Matias Aguirre | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Matias Aguirre | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Associate Researcher | CONICET | Argentina

Dr. Matías Ezequiel Aguirre, Associate Researcher and Professor at CONICET and the National University of Mar del Plata, is an accomplished physical and materials chemist specializing in photoinduced processes, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and hybrid photocatalytic systems for sustainable energy applications. His research career began at the National University of Mar del Plata, where he earned his Ph.D. in 2015 and was later honored with the I-APS G. Cilento Award for outstanding contributions to photochemistry. Dr. Aguirre made a landmark contribution to the field of visible-light CO₂ photoreduction, resulting in a publication exceeding 500 citations, establishing him as a leading voice in photocatalytic carbon conversion. Dr. Aguirre’s current work focuses on developing photoactive MOF-based biocatalysts and hybrid semiconductor systems that combine biological and synthetic components to drive CO₂ reduction, NADH regeneration, and solar energy conversion through artificial photosynthesis-inspired mechanisms. He has pioneered the integration of enzymes within MOFs, achieving efficient electron transfer and catalytic stability under mild conditions, as highlighted in recent publications in ChemCatChem and Chemistry – A European Journal. His studies on Cu₂O/TiO₂ heterostructures, MIL-125-NH₂ composites, and magnetic ZIF-8 supports have advanced the understanding of charge-transfer dynamics and photocorrosion mitigation in semiconductor materials. Beyond fundamental research, Dr. Aguirre has applied his expertise to medicinal cannabis analytics, serving as Technical Manager of the High-Level Technological Service (STAN) for HPLC and GC–MS-based cannabinoid quantification, bridging the gap between materials chemistry and bioanalytical applications. He has co-directed numerous funded research projects, mentored graduate students, and published 17 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals. His work has received 765 citations from 744 documents with an h-index of 8 (Scopus), reflecting both scientific quality and influence. Through his interdisciplinary approach uniting photocatalysis, bioinorganic chemistry, and renewable energy materials. Dr. Aguirre continues to contribute significantly to sustainable chemical innovation and environmental remediation.

Profiles : Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Aguirre, M. E., Slaboch, M. V., González, P. J., Ramírez, C. L., & Di Iorio, Y. (2025). Visible-light-driven CO₂ photoreduction assisted by reduced methyl viologen using MIL-125-NH₂ as a light harvester and scaffold for FDH immobilization. ChemCatChem, 17(0), e01120.

Albani, C. M., Fuentes, G., Ramírez, C. L., Pensel, P. E., Gatti, F., Albanese, A., Nutter, D., Aguirre, M. E., Di Iorio, Y. D., & Elissondo, M. C. (2024). Anthelmintic effect of cannabidiol against Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 9(35).

Moliné, M. de la P., Aguirre, M. E., Domínguez, E., Moran Giardini, P., Fernández, N. J., Damiani, N., Churio, M. S., & Gende, L. B. (2024). Ascorbyl/ascorbate ratio as a marker of oxidative stress in larvae (Apis mellifera) exposed to Paenibacillus larvae. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part B: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 269, 110896.

Aguirre, M. E., Ramírez, C. L., & Di Iorio, Y. (2023). Stable and reusable Fe₃O₄/ZIF-8 composite for encapsulation of FDH enzyme in mild conditions applicable to CO₂ reduction. Chemistry – A European Journal, 29(1), e202301113.

Aguirre, M. E., Orallo, D. E., Suárez, P. A., & Ramírez, C. L. (2023). Galenic formulations of Cannabis sativa: Comparison of the chemical properties of extracts obtained by simple protocols using lipidic vehicles. Natural Product Research, 37(28), 1–6.

Xolile Fuku | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

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.

 

Qinhong Wei | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qinhong Wei | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Ocean University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Qinhong Wei began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering at Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, China. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Industrial Catalysis at the same institution, cultivating a foundational understanding of chemical processes and catalyst design. Driven by a keen interest in advanced materials and catalysis, he advanced to earn his Ph.D. in Nano New Functional Materials Science from the University of Toyama, Japan. During this period, Dr. Wei developed expertise in the synthesis and application of nano-scale materials, setting the stage for his future specialization in heterogeneous catalysis.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Wei joined the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Coal Chemistry as a Postdoctoral Researcher, where he worked on catalytic transformations of carbon-based feedstocks. He was later appointed as Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China. In this leadership role, Dr. Wei not only drives research initiatives but also oversees the academic and developmental direction of the department.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wei’s research revolves around the design of catalytic materials, reaction pathway engineering, and catalytic conversion of low-carbon molecules. His work integrates heterogeneous catalysis, especially in C1 chemistry, and extensively employs in-situ characterization techniques to probe catalyst behavior under real conditions. He has made significant contributions in areas such as:

  • Hydrogenation of syngas and CO₂ to produce liquid fuels and value-added chemicals (e.g., olefins, aromatics, and oxygenates)

  • Propane dehydrogenation (PDH) to yield propylene, a critical feedstock in the polymer industry

  • Methane conversion for enhanced utilization of natural gas

  • Catalyst design for sustainable energy solutions aligned with green chemistry principles

📊 Research Projects and Honors

Dr. Wei has led over 10 research projects, securing competitive funding from prestigious bodies including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, and Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation. His excellence in scientific innovation has earned him numerous accolades, such as the Leading Talent (Young Excellent Talent) distinction in Zhejiang Province and two Zhoushan Natural Science Excellent Paper Awards, reinforcing his reputation as a forward-thinking leader in chemical engineering.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 30 publications in top-tier international journals, such as Nature Communications, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Fuel, Dr. Wei’s research significantly advances the field of low-carbon catalytic conversion. His work provides both theoretical insights and practical pathways for clean fuel synthesis, carbon dioxide utilization, and natural gas valorization, directly contributing to global sustainability goals and carbon neutrality efforts.

📚 Academic Citations and Collaborations

Dr. Wei’s growing citation record and publication impact demonstrate the high value of his research in the academic community. His collaboration with both domestic and international research institutions strengthens cross-border scientific exchange and facilitates the integration of cutting-edge catalytic techniques into industrial applications.

🧠 Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Wei is proficient in the synthesis and in-situ analysis of catalytic systems, with technical strengths spanning material characterization, reaction engineering, and mechanistic investigation of catalytic pathways. His ability to bridge the gap between material science and industrial catalysis allows him to design catalysts with high selectivity, stability, and energy efficiency.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As Head of Department at Zhejiang Ocean University, Dr. Wei actively contributes to curriculum development, student mentoring, and research training. His commitment to academic excellence is reflected in his support for young researchers, guiding them through experimental work, thesis development, and participation in funded research projects.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Wei aims to expand his contributions in the fields of green catalysis, CO₂ reduction, and circular carbon economy technologies. His research vision emphasizes integrated energy systems, advanced materials for clean fuels, and mechanistic studies that push the frontiers of catalytic science. With a strong foundation of academic rigor, industrial relevance, and mentorship, Dr. Wei is poised to make enduring contributions to chemical engineering and sustainable development.

📖Notable Publications

Pre-phase transition of a Cu₂−xS template enables polymorph selective synthesis of MS (M = Zn, Cd, Mn) nanocrystals via cation exchange reactions
Authors: Yan Zhang, Shaobo He, Qingxia Zhang, Hongtao Zhang, Jinchen Zhou, Xing Yang, Qinhong Wei, Lihui Chen
Journal: Nanoscale
Year: 2024

Electronic structure modulation of metallic Co via N-doped carbon shell and Cu-doping for enhanced semi-hydrogenation of phenylacetylene to styrene
Authors: Feixiang Chang, Yize Wang, Haoting Yan, Jiashi Wang, Renkun Zhang, Xianmin Zheng, Qinhong Wei, Luhui Wang, Jing Xu
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Year: 2024

Atomically dispersed Feδ⁺ anchored on nitrogen-rich carbon for enhancing benzyl alcohol oxidation through Mott-Schottky effect
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Jiashi Wang, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
Year: 2021

Metal 3D printing technology for functional integration of catalytic system
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Hangjie Li, Guoguo Liu, Yingluo He, Yang Wang, Yen Ee Tan, Ding Wang, Xiaobo Peng, Guohui Yang, Noritatsu Tsubaki
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2020

Constructing Co@N-doped graphene shell catalyst via Mott-Schottky effect for selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxylmethylfurfural
Authors: Jiashi Wang, Qinhong Wei, Qingxiang Ma, Zhongya Guo, Fangfang Qin, Zinfer R. Ismagilov, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
Year: 2020

Coal tar- and residual oil-derived porous carbon as metal-free catalyst for nitroarene reduction to aminoarene
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Fangfang Qin, Qingxiang Ma, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2019

Metal-free honeycomb-like porous carbon as catalyst for direct oxidation of benzene to phenol
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Huailin Fan, Fangfang Qin, Qingxiang Ma, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2018

Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

University of Gujrat, Pakistan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq completed her Master of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Gujrat, Pakistan, achieving an impressive CGPA of 3.72/4.0. Her thesis focused on the Investigation of MoS2 Based Nanomaterials for Efficient Photocatalytic Performance, highlighting her early dedication to advanced materials science. Prior to this, she earned her BS Honors in Physics from the University of Central Punjab. Her solid academic foundation laid the groundwork for her research in nanomaterials and their multifaceted applications.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Mushtaq has demonstrated extensive experience in synthesizing and optimizing nanomaterials, particularly focusing on MoS2, Ta-MoS2, and MoS2/MnO2/WO3 composites. Her work encompasses practical applications in photocatalysis, specifically targeting environmental remediation through degradation of dyes like Methylene Blue and pharmaceutical contaminants such as Metformin. Beyond photocatalysis, she has explored nanomaterials’ roles in energy storage, antimicrobial properties, and shelf-life extension, revealing a broad and impactful research portfolio.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research contributions extend to authoring and co-authoring scientific papers and delivering presentations in academic settings, showcasing her effective communication skills in disseminating scientific knowledge. Notably, she has authored a book titled “Influence of Nobel Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies” (Springer, 2025), emphasizing her expertise and contribution to the field of sustainable energy and nanotechnology. Her primary research interests include materials science, photocatalytic activity, energy storage, antimicrobial applications, and shelf-life enhancement using nanomaterials.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Ms. Mushtaq’s work in synthesizing novel nanomaterials and applying them to environmental and energy challenges places her at the forefront of sustainable nanotechnology research. Her scientific findings contribute not only to academic advancement but also have practical implications for environmental cleanup and energy technologies. By combining experimental research with scientific communication, she significantly influences both her academic peers and the wider scientific community.

📈 Academic Citations

While specific citation metrics are not detailed here, her published research papers and book authorship demonstrate recognition and relevance in the scientific community, particularly in nanomaterials and photocatalysis research fields.

🛠️ Technical Skills

She possesses proficiency in a range of software and instrumentation critical to materials research, including OriginLab, Xpert Highscore Plus, Image J, Endnote, MS Office, and COMSOL Multiphysics. She is skilled in operating analytical tools such as the UV-Visible Spectrometer and Photoluminescence Spectrometer for UV-Vis and PL analysis, enabling her to perform detailed characterization of nanomaterials.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Alongside her research, Ms. Mushtaq has engaged in academic research supervision, teaching, and consultation, managing theses and interdisciplinary projects. Her strong communication skills in English and Urdu facilitate effective knowledge transfer and mentorship within academic environments.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq is poised to continue advancing the field of nanomaterials with a focus on sustainable energy and environmental applications. Her upcoming book and ongoing research reflect a commitment to driving innovative solutions through nanotechnology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring future scientists. Her legacy is set to inspire developments in photocatalytic materials, energy storage, and antimicrobial technologies, impacting both science and society.

📖Notable Publications

Photocatalytic detoxification of Lemon Yellow food additive by Novel AC@ZnO/CuO/WO3 quaternary composites via Citrus Sinensis and Solid-State-Reaction method
Authors: Hassan Imam Rizvi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Zain Ashfaq, Nabil Al-Zaqri, Ismail Warad
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2025

Influence of Noble Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq
Book Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland
Year: 2025
ISBN: 9783031809828, 9783031809835

Facile Strategies to Fabricate MoS2/Bi2O3 Nanocomposites; A Nano Engineered Material for Photoassisted Degradation of Ciprofloxacin and Their Antibacterial Performance
Authors: Muhammad Tauseef Qureshi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Umer Farooq, Abdul Basit, Tahir Iqbal, Ayesha Younas, Mahmoud Al Elaimi, Hira Affan, Mohamed S. Othman, Ghazala Yunus, et al.
Journal: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Year: 2024

Cobalt doped MoS2: A photoactivated nanomaterial for removal of methylene blue and phenol
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Abdul Basit, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Hind A. AL-Shwaiman, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Yousaf, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq, Rana Mustansar Munir
Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
Year: 2024

Enhancing apple shelf life: A comparative analysis of photocatalytic activity in pure and manganese-doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Maria Afzal, Bandar Ali Al-Asbahi, Sumera Afsheen, Iqra Maryam, Ayesha Mushtaq, Sabah Kausar, Aqsa Ashraf
Journal: Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing
Year: 2024