikmen Küçük, S. (2025). Development and characterization of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber reinforced by green material lignin. Ömer Halisdemir Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, 14(3), 1–8.

  • Kucuk, S. D., Grosso, A., Collet, G., Daniellou, R., & Koca Çalışkan, U. (2024). Effect of bacterial nanocellulose and plant-containing facial serum on hyperpigmentation in in-vitro conditions. BioResources, 19(2), 3208–3233.

  • Dikmen Küçük, S., & Uğraş, H. İ. (2024). Chemical modification of carbon black for coloring. Journal of Anatolian Environmental and Animal Sciences, 9(4), 832–838.

  • Dikmen Küçük, S., Tozluoğlu, A., Güner, Y., Arslan, R., & Sertkaya, S. (2022). Nano-fibrillenmiş selüloz / EPDM kompozitlerin mekanik, reolojik ve yaşlanma özellikleri. Artvin Çoruh Üniversitesi Orman Fakültesi Dergisi, 23(1), 1–12.

M. T. Ramesan | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. M. T. Ramesan | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Calicut | India

Dr. M. T. Ramesan is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Calicut, with over two decades of research and teaching experience in polymer chemistry and nanocomposite materials. He obtained his Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry from the Rubber Research Institute of India, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, where his thesis focused on Dichlorocarbene Modified Styrene Butadiene Rubber and Its Application in Rubber–Rubber Blends. He also holds an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry from the same university. A prolific researcher, Dr. Ramesan has published 209 Scopus-indexed international papers across leading journals such as Polymer, Langmuir, Scientific Reports, Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, and Carbohydrate Polymers. His work primarily explores polymer nanocomposites, energy storage materials, biodegradable biopolymers, and optoelectronic devices, often through sustainable and green synthesis routes. His citation metrics include a Scopus h-index of 47 and i10-index of 168, reflecting the global impact and relevance of his research. Dr. Ramesan has been recognized among Stanford University’s Top 2% Scientists in Polymer Chemistry for the years 2020–2025 in both the career-long and single-year categories. He has also received several Outstanding Reviewer Awards from top-tier Elsevier journals and completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Chonbuk National University, South Korea. As an expert reviewer for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and over 250 international journals, Dr. Ramesan contributes significantly to the peer review process. His editorial and review efforts span major publishing platforms such as Elsevier, Wiley, Springer, ACS, and RSC. He currently collaborates on interdisciplinary projects involving bio-nanocomposites for applications in energy, environment, and biomedicine.

Profiles : ORCID | ScopusGoogle Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Gopika, R., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025). Versatile functional properties of polyindole/CuO nanocomposites for dielectric and environmental sensing applications. Microchimica Acta, 192, 683.

Gopika, R., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025). Tunable optical, electrical, and gas-sensing properties of poly(thiophene-co-indole)/CuO nanocomposites. Surfaces and Interfaces, 73, 107547.

Ramesan, M. T., Anoofa, P., Meera, K., & Bahuleyan, B. K. (2025). Green processing of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)/boehmite nanocomposites: A sustainable approach to high-performance materials for optoelectronic devices. Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials, 35, 6877–6892.

Fathima Husna, P. T., Meera, K., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025). Tailoring poly(diphenylamine) with lithium silver oxide nanoparticles: Impact on structural, optical, and electrical properties for energy storage. Polymer Composites, 46, 11290–11302.

Muhammed, H., Faheema, S., Thayyil, M. S., Udayan, G., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025). Multifunctional chitosan/chloro-aspirin composites for energy storage and biomedical applications. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 102, 101866.

Sankar, S., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025). Synthesis of multifunctional poly(thiophene-co-pyrrole)/boehmite nanocomposites for optoelectronic, dielectric, photocatalytic and antibacterial applications. Polymer Composites.

Nikolaos Koletsis | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Nikolaos Koletsis | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece

Nikolaos E. Koletsis is a chemist with a Master of Science in Applied Biochemistry from the University of Patras and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Ioannina. His academic and research background is grounded in molecular and cellular biochemistry, with a particular emphasis on cancer biology, extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics, and the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models. During his MSc research at the Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Patras, he investigated the functional properties and differential expression of key ECM components in 3D breast cancer spheroids. His work integrated advanced biochemical techniques including 3D cell culture, gene expression analysis (qPCR), HPLC, ELISA, electrophoresis, and statistical methodologies such as T-test and ANOVA. This project has culminated in both national and international presentations, and a first-author publication in Cells. Koletsis also conducted pioneering undergraduate research at the University of Ioannina, synthesizing novel alkaline earth metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with potential applications in biodiesel catalysis. This work led to the identification of a new magnesium-glycerol complex, a structure reported for the first time in literature. He has co-authored three peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in Scopus, which have collectively received 15 citations, and he currently holds an h-index of 1. His publications appear in respected journals such as Cells, FEBS Journal, and Archives of Medical Science – Atherosclerotic Diseases, reflecting the interdisciplinary and impactful nature of his work. In addition to his lab-based expertise, Koletsis is adept in scientific writing, data analysis, and conference presentations, demonstrating a clear capacity for translating experimental data into meaningful scientific contributions. His career interests lie at the intersection of biomedical research, applied sciences, and translational innovations in cancer and materials chemistry.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Koletsis, N. E., Mangani, S., Franchi, M., Piperigkou, Z., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025). Development, functional characterization, and matrix effectors dynamics in 3D spheroids of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Cells, 14(17), 1351.

  • Anagnostopoulos, S., Baltayiannis, N., Koletsis, N. E., et al. (2025). 3D printing in medicine: Bridging imaging, education, and practice. Archives of Medical Science – Atherosclerotic Diseases, 10(1), 172–188.

  • Mangani, S., Piperigkou, Z., Koletsis, N. E., Ioannou, P., & Karamanos, N. K. (2024). Estrogen receptors and extracellular matrix: The critical interplay in cancer development and progression. FEBS Journal.

  • Piperigkou, Z., Mangani, S., Koletsis, N. E., Koutsakis, C., Mastronikolis, N. S., Franchi, M., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025). Principal mechanisms of extracellular matrix-mediated cell–cell communication in physiological and tumor microenvironments. FEBS Journal.

 

Sudipta Dash | Computational Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sudipta Dash | Computational Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Kalinga Institute of Social sciences | India

Mr. Sudipta Dash is a scholar and academic leader specializing in Applied Physics, with research emphases on quantum optoelectronic materials, carbon‑based nanostructures, functional perovskites, and intelligent instrumentation using IoT and AI technologies. After completing his M.Sc. from Ravenshaw University, he pursued teacher education at Acharya Nagarjuna University, earning his B.Ed and M.Ed. Professionally, Mr. Dash’s career spans roles in higher education and administration: he served as Principal at Gayatri Degree College, Lecturer and then Assistant Professor at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, and as of 2024, he is Head of the Department there. He has been recognized with several honours, including CSIR‑NET (2019), GATE (2018), and multiple Best Poster Awards. His inventive work is evidenced by patents in areas like anti‑dandruff/anti‑ripening shampoos; carbon quantum dots; AI‑based digital education methods; and outcome‑based assessment aligned with NEP 2020. His publication record includes studies on perovskite band gap engineering, optoelectronic properties of lead‑free compounds, toxicity assessment of nanomaterials, among others.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Dash, S., Behera, D., Mohanty, S. K., Palai, G., & Mohanty, I. (2024). Unveiling the potential of lead‑free KInBr₃ and RbInBr₃ perovskites: A breakthrough in optoelectronic and photovoltaic performance through DFT (HSE hybrid functional) and SCAPS‑1D simulations. Phase Transitions, 97(11‑12), 826–845.

  • Dash, S., Mohanty, S., & Palai, G. (2025). First‑Principles Insights into Structural, Electronic, Elastic, and Optical Behavior of AlGeX₃ (X = Cl, Br) Perovskites. Russian Journal of Inorganic Chemistry, 1–9.

  • Dash, S., Behera, D., Mohanty, S., Panda, J., & Palai, G. (2025). Comprehensive investigations on the optoelectronic properties of lead‑free K₂InSbCl₆ compound. Next Research, Article 100607.

  • Dash, S., Mohanty, S., Behera, D., Mohanty, S. K., & Palai, G. (2025). Band gap engineering and optical response of SrSiO₃ perovskite for high‑efficiency photonic applications. MRS Advances, 1–8.

 

Sophia Sonnewald | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sophia Sonnewald | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg | Germany

PD Dr. Sophia Sonnewald is an accomplished plant biochemist specializing in molecular physiology, stress adaptation, and crop improvement, with a strong focus on potato biology. She currently serves as Akademische Oberrätin (Academic Senior Adviser) and permanent Group Leader at the Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany. Dr. Sonnewald earned her diploma in Biology from Humboldt University Berlin, followed by a doctorate under the supervision of Prof. Dr. E.M. Wiedenroth. Her doctoral work was supported by prestigious scholarships from the State of Berlin (NaFöG) and Humboldt University. She later completed her Habilitation in Biochemistry at FAU, further solidifying her expertise and academic leadership. Her postdoctoral research and early group leadership at the IPK Gatersleben laid the foundation for her later advancements in plant molecular biology. She led the “Molecular Physiology and Transcriptomics” group at FAU. Since 2016, she has held a senior scientific leadership role at FAU, mentoring young researchers and leading innovative studies on plant resilience under climate stress. Dr. Sonnewald’s research has produced significant insights into source–sink relationships, abiotic stress responses, and plant metabolic regulation. She has published 50 scientific articles, amassing over 3,526 citations with an h-index of 28 (Scopus, 2025), reflecting the depth and influence of her work. Her publications appear in leading journals such as Nature Plants, PNAS, Plant Physiology, and Current Biology. Her collaborative work on heat stress, tuberization, and multi-omics approaches in potato has positioned her as a prominent figure in applied plant science, contributing both to basic knowledge and agricultural sustainability.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Yeo, D. S. G., Eydam, J., Koch, L., Lackus, N., Reinert, S., Kauder, F., Bruckmueller, J., Luebeck, J., Sonnewald, S., & Sonnewald, U. (2025). SELF-PRUNING 6A promotes tuberization and heat tolerance but lowers immunity of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Journal of Experimental Botany, eraf393.

  • Zrimec, J., Correa, S., Zagorščak, M., Petek, M., Bleker, C., Stare, K., Schuy, C., Sonnewald, S., Gruden, K., & Nikoloski, Z. (2025). Evaluating plant growth–defense trade-offs by modeling the interaction between primary and secondary metabolism. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 122(32), e2502160122.

  • Zagorščak, M., Schuy, C., Petek, M., Correa, S., Zrimec, J., Sonnewald, S., & Gruden, K. (2025). Integration of multi-omics data and deep phenotyping provides insights into responses to single and combined abiotic stress in potato. Plant Physiology, 197, kiaf126.

  • Kaier, A., Beck, S., Ingold, M., Corral Garcia, J. M., Reinert, S., Sonnewald, U., & Sonnewald, S. (2024). Identification of heat-stress-related regions by genome-wide association study in Solanum tuberosum L. Genomics, 116(6), 110954.

  • Koch, L., Lehretz, G. G., Sonnewald, U., & Sonnewald, S. (2024). Yield reduction caused by elevated temperatures and high nitrogen fertilization is mitigated by SP6A overexpression in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). The Plant Journal, 117, 1702–1715.

Zeynep Pehlivan Köksal | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zeynep Pehlivan Köksal | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Recep Tayyip Erdogan University | Turkey

Zeynep Pehlivan Köksal is a dedicated nurse‐scholar currently serving as a Research Assistant (PhD) in the Department of Nursing at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University’s Faculty of Health Sciences. A native of Trabzon, Turkey, she earned her undergraduate degree from Karadeniz Technical University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, graduating. Soon after, she embarked on her clinical journey working as a staff nurse at Private Imperial Hospital in Trabzon and then at Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital. In 2020, she transitioned into academia, joining Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University as a research assistant, a role she has since built on with doctoral responsibilities beginning. Dr. Pehlivan Köksal has a strong and growing scholarly profile. Her international publications include research on symptoms in cancer patients such as constipation and taste changes and their impact on quality of life, published in Supportive Care in Cancer, as well as qualitative work on nursing students’ experiences in intensive care settings. On the national front, she has authored multiple articles addressing topics such as social support, stress, sleep quality, patient comfort, symptom management, and nursing education. Her work bridges clinical practice and research, often taking the symptom burden of patients undergoing chemotherapy or hemodialysis as her focal point. Beyond journal articles, she has an extensive record of conference presentations, contributing to discourse in oncology nursing, integrative therapies, and evidence-based nursing practices across Turkey. Throughout her career, Zeynep has demonstrated both clinical empathy and scientific rigor, positioning her as a promising researcher committed to improving patient outcomes and advancing nursing science.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Akbal Demirci, Y., Aşik Özdemir, V., Pehlivan Köksal, Z., Genç Köse, B., & Pekmezci, H. (2025). Experiences and perceptions of Turkish nursing students during their first clinical placement in intensive care units: A qualitative study. Nursing in Critical Care.

  • Pehlivan Köksal, Z., Nural, N., & Kesen, O. (2025). The effect of oral cryotherapy on taste alteration, appetite level, risk of malnutrition and quality of life in patients undergoing chemotherapy: A randomized controlled trial. European Journal of Oncology Nursing.

  • Pehlivan Köksal, Z., & Nural, N. (2025). The effect of taste alteration on malnutrition and quality of life in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Supportive Care in Cancer.

  • Pehlivan Köksal, Z., & Nural, N. (2024, December 1). Ayaktan kemoterapi alan hastaların yaşam kalitesi ve etkileyen faktörler: Tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel çalışma [Quality of life and affecting factors in outpatients receiving chemotherapy: Descriptive and cross‑sectional study]. Ordu Üniversitesi Hemşirelik Çalışmaları Dergisi.

  • Pehlivan Köksal, Z., & Aşik Özdemir, V. (2024, April 29). Hopelessness in patients receiving hemodialysis treatment in the COVID‑19 pandemic: A descriptive and cross‑sectional study. Samsun Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi.

Xolile Fuku | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xolile Fuku | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of South Africa | South Africa

Prof. Xolile Godfrey Fuku is an Associate Professor at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS) at the University of South Africa (UNISA). With a distinguished academic and research background in electrochemistry, nanotechnology, and sustainable energy systems, Prof. Fuku has positioned himself as a leading figure in green energy and environmental technologies. His work focuses on electrochemical sensors, hydrogen fuel cells, battery materials, CO₂ conversion, and integrated water monitoring systems aligning closely with global sustainability and climate change goals. Prof. Fuku holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of the Western Cape, where his doctoral research developed a quantum dots genosensor for breast cancer biomarkers under the supervision of Prof. Emmanuel Iwuoha. He also holds an MSc in Chemistry and has expanded his expertise through business qualifications, including a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration and an ongoing MBA from Wits Business School. Over the years, Prof. Fuku has demonstrated excellence in research leadership and capacity development. He manages a multidisciplinary research team at iNanoWS and has supervised several MSc and PhD students in the fields of renewable energy, nanotechnology, and material science. His research outputs include over 60 peer-reviewed publications, multiple international book chapters, and numerous conference presentations. As of 2025, his work has garnered 2,532 citations with an H-index of 19, according to Google Scholar. His efforts have been supported by prestigious grants from organizations such as the National Research Foundation (NRF), CSIR, Water Research Commission (WRC), and international bodies including the Chinese Foreign Talent Program. He is also affiliated with prominent scientific societies such as SACNASP, the Royal Society of Chemistry, and the African Academy of Sciences. Prof. Fuku continues to contribute significantly to advancing Africa’s leadership in clean and sustainable technologies through research, mentorship, and innovation.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Nompetsheni, I., Hlongwa, N. W., Palaniyandy, N., & Fuku, X. (2025). CQD–TiO₂ composite as a potential crypto-electrode modifier for high-performance aptasensing with ultra-low detection limits. Journal of Applied Electrochemistry, 1–22.

  • Zia Ul Haq, M., Singh, B., Fuku, X., Barhoum, A., & Tian, F. (2025). A systematic review of the use of electronic nose and tongue technologies for detecting food contaminants. Chemosensors, 13, 262.

  • Phosha, N. N., Fuku, X. G., Tijing, L., & Motsa, M. M. (2025). Exploring the application of solar irradiation in driving a standalone membrane distillation unit. Applied Thermal Engineering, 127169.

  • Gazu, N. T., Morrin, A., Fuku, X., Mamba, B. B., & Feleni, U. (2025). Recent technologies for the determination of SARS‐CoV‐2 in wastewater. ChemistrySelect, 10.

  • Palaniyandy, N., Sekhosana, K., Lakshmi, D., Fuku, X., & Sundar, D. K. S. (2025). Advancement of Pt and Pd-based catalysis for green, sustainable energy and biomedical applications. Current Research in Green and Sustainable Chemistry, 100446.

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