Ting Han | Organic Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ting Han | Organic Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Texas Woman’s University | United States

Dr. Ting Han is a dynamic early-career scientist whose research spans organic synthesis, porphyrin chemistry, photocatalysis, functional materials, and molecular sensing technologies. He completed his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of North Texas, where he specialized in macrocyclic compounds, cross-coupling reactions, and the synthesis of π-extended porphyrins and semiconductor-like 2D organic materials. With six years of combined teaching and research experience, Dr. Han has developed strong expertise in experimental design, analytical instrumentation, method development, and advanced spectroscopic techniques, including fluorescence, phosphorescence, transient absorption, and spectroelectrochemistry. His research accomplishments include designing and synthesizing over 20 novel organic molecules, developing new porphyrin-based photocatalysts for environmental remediation, and advancing biosensor technologies for detecting pollutants, biomolecules, and hazardous chemicals. Dr. Han has published 15 peer-reviewed articles in prominent journals such as Chemical Communications, Materials Chemistry Frontiers, Journal of Materials Chemistry B, Analyst, ACS Sensors, and Microchimica Acta, with a cumulative citation count of 294 and an H-index of 8. His innovative work also led to three granted Chinese patents in sensing and nanomaterial applications. In addition to his research, he is an experienced educator skilled in teaching General and Organic Chemistry, mentoring students, and designing laboratory and online learning experiences. After serving as a Visiting Lecturer at Texas Woman’s University, Dr. Han joined the institution as an Assistant Professor, where he continues building an active research group focused on functional organic materials, sustainable chemistry, and next-generation sensing platforms. His multidisciplinary expertise and impactful contributions reflect significant promise as a rising scientist in the field of organic and materials chemistry.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Han, T., Starrett, N., Martin, K., Bueno Arroyo, J., Wang, S., & Rawashdeh-Omary, M. (in press). Green synthetic strategies for porphyrins: Toward sustainable functional macrocycles. ChemistrySelect.

  • Han, T., Wang, S., Salazar, G. A., & Rawashdeh-Omary, M. (2025). Porous porphyrin-based photocatalysts: Recent progress and applications in environmental remediation. Materials Chemistry Frontiers.

  • Han, T., Sharma, P., Khetrapal, N., & Wang, H. (2024). Conjugated porphyrin trimers linked through benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1-a]isoindole bridges. Chemical Communications, 60(77), 10696–10699.

  • Han, T., Jang, Y., Arvidson, J., D’Souza, F., & Wang, H. (2022). Optical and photophysical properties of platinum benzoporphyrins with C2v and D2h symmetry. Journal of Porphyrins and Phthalocyanines, 26(6–7), 458–468.

  • Han, T., & Wang, G. (2019). Peroxidase-like activity of acetylcholine-based colorimetric detection of acetylcholinesterase activity and inhibitor organophosphorus. Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 7(16), 2613–2618.

 

Abdel-Nasser Alaghaz | Inorganic Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Abdel-Nasser Alaghaz | Inorganic Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Jazan University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Abdel-Nasser M. A. Alaghaz is a distinguished Egyptian chemist and Professor of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry at Al-Azhar University, with over two decades of dedicated academic and research experience. His research primarily focuses on coordination chemistry and phosphorus-containing ligands, with a particular emphasis on cyclodiphosph(V)azane derivatives and related compounds. Dr. Alaghaz has made significant contributions to the synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of transition metal complexes, including Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Pd(II). His work integrates detailed physicochemical analyses, such as thermal stability, electrical conductivity, and spectral characterization (IR, UV-Vis, NMR), to explore structure–property relationships. Many of his studies have investigated the correlation between molecular structure and biological activity, highlighting potential pharmaceutical applications and advancing the development of functional materials. Over the years, he has authored numerous high-impact publications in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing novel synthetic strategies and elucidating ligand–metal interactions. Beyond research, Dr. Alaghaz is a respected educator and mentor, guiding graduate and doctoral students, shaping curricula, and fostering scientific inquiry. His work bridges fundamental inorganic chemistry and applied bioinorganic research, influencing both academic and industrial practices. By combining theoretical insights with practical innovation, Dr. Alaghaz has significantly enriched the fields of inorganic synthesis, materials chemistry, and bioinorganic applications. His groundbreaking contributions and unwavering dedication make him a prominent figure in chemistry, inspiring future generations of scientists in Egypt and internationally.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Siddiq, H. A., Alkhathami, N. D., Ageeli, A. A., Mousa, I., Alenazy, D. M., Alatawi, N. M., & Alaghaz, A.-N. M. A. (2025). Synthesis and quantum chemical calculations of nano‐sized metal (III/II) complexes of furan‐based Schiff base for promising therapeutic studies: Interaction with biomolecules, antioxidant activity, in vitro cytotoxicity, apoptotic activity, and cell cycle analysis. Applied Organometallic Chemistry.

2. Alenazy, D. M., Siddiq, H. A., Alatawi, N. M., Ageeli, A. A., Alkhathami, N. D., Mousa, I., & Alaghaz, A.-N. M. A. (2025). Synthesis, DFT, spectral characterization, cell cycle, apoptosis, cytotoxicity, DNA binding/cleavage, molecular docking, and antimicrobial insights of nano‐sized Pd (II) and Cu (II) complexes with benzothiazole‐appended ligand. Applied Organometallic Chemistry.

3. Alaghaz, A.-N. M. A., Hakami, O., Alamri, A. A., Amri, N., Souadi, G., & Aldulmani, S. A. (2025). Cell cycle arrest, apoptosis assay, cytotoxicity, molecular docking, DNA binding/cleavage, and biological evaluation of Pt(II), Ni(II), Pd(II), and Cu(II) nano‐sized complexes of 2‐(6-fluorobenzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)phenol: Design, synthesis, and spectral approach. Applied Organometallic Chemistry.

4. Mousa, I., Madkhali, M. M. M., Siddiq, H. A., Alaghaz, A.-N. M. A., Rezk, G. N., & El-Bindary, A. A. (2025). Synthesis, characterization, DFT calculations, and pharmacological activity of azo dye ligand and its Cu(II) complex comprising nitrogen and oxygen donor atoms. Applied Organometallic Chemistry.

5. Alkhathami, N. D., Alenazy, D. M., Mousa, I., Alatawi, N. M., Siddiq, H. A., Ageeli, A. A., & Alaghaz, A.-N. M. A. (2025). Design, synthesis, DFT, and biological evaluation of nano‐sized Pt(II) and Cu(II) complexes of 2‐(benzo[d]oxazol‐2‐yl)phenylphosphoramidic dichloride: Spectral analysis, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis assay, cytotoxicity, and DNA binding/cleavage. Applied Organometallic Chemistry.

Hardik Varu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hardik Varu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Subhash University | India

Dr. Hardik L. Varu is a dedicated researcher in analytical and pharmaceutical chemistry, recognized for his impactful contributions to method development, validation, and the analytical study of bioactive compounds. His research spans modern spectroscopic, chromatographic, and green analytical approaches, with a strong focus on pharmaceuticals, impurity profiling, and chemosensor development. Dr. Varu has published 13 high-quality research papers with one more accepted in reputable international journals, frequently serving as first or corresponding author. His work includes innovative UV-Vis, kinetic, derivative, and HPTLC-based methods, alongside studies on drug degradation behavior, demonstrating both scientific rigor and real-world applicability. His interdisciplinary collaborations have also led to contributions in synthetic chemistry, biological evaluation, and in-silico modeling of therapeutically relevant compounds. A notable strength of Dr. Varu’s research profile is his robust innovation record, evidenced by two awarded patents, two published patents, a WIPO-filed PCT application, and another patent-ready invention. These patents span pharmaceutical impurity characterization, chemosensor technologies, and laboratory devices, reflecting his ability to translate research into practical solutions. He maintains active international collaborations with esteemed researchers from Egypt, Syria, and Saudi Arabia, further expanding the global impact of his work. In addition to his research, Dr. Varu contributes to the scientific community as a reviewer for multiple Springer Nature and Web of Science–indexed journals. His expertise in analytical instrumentation, software tools, and regulatory-oriented teaching areas further strengthens his academic profile. With excellence in research productivity, innovation, and global collaboration, Dr. Varu stands out as a promising and influential young researcher, making him a strong contender for prestigious research awards.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Varu, H. L., Kapuriya, N. P., Bapodra, A. H., & Ambasana, M. A. (2025).
Separation, identification and theoretical ADME studies of Emtricitabine degradation adducts. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society.

2. Varu, H. L., Parmar, H. N., Vadhel, H. D., & Ambasana, M. A. (2025, July 25).
A comprehensive review of analytical methodologies for Memantine hydrochloride. Journal of Analytical Chemistry.

3. Varu, H. L., Bapodra, A. H., & Ambasana, M. A. (2024).
First order derivative spectroscopic evaluation of carfilzomib in parenteral preparation. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

4. Vachhani, D., Parekh, J. H., Patra, S., Varu, H. L., Soni, M., & Jebaliya, H. J. (2024).
Green analytical method development and validation studies of Viloxazine hydrochloride in pure and commercial products using UV–Vis spectroscopy. Journal of Applied Spectroscopy.

5. Varu, H. L., Kapuriya, N. P., Bhalodia, J. J., Bapodra, A. H., & Ambasana, M. A. (2024).
Kinetic spectrophotometric determination of Memantine hydrochloride based on the formation of its dinitrochlorobenzene adduct. Journal of Analytical Chemistry.

Rosa M. Alonso | Analytical Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Rosa M. Alonso | Analytical Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Professor | University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) | Spain

Professor Rosa M. Alonso is an accomplished analytical chemist at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), where she has served as a faculty member and has led the FARMARTEM research group. Under her leadership, FARMARTEM has been recognized as a consolidated research group by both UPV/EHU and the Basque Government, and forms part of the multidisciplinary Teaching and Research Unit (UFI 11/23) “New Technologies in Chemistry and Pharmacology Applied to Health.” Her research is dedicated to the development of advanced analytical methodologies across metabolomics, pharmaceutical analysis, environmental chemistry, and the conservation and dating of cultural heritage materials. Her group specializes in separation science, with particular emphasis on liquid and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, complemented by innovative sample preparation procedures tailored for complex matrices such as biological fluids, environmental samples, and historical documents. Professor Alonso has authored 190 scientific articles, more than half in top-quartile journals within analytical chemistry, and has delivered 190 conference presentations, including invited lectures. She has participated in 59 competitive research projects, leading 40 of them, alongside numerous industry collaborations and equipment acquisition initiatives. Professor Alonso also contributes extensively to the scientific community as a reviewer, member of the advisory boards of Current Chromatography and Separations, and evaluator for ANEP. Her excellence in teaching is evidenced by outstanding DOCENTIAZ evaluations and long-standing contributions to undergraduate, postgraduate, and international mobility programs.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Elejalde, E., Alonso, R. M., Villarán, M. C., Díez-Gutiérrez, L., Chávarri, M., & López-de-Armentia, I. (2025). Exploring the bioavailability of red grape skin extract polyphenols: A Caco-2 cell model study. Foods, 14(13), 2253.

de la Hera, O., & Alonso, R. M. (2025). Contribution of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to the volatile organic compound profile of Vespa velutina nigrithorax larvae. Chemosensors, 13(5), 175.

de la Hera, O., Quintanilla-Casas, B., Bro, R., Fañanas, R., & Alonso, R. M. (2024). Volatile organic compound profile for the search of rejection markers in protein baits used as Vespa velutina control method. Microchemical Journal, 207, 111685.

de la Hera, O., Izaguirre, A., Rivas, A., & Alonso, R. M. (2024). QuEChERS-based method for the determination of fipronil in protein baits and Vespa velutina larvae by HPLC-DAD and GC-MS. Separations, 11(11), 317.

Hua Zhang | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hua Zhang | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Henan Normal University | China

Professor Zhang Hua is a distinguished scholar in the fields of functional dye molecular engineering, biosensing, and advanced fluorescence technologies. With a Ph.D. from Dalian University of Technology, she has established a strong scientific presence through innovative research that bridges chemistry, materials science, and biomedicine. As a recipient of the National Excellent Young Scientist Fund and a recognized Henan Province Expert, Professor Zhang leads a university-level scientific innovation team focused on developing high-performance fluorescent dyes and imaging tools for disease diagnosis and molecular detection. Her research has significantly advanced the design and functional tuning of organic dyes for two-photon fluorescence applications, enabling highly sensitive and specific detection of key biomolecules such as nucleic acids, enzymes, and proteins. These technologies have been successfully applied to single-cell analysis, high-resolution bioimaging, and early-stage diagnostics. Professor Zhang has also driven the development of dye-based technologies that support industrial product validation, exemplified by contributions that helped a commercial product meet stringent EU REACH certification standards. Her growing portfolio of nine granted Chinese invention patents and 78 SCI-indexed publications, supported by an H-index of 27 and more than 2,669 citations, reflects her significant scholarly influence. She has completed multiple projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and is actively engaged in ongoing national-level research. Her memberships in key professional committees highlight her leadership in China’s analytical chemistry and biosensing communities. Professor Zhang’s work continues to accelerate innovation at the chemistry–biology interface, driving forward technologies that impact both scientific research and real-world biomedical applications.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Yang, Y. T., Liu, Y., …, & Zhang, H. (2025). H2S-activated Type-I photochemical probe: Fluorescent self-reporting for real-time monitoring of tumor ablation. Analytical Chemistry, 97(42), 23467–23476.

Han, J. N., Yang, M., …, & Zhang, H. (2025). Light-driven ESIPT-based anthraquinone analogues for synergistic fluorescent self-reporting and photodynamic therapy of malignant tumors. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 68(19), 20814–20826.

Liu, J., Liu, Y., Zhi, S., Yang, Y., Kim, H., Wu, D., Wang, G., James, T. D., Yoon, J., & Zhang, H. (2025). A nanotherapeutic agent for synergistic tumor therapy: Co-activation of photochemical-biological effects. Angewandte Chemie International Edition.

Niu, H. Y., Wang, S. N., …, & Zhang, H. (2025). Naphthalimide-based Type-I nano-photosensitizers for enhanced antitumor photodynamic therapy: H₂S synergistically regulates PeT and self-assembly. Angewandte Chemie International Edition. (Early Access).

Lv, C., Li, Z., Liu, W., Yang, M., Zhang, H., Fan, J., & Peng, X. (2025). An activatable chemiluminescent self-reporting sulfur dioxide donor for inflammatory response and regulation of gaseous vasodilation. ACS Sensors.

Andrea Carpentieri | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Andrea Carpentieri | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Department of Chemical Sciences Federico II, Naples IT | Italy

Prof. Andrea Carpentieri is an accomplished biochemist whose research career spans advanced biomolecular analysis, structural proteomics, and the application of biochemical methodologies to cultural heritage. Trained at the University of Naples “Federico II,” where he specialized in Biological Chemistry, his early work focused on the structural characterization of proteins, including the analysis of recombinant enzymes and the investigation of post-translational modifications such as glycosylation and phosphorylation. Through extensive experience in mass spectrometry including ESI-MS, MALDI-TOF, FT-ICR, and multidimensional chromatography. Prof. Carpentieri developed integrated strategies that combine classical biochemical techniques with cutting-edge MS/MS procedures for detailed molecular mapping. His doctoral and postdoctoral research expanded into functional proteomics, emphasizing protein–protein interactions, differential protein expression, and the identification of biomolecular changes associated with physiological and pathological processes, including apoptosis. A significant part of his international experience was gained at Boston University School of Medicine, where he investigated uncommon post-translational modifications in human protozoan parasites, particularly focusing on O-phosphoglycosylation in Entamoeba species, with implications for diagnostics and immunology. In recent years, Prof. Carpentieri has emerged as a leading figure in the field of biochemical applications for cultural heritage. His research employs high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze biomolecules polysaccharides, lipids, proteins, and metabolites extracted from ancient artifacts, enabling the identification of original artistic materials, degradation products, and historical production techniques. These analytical insights support archaeometric investigations and inform conservation and restoration practices. Furthermore, he has contributed to the development of environmentally sustainable chemical formulations, including biocompatible adhesives, biocides, and solvents tailored for the preservation of artworks and historical objects. His interdisciplinary work bridges chemistry, archaeology, materials science, and conservation, enhanced by collaborations with Princeton University, the Courtauld Institute of Art, and several Italian cultural institutions. Through his scientific, educational, and outreach activities, Prof. Carpentieri has significantly advanced both biochemical knowledge and the protection of cultural heritage at national and international levels.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Melchiorre, M., Melchiorre, C., Moracci, M., Somma, P. I., Markiewicz, M., Stolte, S., Cerruti, P., Ruffo, F., & Carpentieri, A. (2025). Lactic acid-based compounds as green alternative solvents for cultural heritage: Application on canvas painting restoration. Journal of Cultural Heritage. Advance online publication.

Lemos, R., Pérez-Badell, Y., De Nisco, M., Cimmino, G., Gonzalez, C., Carpentieri, A., Pacifico, S., Suárez, M., & Pedatella, S. (2025). A fullerene-based selenosugar ball. European Journal of Organic Chemistry. Advance online publication.

Lemos, R., Pérez-Badell, Y., De Nisco, M., Carpentieri, A., Suárez, M., & Pedatella, S. (2024). Organic chimeras based on selenosugars, steroids, and fullerenes as potential inhibitors of the β-amyloid peptide aggregation. ChemPlusChem, 90(3), e202400404.

Amato, L., De Rosa, C., Omodei, D., Tufano, C. C., Buono, R., Tuccillo, C., Roviello, G. N., Spinelli, M., Fontanarosa, C., Papaccio, F., Camerlingo, R., Morgillo, F., Carpentieri, A., Amoresano, A., Tirino, V., Iommelli, F., Corte, C. M. D., Del Vecchio, S., & De Rosa, V. (2025). Synergistic effects of oncogene inhibition and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase blockade in resistant NSCLC cells. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Molecular Basis of Disease, 1871, 168014.

Cipolletta, B., Morelli, M., Perlingieri, C., Somma, P. I., Amoresano, A., Marino, G., & Carpentieri, A. (2024). Molecular characterization of adhesives (glue lining pastes) used in restoration. Analytical Chemistry, 96(42), 16551–16560.

 

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.

  • Karuga, J., Fuku, X., Nkambule, T., Mamba, B., & Kebede, M. A. (2024). Advances in mitigating oxygen evolution, phase transformation, and voltage fading in Li/Mn-rich cathode materials via cationic doping and surface modification. Journal of Energy Storage, 98, 113144.

  • Norvivor, F. A., Azizi, S., Fuku, X., Atibu, E. K., Idris, A. O., Sibali, L., & Maaza, M. (2024). Ecological and human health risk of heavy metals in Nubui River: A case of rural remote communities. Frontiers in Water, 6, 1397853.

 

Mihaela Georieva | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mihaela Georieva | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Technical University of Sofia | Bulgaria

Dr. Mihaela Georgieva is an accomplished Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Chemistry at the Technical University of Sofia (TU-Sofia), Bulgaria. With over 18 years of research experience in the fields of electroless and electrochemical metallization, corrosion protection, and nanocomposite materials, she has established herself as a leading scientist in applied electrochemistry. Dr. Georgieva began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, Sofia, specializing in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Protection. She earned her PhD in Physical Chemistry from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences with a dissertation on the electroless deposition of copper composite coatings on polymer substrates. Her scientific output includes 31 peer-reviewed publications, co-authorship of 2 patents, and participation in 13 research projects, three of which she has led as a principal investigator. Her work has received 122 citations across 77 documents, and she holds an h-index of 7 (Scopus), reflecting the impact and visibility of her research in the scientific community. Dr. Georgieva is actively involved in national and European research collaborations and has presented her findings at numerous international conferences. She has also contributed as a reviewer for more than 10 academic journals. Her dedication to both teaching and research continues to inspire innovation in materials science and electrochemistry.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

  • Petrova, S., Lazarova, D., Georgieva, M., Petrova, M., Dobrev, D., & Ditchev, D. (2025). Metallization of 3D-printed PET and PETG samples with different filling densities of the inner layers. Materials, 18(14), 3401.

  • Petrova, M., Lazarova, D., Dobrev, D., Georgieva, M., & Petrova, S. (2025). Development of an environmentally friendly pre-treatment for electroless metallisation of glasses. Transactions of the IMF, 103(1), 1–8.

  • Georgieva, M., Lazarova, D., Petrova, M., & Dobreva, E. (2023). Selection of a suitable environmentally friendly (non-toxic) etching solution in the electroless metallisation of ABS polymers. Transactions of the IMF, 101(6), 321–329.

  • Georgieva, M., Lazarova, D., Petrova, M., Tzaneva, B., & Dobreva, E. (2023). Modification of the surface of ABS polymer by swelling operation and its influence on some properties of electroless deposited metal coatings. Transactions of the IMF, 101(1), 18–26.

  • Georgieva, M. G. (2022). Study of a system for creating a statistical model of the electroless plating of Cu-Ni-P alloys. Transactions of the IMF, 100(6), 345–351.

 

John Reynolds | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. John Reynolds | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory | United States

Dr. John G. Reynolds, PhD is a Senior Science Advisor for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Explosives Programs at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), where he supports the Energetic Materials Center and the Forensics Science Center. With over four decades of experience, Dr. Reynolds is a recognized authority in nuclear weapons safety, energetic materials, and chemical weapons countermeasures. His subject matter expertise spans non-shock initiated reactions, thermal aging of energetic components, improvised explosives, and detection technologies. Dr. Reynolds earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Stanford University, following a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, and an A.A. in Chemical Technology from Merritt College. He conducted postdoctoral research at Harvard and Caltech before entering industry at Chevron Research Company. Since joining LLNL, he has led major national security programs, including NEXESS and the Integrated Data Collection and Analysis Program, coordinating multi-laboratory collaborations across the DOE and DoD. He has authored over 250 publications and patents, with more than 4,257 citations on Google Scholar and 3,233 citations on Scopus. His h-index is 33 on both platforms, reflecting a sustained and impactful research career. He is the recipient of numerous honors, including the ACS Petroleum Chemistry Lifetime Achievement Award, multiple R&D 100 Awards, and the DOE Excellence Award. He also founded the LLNL OPCW verification laboratory, contributing to global chemical weapons monitoring. Dr. Reynolds’ work has significantly influenced homeland security, chemical detection, and explosives safety worldwide.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google scholar 

Featured Publications

  • Gash, A. E., Anderson, N. F., Montgomery, J. L., Hsu, P. C., Coffee, K. R., Guillen, G. J., Hernandez, P. A., Clarke, S. M., Zaka, F., & Reynolds, J. G. (2025). Properties of different LLM-105 preparations. Journal of Energetic Materials, 1–21.

  • Hoffman, D. M., Robertson, E. L., Zaka, F., DeHope, A. J., Harwood, V. L., Panasci-Nott, A. F., McClelland, M. A., & Reynolds, J. G. (2025). Development of parameters for the particle size distribution of TATB. Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics, 50(1), e70007.

  • Moore, J. S., Morrison, K. D., Burnham, A. K., Racoveanu, A., Reynolds, J. G., & Coffee, K. R. (2024). TATB thermal decomposition: An improved kinetic model for explosive safety analysis. Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics, 49(2), e202300237.

  • Morrison, K. D., Moore, J. S., Coffee, K. R., Koroglu, B., Burnham, A. K., & Reynolds, J. G. (2024). TATB thermal decomposition: Expanding the molecular profile with cryo-focused pyrolysis GC-MS. Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics, 49(2), e202300268.

  • Burnham, A. K., Coffee, K. R., Klunder, G. L., Panasci-Nott, A. F., & Reynolds, J. G. (2024). Towards a heat- and mass-balanced kinetic model of TATB decomposition. Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics, 49(2), e202300121.

Mokgadi Mphahlele | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mokgadi Mphahlele | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Tshwane University of Technology | South Africa

Dr. Mokgadi Precious Mphahlele is an emerging South African chemist specializing in natural product chemistry, drug discovery, and analytical techniques. She holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg, where her research focused on isolating and synthesizing bioactive compounds from traditional medicinal plants (Tabernaemontana contorta, Sclerocarya birrea, and Senna italica) for use against resistant bacterial and cancerous cells. Her MSc in Chemistry involved developing a sustained delivery system for Curcuma longa extracts using advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Dr. Mphahlele is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Tshwane University of Technology, conducting chemometric analysis and metabolomics on South African medicinal plants. She previously served as a Senior Laboratory Technician at the University of Johannesburg and a Quality Control Lab Assistant at Idwala Industrial Minerals. She has contributed to over ten peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, focusing on phytochemical profiling, structure elucidation, antibacterial and anticancer assays, and natural compound synthesis. Dr. Mphahlele has completed international programs such as the Lancaster University Career Writing Program, and training in Drug Discovery (UC San Diego) and Scientific Writing (Nature Masterclass). Her research interests lie in natural products chemistry, chromatographic method development, molecular networking, and structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies. She is an active member of the Golden Key Honour Society, a Black Women in Science 2024 Fellow, and a reviewer for Taylor & Francis. Dr. Mphahlele’s work bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific innovation, contributing to sustainable health solutions.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google scholar

Featured Publications

  • “Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Sugar from the Inner Bark of Sclerocarya birrea: Insights into Antibiotic and Anticancer Activity”

  • “Antimicrobial Activity of Triterpenoid and Steroidal Cinnamates from Vitellaria paradoxa”

  • “Crystal structure of Staudtienic acid, a diterpenoid from Staudtia kamerunensis Warb.(Myristicaceae)”

  • “Chemical profiling, bio-guided purification, and cytotoxic effect of two African spices: Hypodaphnis zenkeri Engl. Stapf (Lauraceae) and Staudtia kamerunensis warb (Myristicaceae) on human prostate cancer cell lines”

  • “Antibacterial activity and GC-MS profiling of DCM/MeOH extracts of Tabernaemontana contorta Stapf’s leaves, and stem bark from the central region of Cameroon”