Jiying Zhu | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jiying Zhu | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shandong University of Technology, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Jiying Zhu has established a strong academic foundation in agricultural and food engineering, beginning her distinguished career with a commitment to solving global challenges related to organic waste conversion. Her academic journey led her to international collaboration early on, particularly through her experiences at The Ohio State University-OARDC, where she served as a Visiting Scholar from 2008 to 2009, and later as a Postdoctoral Researcher from 2012 to 2013. These international experiences significantly broadened her research vision and expertise in biological engineering.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Zhu has been an integral part of the School of Agricultural and Food Engineering at Shandong University of Technology, China, for over a decade. She served as an Associate Professor from 2009 to 2018, and due to her outstanding contributions in research and education, she was promoted to Professor in January 2019. Throughout her tenure, she has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable agricultural engineering practices, mentoring students, and leading impactful research initiatives.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Zhu’s research primarily focuses on the conversion of organic wastes into volatile fatty acids (VFAs) through anaerobic mixed-culture fermentation. She investigates how the organic components of substrates and various fermentation conditions influence the yield and distribution of VFAs. Her studies also delve deeply into the metabolic pathways governing the chain elongation of small molecular intermediates, aiming to overcome bottlenecks and limiting factors. Her overarching goal is to develop carbon source flow regulation strategies that enhance the accumulation of specific target products, contributing to more efficient and sustainable waste management and bioresource utilization.

🌎 Impact and Influence

Ms. Zhu’s pioneering work addresses a critical global need — the sustainable transformation of organic waste into valuable biochemical products. By advancing knowledge on metabolic regulation during fermentation processes, she supports the development of circular bioeconomy models that can significantly reduce environmental pollution and enhance resource recovery. Her findings have practical implications for industries focusing on renewable bioenergy, waste valorization, and environmental sustainability.

📚 Academic Citations

Given the technical relevance and environmental urgency of her research, Ms. Zhu’s work has steadily gained recognition in the academic community. Her research outputs contribute significantly to fields such as biochemical engineering, environmental biotechnology, and waste-to-energy systems, building a strong citation record that continues to expand as sustainable waste conversion grows in importance globally.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Ms. Zhu’s technical expertise includes anaerobic fermentation technology, organic waste characterization, metabolic pathway analysis, volatile fatty acid production optimization, and process regulation for targeted bioproduct accumulation. Her skill set positions her uniquely at the intersection of biological engineering, sustainable waste management, and process optimization.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Alongside her research activities, Ms. Zhu has been deeply committed to academic mentorship and education. She has guided undergraduate and postgraduate students at Shandong University of Technology, fostering a research culture that emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and sustainability. Her teaching philosophy integrates hands-on experimentation with theoretical modeling, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges in agricultural and food engineering.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions Highlight

Ms. Zhu’s legacy will be defined by her transformative contributions to the sustainable bioconversion of organic wastes. Looking ahead, she is poised to explore advanced metabolic engineering strategies and precision fermentation technologies to further optimize resource recovery from waste streams. Her continued research and mentorship efforts are set to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists dedicated to environmental sustainability and renewable resource development.

📖Notable Publications

Hexanoic Acid Production and Microbial Community in Anaerobic Fermentation: Effects of Inorganic Carbon Addition
Authors: Xiaofeng Ji, Zhengang Chen, Yingmeng Shen, Longlong Liu, Ranran Chen, Jiying Zhu*
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2024 | Volume 403: 130881

Regulation of Hydraulic Retention Time on Caproic Acid Production via Two-Phase Anaerobic Fermentation of Chinese Cabbage Waste with Autopoietic Electron Donors
Authors: Ranran Chen, Xiaofeng Ji, Zhengang Chen, Liu Huang, Jiying Zhu*
Journal: Journal of Biotechnology
Year: 2024 | Volume 381: 1-10

Effects of Yeast Inoculation Methods on Caproic Acid Production and Microbial Community During Anaerobic Fermentation of Chinese Cabbage Waste
Authors: Ranran Chen, Xiaonan Zhou, Liu Huang, Xiaofeng Ji, Zhengang Chen, Jiying Zhu*
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Year: 2024 | Volume 356: 120632

Acidogenic Fermentation of Potato Peel Waste for Volatile Fatty Acids Production: Effect of Initial Organic Load
Authors: Lu Yu, Ranran Chen, Liu Huang, Xiangyou Wang, Santao Chou, Jiying Zhu*
Journal: Journal of Biotechnology
Year: 2023 | Volume 374: 114-121

Effect of pH on Volatile Fatty Acid Production and the Microbial Community During Anaerobic Digestion of Chinese Cabbage Waste
Authors: Xiaonan Zhou, Yu Lu, Liu Huang, Qi Zhang, Jiying Zhu*
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2021 | Volume 336: 125338

Elena Kayukova | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Elena Kayukova | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Saint Petersburg State University, Russia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Elena Kayukova began her academic journey with a strong foundation in geology. In 1983, she graduated from Leningrad State University (now St. Petersburg State University) as an engineer and geologist. Her passion for the Earth sciences led her to pursue advanced research, culminating in the award of a Ph.D. in Geology and Mineralogy in 2018. Her academic background laid the groundwork for a lifelong career in hydrogeology and environmental geosciences.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kayukova’s career spans both industry and academia. From 1984 to 1993, she worked as a geologist at the All-Russia Petroleum Research Exploration Institute (VNIGRI), contributing to national-scale energy and resource exploration. Since 1993, she has been a dedicated academic at St. Petersburg State University, where she has served as a Senior Lecturer and currently holds the title of Associate Professor in the Department of Hydrogeology & Engineering Geology. Her professional roles have allowed her to mentor future geoscientists while continuing her impactful research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kayukova is a prominent researcher in the fields of hydrogeochemistry, groundwater quality, hydrochemical modeling, and environmental monitoring. Her primary focus areas include the Crimean Peninsula and the St. Petersburg region, where she has conducted extensive studies on mineral waters, salt lakes, mud volcanoes, and isotopic hydrogeology. She closely monitors springs and atmospheric precipitation in Mountainous Crimea, particularly in the Bodrak River basin, examining chemical and isotopic changes that indicate environmental trends and challenges. Her work is vital due to Crimea’s acute freshwater scarcity.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 25 years of fieldwork and research, Dr. Kayukova has made significant contributions to the understanding and protection of water resources in environmentally sensitive areas. Her studies on the Kerch Peninsula’s mud volcanoes and salt lakes offer critical insight into geochemical processes, while her groundwater monitoring projects help identify pollution sources and safeguard public health. Her dedication to environmental education and resource sustainability underscores her influence in shaping water policy and management in the region.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Kayukova’s research is widely recognized in the academic community, especially for its practical applications in environmental monitoring and water quality assessment. Her scientific publications and collaborations have contributed to the growing body of knowledge in hydrogeology and isotope geochemistry, earning citations that reflect her contributions to solving real-world water issues in geopolitically significant regions like Crimea.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Kayukova is skilled in hydrochemical analysis, environmental monitoring techniques, hydrogeological modeling, and the application of isotope geochemistry. Her technical capabilities also include managing long-term field studies, interpreting hydrological data, and designing environmental education programs. Her multidisciplinary expertise bridges geological sciences with environmental stewardship.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an Associate Professor at St. Petersburg State University, Dr. Kayukova has mentored numerous students in hydrogeology and environmental geoscience. She has played a pivotal role in developing academic curricula, guiding fieldwork, and fostering scientific inquiry among young scholars. Her teaching emphasizes the practical importance of geological sciences in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kayukova’s legacy is rooted in her unwavering commitment to protecting freshwater resources through research, education, and community engagement. Her long-standing work in Crimea is not only of academic value but also of profound social and environmental importance. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her studies on groundwater radioactivity and climate-related hydrochemical changes, contributing further to the sustainability of vital water ecosystems.

📖Notable Publications

Clinical case of malignant endometrioid-associated neoplasia of a postoperative scar

Author: E. V. Kayukova
Journal: MD-Onco
Year: 2025

The factors of the low iodine concentration in soil cover and drinking waters of the second ridge of the Mountain Crimea

Authors: Victor Yu. Berezkin, Victor V. Glebov, Elena P. Kayukova
Journal: RUDN Journal of Ecology and Life Safety
Year: 2023

Geological controls and the impact of human society on the composition of peloids of present-day salt lakes (coastal zones of the Black, Azov, and Dead Seas)

Authors: S. Kotov, I. Kotova, E. Kayukova
Journal: Journal of Coastal Conservation
Year: 2019

Characteristics of formation of chemical composition of groundwater of active water exchange zone of the Bodrak catchment area (South-Western Crimea)

Author: Elena Kayukova
Journal: Vestnik Sankt-Peterburgskogo Universiteta, Seriya 7. Geologiya i Geografiya
Year: 2017

The impact of environmental and anthropogenic factors on composition of peloids in modern salt lakes

Authors: I.K. Kotova, S.R. Kotov, E.P. Kayukova, L.V. Mordukhai-Boltovskaya
Journal: Vestnik of Saint Petersburg University. Earth Sciences
Year: 2017

Rajeev Kumar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rajeev Kumar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Panjab University, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Rajeev Kumar began his academic journey at Panjab University, Chandigarh, one of India’s leading institutions. His foundational education includes a B.Sc. (Hons. School) in Chemistry (1997-2000), followed by an M.Sc. (Hons. School) in Chemistry (Inorganic Chemistry specialization) (2001-2003) from the Department of Chemistry, Panjab University. He later pursued his Ph.D. in Inorganic/Physical Chemistry (2003-2010) under the mentorship of Prof. K.K. Bhasin and Prof. S.K. Mehta, focusing on the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of organosulfur, selenium, and tellurium compounds. His solid academic foundation is complemented by a strong background in chemistry, mathematics, physics, and biology from his earlier schooling.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kumar’s professional path has been largely shaped by his research tenure at the Department of Chemistry, Panjab University, where he gained extensive research experience. During his M.Sc. dissertation, he worked on the synthesis and study of aliphatic and aromatic chalcogen compounds under the supervision of Dr. Surinder K. Sharma and Prof. K.K. Bhasin. His doctoral research expanded on this theme, focusing on chalcogen-based organometallic compounds, contributing valuable insights to the fields of inorganic and physical chemistry.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kumar’s research delves deeply into organosulfur, organoselenium, and organotellurium chemistry, emphasizing synthesis and characterization. His work has significant implications for material science, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry. Through his Ph.D. research, he explored the reactivity and structural properties of chalcogen-containing compounds, pushing the frontiers of chalcogen chemistry. His passion for environmentally sustainable research is also evident through his recognition at international conferences promoting green initiatives.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Kumar has not only made his mark through his research but has also been acknowledged for publishing outstanding scientific papers from Panjab University, earning multiple Certificates of Appreciation in 2020 and 2022 from prestigious university awards. His research contributions have influenced peers within his field, particularly in inorganic and physical chemistry, and his participation in conferences reflects his active engagement in the global research community.

📚 Academic Cites and Recognitions

Dr. Kumar’s scholarly output has earned him multiple accolades: Certification of Appreciation for “Environment Friendly Initiatives” at an International Conference organized by CRRID, Chandigarh. Prem Lata and Prof. D.V.S. Jain Research Foundation Awards in 2020 and 2022 for his impactful publications. He has also been shortlisted for the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Fellowship, a distinction given to the top 20% of CSIR Fellows, underscoring his academic excellence.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Kumar possesses strong technical proficiency in inorganic synthesis, spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, IR, NMR, etc.), and handling of air-sensitive compounds, particularly chalcogen-based organometallics. His skillset also includes laboratory techniques such as crystallization, electrochemical studies, and structural elucidation through X-ray diffraction.

🎓 Teaching and Mentoring Experience

While primarily a researcher, Dr. Kumar has been actively involved in academic mentorship during his time at Panjab University. He has contributed to laboratory instruction, guiding students in the synthesis and analysis of inorganic and organometallic compounds. His dual role as a researcher and mentor highlights his dedication to nurturing future scientists.

🌍 Service to Society

Beyond academia, Dr. Kumar has demonstrated a commitment to community service, voluntarily serving as a Traffic Marshal with Chandigarh Police since 2016, contributing to public safety and awareness.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kumar’s dedication to inorganic chemistry, combined with his contributions to organochalcogen research, positions him as a valuable figure in the Indian scientific community. Moving forward, he aims to expand the applications of organosulfur and organoselenium compounds in fields such as catalysis, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable materials. His legacy includes not only his impactful research but also his commitment to mentorship, environmental stewardship, and civic duty.

📖Notable Publications

Synergetic effect of vancomycin loaded silver nanoparticles for enhanced antibacterial activity
Authors: A Kaur, S Preet, V Kumar, R Kumar, R Kumar
Journal: Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces
Year: 2019

Green synthesis of CuO nanomaterials and their proficient use for organic waste removal and antimicrobial application
Authors: M Chauhan, B Sharma, R Kumar, GR Chaudhary, AA Hassan, S Kumar
Journal: Environmental Research
Year: 2019

Fabrication and characterization of highly sensitive and selective arsenic sensor based on ultra-thin graphene oxide nanosheets
Authors: S Kumar, G Bhanjana, N Dilbaghi, R Kumar, A Umar
Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
Year: 2016

Evaluation of novel indigenous fungal consortium for enhanced bioremediation of heavy metals from contaminated sites
Authors: D Talukdar, T Jasrotia, R Sharma, S Jaglan, R Kumar, R Vats, R Kumar, …
Journal: Environmental Technology & Innovation
Year: 2020

Zinc oxide quantum dots as efficient electron mediator for ultrasensitive and selective electrochemical sensing of mercury
Authors: G Bhanjana, N Dilbaghi, R Kumar, S Kumar
Journal: Electrochimica Acta
Year: 2015