Siphelo Ngqoloda | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Siphelo Ngqoloda | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher | Mintek | South Africa

Dr. Siphelo Ngqoloda is an emerging leader in advanced energy materials, electrocatalysis, and perovskite solar cell research, with a strong academic foundation and impactful research portfolio. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of the Western Cape, where his doctoral work focused on hybrid lead-halide perovskite thin films fabricated through sequential chemical vapor deposition (CVD) for high-efficiency solar cells. His research systematically explored thin-film formation mechanisms, device architecture engineering, and optoelectronic performance characterization using XRD, SEM, UV–Vis spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and J–V analysis. Building on this expertise, Dr. Ngqoloda’s current postdoctoral research at Mintek centers on synthesizing and tailoring platinum-based alloy nanocrystals for the oxygen reduction reaction in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells, addressing catalytic activity, durability, and structural optimization via controlled nanostructuring and rotating-disk electrode electrochemical analysis. He has authored and co-authored nearly 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters, reflecting active dissemination of research across materials science, nanotechnology, and renewable energy systems. His contributions have earned 197 citations across 21 publications, with an h-index of 7, demonstrating growing scientific influence in the fields of perovskite photovoltaics and nanocatalysis. In addition to research, Dr. Ngqoloda has five years of undergraduate lecturing experience and has supervised Master’s students, showcasing strong academic leadership and mentorship. He also managed a thin-film deposition laboratory, gaining practical expertise in thermal CVD, thermal evaporation, wet-chemical synthesis, and lab safety systems. Dr. Ngqoloda’s technical strengths include programming (Python, MATLAB), spectroscopy, microscopy, thin-film fabrication, and device physics. With strong communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills, combined with achievements such as best poster recognition in materials science, he exemplifies a dynamic, multidisciplinary researcher dedicated to advancing clean-energy technologies and sustainable materials innovation.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications


Ngqoloda, S., Ngwenya, T., Madima, N., Chauke, N., Stevenson, M., Barron, O., & Raphulu, M. (2025). Hot-injection synthesis of Pt–Ni rhombic dodecahedral nanoframes for oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalysis. Catalysis Letters, 155, 358.

Madima, N., Chauke, N., Ngqoloda, S., Mmelesi, O., & Raphulu, M. (2025). Recent advances in the development of defective black TiO₂ nanomaterials for application in energy and environmental sustainability: A review. Results in Engineering, 26, 104868.

Ngqoloda, S., Chauke, N., Ngwenya, T., & Raphulu, M. (2024). Shaped and structured Pt–3d transition metal alloy nanocrystals as electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction. Results in Chemistry, 11, 101831.

Chauke, N. M., Mohlala, R. L., Ngqoloda, S., & Raphulu, M. C. (2024). Harnessing visible light: Enhancing TiO₂ photocatalysis with photosensitizers for sustainable and efficient environmental solutions. Frontiers in Chemical Engineering, 6, 1356021.

Magubane, S., Burns, R., Ngqoloda, S., Oliphant, C., Miceli, P., & Arendse, C. (2023). Sequential chemical vapor deposition of two-dimensional Sn–Pb compound perovskite thin films and its exciton transport. ACS Applied Electronic Materials, 5, 5352.

N. Najmu Shabah | Polymer Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Ms. N. Najmu Shabah | Polymer Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Scholar | University of Calicut | India

Najmu Shabah N is a passionate and dedicated early-career researcher in Chemistry with a strong academic foundation and hands-on laboratory skills, specializing in polymer nanocomposites, green synthetic methodologies, and advanced spectroscopic analysis. She holds an MSc in Chemistry from Grace Valley College of Arts and Science, University of Calicut, where she gained comprehensive knowledge across theoretical chemistry, organic, inorganic, physical chemistry, and instrumental analysis. Her research is driven by an interest in developing sustainable and functional materials through environmentally conscious approaches. During her Master’s dissertation under the supervision of Dr. M.T. Ramesan, she successfully synthesized eco-friendly polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/arrowroot/LiAgO nanocomposites using green chemistry strategies. This work involved systematic nanoparticle synthesis and characterization using FT-IR, XRD, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and SEM to study structural, optical, and surface properties. She further evaluated conductivity behavior and antibacterial efficiency against E. coli, demonstrating the composite’s promise for biodegradable antibacterial and optoelectronic applications. Her undergraduate research on green nitration methods reinforced her commitment to sustainable chemistry and demonstrated her ability to design efficient, low-toxicity synthetic routes. Along with academic research, Najmu has practical laboratory experience as a Research Lab Assistant at the University of Calicut, where she prepared samples, operated spectroscopy and chromatography instruments, maintained lab safety standards, managed inventory, and supported ongoing research projects. She also worked as a Chemistry Subject Matter Expert at Cloud Bird Digital Pvt. Ltd., where she contributed to solving analytical challenges and supported interdisciplinary teams in product development and scale-up. Her skills span chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, computational chemistry (Gaussian), and advanced analytical methods, including TCSPC. With research interests spanning polymer science, nanomaterials, photonics, catalysis, and drug-related studies, she aspires to contribute to innovative materials and sustainable chemical technologies while advancing her future research career.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publication

Najmu Shabah, N., Khaleelul Rahman, T. T., Gopika, R., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025, July 7). Multifunctional polyvinyl alcohol/maranta arundinacea starch/LiAgO nanocomposites: A sustainable approach for antibacterial and optoelectronic applications. Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials.

 

Nigora Qutlimurotova | Analytical Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Prof. Nigora Qutlimurotova | Analytical Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Professor | National university of Uzbekistan | Uzbekistan

Professor Qutlimurotova Nigora Khakimovna, D.Sc., is an accomplished analytical chemist and faculty member at the National University of Uzbekistan, renowned for her contributions to modern chemical analysis, particularly in the optical and electrochemical determination of heavy, toxic, and rare metal ions. With a solid academic foundation built at the National University of Uzbekistan, where she completed her B.Sc., M.Sc., and postgraduate studies in Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry, she progressed through academic roles from senior lecturer to professor, demonstrating consistent excellence in teaching, research, and scientific leadership. Her research focuses on developing innovative electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques for environmental monitoring, food quality control, and trace element analysis addressing pressing global needs for sensitive, fast, and reliable detection methods. Since earning her D.Sc. degree, Professor Qutlimurotova has produced over 100 scientific and methodological publications, including 28 papers in SAC-listed journals and 4 high-impact international journal articles, reflecting her scientific productivity and growing contribution to the field. Her notable recent works involve designing carbon quantum dots, novel organic ligands, and cyclic voltammetric systems for detecting biologically and environmentally significant ions such as vanadate, zirconium, cobalt, copper, and biomolecules like DNA and albumin. With an h-index of 2 (Web of Science & Scopus), she is steadily expanding her research visibility. Beyond research, she has enriched academic resources by authoring 8 educational handbooks, 3 methodological guides, and 1 monograph, and holds a patent for advanced scandium ion extraction technology, underscoring her innovative capabilities in separation chemistry. As a respected member of national scientific councils and chair of key academic committees, she actively contributes to advancing analytical chemistry education, mentoring young scholars, and promoting scientific excellence in Uzbekistan. Her broad engagement in scientific, social, and educational initiatives reflects her commitment to impactful research and community advancement.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Agafonova, L. E., Bulko, T. V., Pronina, V. V., Qutlimurotova, N. H., & Shumyantseva, V. V. (2025). Carbon quantum dots in the electroanalysis of DNA and albumin. Bionanoscience, 15(3), 358.

  • Allambergenova, F., Smanova, Z., Qutlimurotova, N., Qutlimurotova, R., & Yakhshinorov, K. (2025). Synthesis of carbon dots based on chitosan and melamine and their application in detecting vanadate (V) anions. Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry, 53(7), Article 100538.

  • Kuronboyev, D., Faizullayeva, M., Kutlimurotova, N., Zulyarova, N., & Abdirahmonova, A. (2025). Development of a method for cyclic voltammetric determination of Copper(II) ions in the composition of technological objects. Chemical Review and Letters, 8(3), 469–481.

  • Karabayeva, G., Qutlimurotova, N., Yakhshieva, Z., Atakulova, N., & Tursunqulov, J. (2025). Development of a cyclic voltammetric method for the determination of Cobalt(II) ions using o-nitrosophenol. International Journal of Analytical Chemistry, 2025(1), Article 6675527.

  • Tursunqulov, J., Qutlimurotova, N., Fayzullayeva, M., Aliev, N., & Hosseini-Bandegharaei, A. (2025). Electrochemical determination of zirconium ions using 1-(2-hydroxy-1-naphthoyazo)-2-naphthol-4-sulphonic acid as a novel reagent. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 105(12), 2916–2939.

 

Yuhua Yang | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuhua Yang | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University | China

Dr. Yuhua Yang is an accomplished materials scientist specializing in nanomaterials synthesis and advanced electrochemical energy-storage systems, with a strong focus on lithium-ion and lithium-sulfur battery technologies. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Nanchang University, a master’s degree from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, and a Ph.D. from Hunan University. He has significant industrial and academic experience, having served in roles at Haier Group, China Netcom Corporation, and Yichun University before joining the School of Materials and Energy at Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University. His research portfolio centers on bio-derived nanostructures and engineered electrode materials designed to overcome critical battery challenges, including volume expansion, low coulombic efficiency, and poor cycle stability. Representative studies include innovative Sn-based and Ni-based electrodes derived from bacterial carbon and natural biotemplates, such as Bacillus subtilis-based carbon @Sn anodes and yolk-shell Ni₃P-carbon@graphene frameworks, demonstrating enhanced electrochemical stability and durability. His recent publications also explore advanced core-shell architectures and flexible bacterial-carbon/graphene systems , reflecting his continuing drive toward high-capacity, stable, and flexible battery platforms. Notably, his contribution to bacteria-derived carbon materials for Li-S batteries published in Nano Letters  has been cited 110 times, underscoring international recognition of his work. Across 15 indexed publications, Dr. Yang has accumulated 515 citations from 487 documents and holds an h-index of 7 in Scopus, indicating strong and growing impact in the fields of materials chemistry and energy storage. His innovative approach of integrating biological templates with advanced nanostructuring strategies provides sustainable pathways for next-generation battery materials, positioning him as a rising leader in energy and nanomaterials research.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Li, F., Han, P.-T., … Yang, Y.-H. (2025). The core-shell structure of bacteria-based C@Sn/Carbon nanotubes exhibits super-stable cycling performance for lithium-ion battery anodes. Journal of Power Sources, 645.

Li, F., Han, P.-T., … Yang, Y.-H. (2025). Flexible Co₃(PO₄)₂@ bacterial carbon/reduced graphene oxides for Li-ion batteries anode. Materials Letters, 389.

Zhang, Z.-W., Li, F., … Yang, Y.-H. (2024). Ultra-high first coulombic efficiency and stable cycle performance of bacterial-based C/Sn/SnS nanomaterial for lithium-ion battery anodes. Chemical Physics Letters, 840.

Yang, Y.-H., Xi, Z.-C., … Zhou, J. (2023). Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis-based carbon @ Sn anode for high-performance Li-ion batteries. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 34(8).

Yang, Y.-H., Zhang, Z.-W., … Zhou, J. (2022). The photoluminescence materials of green light Gd₂O₃:Eu and its influencing factors. Journal of the Physical Society of Japan, 91(11).

T. T. Khaleelul Rahman | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. T. T. Khaleelul Rahman | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Calicut | India

T. T. Khaleelul Rahman is an emerging researcher in the fields of Material Science, Computational Physics, Nanoscience, and Energy Storage Technology, currently pursuing an Integrated M.Sc. in Physics at the University of Calicut, Kerala. His research bridges physics, nanotechnology, and sustainable materials, with a focus on developing advanced polymer nanocomposites for multifunctional applications including optoelectronics, antibacterial systems, and energy-related device engineering. Rahman has contributed to two peer-reviewed international publications, including articles in International Journal of Biological Macromolecules and Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials, where he co-developed bio-derived polymer composites reinforced with nanocurcumin and LiAgO-based nanostructures to enhance optical, mechanical, electrical, and antimicrobial properties. His research demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable nanomaterials and green synthesis for next-generation technologies. His current Scopus metrics reflect 11 citations, 1 h-index, and contributions across 2 indexed documents, emphasizing his early-stage yet impactful scientific engagement. During his academic tenure, Rahman completed a competitive research internship at the Centre for Polymeric Science and Technology, University of Calicut, under the mentorship of Prof. M. T. Ramesan. He has also supported multiple nanocomposite-based research projects involving polymer blends, metal-oxide nanoparticles, and biogenic antimicrobial nanomaterials. His technical competencies span UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, impedance spectroscopy, MATLAB, Origin, Mathematica, Python, and scientific visualization, strengthening his ability to perform multidisciplinary experimental and computational studies. Beyond research, Rahman is an experienced physics educator, active volunteer, and recipient of notable achievements including the Prof. Joseph Mundassery Scholarship and First Rank in CUCET. With strong academic excellence, proven research capability, and a vision toward sustainable advanced materials, Rahman exemplifies the qualities of a promising young scientist poised to contribute significantly to the scientific community.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Shabah, N. N., Rahman, T. T. K., Gopika, R., & Ramesan, M. T. (2025, July 7). Multifunctional polyvinyl alcohol/maranta arundinacea starch/LiAgO nanocomposites: A sustainable approach for antibacterial and optoelectronic applications. Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials.

Ramesan, M. T., Gopika, R., Rahman, T. T. K., Jamsheena, K. T., & Bahuleyan, B. K. (2025, April). Impact of nanocurcumin on mechanical, optical and electrical properties of chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol blend nanocomposites for sustainable applications. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 309, 142976.

Vijaya Sarangthem | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vijaya Sarangthem | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Research Professor | Kyungpook National University | South Korea

Dr. Sarangthem Vijaya Devi is an innovative biomedical scientist with over twelve years of expertise in biopolymer-based drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and nanotechnology, focusing on the design and development of elastin-like polypeptide (ELP)–based biomaterials for targeted therapeutics. Her doctoral research at Kyungpook National University, South Korea, involved constructing IL-4 receptor–targeting ELP systems for precise drug delivery, laying the foundation for her pioneering work in tumor-targeted cancer therapy and gene delivery. As a postdoctoral fellow, she led the development of multivalent ELP nanoparticles and depot systems, optimizing pharmacokinetics and tissue biodistribution, and establishing platforms for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. At AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. Vijaya Devi advanced regenerative medicine applications by developing self-assembling ELP hydrogels and 3D scaffolds for mesenchymal stem cell culture, differentiation, and tissue regeneration. She further integrated 3D bioprinting technologies to create artificial tissue models for high-throughput drug screening and preclinical evaluation. Her ongoing work as a visiting research professor at Kyungpook National University focuses on ELP-driven 3D culture platforms, enabling scalable and reproducible organoid and spheroid models for precision medicine. Dr. Vijaya Devi’s research portfolio includes over 16 high-impact publications, several as corresponding or first author, highlighting her contributions to nanoparticle engineering, biomaterial optimization, and translational therapeutics. She has contributed to patents on ELP-based hydrogels for tissue regeneration and nanocarriers for oncology drug delivery, demonstrating the translational potential of her work. Recognized with multiple awards, including the Best Article Award and DST Fellowship, her research bridges fundamental science with industry applications, emphasizing scalability, regulatory compliance, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her expertise encompasses gene delivery systems, molecular imaging, biomaterials engineering, and organoid culture, making her a leading researcher in precision therapeutics. Dr. Vijaya Devi continues to drive innovations in ELP biomaterials for cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and high-throughput drug discovery, positioning her as a global leader in biomedical research and translational medicine.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Lee, Y.-J., Hong, J., Seo, B.-Y., Lee, B.-H., Sarangthem, V.*, & Park, R.-W. (2025). Strategic optimization of nanoparticle characteristics to enhance tumor targeting and doxorubicin delivery. International Journal of Nanomedicine, 20, 6357–6378.

  • Hong, J., Sim, D., Lee, B.-H., Sarangthem, V.*, & Park, R.-W. (2024). Multifunctional elastin-like polypeptide nanocarriers for efficient miRNA delivery in cancer therapy. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 22(1), 293.

  • Sarangthem, V., Sharma, H., Mendiratta, M., Sahoo, R. K., Park, R.-W., Kumar, L., Singh, T. D., & Mohanty, S. (2022). Application of bio-active elastin-like polypeptide on regulation of human mesenchymal stem cell behavior. Biomedicines, 10(5), 1151.

  • Sarangthem, V.*, Sharma, H., Goel, R., Ghose, S., Park, R.-W., Mohanty, S., Chaudhuri, T. K., Dinda, A. K., & Singh, T. D. (2022). Application of elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) containing extracellular matrix (ECM) binding ligands in regenerative medicine. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.

  • Sarangthem, V., Yi, A., Kim, Y., Rehemtulla, A., Lee, B.-H., Jeon, Y. H., Singh, T. D., & Park, R.-W. (2021). Therapeutic effect of IL4 receptor targeting pro-apoptotic peptide (AP1-ELP-KLAK) in glioblastoma tumor model. International Journal of Nanomedicine, 16, 5039–5052.

 

Xiaofei Cheng | Molecular Biology | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Dr. Xiaofei Cheng | Molecular Biology | Best Research Article Award

Vice Dean | Northeast Agricultural University | China

Professor Xiaofei Cheng is a distinguished molecular plant pathologist and biochemist at the College of Agriculture, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China. His research focuses primarily on the molecular mechanisms underlying plant-virus interactions, with a particular emphasis on host immune modulation, viral pathogenicity, and RNA virus replication and movement. Through extensive collaborative research with national and international institutes, including Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the National Centre for Biotechnology (CSIC, Spain), Professor Cheng has made pioneering contributions to understanding how plant viruses exploit host cellular machinery to establish successful infections. A central theme of Cheng’s research involves elucidating how RNA viruses manipulate plant immunity. His team discovered that plant viruses can hijack host phosphatases to attenuate MAPK-mediated immunity, enabling robust infection. Moreover, his studies revealed the existence of pathogen protease-activated molecular decoys, offering potential for engineering customized resistance in plants. Cheng also uncovered viral strategies to target NPR1, a master regulator of salicylic acid (SA)-mediated defense, thereby suppressing antiviral immunity. His research extends to virus-encoded small proteins, viral replication vesicle formation, and intercellular virus movement. Earlier, Cheng’s work demonstrated that sumoylation of viral RNA polymerase promotes infection by subverting NPR1-mediated immunity, and that viral suppressor proteins such as VPg can degrade key host silencing factors via autophagy pathways. With over 96 publications, 1,635 citations, and an h-index of 23 (Scopus), Professor Cheng has established himself as a leading figure in molecular plant virology and biotechnology. His findings not only deepen our understanding of host-pathogen molecular interplay but also pave the way for developing virus-resistant crop varieties, contributing significantly to global agricultural sustainability.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Luan, Y., Jiang, X., Wang, Y., Chai, M., Li, F., Wang, A., Wu, X., & Cheng, X. (2025). A plant RNA virus hijacks a membrane-anchored dual-specificity phosphatase to attenuate MAPK-mediated immunity for robust infection. The Plant Cell.

  • Fan, X., Zhao, Y., Ji, W., Rodamilans, B., Simón-Mateo, C., García, J. A., Wu, X., & Cheng, X.* (2025). A pathogen protease-activated molecular decoy for customized resistance in plant. Plant Biotechnology Journal, 23, 2403–2405.

  • Jiang, X., Yang, Y., Li, Y., Wang, Y., Rodamilans, B., Ji, W., Wu, X., García, J. A., Wu, X., & Cheng, X. (2025). Plant viruses convergently target NPR1 with various strategies to suppress salicylic acid-mediated antiviral immunity. Journal of Integrative Plant Biology, 67(5), 1395–1412.

  • Chai, M., Li, L., Li, Y., Yang, Y., Wang, Y., Jiang, X., Luan, Y., Li, F., Cui, H., Wang, A., Xiang, W., Wu, X., & Cheng, X.* (2024). The 6-kilodalton peptide 1 in plant viruses of the family Potyviridae is a viroporin. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 121(21), e2401748121.

  • Liu, J., Wu, X., Fang, Y., Liu, Y., Bello, E. O., Li, Y., Xiong, R., Li, Y., Fu, Z. Q., Wang, A., & Cheng, X.* (2023). A plant RNA virus inhibits NPR1 sumoylation and subverts NPR1-mediated plant immunity. Nature Communications, 14, 3580.

P.Chandar Rao | Chemical Physics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. P. Chandar Rao | Chemical Physics | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Kakatiya University | India

Dr. Panthagani Chandar Rao, a distinguished researcher at Kakatiya University, has made remarkable contributions to the field of luminescent materials, nanophosphors, and nanotechnology. With a Ph.D. in Physics, his research focuses primarily on the design, synthesis, and characterization of lanthanide-doped phosphors and advanced optical materials for modern photonic and display applications. Dr. Rao has developed eco-friendly and cost-effective strategies for fabricating Eu²⁺-doped BaMgAl₁₀O₁₇ nanophosphors that exhibit narrow-band blue emission with high luminescence efficiency, contributing to sustainable and high-performance optoelectronic devices. His studies reveal how modifications in synthesis parameters, including low-temperature processes and the use of MCCA additives, influence the structural and photoluminescent properties of nanophosphors, providing insights critical for active display technologies. He has also investigated unusual red-shifts and enhanced photoluminescence under ultraviolet A excitation, highlighting his focus on material optimization for practical applications. Beyond phosphors, Dr. Rao explores nanobiomaterials derived from natural leaves, bridging materials science and green nanotechnology, as well as the broader applications of nanotechnology in luminescent devices. His work extends to thin-film materials, including V₂O₅, where he studies structural, linear, nonlinear, and optical properties using low-cost sol-gel techniques. As an active member of the Luminescence Society of India, the Indian Physics Teachers Association, and the Indian Science Congress, Dr. Rao combines research excellence with academic mentorship, fostering the next generation of scientists. To date, he has authored four high-quality publications, garnering 30 citations, and maintains an h-index of 2 in Scopus, reflecting the growing impact of his research contributions in luminescent nanomaterials and sustainable nanotechnology.

Profiles : Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Chandar Rao, P., Durga Prasad, K. A. K., Sreelatha, C. J., & Haranath, D. (2025). Eco-friendly and cost-effective synthesis approach with no waste generation in developing narrow-band and efficient blue-emitting Eu²⁺-doped BaMgAl₁₀O₁₇ nanophosphor. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics.

  • Chandar Rao, P., Jaiswal, V. V., Mishra, S., et al. (2021). Influence of MCCA on structure and photoluminescence of Eu²⁺ doped BaMgAl₁₀O₁₇: Eu²⁺ nanophosphor for use in active displays. Chemical Physics Letters, 769, 138410.

  • Jaiswal, V. V., Chandar Rao, P., et al. (2021). Luminescence enhancement of high temperature hexagonal phase of Ba₀.₉₉MgAl₁₀O₁₇:Eu₀.₀₁ nanophosphor synthesized at moderately low temperature. Materials Science & Engineering B, 263, 114791.

  • Chandar Rao, P., Shivani, Jaiswal, V. V., et al. (2020). Unusual red-shift and enhanced photoluminescence of BaMgAl₁₀O₁₇:Eu²⁺ phosphor under ultraviolet A excitation for modern lighting systems. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 20, 3854–3858.

  • Ravinder, G., Sreelatha, C. J., Ganesh, V., Shakir, M., Anis, M., & Chandar Rao, P. (2019). Thickness dependent structural, spectral, linear, nonlinear, and z-scan optical studies of V₂O₅ thin films prepared by a low-cost sol-gel spin coating technique. Materials Research Express, 6, 096403.

Abolfazl Akbarzadeh | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Abolfazl Akbarzadeh | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Dr. Abolfazl Akbarzadeh, a distinguished Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry (Nanobiomedicine) at the Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran, is internationally recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher by Thomson Reuters ISI Web of Science, highlighting his placement among the top 1% of scholars worldwide in citations. With an H-index of 66 (Scopus) and over 21,700 citations from 18,576 documents, Dr. Akbarzadeh has made profound contributions to nanomedicine, drug delivery, and tissue engineering, with more than 280 ISI-indexed publications. His pioneering work focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of functionalized nanoparticles and nanostructures for biomedical applications, particularly in controlled delivery of anticancer agents, including doxorubicin-loaded Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles and polymer-coated smart nanocarriers. These innovative systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and enable targeted delivery to cancerous tissues. In addition to drug delivery, Dr. Akbarzadeh has significantly advanced nanobiomaterials for regenerative medicine, including engineering hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties for soft tissue regeneration and the development of polymeric micro- and nanoparticles containing proteins, peptides, and anticancer drugs. He has applied his expertise in 3D bioprinting, stem cell therapy, and nanofiber design for skin and bone tissue regeneration, exploring natural and biocompatible materials such as propolis and zeolite/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles to promote rapid tissue repair. His work integrates microfluidics for precision synthesis of nanobiomaterials, providing platforms for efficient nanobio-targeting and biomedical engineering applications. Dr. Akbarzadeh’s interdisciplinary research encompasses organic, inorganic, analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, and bioengineering, reflecting his robust academic foundation from B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry, M.Sc. in Pure Chemistry, to a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry. His international experience as a visiting professor at Northeastern University (Boston, USA) and UCLA (California, USA) underscores his global scientific influence. Beyond research, he has mentored numerous students in nanobiomedicine and nanotechnology. His innovations have resulted in multiple patents for nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems earning him numerous national awards and recognition for excellence in scientific research and innovation, affirming his status as a leading figure in nanobiomedicine and translational biomedical science.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Jafari-Najaf-Abadi, A., Pazoki-Toroudi, H., Hadjianfar, M., Mirjafary, Z., … (2025). Core–shell nanofibers for localized melanoma therapy delivering Pioglitazone nanoemulsions and gemcitabine dual loaded system. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 28401.

  • Haghighi, M. A., Jahandideh, A., Chamheidari, G. A., Hesaraki, S., Akbarzadeh, A. (2025). Therapeutic potential of nanofibrous scaffolds in calvarial bone regeneration. BioNanoScience, 15(3), 386.

  • Fesendouz, S. A., Hamishehkar, H., Alizadeh, E., Rahbarghazi, R., … (2025). Bactericidal activity and biofilm eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by liposome-encapsulated piperacillin/tazobactam. BioNanoScience, 15(1), 87.

  • Hajati Ziabari, A., Jahandideh, A., Akbarzadeh, A., Mortazavi, P. (2025). Evaluation of the effects of curcumin/polycaprolactone nano composite on the healing of experimental osteomyelitis in rabbit tibia. Iranian Journal of Veterinary Surgery, 20(1), 38–46.

  • Hajishoreh, N. K., Mellatyar, H., Kaamyabi, S., Abasalizadeh, F., Akbarzadeh, A. (2024). Preparation and evaluation of polyurethane-based nanofibers for controlled release of simvastatin for the treatment of cardiac disorders. BioNanoScience, 14(2), 1687–1695.

Amna Al Rasbi | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Amna Al Rasbi | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Individual Researcher and Inventor | Oman

Amna Wahab Yahya Al Rasbi is a dynamic and innovative chemical engineer with a strong foundation in research and development, complemented by diverse industrial experiences across Oman. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, and has applied her academic knowledge in various practical settings, including process safety, production chemistry, and environmental analysis. Her professional experience spans roles such as Project Research Officer at OQ, Process Safety Intern at OQEP, and Laboratory Analyst Intern at Sultan Qaboos University, where she contributed to projects aimed at improving chemical process efficiency and environmental management. Notably, her research focuses on the synthesis and application of silica and calcium carbonate nanoparticles for wastewater treatment, demonstrating significant potential in reducing organic contaminants from refinery effluents. She has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences, such as Oman Water Week 2025 and the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC2024), reflecting her commitment to knowledge dissemination and professional development. Amna’s expertise combines technical proficiency in tools like Aspen HYSYS, AutoCAD, and MATLAB with strong analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling her to develop innovative, practical solutions for complex chemical engineering challenges. Beyond technical competence, she demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and strategic planning abilities, fostering collaborative approaches in research and industrial projects. Her dedication to sustainable development, environmental safety, and process optimization underscores her potential as a leading contributor to chemical engineering innovation. Through her interdisciplinary approach and continuous learning mindset, Amna exemplifies the qualities of an emerging researcher poised to make impactful contributions to chemical process engineering, nanomaterials applications, and environmental sustainability.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Al Rasbi, A. W. Y. A., Geetha Devi, M., & Chandrasekhar, G. (2022). Synthesis and application of silica and calcium carbonate nanoparticles in the reduction of organics from refinery wastewater. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 99(7), 100519.