Abolfazl Olyaei | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abolfazl Olyaei | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Imam Khomeini International University | Iran

Dr. Abolfazl Olyaei is an associate professor at Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin. He earned his B.Sc. in Pure Chemistry from Tabriz University and completed his M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry at Tehran University under Professor Mohammad Raouf Darvich. He continued his studies at Tehran University, receiving a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, supervised by Professor Mehdi Ghandi. Dr. Olyaei’s research focuses on organic synthesis, particularly the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, multicomponent reactions, green chemistry, catalysis, organocatalysis, and the application of materials and organomaterials across various scientific fields. Over the years, he has contributed extensively to scientific literature, authoring numerous research and review articles in reputable journals, highlighting his expertise and impact in organic and heterocyclic chemistry. He has authored 89 research documents with 908 citations recorded by Scopus and an h-index of 17, while Google Scholar reports over 1091 citations and an h-index of 19. His work integrates modern synthetic methods with environmentally friendly approaches, contributing to advancements in catalysis and material science. Dr. Olyaei’s academic dedication and prolific publication record make him a prominent figure in the field of organic chemistry in Iran and internationally.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google scholar 

Featured Publications

Sajjadi, S. B., Olyaei, A., & Shalbafan, M. (2025). Novel naphtho[2,3-b]furan-2,4,9(3H)-trione derivatives as potent ERα inhibitors: Design, regioselective synthesis, HMBC-NMR characterization, in silico molecular docking and ADME studies. BMC Chemistry, 19(1), 253.

Shalbafan, M., Sadeghpour, M., & Olyaei, A. (2025). Study on the interaction of Olmesartan with human serum albumin (HSA) by spectroscopic and molecular docking techniques. Chemical Review and Letters, 8(3), 509–516.

Olyaei, A., Zanjanchi, F., Farzogi, M., & Sadeghpour, M. (2025). Comparative study of electronic structure and photophysical properties of some new Lawsone dyes in dye-sensitized solar cells by DFT and TD-DFT. Russian Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 19(2), 336–347.

Olyaei, A., Sadeghpour, M., & Sajjadi, S. B. (2025). A review on synthesis of furonaphthoquinones through Lawsone derivatives annulation reactions and their biological properties. RSC Advances, 15(5), 3515–3546.

Kayyal, M., Olyaei, A., Pourshamsian, K., & Sadeghpour, M. (2025). Molecular docking and prediction of ADME/drug-likeness properties of some benzochromenopyrimidine derivatives as inhibitors of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). Chemical Review and Letters, 8(2), 300–308.

Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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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

Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

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Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

University of Gujrat, Pakistan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq completed her Master of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Gujrat, Pakistan, achieving an impressive CGPA of 3.72/4.0. Her thesis focused on the Investigation of MoS2 Based Nanomaterials for Efficient Photocatalytic Performance, highlighting her early dedication to advanced materials science. Prior to this, she earned her BS Honors in Physics from the University of Central Punjab. Her solid academic foundation laid the groundwork for her research in nanomaterials and their multifaceted applications.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Mushtaq has demonstrated extensive experience in synthesizing and optimizing nanomaterials, particularly focusing on MoS2, Ta-MoS2, and MoS2/MnO2/WO3 composites. Her work encompasses practical applications in photocatalysis, specifically targeting environmental remediation through degradation of dyes like Methylene Blue and pharmaceutical contaminants such as Metformin. Beyond photocatalysis, she has explored nanomaterials’ roles in energy storage, antimicrobial properties, and shelf-life extension, revealing a broad and impactful research portfolio.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research contributions extend to authoring and co-authoring scientific papers and delivering presentations in academic settings, showcasing her effective communication skills in disseminating scientific knowledge. Notably, she has authored a book titled “Influence of Nobel Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies” (Springer, 2025), emphasizing her expertise and contribution to the field of sustainable energy and nanotechnology. Her primary research interests include materials science, photocatalytic activity, energy storage, antimicrobial applications, and shelf-life enhancement using nanomaterials.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Ms. Mushtaq’s work in synthesizing novel nanomaterials and applying them to environmental and energy challenges places her at the forefront of sustainable nanotechnology research. Her scientific findings contribute not only to academic advancement but also have practical implications for environmental cleanup and energy technologies. By combining experimental research with scientific communication, she significantly influences both her academic peers and the wider scientific community.

📈 Academic Citations

While specific citation metrics are not detailed here, her published research papers and book authorship demonstrate recognition and relevance in the scientific community, particularly in nanomaterials and photocatalysis research fields.

🛠️ Technical Skills

She possesses proficiency in a range of software and instrumentation critical to materials research, including OriginLab, Xpert Highscore Plus, Image J, Endnote, MS Office, and COMSOL Multiphysics. She is skilled in operating analytical tools such as the UV-Visible Spectrometer and Photoluminescence Spectrometer for UV-Vis and PL analysis, enabling her to perform detailed characterization of nanomaterials.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Alongside her research, Ms. Mushtaq has engaged in academic research supervision, teaching, and consultation, managing theses and interdisciplinary projects. Her strong communication skills in English and Urdu facilitate effective knowledge transfer and mentorship within academic environments.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq is poised to continue advancing the field of nanomaterials with a focus on sustainable energy and environmental applications. Her upcoming book and ongoing research reflect a commitment to driving innovative solutions through nanotechnology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring future scientists. Her legacy is set to inspire developments in photocatalytic materials, energy storage, and antimicrobial technologies, impacting both science and society.

📖Notable Publications

Photocatalytic detoxification of Lemon Yellow food additive by Novel AC@ZnO/CuO/WO3 quaternary composites via Citrus Sinensis and Solid-State-Reaction method
Authors: Hassan Imam Rizvi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Zain Ashfaq, Nabil Al-Zaqri, Ismail Warad
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2025

Influence of Noble Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq
Book Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland
Year: 2025
ISBN: 9783031809828, 9783031809835

Facile Strategies to Fabricate MoS2/Bi2O3 Nanocomposites; A Nano Engineered Material for Photoassisted Degradation of Ciprofloxacin and Their Antibacterial Performance
Authors: Muhammad Tauseef Qureshi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Umer Farooq, Abdul Basit, Tahir Iqbal, Ayesha Younas, Mahmoud Al Elaimi, Hira Affan, Mohamed S. Othman, Ghazala Yunus, et al.
Journal: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Year: 2024

Cobalt doped MoS2: A photoactivated nanomaterial for removal of methylene blue and phenol
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Abdul Basit, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Hind A. AL-Shwaiman, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Yousaf, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq, Rana Mustansar Munir
Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
Year: 2024

Enhancing apple shelf life: A comparative analysis of photocatalytic activity in pure and manganese-doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Maria Afzal, Bandar Ali Al-Asbahi, Sumera Afsheen, Iqra Maryam, Ayesha Mushtaq, Sabah Kausar, Aqsa Ashraf
Journal: Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing
Year: 2024

Muthuraj Arunpandian | Catalysis | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Muthuraj Arunpandian | Catalysis | Excellence in Research Award

Yeungnam University, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🔬 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Muthuraj Arunpandian began his academic journey in Tamil Nadu, India, earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Madurai Kamaraj University. He further pursued doctoral studies at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil, where he specialized in nanomaterials and catalysis. His academic training laid the foundation for his focused research in photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, aiming at environmental and energy-related solutions.

🌐 Professional Endeavors

Since 2023, Dr. Arunpandian has been serving as an International Research Professor at the School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, South Korea. In this role, he leads cutting-edge research in the field of catalysis, collaborating internationally to address challenges in sustainable energy and environmental remediation. His work bridges material science and chemical engineering, emphasizing interdisciplinary solutions.

🔬 Research Contributions and Focus

Dr. Arunpandian’s research is primarily focused on two interconnected areas: photocatalysis and electrocatalysis.

  • In photocatalysis, his group develops visible-light-driven semiconductor nanostructures for environmental cleanup and solar hydrogen production. Their innovations in doping strategies, heterojunction design, and surface modifications have dramatically enhanced charge carrier separation, light absorption, and overall catalytic efficiency.

  • In electrocatalysis, he pioneers low-cost, high-efficiency electrocatalysts for water splitting. His work on transition metal-based materials and single-atom catalysts has produced systems with low overpotentials, high current densities, and outstanding durability, offering scalable paths toward clean hydrogen production.

📈 Impact and Influence

Dr. Arunpandian has published over 75 research and review articles in reputed national and international journals, garnering more than 1,200 citations to date. In addition to these publications, he has contributed 2 book chapters, underlining his scholarly productivity and domain authority. His research is widely cited in areas related to green chemistry, renewable energy, and environmental remediation, reflecting its global significance.

🧪 Technical Skills and Innovations

His core technical competencies include:

  • Nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., doped semiconductors, metal-based nanostructures)

  • Photocatalytic degradation systems for pollutant removal

  • HER/OER performance optimization through material design

  • Surface/interface engineering, heterojunction fabrication, and bandgap tuning
    These skills allow him to engineer materials that are both high-performing and scalable for real-world energy and environmental applications.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

As an International Research Professor, Dr. Arunpandian actively contributes to academic mentoring and international research training, guiding graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials. His cross-cultural mentorship fosters innovation and scientific communication at a global scale.

🌱 Legacy and Future Directions

Dr. Arunpandian’s research contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in clean energy and environmental sustainability. His future endeavors will likely focus on integrating AI-based catalyst design, scalable synthesis methods, and industry partnerships for real-world deployment. His vision is to accelerate the transition to clean hydrogen economies and pollutant-free ecosystems, leaving a lasting scientific and societal impact.

📖Notable Publications

A rational design of novel Z-scheme N-rich g-C₃N₅ supported Ag₂WO₄/BiVO₄ ternary heterojunction for remarkably enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of acebutolol antibiotic: Performance, mechanism insight and fragments pathway analysis
Authors: Muthuraj Arunpandian, Tae Hwan Oh, Karuppaiah Selvakumar
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2025

Exceptional Visible-Light-Driven Photodegradation Performance Over N-Rich g-C₃N₅ Decorated Flower-like SrMoO₄ Nanohybrids: Analysis of Mechanism, Efficacy and Degradation Pathway
Authors: Muralidharan S., Arunpandian M., Nagarajan E. R., Oh Tae Hwan, Selvakumar K.
Journal: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Year: 2025

Fabrication of dopamine/TiO₂ nanocomposite hydrogel using fenugreek gum for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants under visible light irradiation
Authors: Nagaraja Kasula, Arunpandian Muthuraj, Oh Tae Hwan
Journal: Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry
Year: 2025

Green synthesis of Zinc Sulfide doped Ag-Zn₃(PO₄)₂ nanocomposite using bael gum: Enhanced visible-light driven photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin and trypan blue with potential antimicrobial and assessment
Authors: Nagaraja Kasula, Boya Mallika, Arunpandian Muthuraj, Oh Tae Hwan
Journal: Inorganic Chemistry Communications
Year: 2025

Nitrogen-Doped Hollow Carbon Spheres-Decorated Co₂SnO₄/WS₂ Heterostructures with Improved Visible-Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dye
Authors: Muthuraj Arunpandian, Tae Hwan Oh
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2025

A facile green synthesis of manganese oxide nanoparticles using gum karaya polymer as a bioreductant for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes and antibacterial activity
Authors: Nagaraja Kasula, Muthuraj Arunpandian, Oh Tae Hwan
Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
Year: 2024

 

Zhenzhao Pei | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhenzhao Pei | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hebei University of Engineering, China 

Profiles

Scopus Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Zhenzhao Pei embarked on his academic journey with an exceptional foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where his outstanding performance earned him the Outstanding Graduate Award—a prestigious accolade that foreshadowed a distinguished career. Following this, he broadened his research horizons as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry at Tsinghua University, working under the mentorship of renowned chemist Prof. Wang Xun. His global academic exposure expanded further with a visiting scholar position at California State University, Long Beach School, USA, enriching his perspective on international scientific practices.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Pei currently serves as a Professor and Director of Chemical Engineering at Hebei University of Engineering, where he has assumed numerous leadership roles. He is the Director of the Chemical Engineering Research Institute, and leads the Chemical Process Safety Research Team. In addition, he plays a pivotal role as the Discipline Leader of the Chemical Engineering Program, shaping the academic and strategic direction of the department.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Pei’s research portfolio spans key domains such as Novel Chemical Process Design, Industrial Catalysis and Reaction Engineering, Advanced Separation Technologies, and Environmental Chemical Engineering. His innovative work bridges the gap between fundamental chemical theory and real-world industrial applications, making his research highly relevant to both academia and the chemical industry. His contribution to chemical process safety, in particular, has established him as a thought leader in developing safer and more sustainable engineering solutions.

Impact and Influence

With over 40 research papers published, including more than 30 indexed in SCI journals, Dr. Pei has made a notable mark in leading publications like Fuel and Applied Surface Science. His research has supported more than 20 national and provincial-level grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Hebei Provincial Fund. Beyond academia, he has also collaborated extensively with industry, contributing to a number of high-impact R&D projects, showcasing the practical value of his work.

Academic Cites and Recognition

Dr. Pei’s scholarly output has been well-received by the academic community. While citation metrics are not listed, his publication in prestigious journals and sustained funding indicate a significant scholarly presence. His expertise has been further recognized by his appointment as a member of the Hebei Provincial Patent Expert Committee, and his leadership as the former Chair of the Postdoctoral Association of Chemistry at Tsinghua University.

Technical Skills and Expertise

His technical expertise encompasses chemical process engineering, catalysis, environmental technology, and separation science. His research is often characterized by the integration of theoretical modeling with experimental validation, ensuring high precision and practical relevance. Dr. Pei is also adept at leading multidisciplinary teams, managing large-scale research initiatives, and mentoring young scientists in advanced chemical methodologies.

Teaching Experience and Mentorship

As a professor and academic leader, Dr. Pei is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He is responsible for curriculum design, program coordination, and the supervision of undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. students. Through his teaching, he instills a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, while also fostering innovation and critical thinking among students.

Legacy and Future Contributions

With an already distinguished track record, Dr. Zhenzhao Pei continues to expand his influence in the fields of chemical process safety and sustainable industrial chemistry. His leadership in integrating environmental concerns into chemical engineering design positions him as a catalyst for future green innovations. Looking ahead, his continued collaboration with industry and academia promises further advancements in clean technology, process optimization, and environmental sustainability.

Notable Publications

Synthesis of low-temperature NH₃-SCR catalysts for MnOx with high SO₂ resistance using redox-precipitation method with mixed manganese sources
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Haiyang Zhao, Haipeng Wang, Guangxi Yu, Hao Wu
Journal: Applied Surface Science
Year: 2025

Influences of glycerol-assisted ultrasonic modification on the ultra-low temperature NH₃-SCR MnFeOx catalysts
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Zhuyue Fu, Haipeng Wang, Haoran Ni, Tao Guo
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

Investigation on denitrification performance of microwave synthesized high-efficiency MnOx catalysts for low-temperature NH₃-SCR
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Haipeng Wang, Haiyang Zhao, Chengye He, Zhuo Ji
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2024