Avan Kumar | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Avan Kumar | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Arizona State University, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Avan Kumar’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Technology in Polymer Science and Chemical Technology from Delhi Technological University (DTU) (2013–2017). Building on this strong foundation, he pursued a Master of Technology in Chemical Engineering at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) BHU, Varanasi (2017–2019), where his research focused on enhancing solar module efficiency using luminescent dyes. His commitment to advancing sustainable technologies culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at IIT Delhi (2019–2023), specializing in the application of deep learning and natural language processing (NLP) for sustainable process development. This rigorous academic path laid the groundwork for his later innovations in AI-driven sustainability solutions.

🧑‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kumar is currently serving as a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the School of Sustainability, Arizona State University (ASU), USA, under the mentorship of Prof. Bhavik R. Bakshi. Since December 2023, he has been actively engaged in designing customized large language models (LLMs) that extract structured databases from unstructured texts, aiming to create comprehensive life cycle inventories (LCIs) and circular reaction networks, particularly for chemical and plastic industries. His professional endeavors seamlessly blend chemical engineering with advanced AI technologies, showcasing his interdisciplinary expertise.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout his academic and research career, Dr. Kumar’s work has revolved around Generative AI, Large Language Models, Explainable AI, Natural Language Processing, and Sustainable Process Development. His doctoral research featured the development of a deep learning-integrated photo-catalyst classification model, data-driven optimization frameworks using Gaussian Process Regression and Multi-Objective Bayesian Optimization, and the creation of domain-specific LLMs such as “Extend-SciBERT,” “H2-BERT,” “Recycle-BERT,” and “CCU-LlaMA.” His innovative use of AI tools for chemical sustainability reflects his forward-thinking vision of the industry.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Kumar’s pioneering research has significant implications for green energy transition, plastic circular economy promotion, and carbon capture advancements. His customized language models have streamlined research processes across sectors like hydrogen production and plastic recycling, thus supporting industries to adapt more sustainable practices. By bridging AI and chemical engineering, he influences both academia and industry towards achieving climate goals and sustainability targets.

📚 Academic Citations

While still at an early stage of his postdoctoral career, Dr. Kumar’s contributions, particularly in AI-driven sustainability research, have begun attracting scholarly attention. His interdisciplinary approach promises a growing impact, with citations expected to increase as his LLM models and sustainable frameworks gain wider academic and industrial adoption.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Kumar possesses strong technical skills in Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Explainable Machine Learning (SHAP, GPR), Multi-Objective Optimization (MOBO), Large Language Model Fine-Tuning, and Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) Development. His interdisciplinary expertise also extends to Sustainable Process Design, Solar Energy Systems, and Circular Reaction Pathway Mapping, demonstrating a rare blend of computational and engineering acumen.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

During his Ph.D. tenure at IIT Delhi, Dr. Kumar contributed actively to the academic community through mentorship roles and lab supervision. His engagement with students in interdisciplinary projects related to AI in chemical processes fostered a collaborative and innovative learning environment. His teaching philosophy focuses on integrating modern computational tools into chemical engineering curricula to prepare future-ready engineers.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions Highlight

Dr. Kumar’s legacy will be defined by his trailblazing integration of AI into chemical engineering to support sustainable development. His ongoing work at ASU promises to revolutionize the way industries build life cycle inventories and circular process models. In the future, he envisions advancing explainable, domain-specific AI systems that not only enhance industrial efficiency but also promote ecological responsibility. His contributions are poised to play a critical role in shaping next-generation sustainable technologies and AI innovations for environmental stewardship.

📖Notable Publications

An NLP-Based Framework for Extracting the Catalysts Involved in Hydrogen Production from Scientific Literature
Authors: Avan Kumar, Hariprasad Kodamana
Journal: Computer Aided Chemical Engineering (Book Chapter)
Year: 2023

A Convolutional Neural Network-Based Gradient Boosting Framework for Prediction of the Band Gap of Photo-Active Catalysts
Authors: Avan Kumar, Sreedevi Upadhyayula, Hariprasad Kodamana
Journal: Digital Chemical Engineering
Year: 2023

Recycle-BERT: Extracting Knowledge about Plastic Waste Recycling by Natural Language Processing
Authors: Avan Kumar, Bhavik R. Bakshi, Manojkumar Ramteke, Hariprasad Kodamana
Journal: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering
Year: 2023

Multiobjective Bayesian Optimization Framework for the Synthesis of Methanol from Syngas Using Interpretable Gaussian Process Models
Authors: Avan Kumar, K.K. Pant, Sreedevi Upadhyayula, Hariprasad Kodamana
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2023

A Text Mining Framework for Screening Catalysts and Critical Process Parameters from Scientific Literature – A Study on Hydrogen Production from Alcohol
Authors: Avan Kumar, Swathi Ganesh, Divyanshi Gupta, Hariprasad Kodamana
Journal: Chemical Engineering Research and Design
Year: 2022

 

Abu Bin Ihsan | Polymer Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abu Bin Ihsan | Polymer Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Eastern University, Bangladesh

👨‍🎓Profiles

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Abu Bin Ihsan embarked on his academic journey in Pharmacy at Khulna University, Bangladesh, where he developed an early fascination for material chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences. His undergraduate research focused on the “Kinetic investigation on the acid hydrolysis of bromazepam catalyzed by micelles of anionic surfactants” conducted at the Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka. He further pursued his Master of Pharmacy (M. Pharm.) from the University of Development Alternative (UODA), achieving a CGPA of 3.56, and later earned his Ph.D. from Hokkaido University, Japan, under the prestigious MEXT scholarship. His doctoral research in polymeric biomaterials and supramolecular chemistry laid a strong foundation for his future innovations in pharmaceutical and biomedical science.

💼 Professional Endeavors

After returning to Bangladesh in 2021 following nearly 11 years of doctoral and postdoctoral research in Japan, Dr. Ihsan began his career as a senior consultant with JICA for healthcare project development in Bangladesh. He served as Chairman of the Department of Pharmacy at ASA University and later took the initiative to establish and lead the Department of Pharmacy at Eastern University (EU) as the Founding Chairperson. Under his leadership, the department received approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Pharmacy Council of Bangladesh (PCB) to launch its B.Pharm (Hons.) program, with enrollment capacity increasing from 30 to 50 students per semester within a year.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ihsan’s research is profoundly interdisciplinary, focusing on pharmaceutical chemistry, bioengineering, materials chemistry, nanochemistry, supramolecular systems, drug delivery systems, and functional biomaterials. He has worked extensively on hydrogels, polyampholytes, adhesive biomaterials, and collagen-based drug delivery systems. One of his major contributions includes the design of shear-induced adhesive materials, outperforming conventional fibrin glues and opening up prospects in stimuli-responsive bioadhesives.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Ihsan has published 25 original research articles, including in high-impact journals such as Nature Materials, where one of his articles became a Highly Cited Paper in materials science. He also contributed 3 book chapters, 2 review articles, and filed 1 patent. His research has accumulated 3,811 citations, showcasing the broad impact of his contributions on the global scientific community. His collaborative research with Japanese pharmaceutical industries has also resulted in novel drug formulations, some of which are under patent consideration.

📊 Academic Citations

With an impressive total impact factor of 191.375 and citations exceeding 3,800, Dr. Ihsan’s work has garnered international recognition. His research on polymeric hydrogels and biomaterials has not only been academically influential but also featured on journal covers and highlighted in Essential Science Indicators by Thomson Reuters.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Throughout his academic and research career, Dr. Ihsan has developed profound expertise in polymer synthesis, materials characterization, hydrogel design, micellar catalysis, drug delivery systems, and advanced analytical techniques. He has also mastered critical scientific tools and procedures necessary for biomaterials development and pharmaceutical applications.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a dedicated educator, Dr. Ihsan emphasizes both theoretical and practical knowledge dissemination. At Eastern University, he played a pivotal role in curriculum development, infrastructure setup, and faculty recruitment. He initiated the establishment of nine laboratories, an animal house, a medicinal plant garden, a seminar library, and the Pharma Club, promoting both academic excellence and co-curricular engagement.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Ihsan envisions a holistic approach to pharmaceutical education in Bangladesh. He is working towards establishing a new Department of Public Health under the Faculty of Life Science at Eastern University. With his visionary leadership and cross-continental academic experiences, he is poised to drive innovation and excellence in health science education and research, contributing meaningfully to national development and global pharmaceutical advancements.

📖Notable Publications

Innovative approaches in bioadhesive design: A comprehensive review of crosslinking methods and mechanical performance

Authors: Asef Raj, Sabrina Sharmin, Safrin Jannat, Saika Ahmed, Abu Bin Ihsan
Journal: Biomaterials Advances
Year: 2025

Advanced Functional Polymers: Properties and Supramolecular Phenomena in Hydrogels and Polyrotaxane-based Materials

Authors: Abu Bin Ihsan, Abu Bin Imran, Md. Abu Bin Hasan Susan
Journal: Chemistry Africa
Year: 2023

Effects of Glycon and Temperature on Self-Assembly Behaviors of α-Galactosyl Ceramide in Water

Authors: Ryo Miyazaki, Mahmuda Nargis, Abu Bin Ihsan, Noriyuki Nakajima, Masahiro Hamada, Yasuhito Koyama
Journal: Langmuir
Year: 2021

Shear‐Induced Adhesion of Alternating Peptides Prepared by Ugi Four‐Center Three‐Component Reaction

Authors: Abu Bin Ihsan, Masataka Taniguchi, Yasuhito Koyama
Journal: Macromolecular Rapid Communications
Year: 2021

Thermoresponsive Structure and Dye Encapsulation of Micelles Comprising Bolaamphiphilic Quercetin Polyglycoside

Authors: Mahmuda Nargis, Abu Bin Ihsan, Yasuhito Koyama
Journal: Langmuir
Year: 2020

Effects of Sugar Chain Length of Quercetin-3-O-Glycosides on Micellization in Aqueous Media

Author: Abu Bin Ihsan
Journal: Chemistry Letters
Year: 2020

Isela Rojas | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award -1862

Dr. Isela Rojas | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Mexico

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Isela Rojas embarked on her academic journey at the Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ-FC), Mexico, where she earned her professional title and MSc. degree. She further advanced her studies by obtaining a Ph.D. degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Faculty of Chemistry. Her educational foundation in chemistry and nutrition laid the groundwork for her future contributions to research and academia.

👩‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Since 1991, Dr. Rojas has been dedicated to training undergraduate and postgraduate students in Nutrition, Food Chemistry, and Medicinal Chemistry at UAQ-FC. Her career as a professor and researcher has not only shaped the academic paths of countless students but has also significantly contributed to the university’s growth in these specialized fields.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Rojas’s research primarily focuses on the chemical and nutritional analysis of natural products. She investigates the role of micronutrients in bone mass development and the bioavailability of minerals in plant-based products. Additionally, her work extends to developing sustainable technologies aimed at enhancing nutraceutical ingredients in foods and minimizing raw material waste, contributing to global sustainability efforts.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Her academic and research endeavors have fostered strong collaborations with national and international institutions, such as UNAM, the Autonomous University of Nuevo León, the Autonomous Metropolitan University, and international centers like the University of the Valley of Guatemala and the National University of Colombia. These collaborations have led to student mobility programs and numerous joint research publications, strengthening scientific ties worldwide.

📊 Academic Citations and Publications

Dr. Rojas has made significant contributions to scientific research, with 37 publications in international indexed journals, 25 national and 15 international presentations, and five book chapters. She has successfully completed six research projects and is currently leading two ongoing projects. Her citation index includes an impressive h-index of 29 and an i10 index of 41. She has also published one patent, showcasing her ability to innovate within her field. Additionally, she has fostered strong collaborations with national and international institutions, including UNAM, the Autonomous University of Nuevo León, the National University of Colombia, and others, enhancing student mobility and contributing to the publication of scientific articles

🏅 Technical Skills and Expertise

Her expertise spans multiple disciplines within chemistry and nutrition, with a focus on natural product analysis, mineral bioavailability, and nutraceutical development. She is also skilled in scientific research methodologies, chemical analysis techniques, and sustainable food technologies.

🎓 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

Dr. Rojas has played a pivotal role in mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students for over three decades. Her dedication to education has influenced many emerging scientists and professionals in the field of chemistry and nutrition.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Rojas aims to continue her research on sustainable food technologies and nutritional science innovations. She remains committed to mentoring young researchers, fostering academic collaborations, and contributing to the global scientific community through impactful research and publications.

📖Notable Publications

Physicochemical Characterization of Nopal Pads (Opuntia ficus indica) and Dry Vacuum Nopal Powders as a Function of the Maturation
Authors: ME Rodríguez-García, C De Lira, E Hernández-Becerra, …
Journal: Plant Foods for Human Nutrition
Year: 2007

Spasmolytic Effects, Mode of Action, and Structure−Activity Relationships of Stilbenoids from Nidema boothii
Authors: Y Hernández-Romero, JI Rojas, R Castillo, A Rojas, R Mata
Journal: Journal of Natural Products
Year: 2004

Smooth muscle relaxing activity of gentiopicroside isolated from Gentiana spathacea
Authors: A Rojas, M Bah, JI Rojas, DM Gutiérrez
Journal: Planta Medica
Year: 2000

Physicochemical and rheological characterization of Opuntia ficus mucilage at three different maturity stages of cladode
Authors: M Contreras-Padilla, ME Rodríguez-García, E Gutiérrez-Cortez, …
Journal: European Polymer Journal
Year: 2016

Smooth muscle relaxing flavonoids and terpenoids from Conyza filaginoides
Authors: RBEL R. Mata, A. Rojas, L. Acevedo, S. Estrada, F. Calzada, I. Rojas
Journal: Planta Medica
Year: 1997

Aurica Farcas | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Aurica Farcas | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry Petru Poni, Romania

👨‍🎓Profiles

🏛️ Early Academic Pursuits

Aurica Farcas embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in polymer chemistry. Her pursuit of excellence led to a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry in 1998, completed with honors at the prestigious "Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry (ICMPP), Iasi, Romania. This early phase of her career laid the groundwork for her expertise in organic and polymer chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, and molecular recognition.

👩‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Farcas has dedicated her career to advancing polymer and organic chemistry, focusing on innovative research that bridges fundamental science and industrial applications. As a researcher at ICMPP, she has played a pivotal role in the development of novel organic materials, specializing in encapsulated π-conjugated monomers, oligomers, and polymers. Her work also extends to surface characterization, electrochemistry, and the study of organic semiconductors' optical, electrical, and doping properties.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research is centered on the control and tailoring of intermolecular interactions in organic semiconductor materials, particularly through molecular encapsulation. These advancements hold promise for the next generation of electronic materials, opening doors to new applications in optoelectronics, flexible electronics, and molecular recognition-based technologies.

Dr. Farcas has contributed significantly to:
✅ The synthesis and characterization of novel organic and polymeric materials.
✅ Development of supramolecular assemblies for enhanced electronic properties.
✅ Exploration of encapsulation techniques to improve material stability and efficiency.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With a research career spanning over two decades, Dr. Farcas has secured more than 40 national and international research grants, a testament to her scientific impact and leadership. Her work has led to 21 laboratory technologies, including three industrial applications, demonstrating her commitment to translating fundamental research into real-world solutions.

Her research findings have shaped contemporary understanding of organic semiconductor materials, influencing advancements in organic electronics and molecular recognition systems.

📖 Academic Contributions and Citations

Dr. Farcas has an extensive publication record, showcasing her dedication to disseminating scientific knowledge. Her academic contributions include:
📚 2 authored books & 6 book chapters
📝 80+ papers published in ISI-indexed journals
📄 40+ articles in non-ISI journals
🎤 21 invited lectures at national and international scientific conferences

Her impact in the scientific community is further reflected in her Web of Science ResearcherID: C-2512-2011.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Farcas possesses expertise in various cutting-edge techniques and methodologies, including:
🔬 Polymer synthesis and characterization techniques.
⚛️ Supramolecular chemistry and molecular encapsulation.
📊 Surface characterization and electrochemical analysis.
💡 Optical and electronic property evaluation of organic semiconductors.

These technical proficiencies have been instrumental in developing new organic materials with tailored properties for advanced applications.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

Beyond research, Dr. Farcas has been actively involved in mentoring young scientists and researchers, guiding them through complex chemical and materials science concepts. Her contributions to education and knowledge transfer have played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of researchers in polymer and organic chemistry.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a seasoned researcher, Dr. Farcas continues to push the boundaries of material science. Her future contributions are expected to:
✨ Drive innovations in organic electronic materials.
✨ Expand the practical applications of molecular encapsulation techniques.
✨ Contribute to the development of more sustainable and efficient polymer-based technologies.

📖Notable Publications

  • A thiophene-based bisazomethine and its inclusion complex with permethylated β-cyclodextrin: Exploring structural characteristics and computational chemistry models

    • Authors: A.M. Resmerita, Ana Maria; C. Cojocaru, Corneliu; M.D. Dǎmǎceanu, Mariana Dana; A.E. El Haitami, Alae E.; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: Dyes and Pigments
    • Year: 2025
  • Aromatic Co-Polyazomethine Polyrotaxane with Enhanced Solubility Applied as a Hole Carrier in a p-n Heterojunction Diode

    • Authors: C. Ursu, Cristian; A.M. Resmerita, Ana Maria; R.I. Tigoianu, Radu Ionut; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
    • Year: 2024
  • Composite materials based on slide-ring polyrotaxane structures for optoelectronics

    • Authors: A.M. Resmerita, Ana Maria; M. Asandulesa, Mihai; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: Journal of Polymer Science
    • Year: 2024
  • Thermal Transitions and Structural Characteristics of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene/cucurbit[7]uril) Polypseudorotaxane and Polyrotaxane Thin Films

    • Authors: B. Hajduk, Barbara; P. Jarka, Pawel; H. Bednarski, H.; P. Kumari, Pallavi; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: Materials
    • Year: 2024
  • Synthesis, Properties and Adsorption Kinetic Study of New Cross-Linked Composite Materials Based on Polyethylene Glycol Polyrotaxane and Polyisoprene/Semi-Rotaxane

    • Authors: A.M. Resmerita, Ana Maria; A. Bargan, Alexandra; C. Cojocaru, Corneliu; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: Materials
    • Year: 2023
  • Novel Insight into the Photophysical Properties and 2D Supramolecular Organization of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/Permodified Cyclodextrins Polyrotaxanes at the Air–Water Interface

    • Authors: A.E. El Haitami, Alae E.; A.M. Resmerita, Ana Maria; E.L. Ursu, Elena Laura; S. Cantin, Sophie; A. Farcaş, Aurica
    • Journal: Materials
    • Year: 2023
  • The straightforward approach of tuning the photoluminescence and electrical properties of encapsulated PEDOT end-capped by pyrene

    • Authors: A. Farcaş, Aurica; M. Damoc, Madalin; M. Asandulesa, Mihai; R.I. Tigoianu, Radu Ionut; E.L. Ursu, Elena Laura
    • Journal: Journal of Molecular Liquids
    • Year: 2023