Oumarou Savadogo | Electrochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

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. )

Hee-Tae Jung | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Prof. Hee-Tae Jung | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology | South Korea

Professor Hee-Tae Jung is a leading global scientist in chemical and biomolecular engineering whose research centers on developing advanced functional nanomaterials and nanostructures to address critical climate-related and environmental challenges. As Chair Professor at KAIST and Director of multiple international research centers including the Saudi Aramco-KAIST CO₂ Management Center and the KAIST-UCB-VNU Global Climate Change Research Center, he leads multidisciplinary teams focused on creating transformative technologies for greenhouse gas mitigation, sustainable energy production, and high-performance sensor systems. His research group, OOEM, pioneers both top-down and bottom-up nanofabrication approaches, introducing innovations such as secondary sputtering, soft-lithography, supramolecular self-assembly, and advanced nano-patterning. These techniques enable precise control of material architectures to achieve unprecedented performance in catalytic, sensing, and energy-conversion applications. A central aim of his work is to bridge fundamental nanoscience with industrial-scale practical devices, accelerating translation of high-impact research into real-world environmental solutions. Professor Jung’s contributions span CO₂ reduction systems, bifunctional water-splitting catalysts, MXene-based gas sensors with ultrahigh signal-to-noise ratios, deep-learning-assisted chemical sensing, high-density nanoparticle generation via carbothermal shock, and large-area supramolecular alignment. His research has been published in top-tier journals including Nature Electronics, Science Advances, Advanced Materials, Nature Nanotechnology, and ACS Nano. With an exemplary record of leadership serving as President of the Korean Environmental Science Society and Associate Editor for several international journals and numerous prestigious awards, Professor Jung is recognized as one of the most influential scientists in nanomaterials, CO₂ management, and climate-centric engineering innovation. His work continues to shape the future of sustainable materials and technologies.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Continuous biochemical profiling of the gastrointestinal tract using a multiparametric smart capsule. (2025). Nature Electronics, 8, 844.

  • Continuous flow-reactor with superior production rate and stability for CO₂ reduction using semiconductor photocatalysts. (2023). Energy & Environmental Science, 16, 2689.

  • Exploring optimal water splitting bifunctional alloy catalyst by Pareto active learning. (2023). Advanced Materials, 35, 2211497.

  • Atomic-scale homogeneous Ru–Cu alloy nanoparticles for highly efficient electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction. (2022). Advanced Materials, 34, 22055270.

  • Generation of high-density nanoparticles in the carbothermal shock method. (2021). Science Advances, 7, eabk2984.

 

Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Prof. Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

North University of China | China

Dr. Jianguang Xiao is an Associate Professor of Ordnance Science and Technology at North University of China, Ph.D., and supervisor for master’s degree candidates. Recognized as a Young Outstanding Talent of Shanxi Province’s “Sanjin Elite” Program, Dr. Xiao has made significant contributions to the study of reactive materials, explosion and shock dynamics, and target vulnerability assessment, particularly for UAVs, vehicles, and ammunition systems. His research integrates mechanics, thermotics, and chemistry, providing advanced modeling and simulation methods for reactive material behavior under high-velocity impact, energy release, and deflagration conditions. Dr. Xiao has led and participated in over twenty vertical and horizontal research projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Defense Foundation Projects, and Shanxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation. Notable projects include studies on the preparation and energy release characteristics of Tetrafluoroethylene-Hexafluoropropylene-Vinylidene Fluoride-based reactive materials and the development of integrated shock/deflagration material models. He has authored 28 high-level academic documents, including SCI and EI journal papers, one academic monograph, and holds three invention patents. His work has garnered 391 citations from 279 documents, achieving an h-index of 10, reflecting the significant impact of his research on the field of reactive materials and defense engineering. Dr. Xiao’s publications cover topics such as molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions, impact-induced deflagration behavior, and enhanced damage effects of reactive materials on concrete targets. Beyond research, Dr. Xiao actively contributes to the academic community. He serves on the youth editorial boards of journals including Journal of China Ordnance, Aeronautical Weaponry, and Journal of North University of China, and is a peer reviewer for prominent journals like Defence Technology and International Journal of Impact Engineering. He has been consecutively recognized as an Excellent Reviewer by multiple journals, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining high scholarly standards. Dr. Xiao’s interdisciplinary expertise, innovative contributions to reactive materials research, and active academic engagement make him a leading figure in his field, demonstrating both scientific excellence and practical impact.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Xiao, J., Zhang, J., Ma, J., et al. (2024). Mechanics–thermotics–chemistry coupling response model and numerical simulation of reactive materials under impact load. Advances in Engineering Software, 192, 103647.

  • An, D., Xiao, J.*, Ma, J., et al. (2024). Molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions in polytetrafluoroethylene-based reactive materials. Journal of North University of China (Natural Science Edition), 45(02), 222–228.

  • Nie, Z., Xiao, J., Wang, Y., & Xie, Z. (2022). Mechanical properties and ignition reaction characteristics of THV-based reactive materials. Journal of China Ordnance, 43(12), 3030.

  • Xiao, J., Nie, Z., Wang, Z., Du, Y., & Tang, E. (2020). Energy release behavior of Al/PTFE reactive materials powder in a closed chamber. Journal of Applied Physics, 127(16), 165106.

  • Xiao, J., Wang, Z., Nie, Z., Tang, E., & Zhang, X. (2020). Evaluation of Hugoniot parameters for unreacted Al/PTFE reactive materials by modified SHPB test. AIP Advances, 10(4), 045211.

 

Yong Jyun Wang | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Mr. Yong Jyun Wang | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Yong Jyun Wang embarked on his academic journey in the field of Materials Science, and he is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan, expecting to graduate in 2025. His early academic foundation laid the groundwork for his deep engagement in the synthesis and property analysis of advanced functional materials, particularly focusing on oxide thin films.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Throughout his doctoral studies, Mr. Wang has actively participated in significant national research projects, including the MOST-113-2639-M-007-001–ASP, which centers on the development and future application of high-entropy epitaxial films. He has gained valuable experience in cutting-edge material fabrication techniques, with an emphasis on physical vapor deposition (PVD). His professional training is complemented by collaborative efforts within interdisciplinary research teams aiming to push the boundaries of electronic material design.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Wang’s primary research has revolved around two-dimensional bismuth oxychalcogenides, particularly Bi₂O₂Se, targeting its integration into next-generation electronic and memory devices. Through compositional engineering and non-volatile modulation techniques, he has pioneered the development of p-type Bi₂O₂Se with high mobility, making it feasible for integration with its native n-type counterpart. This paves the way for complementary circuits, enhancing the material’s potential in versatile electronic systems. Furthermore, his innovative approach to non-volatile control enables memory functionalities, expanding the application horizon of Bi₂O₂Se in advanced backend electronics.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Despite being at an early stage in his career, Mr. Wang has already made notable contributions to the materials science community. His work has been featured in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications and Advanced Materials, indicating strong recognition from the academic community. His insights into high-mobility semiconducting materials have opened new research avenues for low-power electronics and neuromorphic computing.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Mr. Wang is proficient in advanced thin-film fabrication methods, especially physical vapor deposition, and skilled in material characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electrical transport measurements. His technical versatility allows for comprehensive investigations into both structural and electronic properties of novel materials.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

While pursuing his Ph.D., Mr. Wang has actively mentored undergraduate and junior graduate students, assisting them in lab training and project supervision. His role as a peer mentor has not only contributed to the academic growth of his colleagues but also strengthened his capabilities in scientific communication and leadership.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mr. Wang’s work on Bi₂O₂Se has established a strong foundation for complementary logic and memory device platforms, essential for the advancement of low-dimensional nanoelectronics. Looking ahead, he aspires to continue his research into functional oxide materials, explore heterogeneous integration, and contribute to the development of energy-efficient and intelligent device systems. His vision includes bridging fundamental material science with practical applications in flexible electronics, smart sensors, and neuromorphic systems.

📖Notable Publications

ZrO₂-HfO₂ Superlattice Ferroelectric Capacitors With Optimized Annealing to Achieve Extremely High Polarization Stability
Authors: Y.K. Liang, W.L. Li, Y.J. Wang, L.C. Peng, C.C. Lu, H.Y. Huang, S.H. Yeong, …
Journal: IEEE Electron Device Letters
Year: 2022

Electric-field control of the nucleation and motion of isolated three-fold polar vertices
Authors: M. Li, T. Yang, P. Chen, Y. Wang, R. Zhu, X. Li, R. Shi, H.J. Liu, Y.L. Huang, …
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2022

High entropy nonlinear dielectrics with superior thermally stable performance
Authors: Y.J. Wang, H.C. Lai, Y.A. Chen, R. Huang, T. Hsin, H.J. Liu, R. Zhu, P. Gao, C. Li, …
Journal: Advanced Materials
Year: 2023

Flexible magnetoelectric complex oxide heterostructures on muscovite for proximity sensor
Authors: Y.J. Wang, J.W. Chen, Y.H. Lai, P.W. Shao, Y. Bitla, Y.C. Chen, Y.H. Chu
Journal: npj Flexible Electronics
Year: 2023

Quasi-static modulation of multiferroic properties in flexible magnetoelectric Cr₂O₃/muscovite heteroepitaxy
Authors: Y.H. Lai, P.W. Shao, C.Y. Kuo, C.E. Liu, Z. Hu, C. Luo, K. Chen, F. Radu, …
Journal: Acta Materialia
Year: 2023

Kumlachew Yeneneh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Mr. Kumlachew Yeneneh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Ethiopian Defence Univeristy, Ethiopia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🧑‍🔬 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Kumlachew Yeneneh’s educational background highlights a focused journey in the fields of mechanical and motor vehicle engineering. His Master of Science in Mechanical and Motor Vehicle Engineering from the Ethiopian Defence University laid the foundation for his expertise in materials chemistry and mechanical systems design. His academic pursuits were driven by a strong interest in developing materials for defense applications, particularly in creating advanced systems for protection and optimization under extreme conditions.

🔬 Professional Endeavors

As an Associate Researcher and Lecturer at the Ethiopian Defence University, Mr. Yeneneh has significantly contributed to both the academic and practical aspects of mechanical and materials engineering. His key responsibilities include conducting groundbreaking research, mentoring students, and collaborating with industry partners. Since January 2019, his role has been pivotal in developing innovative solutions in armament and materials chemistry. One of his key achievements includes the development of novel bulletproof materials, which enhance ballistic protection for defense applications.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Yeneneh’s primary research area revolves around armament and mechanical engineering, while his secondary focus lies in materials chemistry. He has contributed to several research projects, including the development of high-strength composite materials for ballistic applications and the optimization of mechanical systems for extreme environments. His work in materials science for defense technologies is particularly noteworthy. His recent publication in Heliyon titled “Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Body Armor Polymer Penetration Resistance Against 7.62 mm Bullets” is a prime example of his expertise in materials engineering, where he demonstrated significant improvements in material durability.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Yeneneh’s research has made a considerable impact on both the scientific community and the defense sector. By developing advanced materials and innovative solutions for armament systems, he has contributed to enhancing protection mechanisms, especially in defense and military applications. His work is not just limited to theoretical advancements but has tangible implications in improving materials used in extreme environments, particularly in ballistics and automotive engineering. Moreover, his involvement in academic publications and collaborations further establishes his influence in materials and mechanical engineering research.

🔍 Academic Citations and Publications

His contributions have been recognized globally, with his research published in respected journals like Heliyon and the International Journal of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering. His publications, such as "Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Body Armor Polymer Penetration Resistance Against 7.62 mm Bullets," showcase his expertise in advanced material synthesis and mechanical testing. His recent work on lateral dynamics in semi-autonomous vehicles and evaporative cooling systems for horticulture in Ethiopia has broadened the scope of his research to include automotive and environmental engineering as well.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Mr. Yeneneh’s technical skills span a range of advanced areas in both materials chemistry and mechanical systems design. He is proficient in analytical chemistry techniques, including spectroscopy and chromatography, which he applies to the synthesis and characterization of novel materials. In addition, his computational modeling expertise in MATLAB, ANSYS, and COMSOL allows him to simulate material behaviors and mechanical systems. His proficiency in software like AutoCAD and ChemDraw aids in the design and visualization of complex mechanical and chemical systems.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer, Mr. Yeneneh is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of engineers and researchers. His teaching experience at the Ethiopian Defence University involves guiding students through complex concepts in mechanical and materials engineering. By mentoring students and encouraging them to engage in cutting-edge research, he plays a crucial role in the development of future engineers. His focus on mentorship is reinforced by his involvement in publishing and presenting research, making sure students are exposed to real-world challenges and innovations.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mr. Yeneneh’s work and legacy in material chemistry and mechanical systems design are setting the stage for future advancements in defense technologies and materials science. He is committed to continuing his research in creating high-performance materials for various applications, particularly in ballistics, automotive, and energy systems. With his proven track record of developing innovative solutions, his future contributions promise to impact both military and civilian technologies, driving forward advancements in sustainability, defense, and engineering.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Mr. Yeneneh’s outstanding contributions have earned him prestigious accolades, including the Best Researcher Award for his work in material chemistry and mechanical engineering. He also received a Distinction Certificate from the International Journal of Environment and Climate Change in recognition of his impactful research. These honors are a testament to the quality and significance of his work in the fields of materials science and engineering.

🤝 Professional Memberships

Mr. Yeneneh’s professional affiliations with organizations like the Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Ethiopian Mechanical Engineers Association further demonstrate his commitment to staying at the forefront of the engineering community. His involvement in these associations allows him to collaborate with peers, exchange ideas, and contribute to the development of industry standards and practices.

📖Notable Publications

  • Numerical and experimental analysis of body armor polymer penetration resistance against 7.62 mm bullet
    Authors: Gebrewahid Asgedom, Kumlachew Yeneneh, Getu Tilahun, Besufekad Negash
    Journal: Heliyon
    Year: 2025

  • Analysis of Lateral Dynamics of the Semi-Autonomous Vehicles for Lane Changes and Cornering Maneuvers
    Authors: Kumlachew Yeneneh, Yoseph B.
    Journal: Research Square
    Year: 2024

  • Performance evaluation of evaporative cooling systems for mitigating post-harvest losses in Ethiopian horticultural crops
    Authors: Kumlachew Yeneneh, Menelik Walle
    Journal: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part C: Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science
    Year: 2024

  • Robust H∞ Control Design for Improving Handling and Ride Comfort in Semi-Active Suspension Systems
    Authors: Kumlachew Yeneneh, Tatek Mamo, Menelik Walle, Biru Birhanu
    Journal: International Journal of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering
    Year: 2024

  • Design, Fabrication and Evaluation of Evaporative Cooling System for the Storage of Fruits and Vegetables
    Authors: Kumlachew Yeneneh
    Journal: International Journal of Applied and Structural Mechanics
    Year: 2023