Amna Al Rasbi | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Ms. Amna Al Rasbi | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Individual Researcher and Inventor | Oman

Amna Wahab Yahya Al Rasbi is a dynamic and innovative chemical engineer with a strong foundation in research and development, complemented by diverse industrial experiences across Oman. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, and has applied her academic knowledge in various practical settings, including process safety, production chemistry, and environmental analysis. Her professional experience spans roles such as Project Research Officer at OQ, Process Safety Intern at OQEP, and Laboratory Analyst Intern at Sultan Qaboos University, where she contributed to projects aimed at improving chemical process efficiency and environmental management. Notably, her research focuses on the synthesis and application of silica and calcium carbonate nanoparticles for wastewater treatment, demonstrating significant potential in reducing organic contaminants from refinery effluents. She has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences, such as Oman Water Week 2025 and the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC2024), reflecting her commitment to knowledge dissemination and professional development. Amna’s expertise combines technical proficiency in tools like Aspen HYSYS, AutoCAD, and MATLAB with strong analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling her to develop innovative, practical solutions for complex chemical engineering challenges. Beyond technical competence, she demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and strategic planning abilities, fostering collaborative approaches in research and industrial projects. Her dedication to sustainable development, environmental safety, and process optimization underscores her potential as a leading contributor to chemical engineering innovation. Through her interdisciplinary approach and continuous learning mindset, Amna exemplifies the qualities of an emerging researcher poised to make impactful contributions to chemical process engineering, nanomaterials applications, and environmental sustainability.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Al Rasbi, A. W. Y. A., Geetha Devi, M., & Chandrasekhar, G. (2022). Synthesis and application of silica and calcium carbonate nanoparticles in the reduction of organics from refinery wastewater. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 99(7), 100519.

Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Greece

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Foundation

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas was born in Athens, Greece, where he pursued his early education before enrolling at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to complete his MSc in Chemical Engineering. His academic curiosity and passion for science led him to further achieve a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the same institution. To enhance his interdisciplinary knowledge, he also obtained a Master’s degree in Sanitary Engineering from the National School of Public Health (Greece).

🧪 Professional Trajectory and Industry Expertise

Dr. Rigas began his career as a Production and R&D Engineer at the Greek Powder Company, an ammunition and explosives manufacturer. He expanded his knowledge globally through specialized training in slurry explosives in the United States under the guidance of Prof. Melvin Cook of Utah University. Over the decades, he contributed as a consultant to several engineering and industrial firms in Greece, addressing challenges in pollution control, water chemistry, and gas enterprises. These roles solidified his expertise in chemical engineering applications within high-risk and regulated industries.

🎓 Academic Career and Teaching Excellence

Prof. Rigas held a long and distinguished academic tenure at the Department of Chemical Engineering, NTUA, rising through the ranks from Lecturer to Associate Professor. He also served as a Visiting Professor at esteemed institutions such as the Greek Fire Brigade Academy, the National School of Public Health (Greece and France), and the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His teaching portfolio is vast, covering subjects like Organic Chemical Technology, Science and Technology of Explosives, Environmental Science and Technology, Occupational Health and Safety, Polymer Science, Remediation of Contaminated Sites, and Quantitative Risk Analysis. His international experience in education enriched the learning experience for students across disciplines and continents.

🔬 Research Interests and Scientific Focus

Currently active as an independent author and researcher, Prof. Rigas continues to contribute to high-impact areas in environmental and chemical engineering. His research focuses on:

  1. Process safety and loss prevention – ensuring safer chemical processing systems.

  2. Fungal bioremediation – using fungi to clean contaminated environmental sites.

  3. Bacterial remediation of stone monuments – protecting cultural heritage using microbiological methods.

🌍 Multilingual and Multidisciplinary

Fluent in Greek (native), English, and French, Dr. Rigas has effectively communicated his research and teachings across borders, supporting international academic and industrial collaboration. His ability to work in diverse linguistic and cultural environments has strengthened his role as a global educator and innovator.

🏛️ Legacy and Continued Influence

Now retired from NTUA, Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas remains active as an independent author, sharing his extensive knowledge through publications, collaborations, and mentoring. His career spans decades of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and industrial consultation. A pioneer in the fields of explosive safety, environmental remediation, and occupational health, his contributions continue to influence chemical engineering education and sustainable environmental practices worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Adsorption of humic acid on acid-activated Greek bentonite
Authors: D Doulia, C Leodopoulos, K Gimouhopoulos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Volume 340 (2), Pages 131–141
Citations: 250
Year: 2009

Hazards, safety and knowledge gaps on hydrogen transmission via natural gas grid: A critical review
Authors: Z Labidine Messaoudani, F Rigas, M.D.B. Hamid, C.R.C. Hassan
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 41 (39), Pages 17511–17525
Citations: 214
Year: 2016

Validation of turbulence models in heavy gas dispersion over obstacles
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 108 (1–2), Pages 9–20
Citations: 209
Year: 2004

Estimation of safety distances in the vicinity of fuel gas pipelines
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Volume 19 (1), Pages 24–31
Citations: 207
Year: 2006

Evaluation of hazards associated with hydrogen storage facilities
Authors: F Rigas, S Sklavounos
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 30 (13–14), Pages 1501–1510
Citations: 175
Year: 2005

Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Mr. Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Wollo University, Ethiopia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Kedir Derbie Mekonnen embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2011-2016) from Wollo University, Kombolcha Institute of Technology, Ethiopia, completing a project on bio-ethanol production from corn cob. His academic endeavors culminated in a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Process Engineering) from Bahir Dar University in 2020. His thesis, Synthesis and Characterization of Biodiesel from Desert Date (Balanites Aegyptiaca) Seed Kernel Oil, reflects his dedication to renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Kedir’s professional career began in December 2016 as a Production Chemist at Kombolcha Tannery PLC. Here, he gained hands-on experience in leather production, waste management, and chemical formulation. Transitioning to academia in 2017, he served as an Assistant Lecturer at Wollo University, later advancing to the position of Lecturer in 2020. His role includes teaching, mentoring students, conducting research, and leading laboratory sessions.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Kedir’s research focuses on biodiesel production, catalysis, and renewable energy. His Master's thesis demonstrates innovative approaches to utilizing desert date seed kernel oil for biodiesel synthesis, addressing global energy challenges. As a lecturer, he actively reviews and conducts research, contributing to Ethiopia’s knowledge base in process engineering.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his work in academia and industry, Kedir has impacted the fields of chemical engineering and renewable energy. His efforts in biodiesel production and waste management have practical implications for sustainable development in Ethiopia. He has also played a vital role in shaping future engineers through his teaching and mentorship at Wollo University.

📖 Academic Cites

Kedir’s academic contributions are recognized in scholarly circles, with publications and research work cited by peers. His focus on biodiesel production and environmental sustainability has garnered attention in the field of chemical engineering.

💻 Technical Skills

Kedir possesses a robust set of technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, SPSS, Design Expert, E-Draw Max, LINGO, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, and MATLAB. These tools empower him to conduct sophisticated simulations, data analyses, and process designs, enhancing his research and teaching capabilities.

🎓 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer at Wollo University, Kedir has enriched the learning experiences of countless students. His responsibilities include preparing and delivering lectures, designing laboratory sessions, advising on student projects, and crafting curriculum materials. His Higher Diploma in Higher Education Teaching further underscores his commitment to educational excellence.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Kedir envisions a future where renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s development. His work in biodiesel research and education aims to inspire innovation in chemical engineering. By mentoring students and contributing to groundbreaking research, he is leaving a lasting legacy that will shape the next generation of engineers and scientists.

🌟 Key Highlights

  • Innovative Research: Focus on renewable energy through biodiesel production.
  • Industrial Experience: Expertise in leather production and waste management as a Production Chemist.
  • Teaching Excellence: Significant contributions to student learning and mentorship.
  • Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of industry-standard software and tools.
  • Sustainability Advocate: Dedication to environmental sustainability through research and practice.

📖Notable Publications