Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Greece

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Foundation

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas was born in Athens, Greece, where he pursued his early education before enrolling at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to complete his MSc in Chemical Engineering. His academic curiosity and passion for science led him to further achieve a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the same institution. To enhance his interdisciplinary knowledge, he also obtained a Master’s degree in Sanitary Engineering from the National School of Public Health (Greece).

🧪 Professional Trajectory and Industry Expertise

Dr. Rigas began his career as a Production and R&D Engineer at the Greek Powder Company, an ammunition and explosives manufacturer. He expanded his knowledge globally through specialized training in slurry explosives in the United States under the guidance of Prof. Melvin Cook of Utah University. Over the decades, he contributed as a consultant to several engineering and industrial firms in Greece, addressing challenges in pollution control, water chemistry, and gas enterprises. These roles solidified his expertise in chemical engineering applications within high-risk and regulated industries.

🎓 Academic Career and Teaching Excellence

Prof. Rigas held a long and distinguished academic tenure at the Department of Chemical Engineering, NTUA, rising through the ranks from Lecturer to Associate Professor. He also served as a Visiting Professor at esteemed institutions such as the Greek Fire Brigade Academy, the National School of Public Health (Greece and France), and the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His teaching portfolio is vast, covering subjects like Organic Chemical Technology, Science and Technology of Explosives, Environmental Science and Technology, Occupational Health and Safety, Polymer Science, Remediation of Contaminated Sites, and Quantitative Risk Analysis. His international experience in education enriched the learning experience for students across disciplines and continents.

🔬 Research Interests and Scientific Focus

Currently active as an independent author and researcher, Prof. Rigas continues to contribute to high-impact areas in environmental and chemical engineering. His research focuses on:

  1. Process safety and loss prevention – ensuring safer chemical processing systems.

  2. Fungal bioremediation – using fungi to clean contaminated environmental sites.

  3. Bacterial remediation of stone monuments – protecting cultural heritage using microbiological methods.

🌍 Multilingual and Multidisciplinary

Fluent in Greek (native), English, and French, Dr. Rigas has effectively communicated his research and teachings across borders, supporting international academic and industrial collaboration. His ability to work in diverse linguistic and cultural environments has strengthened his role as a global educator and innovator.

🏛️ Legacy and Continued Influence

Now retired from NTUA, Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas remains active as an independent author, sharing his extensive knowledge through publications, collaborations, and mentoring. His career spans decades of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and industrial consultation. A pioneer in the fields of explosive safety, environmental remediation, and occupational health, his contributions continue to influence chemical engineering education and sustainable environmental practices worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Adsorption of humic acid on acid-activated Greek bentonite
Authors: D Doulia, C Leodopoulos, K Gimouhopoulos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Volume 340 (2), Pages 131–141
Citations: 250
Year: 2009

Hazards, safety and knowledge gaps on hydrogen transmission via natural gas grid: A critical review
Authors: Z Labidine Messaoudani, F Rigas, M.D.B. Hamid, C.R.C. Hassan
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 41 (39), Pages 17511–17525
Citations: 214
Year: 2016

Validation of turbulence models in heavy gas dispersion over obstacles
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 108 (1–2), Pages 9–20
Citations: 209
Year: 2004

Estimation of safety distances in the vicinity of fuel gas pipelines
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Volume 19 (1), Pages 24–31
Citations: 207
Year: 2006

Evaluation of hazards associated with hydrogen storage facilities
Authors: F Rigas, S Sklavounos
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 30 (13–14), Pages 1501–1510
Citations: 175
Year: 2005

Halil Ibrahim Efkere | Photochemistry | Best Researcher Award -1666

Mr. Halil Ibrahim Efkere | Photochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Gazi University, Turkey

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Halil Ibrahim Efkere’s academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Selçuk University in 2009. His passion for materials science and physics led him to pursue a Master's degree in Physics (with thesis) from Erciyes University, which he completed on January 7, 2014. Demonstrating exceptional dedication to research and innovation, he further advanced his studies with a Ph.D. in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at Gazi University, completing his thesis in 2013. His doctoral research, supervised by Süleyman Özçelik and Tuncay Karaaslan, focused on the growth and characterization of InGaAs/GaAs superlattice structures using the Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) technique, showcasing his expertise in advanced material synthesis.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

In 2020, Mr. Efkere was appointed as a Lecturer at the Gazi University Photonics Application and Research Center, where he significantly contributed to cutting-edge advancements in photonics and materials engineering. He has also played a key role in multiple research projects, such as: Leading the study on CeO2 thin films produced via RF Magnetron Sputtering for photocatalytic water purification applications. Collaborating on a project investigating TiO2 films produced using ultrasonic chemical spray methods for photocatalytic water splitting and cleaning applications. These endeavors reflect his commitment to addressing real-world challenges in water purification and renewable energy using innovative material solutions.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Efkere’s research centers on thin-film materials and their application in photocatalysis, water purification, and photonics. His contributions include: Developing CeO2 and TiO2 thin films with enhanced photocatalytic activity for environmental applications. Utilizing advanced deposition techniques like RF Magnetron Sputtering and ultrasonic chemical spray to optimize material properties for energy and water treatment applications. Investigating the interaction of thin-film structures for practical industrial and scientific applications. His groundbreaking research not only contributes to the scientific community but also has significant environmental and technological implications.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Efkere’s work on molecular beam epitaxy, thin films, and photocatalytic applications has created a profound impact in the fields of materials science and photonics. His projects aim to advance sustainable energy solutions and water purification technologies, addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. His leadership in national-level projects further establishes him as a key figure in Turkey's scientific landscape.

📚 Academic Citations

Mr. Efkere’s research outputs are gaining traction in the academic community, with his published works being widely cited in areas such as thin-film technology, photocatalysis, and renewable energy materials. His meticulous approach to experimentation and publication ensures the reliability and reproducibility of his findings.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Mr. Efkere has honed several advanced technical skills, including: Material Synthesis Techniques: Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE), RF Magnetron Sputtering, Ultrasonic Chemical Spray. Characterization Methods: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and UV-Vis Spectroscopy. Data Analysis and Optimization: Utilizing software and modeling techniques to analyze experimental results. These skills enable him to design, implement, and analyze complex experiments effectively.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer at Gazi University, Mr. Efkere is actively involved in mentoring students and training young researchers in advanced material synthesis and photonics. His approachable teaching style and expertise in state-of-the-art techniques inspire his students to pursue excellence in their academic and professional careers.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Mr. Efkere is poised to make significant contributions in sustainable materials for environmental and energy applications. His commitment to advancing photocatalytic technologies holds the potential to revolutionize water purification and clean energy generation. Through his ongoing research, teaching, and collaborations, he continues to build a legacy of innovation and scientific excellence.

📖Notable Publications

Effect of TiO2-Surfactant Interface on the Electrical and Dielectric Properties of a Metal–Insulator–Semiconductor (MIS) Structure
Authors: Azizian-Kalandaragh, Y.; Efkere, H.I.; Barkhordari, A.; Pirgholi-Givi, G.R.; Altındal, Ş.
Journal: Journal of Electronic Materials
Year: 2025

Analysis of Nb-doped and undoped TiO2 nanocoatings with varying dopant concentrations
Authors: Arslan, Ö.; Efkere, H.İ.; Çokduygulular, E.; İldeş, C.; Kınacı, B.
Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
Year: 2025

Structural, morphological, optical and electrical characterization of MgO thin films grown by sputtering technique on different substrates
Authors: Toprak, B.Ç.; Efkere, H.İ.; Aydın, S.Ş.; Tataroğlu, A.; Özçelik, S.
Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
Year: 2024

Electrical and dielectric behaviors of Al/SiO2-surfactant/n-Si Schottky structure in wide range of voltage and frequency
Authors: Efkere, H.İ.; Barkhordari, A.; Marmiroli, B.; Altındal, Ş.; Azizian-Kalandaragh, Y.
Journal: Physica Scripta
Year: 2024

Detailed analysis of the structural, morphological, optical, electrical, and dielectric properties of the reactively produced WO3 nanostructure
Authors: Efkere, H.İ.; Özçelik, S.
Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
Year: 2023

Evaluation of dielectric properties of Au/TZO/n–Si structure depending on frequency and voltage
Authors: Kınacı, B.; Bairam, C.; Yalçın, Y.; Efkere, H.İ.; Özçelik, S.
Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
Year: 2022

Muhammad Waleed | Thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award -1600

Mr. Muhammad Waleed | Thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award

NFC Institute of Engineering & Fertilizer Research, Faisalabad, Pakistan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Muhammad Waleed embarked on his academic journey with a focus on excellence and determination. He completed his Matriculation in Science (Biology) from Government Muslim High School, Janiwala, securing 887/1100 marks (81%). His pursuit of knowledge continued with FSC in Pre-Engineering at Allama Iqbal Science and Commerce College, Gojra, where he achieved 900/1100 marks (82%). Finally, he graduated with a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering (2018–2022) from UET Lahore via NFC-IEFR FSD, earning an impressive CGPA of 3.402/4 (85%).

💼 Professional Endeavors

Muhammad Waleed has gained extensive professional experience in diverse roles across various industries: Internee at Suraj Cotton Mills Limited, Lahore, focusing on OSHA safety guidelines, manufacturing processes, inventory control, and management policies. Trainee at Chenab Steel Mills, where he developed an understanding of manufacturing processes, product finishing, and quality control analysis. Mechanical Design Engineer at Gourmet Foods – Gojra-Samundari Unit, where he conceptualizes and develops new products, creates detailed CAD models, ensures compliance with safety standards, and optimizes designs for cost-effective production.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Muhammad Waleed has significantly contributed to the field of mechanical engineering through his involvement in various high-impact projects, including: Final Year Project: Numerical Analysis of Shell & Tube Heat Exchanger. Collaborative Research: CFD Analysis of Chevron, Flat Plate, and Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers (Remote-UK). Industry-Driven Designs: 3D Design of a 40-Ton D-Type Water Tube Boiler for Gourmet Sugar Mills and a Bio Organo Phosphate Plant for Gourmet Tagra. His research primarily focuses on advancing mechanical design, thermal engineering, and computational fluid dynamics.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Through his publications, such as the "Numerical Analysis of Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger with Combination of Different Baffles", Muhammad Waleed has made noteworthy contributions to engineering knowledge. His work is not only academically robust but also has practical implications for industrial advancements in heat exchanger efficiency and energy systems.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Muhammad Waleed demonstrates exceptional proficiency in technical tools and software, including: Design Tools: SolidWorks, AutoCAD, FreeCAD, KeyShot. Simulation Software: ANSYS Workbench, MATLAB. Data Analysis Tools: Origin Pro. His expertise enables him to deliver innovative solutions in mechanical design and simulation.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

As a proactive learner and team player, Muhammad Waleed has developed teaching and mentorship skills throughout his academic and professional journey. He effectively collaborates with peers and juniors on technical projects, sharing his expertise in CAD, simulation, and mechanical systems analysis.

🔑 Legacy and Future Contributions

Muhammad Waleed envisions a legacy of innovation and excellence in mechanical engineering. His future goals include contributing to sustainable energy systems, optimizing manufacturing processes, and mentoring the next generation of engineers to uphold the highest standards of quality and creativity.

📖Notable Publication

Numerical analysis of shell and tube heat exchanger with combination of different baffles

Authors: Muhammad Waleed, Syed Murawat Abbas Naqvi, Hammad Mustafa, Mohammed K. Al Mesfer, Mohd Danish, Kashif Irshad, Hasan Shahzad
Journal: Case Studies in Thermal Engineering
Year: 2024