Maria Zednikova | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maria Zednikova | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the CAS | Czech Republic

Profiles

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Mária Zedníková began her academic journey in chemical engineering with a master’s degree followed by a doctoral degree, both from the Institute of Chemical Technology in Prague. Her strong foundational training laid the groundwork for her subsequent focus in multiphase systems, fluid mechanics, and process engineering. These formative years were marked by deep engagement with core engineering principles and practical laboratory experience, which shaped her research orientation toward hydrodynamics and gas-liquid interactions.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zedníková’s professional career is deeply rooted in the Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals (ICPF), where she has steadily progressed from junior researcher to research scientist and eventually to a leadership role as Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Head of the Research Group for Multiphase Reactors. Her trajectory reflects both scientific depth and leadership capacity. She has also taken on academic responsibilities as a teacher at the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, expanding her influence to the educational sphere. Notably, her international experience includes collaborative research stays in the United Kingdom and Italy, reflecting her commitment to cross-border scientific exchange and cooperation.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zedníková’s research is centered on multiphase flow systems with a special emphasis on gas-liquid interactions, bubble dynamics, and mass transfer phenomena. Her work delves into the complex behaviors of bubbles and drops in turbulent environments, investigating how these particles deform, break up, and interact with fluid structures. She has developed theoretical models and experimental setups to study hydrodynamics, drop-particle collisions, and surfactant effects on fluid interfaces. Additionally, her research in stirred tank reactors and gas-lift systems addresses crucial industrial applications in chemical processing, biotechnology, and environmental engineering.

Impact and Influence

Her influence is visible both through her scholarly output and her engagement with the broader scientific community. Dr. Zedníková has authored 30 original research papers, the majority of which appear in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals. She has also contributed a chapter to a scientific monograph and holds a registered utility model. Her active presence at international conferences with over 90 contributions demonstrates her role in advancing and disseminating knowledge in her field. Furthermore, her involvement in national and international research projects as both leader and team member has positioned her as a respected figure in collaborative scientific networks.

Academic Citations and Recognition

With an H-index of 14 and nearly 700 citations most of which are from independent researchers Dr. Zedníková has established a significant academic footprint. Her research is regularly cited by peers, which confirms the value and relevance of her work in the scientific community. The Best Poster Award from the European Federation of Chemical Engineering and her active membership in professional societies and scientific committees further highlight her recognition and contributions on both national and European platforms.

Technical Skills

Dr. Zedníková possesses extensive technical expertise in experimental design, fluid flow diagnostics, multiphase reactor modeling, and mass transfer analysis. Her work includes advanced techniques for measuring bubble deformation, analyzing flow regimes, and modeling surfactant behavior in dynamic fluid systems. Her ability to integrate theoretical modeling with experimental validation distinguishes her technical acumen in the chemical engineering domain.

Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Zedníková has taken a leading role in a wide range of chemical engineering subjects. She has conducted lectures and seminars on fluid mechanics, chemical technologies, process projects, and laboratory courses. Her engagement in mentoring includes the supervision of over 20 master’s, bachelor’s, and internship students. This dedication to teaching complements her research activities and ensures knowledge transfer to the next generation of engineers and scientists.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zedníková’s career reflects a consistent drive for scientific innovation, education, and leadership. Her multidisciplinary collaborations, international exposure, and applied research make her a role model in the engineering sciences. Looking ahead, her ongoing research on bubble dynamics, reactor hydrodynamics, and surfactant behavior is expected to contribute significantly to chemical process optimization and sustainability. Her involvement in international committees and editorial boards also sets the stage for continued influence in shaping research agendas and policy in chemical engineering.

Notable Publications

  • Dynamic regimes in granular mixing: Effect of sliding friction and stirrer rotational frequency
    Authors: Martin Kozakovic, David Kramolis, Maria Zednikova, Stanislav Parez, Jaromir Havlica
    Journal: Powder Technology
    Year: 2025

  • Size distribution of daughter bubbles or drops resulting from binary breakup due to random initial deformation conditions
    Authors: Maria Zednikova, Petr Stanovsky, Sandra Orvalho
    Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
    Year: 2025

  • Gas phase behaviour in environment of fermentation processes
    Authors: Adrián Žák, Lukáš Valenz, Tomáš Moucha, Maria Zednikova
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Research and Design
    Year: 2025

  • Viscosity influence on hydrodynamics behaviour in a stirred tank reactor
    Authors: Adrián Žák, Mária Zedníková, Tomáš Moucha
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Research and Design
    Year: 2025

  • Surfactant effect on bubble deformation and breakup after interaction with vortex structure
    Authors: Maria Zednikova, Tereza Semlerová, Sandra Orvalho, Jaromir Havlica, Jaroslav Tihon
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Science
    Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Mária Zedníková is a highly accomplished chemical engineering researcher with deep expertise in multiphase flow systems and hydrodynamics. Her balanced portfolio of research, teaching, leadership, and international collaboration reflects a dynamic and impactful career. Her academic and professional journey illustrates a strong commitment to advancing both fundamental science and its practical applications. She stands out as a leading figure in her field, with a legacy that is poised to grow in the coming years.

Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Nanjing Agricultural University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Mingguo Zhou’s academic journey began at Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Plant Protection. He quickly advanced to an academic career, starting as an Assistant for teaching and research in Plant Pathology at NAU. Over the following years, he progressed to Lecturer and then Associate Professor in the same department. His outstanding academic trajectory led him to a full Professorship, where he specialized in Plant Pathology and Pesticide Science. He currently holds the position of Outstanding Professor at NAU.

Professional Endeavors 🏆

Prof. Zhou’s dedication to advancing knowledge in Plant Pathology took him beyond the academic confines of NAU. He worked on several significant international collaborations, including postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions such as the University of Bristol (UK), University of Bari (Italy), and Michigan State University (USA), amongst others. His academic appointments and research stints globally reflect his commitment to international scientific cooperation and the advancement of plant protection. Notably, he chaired the Plant Disease Chemical Control Committee of the Chinese Society for Plant Pathology and has led various committees, including the Fungicide Committee of the China Association of Pesticide Development and Application.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌱

Prof. Zhou’s research focuses on the intersection of plant pathology and pesticide science, with an emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices and disease management strategies. His expertise has contributed to significant advancements in pesticide resistance management and the chemical control of plant diseases. His leadership in plant pathology societies and as a member of government advisory groups has directly influenced agricultural policies. Over his career, he has fostered collaborations that resulted in numerous advancements in both theoretical and practical aspects of plant disease management.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Zhou’s influence extends far beyond the academic and scientific community. His participation in high-level advisory roles has shaped national agricultural strategies. He is widely recognized as a leading authority in plant pathology, not only in China but globally. His research has significantly impacted agricultural practices, disease control methods, and pesticide management strategies worldwide, promoting the health and sustainability of global crop systems.

Academic Cites 📚

Throughout his career, Prof. Zhou’s work has received numerous citations, underscoring the importance and relevance of his research. His influence in the field is reflected in his role as an editor for several scientific journals and his advisory positions in scientific committees. His numerous honors, including national awards and recognition for contributions to science and technology, highlight his impactful academic legacy. His continued involvement in both research and education ensures his contributions will shape the field for many years to come.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Prof. Zhou has extensive technical expertise in plant pathology, particularly in the areas of pesticide resistance, chemical control of plant diseases, and fungicide development. His in-depth knowledge of plant protection technologies has been fundamental in advancing both research and practical applications in agricultural pest management. His collaborative efforts with international researchers have further expanded his technical proficiency and contributed to the development of innovative solutions for pest control.

Teaching Experience 👨‍🏫

Prof. Zhou has made significant contributions to the education and mentorship of students at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he has guided numerous graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and PhD candidates in their academic journeys. His role as a National Excellent Key Teacher and his recognition for excellence in teaching highlight his dedication to fostering the next generation of plant pathologists. His ability to impart knowledge and encourage critical thinking has helped shape the careers of many students who have gone on to make their own contributions in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Prof. Zhou’s legacy is not just in the accolades he has received but in the lasting impact of his research and teaching. He has mentored and inspired a new generation of researchers, and his leadership in plant pathology and pesticide science has advanced the discipline. Looking ahead, Prof. Zhou is focused on continuing his research into sustainable pest management solutions and influencing policies that promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices. His ongoing work ensures that future agricultural systems will be more resilient, sustainable, and capable of addressing the challenges posed by global climate change and pesticide resistance.

Honors and Awards 🏅

Prof. Zhou has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to science with numerous prestigious awards, including the Special Subsidy from the State Council of China, the National Excellent Key Teacher award, and several Science and Technology Awards from the State Council and Ministry of Education. His work continues to be celebrated for its depth, innovation, and global significance in plant pathology and pesticide science.

📖Notable Publications

 

Haowen Huang | Chemical and Bioanalysis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Haowen Huang | Chemical and Bioanalysis | Best Researcher Award

Hunan University of Science and Technology, China

👨‍🎓Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Haowen Huang earned his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in 2004, following his M.S. in Analytical Chemistry from Hunan University in 1999. His early academic journey laid a strong foundation in analytical chemistry, with a focus on the development of advanced chemical and biosensing methods.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

He is currently a Professor at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Hunan University of Science and Technology, a position he has held since 2011. Prior to this, he served as an Associate Professor at the same institution from 2006 to 2011. His professional career is marked by a commitment to advancing the field of analytical chemistry, particularly in the development of novel biosensors and nanomaterials.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on the development of biosensors and analytical platforms using noble metal nanomaterials, such as gold nanoparticles, nanoclusters, and carbon dots, for the detection of biomolecules like proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. He has also worked extensively on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) systems, applying SPR imaging to enhance molecular recognition capabilities. His work in nanomaterials and advanced analytical techniques plays a key role in applications across biomedical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and single-cell analysis.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His contributions have had a significant impact on the fields of analytical chemistry and biosensor development. His pioneering work with gold nanorods and nanoclusters for multiplex detection of disease markers and heavy metals has positioned him as a leader in the field. Additionally, his developments in SPR imaging systems have advanced chiral recognition and biomolecular interaction studies, further enhancing the molecular diagnostics landscape.

📚 Academic Cites

Although specific citation numbers are not provided, Dr. Huang's research has been widely acknowledged in the scientific community, evidenced by his work's application in major areas of biosensing, diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. His work continues to influence new developments in the synthesis and application of nanomaterials.

🛠️ Technical Skills

He is an expert in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, particularly gold and carbon-based nanoclusters. He is highly proficient in the fabrication of optical biosensors and in the use of surface plasmon resonance imaging systems. His expertise extends to the development of advanced analytical methods for complex biological media, which is crucial for a variety of applications in diagnostics and environmental monitoring.

📚 Teaching Experience

As a professor, He teaches courses in Analytical Chemistry and Instrumental Analysis, in addition to supervising laboratory courses. He mentors graduate and undergraduate students, guiding research projects that focus on the synthesis of nanomaterials and their application in biosensor development. His teaching fosters innovation in the next generation of researchers in the fields of analytical chemistry and biosensing technologies.

🏆 Legacy

His legacy lies in his contributions to the development of cutting-edge biosensor technologies and nanomaterial applications. His work has shaped the field of molecular detection and bioanalytics, particularly in terms of how nanomaterials can be integrated into diagnostic tools for disease detection and environmental monitoring.

🔮 Future Contributions

Looking ahead, He is poised to continue his groundbreaking work in the development of next-generation biosensors and analytical techniques. His research will likely advance the use of nanomaterials in precision medicine, single-cell analysis, and real-time environmental monitoring. His expertise in SPR imaging and nanomaterials synthesis is expected to drive further innovation in these rapidly evolving fields.

📖Notable Publications