Naikun Shen | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Naikun Shen | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Guangxi Minzu University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

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    🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

    Dr. Naikun Shen’s academic journey began with a deep curiosity about the microbial world and its hidden potential. He pursued his doctoral degree in microbiology, laying a strong foundation in microbial ecology and biochemical processes. During his early academic years, he demonstrated a keen interest in sustainable biotechnologies, particularly the use of microorganisms in environmental remediation and resource recovery. His scientific acumen and commitment to eco-innovation were evident even in his formative years, setting the stage for a lifelong pursuit of environmentally friendly research solutions.

    👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

    Dr. Shen currently serves as a Professor and Department Head at Guangxi Minzu University, where he is also a respected master’s supervisor. Over the years, he has developed a specialized niche in the development and utilization of microbial resources, spearheading research programs that convert waste into valuable bio-products. His professional career is marked by strategic leadership and scientific rigor. With over seven major provincial and ministerial-level projects under his leadership, Dr. Shen has successfully translated research from the lab into real-world applications. In addition, he has contributed to two consultancy and industry collaborations, demonstrating the real-world viability of his innovations. His work often bridges academia and applied science, especially in green chemistry and bio-conversion technologies.

    🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

    Dr. Shen’s research is centered on the biodegradation of waste resources, particularly shrimp and crab shells and feathers. By constructing unique microbial communities and leveraging enzyme-based methods, his team efficiently breaks down these wastes into amino acids, lactate calcium, and chitin—critical inputs for various industrial and agricultural applications. What sets his work apart is the completely environmentally friendly approach: the degradation process relies solely on microbial strains or enzymes, without producing secondary pollution. This has positioned his work as a model for sustainable waste valorization in the context of circular economy and green manufacturing. Moreover, Dr. Shen’s research on transforming chitin into chitin oligosaccharides and shell oligosaccharides has opened new avenues in biomedicine, agriculture, and environmental protection. His commitment to practical, clean, and scalable solutions has helped push the boundaries of microbial resource utilization.

    🏆 Accolades and Recognition

    Dr. Shen’s exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. He is a recipient of the Second Prize of the Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award (4/9)—a prestigious recognition that reflects the regional and national significance of his work. In addition to accolades, Dr. Shen holds 12 published or in-process Chinese patents, demonstrating the novelty and commercial potential of his innovations. His publication record includes over 100 academic papers, of which 28 are indexed in SCI journals, underscoring both the depth and global reach of his research.

    🌏 Impact and Influence

    Dr. Shen’s work has made a profound impact on multiple fronts:

    • Environmental sustainability: His research contributes significantly to waste reduction and resource recovery.

    • Green chemistry: His microbial methodologies serve as models for low-impact industrial processes.

    • Academic advancement: His research outputs and mentorship continue to nurture the next generation of scientists.

    While he does not currently hold formal editorial or collaborative positions, his published work has influenced the scientific community through high citation value and practical utility.

    🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

    Dr. Naikun Shen’s legacy lies in his pioneering approach to microbial biotechnology for environmental applications. As the global scientific community turns increasingly toward sustainable solutions, his work will remain relevant and impactful. Looking ahead, Dr. Shen aims to expand his research into biomedical applications of chitin derivatives, enhance industry-university partnerships, and contribute further to policy-oriented innovations in green technology. His vision includes developing globally scalable microbial systems for biodegradable waste management, thus helping nations meet climate and sustainability goals.

    📖Notable Publications

    Enhanced chitinase production by Bacillus paralicheniformis GXMU-J23.1: Optimization, genomic insights, and chitin degradation mechanism
    Authors: Xie, J.; Zhang, L.; Yang, K.; Zhang, H.; Jiang, M.; Liao, S.; Yang, D.; Shen, N.
    Journal: Bioresource Technology
    Year: 2025

    Halobacillus rhizosphaerae sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium with protease activities isolated from the rhizosphere soil of the mangrove Acanthus ebracteatus
    Authors: Yin, D.; Xie, J.; Liu, R.; Song, C.; Liang, Y.; Huang, H.; Huang, Y.; Long, R.; Shen, N.; Yan, B. et al.
    Journal: Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, International Journal of General and Molecular Microbiology
    Year: 2025

    A Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Unveils the Mechanisms of Response in Feather Degradation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Gxun-7
    Authors: Song, C.; Liu, R.; Yin, D.; Xie, C.; Liang, Y.; Yang, D.; Jiang, M.; Zhang, H.; Shen, N.
    Journal: Microorganisms
    Year: 2024

    A new strain of Rhodococcus indonesiensis T22.7.1<sup>T</sup> and its functional potential for deacetylation of chitin and chitooligsaccharides
    Authors: Xie, J.; Yin, D.; Ou, J.; Lu, B.; Liao, S.; Yang, D.; Zhang, H.; Shen, N.
    Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    Year: 2024

    Antimicrobial mechanisms and antifungal activity of compounds generated by banana rhizosphere Pseudomonas aeruginosa Gxun-2 against fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense
    Authors: Lu, J.; Huang, Y.; Liu, R.; Liang, Y.; Zhang, H.; Shen, N.; Yang, D.; Jiang, M.
    Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    Year: 2024

Muhammad Kashif Majeed | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Kashif Majeed | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

National University of Science and Technology, Pakistan

👨‍🎓Profiles

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Muhammad Kashif Majeed’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in chemistry, especially materials science and electrochemistry. His studies began with a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Gomal University, Pakistan, followed by a Master’s in the same field. His educational path continued with a Ph.D. in Chemistry (Materials/Inorganic) from Shandong University, China, where he focused on the synthesis and electrochemical performances of Si/C-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. His thesis, guided by Professors Yang Jian and Xiaojian Ma, provided significant contributions to the development of energy storage solutions.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Since 2023, Dr. Majeed has been balancing multiple prestigious roles. He is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan. He also holds a Senior Researcher position in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, U.S. His career trajectory includes prestigious postdoctoral experiences at globally recognized institutions, including the University of Texas at Arlington and the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. These roles have enabled him to strengthen his expertise in materials science, catalysis, and energy storage technologies.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Majeed’s research interests primarily lie in materials chemistry, particularly focusing on lithium-ion battery development, nanomaterials, and electrochemical systems. His work on controllable synthesis techniques for Si/C-based anode materials has had a profound impact on the field of energy storage. Additionally, he has conducted advanced research in materials synthesis, crystal analysis, and electrochemical analysis techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests. His research has contributed significantly to the development of efficient, sustainable materials for energy storage systems, thus advancing clean energy technologies.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Majeed’s research has been pivotal in enhancing our understanding of electrochemical energy storage materials, especially those that involve novel materials like Si/C anodes. His work has been recognized in several top-tier journals such as ACS Applied Materials Interfaces, ACS Omega, Materials, and Sustainable Energy and Fuels. As an editorial board member and reviewer for prestigious journals, he plays an integral role in shaping future scientific discourse and advancing the materials science community. His collaborations across continents further amplify his global impact in the field.

📑 Academic Cites and Publications

Dr. Majeed’s publications in leading scientific journals have garnered significant attention in the materials science and electrochemistry communities. His research is frequently cited, highlighting its importance in advancing battery technology and energy storage solutions. As an active journal reviewer for high-impact publications such as ACS Applied Materials Interfaces and Chemistry-A European Journal, he not only contributes to scientific literature but also ensures the high quality and rigor of published research in his field.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Majeed possesses a diverse skill set, including proficiency in advanced materials characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). His expertise extends to the use of computational tools for density functional theory (DFT), material modeling (ChemCraft, Gauss view), and nano-materials synthesis via various methods like sol-gel, hydrothermal, and solvothermal. He is highly proficient in electrochemical analysis methods, making him a versatile researcher capable of addressing complex material challenges.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

As an Assistant Professor at the National University of Science and Technology, Dr. Majeed is involved in teaching advanced chemistry courses, where he imparts knowledge in materials science and electrochemistry. His teaching approach integrates his deep research experience, offering students a comprehensive understanding of both theory and practical applications in chemistry and materials science. Dr. Majeed’s mentorship extends beyond the classroom, as he actively guides research projects, helping students navigate complex scientific problems and develop critical skills for their future careers.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Majeed’s future contributions to the fields of energy storage and materials science are poised to have a lasting impact. His work in developing high-performance, sustainable materials for energy applications will continue to drive innovation in battery technologies. Moreover, his collaborative research efforts at global institutions suggest that he will remain at the forefront of scientific advancements, mentoring the next generation of researchers and contributing to a sustainable energy future. As he continues his academic career, Dr. Majeed is likely to leave a significant legacy in both research and education, inspiring future advancements in materials science and engineering.

📖Notable Publications

Interfacial Engineering of Polymer Solid‐State Lithium Battery Electrolytes and Li‐Metal Anode: Current Status and Future Directions

Authors: Muhammad Kashif Majeed, Arshad Hussain, Ghulam Hussain, Muhammad Umar Majeed, Muhammad Zeeshan Ashfaq, Rashid Iqbal, Adil Saleem

Journal: Small

Year: 2024-12

Designing Nanocomposite-Based Electrochemical Biosensors for Diabetes Mellitus Detection: A Review

Authors: Xiang Guo, Jiaxin Wang, Jinyan Bu, Huichao Zhang, Muhammad Arshad, Ayesha Kanwal, Muhammad K. Majeed, Wu-Xing Chen, Kuldeep K Saxena, Xinghui Liu

Journal: ACS Omega

Year: 2024-07-16

Ni-rich cathode evolution: exploring electrochemical dynamics and strategic modifications to combat degradation

Authors: Adil Saleem, Leon L. Shaw, Rashid Iqbal, Arshad Hussain, Abdul Rehman Akbar, Bushra Jabar, Sajid Rauf, Muhammad Kashif Majeed

Journal: Energy Storage Materials

Year: 2024-05

Co3(hexaamino dipyrazinoquinoxaline)2: Highly conductive and robust two-dimensional Aza-based cobalt metal-organic framework as an efficient electrocatalyst for acidic oxygen evolution

Authors: Rashid Iqbal, M. Shahzaib Naeem, Muhammad Ahmad, Arshad Hussain, Abdul Rehman Akbar, Maryam Kiani, M. Zeeshan Ashfaq, Sajid Rauf, Kareem Yusuf, Muhammad K. Majeed et al.

Journal: Journal of Power Sources

Year: 2024-02

Boosting the crystallinity of novel two-dimensional hexamine dipyrazino quinoxaline-based covalent organic frameworks for electrical double-layer supercapacitors

Authors: Rashid Iqbal, Muhammad Kashif Majeed, Arshad Hussain, Aziz Ahmad, Muhammad Ahmad, Bushra Jabar, Abdul Rehman Akbar, Sajjad Ali, Sajid Rauf, Adil Saleem

Journal: Materials Chemistry Frontiers

Year: 2023

Simulation Analysis of Novel Integrated LNG Regasification-Organic Rankine Cycle and Anti-Sublimation Process to Generate Clean Energy

Authors: Suri, S.U.K.; Majeed, M.K.; Ahmad, M.S.

Journal: Energies

Year: 2023