Oumarou Savadogo | Electrochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Oumarou Savadogo | Electrochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Polytechnique Montreal | Canada

Professor Oumarou Savadogo is a distinguished researcher whose pioneering contributions span materials science, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy technologies. With advanced training in physics, materials engineering, and metallurgical engineering, he has dedicated his career to developing innovative materials and processes that advance clean and renewable energy systems. His expertise encompasses energy materials, solar photovoltaic and thermal technologies, electrochemical energy storage including batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors hydrogen production and utilization, biomaterials, corrosion science, and physico-chemical characterization of complex materials. As Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Engineering: Applied Solar Technologies and Head of the Laboratory of New Materials for Energy and Electrochemistry, Professor Savadogo leads multidisciplinary programs focused on the design and optimization of advanced electrochemical materials. His research includes breakthroughs in oxygen cathode development for PEM fuel cells, new formalisms for understanding electrocatalytic reactions, and advanced simulation methods for adsorption–desorption processes. His work also extends to thin-film semiconductors for solar cells, corrosion-resistant coatings, nanostructured electrodes, conducting membranes, and biomaterial surface engineering demonstrating remarkable breadth and impact. Professor Savadogo’s scientific productivity is exceptional, with more than 180 peer-reviewed journal articles, influential book chapters, a 2024 book on nanostructured lithium-ion battery materials, and two foundational patents spanning biomedical implants and hydrogen fuel cell electrocatalysts. Recent publications highlight his leadership in emerging research areas, including techno-economic analyses of hydrogen production systems, bio-derived electrode materials for batteries, catalytic pathways for CO₂ reduction, molten carbonate fuel cells, and composite coatings with enhanced corrosion resistance. Beyond his research, Professor Savadogo serves the global scientific community through longstanding roles on advisory and editorial boards in electrochemical energy science and hydrogen technologies. His work continues to shape the future of sustainable energy materials, combining scientific rigor, innovation, and societal relevance. His contributions stand as a model of excellence in advancing technologies central to a low-carbon and sustainable global energy future.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Zemane, W.-W. A., & Savadogo, O. (2025). Electrochemical performances of Li-ion batteries based on LiFePO₄ cathodes supported by bio-sourced activated carbon from millet cob (MC) and water hyacinth (WH). Batteries, 11(10), 361.

2. Mihin, T., Savadogo, O., & Tartakovsky, B. (2025). Impact of non-noble bimetallic oxides on bioelectrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to volatile fatty acids. Process Biochemistry, 159, 51–63.

3. Shanian, S., & Savadogo, O. (2024). A critical review of the techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production from water electrolysers using multi-criteria decision making (MCDM). Journal of New Materials for Electrochemical Systems, 27(2), 107–134.

4. Thiam, B., & Savadogo, O. (2024). Effects of silico-tungstic acid on the pseudocapacitive properties of manganese oxide for electrochemical capacitor applications. DeCarbon, Article 100066.

5. Shanian, S., & Savadogo, O. (2024). Techno-economic analysis of electrolytic hydrogen production by alkaline and PEM electrolysers using MCDM methods. Discover Energy, 4(1), 23. )

Jungpil Noh | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jungpil Noh | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Jungpil Noh began his academic journey with a strong foundation in materials science and engineering. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from Gyeongsang National University, South Korea, under the supervision of Prof. Tae-Hyun Nam. Demonstrating a keen interest in advancing materials research, he pursued a Ph.D. in Material Science at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, under the guidance of Prof. Nobuo Otsuka. During this time, he immersed himself in physical materials science, which laid the groundwork for his future research in energy-related materials.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Noh has steadily advanced through various academic positions in both Japan and South Korea. He served as an assistant professor at JAIST before returning to Gyeongsang National University, where he contributed as an academic research professor and later rose through the ranks as assistant professor, associate professor, and currently, full professor. He is presently based in the Department of Energy & Mechanical Engineering, College of Marine Science, at Gyeongsang National University in Tongyeong. His academic career reflects commitment, international experience, and a consistent record of professional growth.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Noh’s research spans several key areas within materials science. His expertise in lithium-ion batteries has led to innovations in energy storage technologies. He also focuses on thin film deposition techniques, contributing to the development of functional coatings for energy and electronic applications. In addition, his work on TiNi-based shape memory alloys is notable for its relevance to smart materials and actuating systems. Across all his research, Prof. Noh emphasizes both fundamental understanding and practical applications, making his work valuable to both academic and industrial stakeholders.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Noh’s research has had a meaningful impact in the fields of energy materials and functional alloys. His experience in both South Korea and Japan allows him to bridge international academic practices, bringing a global perspective to his work. Through his contributions, he supports the development of sustainable technologies and positions Gyeongsang National University as a hub for advanced materials research. His collaborations and influence extend to students, peers, and interdisciplinary teams working on energy and mechanical systems.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Prof. Noh is widely acknowledged within the academic community for his scientific contributions. His publications are frequently cited in research related to batteries, thin films, and shape memory alloys. While specific citation metrics are not detailed here, his longstanding roles in academia and research leadership are a testament to his recognition and authority in his field.

🧰 Technical Skills

Prof. Noh possesses robust technical competencies across multiple domains. His skill set includes advanced techniques for thin film fabrication such as sputtering and evaporation, along with materials characterization tools like SEM, TEM, XRD, and DSC. He also excels in electrochemical analysis methods relevant to battery performance, such as cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy. His work with TiNi-based shape memory alloys demonstrates his deep understanding of thermomechanical behavior and functional performance.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Prof. Noh has played a pivotal role in teaching and mentoring students at Gyeongsang National University. He delivers lectures in materials science, energy systems, electrochemistry, and smart materials, integrating theoretical instruction with hands-on laboratory experiences. His guidance has supported numerous graduate and undergraduate research projects, helping to develop the next generation of engineers and materials scientists.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Noh continues to make substantial contributions to materials science and energy engineering. His legacy lies in advancing practical technologies such as high-performance batteries and intelligent material systems. Looking ahead, his work is expected to shape the future of clean energy, smart devices, and sustainable material solutions. Through academic leadership, international collaboration, and impactful research, he is paving the way for meaningful scientific and societal advancements.

📖Notable Publications

Aluminum Co-Deposition via DC Magnetron Sputtering for Enhanced Pitting Resistance of Copper–Nickel Alloys
Authors: Sang-Du Yun, Yeonwon Kim, Jun-Seok Lee, Jungpil Noh, Beomsoo Kim, Jae-Sung Kwon, Sung-Woong Choi, Jeong Hyeon Yang
Journal: Coatings
Year: 2024

Unraveling the Mechanism and Practical Implications of the Sol-Gel Synthesis of Spinel LiMn₂O₄ as a Cathode Material for Li-Ion Batteries: Critical Effects of Cation Distribution at the Matrix Level
Authors: Oyunbayar Nyamaa, Gyeong-Ho Kang, Sun-Chul Huh, Jeong-Hyeon Yang, Tae-Hyun Nam, Jungpil Noh
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2023

Free-Standing Li₄Ti₅O₁₂/Carbon Nanotube Electrodes for Flexible Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Jun-Seok Lee, Sang-Du Yun, Oyunbayar Nyamaa, Jeong Hyeon Yang, Sun-Chul Huh, Hyo-Min Jeong, Tae-Hyun Nam, Yeon-Ju Ryu, Jungpil Noh
Journal: Energies
Year: 2022

Electrochemical Properties of Multilayered Sn/TiNi Shape-Memory-Alloy Thin-Film Electrodes for High-Performance Anodes in Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Duck-Hyeon Seo, Jun-Seok Lee, Sang-Du Yun, Jeong Hyeon Yang, Sun-Chul Huh, Yonmo Sung, Hyo-Min Jeong, Jungpil Noh
Journal: Materials
Year: 2022

High Electrochemical Performance Silicon Thin-Film Free-Standing Electrodes Based on Buckypaper for Flexible Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Oyunbayar Nyamaa, Duck-Hyeon Seo, Jun-Seok Lee, Hyo-Min Jeong, Sun-Chul Huh, Jeong Hyeon Yang, Erdenechimeg Dolgor, Jungpil Noh
Journal: Materials
Year: 2021

Grain Size and Phase Transformation Behavior of TiNi Shape-Memory-Alloy Thin Film under Different Deposition Conditions
Authors: Joohyeon Bae, Hyunsuk Lee, Duckhyeon Seo, Sangdu Yun
Journal: Materials
Year: 2020

Lili Wang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lili Wang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Tianjin University of Technology, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Lili Wang began her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, culminating in her graduation from Jilin University in 2012, one of China’s leading research universities. Her early academic years were marked by a growing interest in material chemistry and environmental sustainability, which later became the cornerstone of her research endeavors.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Chemistry, Tianjin University of Technology, Dr. Wang has built a robust academic and research career. She has led multiple funded projects, including one from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, one from the Tianjin Natural Science Foundation, and a research initiative under the Tianjin Education Commission. Additionally, she played an active role in another major general project of the National Natural Science Foundation.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Wang’s research has consistently addressed critical global issues such as energy sustainability and environmental pollution. Her focus spans across:

  • Design and synthesis of environmental energy and catalytic materials

  • Electrocatalytic technology for high-value conversion of biomass and clean energy sources

  • Pollutant treatment and detection using innovative environmental catalysts

Her interdisciplinary approach links material science with green chemistry, enabling breakthroughs in both pollutant degradation and renewable energy conversion.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Over the past five years, Dr. Wang has emerged as a recognized scholar in the field of environmental and energy materials. Her work in electrocatalysis and green energy has directly contributed to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies. By tackling real-world challenges such as clean hydrogen production and biomass valorization, her research holds immense relevance for environmental remediation and carbon neutrality strategies.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Dr. Wang has authored over 20 SCI-indexed research articles as the first and corresponding author, which have been published in reputable international journals. These publications highlight her innovative methodologies and practical insights in materials science and catalysis. Her works have garnered citations that reflect a growing recognition from the global scientific community.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Wang is proficient in the synthesis and structural characterization of nanomaterials, electrochemical analysis, and performance testing of catalytic systems. Her laboratory expertise includes advanced techniques such as FTIR, XPS, SEM, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which she applies in optimizing catalytic performance for environmental applications.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

An experienced and passionate educator, Dr. Wang teaches a range of foundational and advanced chemistry courses including: Physical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Experiment, Comprehensive Chemical Experiments. Her teaching style integrates theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills, fostering critical thinking and innovation among undergraduate and postgraduate students.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wang is committed to fostering the next generation of scientists while continuing to innovate in the field of green materials and clean energy. With her ongoing research projects and student mentorship, she aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, contributing to China’s dual carbon goals and global sustainability.

📖Notable Publications

Construction of 3D hollow NiCo-layered double hydroxide nanostructures for high-performance industrial overall seawater electrolysis
Journal: Nano Research
Year: 2024
Citations: 6

Interface engineering of 2D NiFe LDH/NiFeS heterostructure for highly efficient 5-hydroxymethylfurfural electrooxidation
Journal: Chinese Chemical Letters
Year: 2024
Citations: 4

Nanoflower core-shell Cu@Pd catalysts for glycol oxidation reaction with an enhanced performance
Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Year: 2023
Citations: 3

Nader Ghaffari Khaligh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nader Ghaffari Khaligh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Malaya, Malaysia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Nader Ghaffari Khaligh embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Applied Chemistry, where he developed a strong foundation in chemical principles and practical applications. He further honed his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry from Shahid Beheshti University, specializing in advanced synthesis and chemical methodologies. His passion for organic synthesis and catalysis led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Guilan, Iran, where he focused on innovative catalytic systems and sustainable chemical transformations.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since 2015, Dr. Khaligh has been a dedicated researcher at the Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia. His work involves cutting-edge research in catalysis, sustainable chemistry, and novel chemical reagent development. He has actively collaborated with leading scientists and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of green chemistry and efficient catalytic processes. In addition to his research, he plays a crucial role in scientific publishing as the Associate Editor and Section Editor of two prestigious international journals and serves on the editorial board of several others.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Khaligh’s research is centered on both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and environmentally friendly chemical transformations. His significant contributions include the development of ionic liquids, functional polymers, and novel multi-task reagents for efficient organic synthesis. His pioneering work in the synthesis of heterocycles and advanced catalytic systems has opened new avenues in medicinal and material chemistry. His research plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges related to energy, sustainability, and green chemistry.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Khaligh’s outstanding contributions to the scientific community have been recognized internationally. He has been honored as one of the World's Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University for six consecutive years (2019–2024), both in the Career-Long Citation Impact and Annual Recognition categories. His research has not only influenced academia but also industries focused on sustainable chemistry and innovative material design.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognitions

His extensive body of work, including research papers, reviews, and mini-reviews, has garnered widespread recognition, with numerous citations from fellow researchers. His publications have significantly contributed to advancements in catalysis, organic synthesis, and sustainable materials, earning him a strong academic reputation. As an editor and peer reviewer, he plays a key role in maintaining high standards in scientific publishing and guiding emerging researchers.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Khaligh possesses expertise in various analytical and synthetic techniques, including:

  • Catalysis Development (Heterogeneous & Homogeneous)
  • Ionic Liquids and Functional Polymers
  • Synthesis of Heterocycles
  • Green and Sustainable Chemistry
  • Spectroscopic and Chromatographic Techniques (NMR, IR, Mass Spectrometry, HPLC, GC-MS)

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Alongside his research, Dr. Khaligh is actively involved in academic mentorship and training young scientists. He has supervised and guided students in advanced chemical synthesis, catalysis, and materials research. His mentorship has helped shape the next generation of chemists and researchers, emphasizing innovative problem-solving and sustainable scientific practices.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong track record in research and scientific impact, Dr. Khaligh continues to explore new frontiers in green chemistry and sustainable catalysis. His future work aims to further enhance eco-friendly chemical processes, develop high-efficiency catalytic materials, and contribute to the advancement of cleaner, more sustainable industrial applications. His dedication to research, publication, and mentorship ensures a lasting legacy in the field of chemistry and catalysis.

📖Notable Publications

Synthesis and characterization of 5-cyclopentylsulfanyl-3H-[1,3,4]thiadiazole-2-thione and study of its single-crystal structure, FTIR spectra, thermal behavior, and antibacterial activity

Authors: N.F.A. Basir, Nurul Fatimah Abdul, M. Ghafarikhaligh, Mahta, M.R.B. Johan, Mohd Rafie Bin, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry

Year: 2024

Synthesis, Characterization, and the Study of Thermal Behavior and Catalytic Activity of a Halogen-free Dicationic Ionic Liquid

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, S. Johari, Suzaimi, M.R.B. Johan, Mohd Rafie Bin, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Catalysis Letters

Year: 2024

Tribological behavior of sulfonitrided tribofilm generated from non-corrosive dimercaptobenzothiadiazole-based additives as effective boundary lubrication layer

Authors: C. Ong, Chiuling, Y.C. Lai, Yew Chong, W.K. Tang, Wai Kit, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari, J. Juan, Joonching

Journal: Journal of Molecular Liquids

Year: 2024

Determining the pKa1 and pKa2 Values of 4,4′-Trimethylenedipiperidine (TMDP), a Diprotic Organic Base with Unknown pKa Values

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Solution Chemistry

Year: 2024

Bis[1,3-di(4-piperidinium)propane] di-hydrogensulfate mono-sulfate trihydrate: An organic molten salt containing simultaneous acceptor-donor hydrogen bonding and Brönsted acid for homogeneous catalysis

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, M.J. Rafie, Mohd Johan, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure

Year: 2024