Aadarsh Parashar | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Aadarsh Parashar | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Colorado School of Mines, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Aadarsh Parashar began his academic journey at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, where he pursued a Bachelor and Master of Technology in Energy Science and Engineering. With a commendable GPA of 8.69/10.00, he built a strong foundation in energy systems, computational modeling, and experimental research. His academic excellence led him to further his studies at the Colorado School of Mines, where he is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Mechanical Engineering with a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0. Expected to graduate in August 2025, he has focused his research on reversible fuel cell technology and hydrogen systems, striving to innovate clean energy solutions.

🏭 Professional Endeavors

Aadarsh has a rich professional background, having worked with esteemed institutions and companies. During his time as a Research Associate at IIT Bombay, he transitioned complex algorithms from C++ to Python for electrode optimization, improving computational efficiency. He also conducted numerical studies on microstructure characterization for better material design. As a Summer Intern at Cummins India Limited, he contributed to sustainable mobility by performing life cycle analysis of Li-ion batteries and integrating MATLAB Simulink models to optimize fuel cell-battery hybrid vehicles. Currently, as a Graduate Researcher at Colorado School of Mines, he has led groundbreaking projects in reversible solid oxide fuel cells (rSOFCs), developing high-temperature, high-pressure systems and collaborating on DOE-funded projects to validate system performance.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Aadarsh’s research is centered around hydrogen production and reversible fuel cell technology. He successfully designed and constructed a $125,000 test facility for kW-scale reversible fuel cell experiments, pushing operational limits up to 800°C and 6.5 bar. His work has led to a breakthrough in reducing hydrogen production costs below $2/kg, a significant milestone in making hydrogen energy more commercially viable. Collaborating with industry leaders like Nexceris and Northwestern University, he has played a key role in scaling up hydrogen-based energy solutions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His research holds great promise for the future of clean energy and grid-scale storage solutions. By improving the efficiency and economic feasibility of reversible solid oxide cell (rSOC) systems, Aadarsh’s contributions could accelerate the global transition toward sustainable hydrogen-based energy systems. His innovations in techno-economic modeling and high-fidelity validation of energy systems are critical in making renewable energy more scalable and cost-effective.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Aadarsh’s impactful research has been documented in renowned journals and conferences, including:

  • "Performance analysis of a 1 MW reversible solid oxide system for flexible hydrogen and electricity production" (International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2025).
  • "Scenarios for Hydrogen Production from a Full-Scale Reversible Solid Oxide System with Electrolyte-Supported Stacks" (Electrochemical Society Meeting Abstracts, 2023).
  • "Assessing reversible solid oxide cell systems for grid-energy storage based on H2/H2O and CH4/H2O-CO2 chemistries" (European Fuel Cell Forum, 2022).

These contributions serve as key references in the field of hydrogen energy, solidifying his standing as a thought leader in reversible fuel cell systems.

💻 Technical Skills

Aadarsh is proficient in a diverse range of software and programming tools essential for energy system modeling and simulation:

  • Programming: Python, MATLAB, C++, Bash
  • Energy System Simulation: COMSOL, gPROMS Process, LabVIEW
  • Data Analysis & Modeling: High-fidelity system validation, techno-economic analysis
  • Experimental Techniques: High-temperature and high-pressure system design, safety protocol development

His multidisciplinary expertise allows him to bridge the gap between computational modeling and real-world experimental validation, enhancing the reliability of clean energy technologies.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

Beyond research, Aadarsh has contributed to academic mentorship and knowledge dissemination. He has actively guided junior researchers and students, helping them develop experimental techniques and computational modeling skills. His commitment to education and research collaboration strengthens the pipeline of future engineers and scientists in the hydrogen and clean energy domain.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Aadarsh’s work is paving the way for next-generation hydrogen technologies that are both economically viable and scalable. His research has already contributed to a significant cost reduction in hydrogen production, and his future work is expected to further optimize fuel cell efficiency, durability, and grid-scale deployment. By integrating high-fidelity modeling, experimental validation, and industry collaboration, he aims to revolutionize renewable energy storage and hydrogen economy applications.

📖Notable Publications

"Performance analysis of a 1 MW reversible solid oxide system for flexible hydrogen and electricity production"

Authors: A Parashar, A Vaeth, OB Rizvandi, SL Swartz, RJ Braun

Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Year: 2025

"Scenarios for Hydrogen Production from a Full-Scale Reversible Solid Oxide System with Electrolyte-Supported Stacks"

Authors: A Parashar, RJ Braun

Journal: Electrochemical Society Meeting Abstracts

Year: 2023

"Assessing reversible solid oxide cell systems for grid-energy storage based on H2/H2O and CH4/H2O-CO2 chemistries"

Authors: A Parashar, J Hosseinpour, E Reznicek, RJ Braun

Journal: European Fuel Cell Forum

Year: 2022

Peng Yao | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Peng Yao | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shandong University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🏛️ Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Peng Yao embarked on his academic journey at Northeastern University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree (1998-2002) in Mechanical Engineering and Automation. His keen interest in mechanical systems and automation drove him to further specialize in Mechanical Manufacturing and Automation, earning his Master’s degree (2002-2005) from the same university. His passion for research and advanced engineering led him to Tohoku University, Japan, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Nanomechanics (2008-2011). This academic path equipped him with a deep understanding of mechanical structures, automation techniques, and nanomechanical properties, shaping his future research endeavors.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Yao is currently a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, China. His career has been marked by an extensive engagement with mechanical engineering, precision manufacturing, and automation. His work focuses on integrating advanced nanomechanics principles into modern manufacturing techniques, bridging the gap between theoretical research and industrial applications. Over the years, he has contributed to the enhancement of automated manufacturing systems, precision engineering, and mechanical design, ensuring efficiency and innovation in the field.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Yao’s research primarily revolves around nanomechanics, with a strong focus on material behavior at the nanoscale. His expertise extends to precision manufacturing, material engineering, and automation in mechanical systems. His studies have led to advancements in high-performance materials, micro-manufacturing processes, and AI-driven automation systems. By integrating nanomechanical insights into manufacturing and automation, his research has paved the way for innovative solutions in industrial production, robotics, and material science. His work plays a crucial role in developing next-generation materials with enhanced strength, flexibility, and durability.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Yao’s contributions have had a far-reaching impact on both academia and industry. His research in nanomechanics and automation has influenced the development of high-precision industrial applications, leading to the improvement of manufacturing efficiency and product reliability. His cross-border collaborations, particularly between China and Japan, have strengthened global research partnerships in mechanical engineering. Beyond research, he has inspired and mentored a new generation of engineers and researchers, contributing to the global advancement of mechanical automation and material science.

📖 Academic Citations & Recognitions

Prof. Yao's scholarly contributions have been widely recognized through numerous academic citations and research publications. His work is frequently referenced in studies related to nanomechanical materials, automation systems, and precision engineering. His publications have contributed significantly to scientific advancements in mechanical behavior at the nanoscale, strengthening his reputation as a leading researcher in the field. His research has gained attention in high-impact mechanical engineering and materials science journals, reflecting his influence in advancing industrial and scientific applications.

🛠️ Technical Skills

With an extensive background in mechanical engineering and nanomechanics, Prof. Yao possesses a strong command of advanced computational tools and experimental techniques. His expertise includes computational nanomechanics, finite element analysis (FEA), robotics and automation, and high-precision manufacturing systems. His skills in integrating artificial intelligence with mechanical automation have positioned him at the forefront of technological advancements in intelligent manufacturing. His technical proficiency allows him to develop cutting-edge solutions for industrial applications, ensuring greater efficiency and accuracy in engineering processes.

🎓 Teaching Experience

As a professor at Shandong University, Prof. Yao has played a vital role in shaping the academic and professional careers of his students. His teaching focuses on advanced mechanical design, automation engineering, and nanomechanics, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Through research guidance and mentorship, he has helped numerous graduate and doctoral students achieve academic excellence and industry readiness. His approach to education bridges the gap between scientific research and industrial needs, ensuring that his students remain at the forefront of engineering innovation.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Peng Yao’s legacy is defined by his pioneering work in mechanical automation and nanomechanics, contributing significantly to the progress of modern manufacturing technologies. Looking ahead, his research aims to develop AI-driven automation systems, enhance nanomaterial applications, and foster global research collaborations. His commitment to scientific advancement and education ensures that his contributions will continue to shape the future of mechanical engineering and precision manufacturing. Through his work, he is not only pushing the boundaries of technology but also inspiring the next generation of researchers to explore the possibilities of nanomechanics and intelligent automation.

📖Notable Publications

Grinding quality evaluation and removal mechanism of resin-coated SiC and 2.5D-C-SiCs surface strategies
Authors: S. Qu, L. Li, Y. Yang, Z. Yin, P. Yao
Journal: Tribology International
Year: 2024

Intelligent rolling bearing compound fault diagnosis based on frequency-domain Gramian angular field and convolutional neural networks with imbalanced data
Authors: F. Zhang, P. Yao, X. Geng, M.S. Jiang, L. Jia
Journal: Journal of Vibration and Control
Year: 2024

Laser-assisted water jet machining of high quality micro-trap structures on stainless steel surfaces
Authors: L. Liu, P. Yao, D. Chu, S. Qu, C. Huang
Journal: Chinese Optics
Year: 2024

Temperature field in the crack-free ductile dry grinding of fused silica based on wheel wear topographies
Authors: W. Wang, Z. Li, H. Yin, S. Yu, P. Yao
Journal: Journal of Materials Processing Technology
Year: 2024

Ultra-precision grinding damage suppression strategy for 2.5D-Cf-SiCs by resin coating protection
Authors: L. Li, S. Qu, Y. Yang, G. Peng, Z. Yin
Journal: Tribology International
Year: 2024

Effect of arc deposition process on mechanical properties and microstructure of TiAlSiN gradient coatings
Authors: L. Ji, H.L. Liu, C. Huang, Y. Liu, P. Yao
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2024