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. )

Frank Efe | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Mr. Frank Efe | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Morgan State University, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Frank Efe's academic journey began at Ibadan Grammar School in Nigeria, where he built a strong foundation in the sciences. His passion for physics and materials science led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Physics with Electronics at Ekiti State University, where he graduated with a commendable CGPA of 4.1/5.0. His thirst for knowledge drove him further, leading him to Obafemi Awolowo University for a Master of Science in Material Physics, focusing on semiconductor and ferromagnetic thin-film materials.

His academic excellence and research potential brought him to the United States, where he earned another Master of Science in Physics at Morgan State University, achieving an impressive CGPA of 3.9/4.0. His research in thin-film materials and nanotechnology positioned him as a rising scholar in the field.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Frank Efe's professional career blends both research and data analytics. As a materials scientist, he specializes in the synthesis and characterization of semiconductor and ferromagnetic thin films, which have applications in cutting-edge technologies such as spintronics, solar cells, and sensors. His expertise includes using advanced characterization techniques like X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy.

Beyond research, he also worked on a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded project as a data analyst, where he assessed students' motivation, curiosity, and success rates. This interdisciplinary experience showcases his ability to bridge scientific research with educational development.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Frank’s research centers on thin-film materials, particularly iron-platinum nanomaterials, which have extensive applications in magnetic storage devices, reflective coatings, and high-power electronic devices. His recent focus is on the development of 2D semiconductor materials that exhibit superior high-temperature and high-power performance, making them ideal for next-generation electronics and energy devices.

His ability to synthesize, analyze, and optimize materials for industrial applications demonstrates his deep expertise in nanotechnology and material physics.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Frank’s work has gained recognition both in academic circles and professional communities. His contributions in thin-film research and semiconductor materials are paving the way for advancements in energy-efficient electronics and durable electronic components.

His leadership and contributions have earned him numerous awards, including:
✅ Award of Recognition, Morgan State University, Physics Department (2023)
✅ Sigma Pi Sigma Award for high scholarship and service in Physics & Astronomy (2023)
✅ Academic Achievement Trailblazer Award, Morgan State University (2023)
✅ Best Paper Award, ASEE Conference, Baltimore Convention Centre (2023)

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Frank’s research outputs are gaining traction within the scientific community. His work has been cited in multiple journals and conferences, particularly in the areas of thin-film materials, nanotechnology, and semiconductor physics. His recognition at ASEE and Morgan State University symposiums further underscores his impact as a researcher.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Frank possesses a diverse set of technical skills, including expertise in:
✔ Material synthesis & thin-film deposition techniques
✔ X-ray diffractometry (XRD) & Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
✔ Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) & Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
✔ UV-Vis Spectrophotometry & Raman Spectroscopy
✔ Four-point probe measurements for electrical characterization
✔ Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA)
✔ Data analysis & statistical modeling (NSF-funded research experience)

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Frank has not only contributed to research but has also mentored students and assisted in laboratory experiments at Morgan State University. His involvement in physics education and mentoring younger scientists ensures the transfer of knowledge and the nurturing of future materials scientists.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Frank Efe is committed to pushing the boundaries of nanomaterial research and advancing semiconductor technology. His long-term goal is to contribute to the development of high-performance, sustainable electronic materials that will shape the future of energy storage, computing, and advanced electronics.

📖Notable Publications

Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Pyrolyzed Mg – ZnO Thin Film Coatings on Mild Steel

Authors: Victor Adewale Owoeye, Mojisola Olubunmi Nkiko, Frank O. Efe, Abiodun Eyitayo Adeoye, Enoch Debayo Ogunmola, Ayodele Nicholas Orelusi

Journal: Chemistry of Inorganic Materials

Year: 2025

Synthesis and Characterization of Zinc Cobalt Sulphide Nanofilms for Optoelectronic Applications

Authors: Joseph Onyeka Emegha, Kenneth Onyenike, Rita Omamuyovwi Jolayemi, Chioma Adaku Ejelonu, Frank Efe, Odunayo Tope Ojo

Journal: Chemistry of Inorganic Materials

Year: 2024

Engaging University Students in Practical Physics Labs through Motivational Active Learning

Authors: Oluwapemiisin Akingbola, Pelumi Abiodun, Oludare Owolabi, Frank Efe, Hannah Abedoh

Journal: Conference Paper

Year: 2024

Deposition of Stoichiometry-Tailored Amorphous Cu-S Thin Films by MOCVD Technique

Authors: Olofinjana Bolutife, Fabunmi Tobiloba Grace, Efe Frank Ochuko, Fasakin Oladepo, Adebisi Adebowale Clement, Eleruja Marcus Adebola, Akinwunmi Olumide Oluwole, Ajayi Ezekiel Oladele Bolarinwa

Journal: Phase Transitions

Year: 2023

Magnetic Relaxation in Epitaxial Films with In-Plane and Out-of-Plane Anisotropies

Authors: Abdellah Lisfi, Frank Efe, Manfred Wuttig

Journal: Applied Physics A

Year: 2023