Hyun-Jae Shin | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hyun-Jae Shin | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Chosun University | South Korea

Dr. Hyun-Jae Shin, an accomplished Associate Professor of Biochemical Engineering at Chosun University, stands as a leading figure in the field of biotechnology, biochemical engineering, and sustainable biomaterials research. As the President of the Korean Society of Mushroom Science, Dr. Shin has established himself as a pioneer in integrating fungal biotechnology, enzyme engineering, and natural product chemistry to create innovative and eco-friendly solutions for global sustainability challenges. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from KAIST, South Korea, and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Westminster, UK. Over his distinguished academic and research career, Dr. Shin has successfully completed 50 major research projects and continues to lead three ongoing initiatives focusing on bio-based materials and enzymatic biotransformation. With an impressive record of over 96 publications in high-impact SCI and SCIE journals, 13 published books, and 31 registered patents, his work has attracted more than 5,000 citations, reflecting its global influence. Dr. Shin’s research primarily revolves around the eco-friendly bioconversion of biomass, such as mushroom mycelium, plant polyphenols, and microbial enzymes, for the creation of sustainable materials like biodegradable fibers, bio-composites, and eco-leather. His groundbreaking innovations have redefined the role of green chemistry and fungal biotechnology in advancing the circular bioeconomy and reducing industrial carbon footprints. Through molecular breeding, enzymatic transformation, and process engineering, he has developed scalable methods that transform agricultural by-products into high-value materials, promoting waste minimization and renewable resource utilization. As Editor-in-Chief of the KSBB Journal and former Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Mushroom, Dr. Shin continues to shape academic discourse in biochemical engineering. His collaborations with institutions such as Kyoto University (Japan) and the Shandong Academy of Sciences (China) further strengthen his global research network. Dr. Shin’s interdisciplinary expertise and leadership have made a lasting impact on sustainable biotechnology, positioning him as a visionary in the pursuit of green innovation and circular manufacturing for a sustainable future.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Im, H.-S., Ryu, M.-S., Kim, B.-J., Eo, J.-K., Park, E., Tagawa, S., & Shin, H.-J. (2025). Eco-friendly masks with a blend of mushroom fiber and cotton. Biotechnology Design. bio-composites

Jeong, Y.-H., Im, H.-S., Park, C., Seo, J., Joo, Y., & Shin, H.-J. (2025, October). Large-scale batch (1 m²) production and mechanical assessment of mushroom mycelium mats. Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering.

Im, H.-S., Tagawa, S., Jeong, J.-S., & Shin, H.-J. (2025, March 5). Production of decolorized mushroom pulp for nonwoven cotton composite fibers. Fibers, 13(3), 30.

Shin, H.-J., Ro, H.-S., Kawauchi, M., & Honda, Y. (2025, January 10). Review on mushroom mycelium-based products and their production process: From upstream to downstream. Bioresources and Bioprocessing, 12(1), 8367.

Choi, M.-H., Yang, S.-H., Lee, Y.-J., Sohn, J.-H., Lee, K.-S., & Shin, H.-J. (2023). Anti-obesity effect of daidzein derived from Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb. extract via PPAR pathway in MDI-induced 3T3-L1 cell line. Cosmetics, 10(6), 164.

Jugal Bori | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jugal Bori | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Netaji Subhas University of Technology | India

Profiles

Scopus
Orcid
Google scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jugal Bori began his academic journey in the field of chemistry with a foundational education in science. His deep-rooted interest in the subject led him to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, followed by a Master’s degree from a reputed university in Assam, India. He later earned a Doctorate in Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati. His doctoral research focused on the synthesis and characterization of nitrogen-containing heterocycles and their coordination chemistry, laying a strong foundation for his future research endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Bori is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT), Delhi. In this role, he combines academic teaching with active research. His transition into academia has been complemented by his prior success in national-level competitive examinations such as the CSIR-UGC-NET (JRF) and GATE, demonstrating his academic competence and dedication to chemical sciences.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Bori’s research contributions span several high-impact areas in chemistry. His primary areas of focus include coordination chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, nanomaterials, and catalysis. He has actively worked on the development of novel synthetic pathways for heterocyclic compounds and has explored their structural and functional properties. His work also extends into green synthesis approaches, environmental remediation using nanomaterials, and catalytic conversion of biomass-derived compounds. Additionally, he has collaborated on interdisciplinary projects involving advanced materials like perovskite-titanium dioxide systems and zinc-doped ferrites for energy and environmental applications.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Bori has published several research articles in well-recognized journals such as ChemistrySelect, Inorganica Chimica Acta, Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry, and Biomass and Bioenergy. His co-authored works have contributed to the growing body of knowledge in both organic and inorganic chemistry, especially with respect to material science and catalysis. His involvement in reviewing journal manuscripts for high-impact journals such as the Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering further emphasizes his role as a peer in the global scientific community.

Academic Contributions and Citations

Through multiple journal publications and collaborative works, Dr. Bori has built a steady citation record. His scholarly output demonstrates quality over quantity, with a clear trajectory toward interdisciplinary and applied research. The range of journals and diversity of co-authors in his publications reflect both national and institutional collaborations, thereby enhancing the reach and relevance of his research.

Technical Skills

Dr. Bori possesses hands-on expertise with a wide array of advanced analytical and characterization tools. These include Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction (SCXRD), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy (400 MHz), UV-Visible and Fluorescence Spectroscopy, and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy. His proficiency with these instruments supports his ability to conduct in-depth structural and functional analysis of chemical compounds and materials.

Teaching Experience

As an Assistant Professor at NSUT Delhi, Dr. Bori is engaged in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching. His responsibilities likely include lecturing, mentoring research students, and developing curriculum aligned with current trends in chemical education and research. His background as a researcher enriches his teaching, allowing students to benefit from a practical and research-oriented learning environment.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Bori is steadily building a legacy as a chemist who integrates classical synthetic chemistry with emerging fields such as nanotechnology and sustainable catalysis. His work on environmentally friendly synthesis methods and multifunctional materials positions him well to contribute to pressing global challenges in energy, environment, and materials science. In the future, he is expected to further expand his research portfolio through international collaborations, research funding, and leadership roles in academic and scientific forums.

Notable Publications

High resistive switching current ratio, excellent endurance and stability for bistable non-volatile memristor and photosensing devices based on perovskite/titanium dioxide
Authors: G. Poply, D. Kumar, T. Majumder, T. Kumar, V. Singh, J. Bori, J. J. L. Hmar
Journal: Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing
Year: 2025

A facile green synthesis of ultra small silver nanoparticles using aqueous branch extract of Dipterocarpus retusus (Hollong) promoting catalytic degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: P. J. Goswami, K. Kashyap, D. Dutta, M. Lal, J. J. L. Hmar, J. Bori
Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
Year: 2025

Phosphotungstic acid immobilized over SnO₂ mesoporous material as a heterogeneous catalyst for fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural conversion
Authors: D. Brahma, R. R. Wary, J. Bori, P. Kalita
Journal: Biomass and Bioenergy
Year: 2023

A new synthetic route for synthesis of 3‐substituted imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridines
Authors: J. Bori, V. Manivannan
Journal: Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry
Year: 2022

A new route for the synthesis of 2,4-bis(2-pyridyl)-6-(pyridyl)pyrimidines: Synthesis and characterization of Co(II), Ni(II) complexes of 2,4,6-tris(2-pyridyl)pyrimidine
Authors: J. Bori, S. Mahata, V. Manivannan
Journal: Inorganica Chimica Acta
Year: 2020

Conclusion

Dr. Jugal Bori is a dedicated academic and researcher with a growing impact in the field of chemical sciences. His interdisciplinary approach, technical competence, and active scholarly engagement reflect a strong potential for leadership in both research and teaching. With continued focus on innovative, sustainable, and applied research, he is poised to make significant contributions to the scientific community in the years ahead.

Lili Wang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lili Wang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Tianjin University of Technology, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Lili Wang began her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, culminating in her graduation from Jilin University in 2012, one of China’s leading research universities. Her early academic years were marked by a growing interest in material chemistry and environmental sustainability, which later became the cornerstone of her research endeavors.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Chemistry, Tianjin University of Technology, Dr. Wang has built a robust academic and research career. She has led multiple funded projects, including one from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, one from the Tianjin Natural Science Foundation, and a research initiative under the Tianjin Education Commission. Additionally, she played an active role in another major general project of the National Natural Science Foundation.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Wang’s research has consistently addressed critical global issues such as energy sustainability and environmental pollution. Her focus spans across:

  • Design and synthesis of environmental energy and catalytic materials

  • Electrocatalytic technology for high-value conversion of biomass and clean energy sources

  • Pollutant treatment and detection using innovative environmental catalysts

Her interdisciplinary approach links material science with green chemistry, enabling breakthroughs in both pollutant degradation and renewable energy conversion.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Over the past five years, Dr. Wang has emerged as a recognized scholar in the field of environmental and energy materials. Her work in electrocatalysis and green energy has directly contributed to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies. By tackling real-world challenges such as clean hydrogen production and biomass valorization, her research holds immense relevance for environmental remediation and carbon neutrality strategies.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Dr. Wang has authored over 20 SCI-indexed research articles as the first and corresponding author, which have been published in reputable international journals. These publications highlight her innovative methodologies and practical insights in materials science and catalysis. Her works have garnered citations that reflect a growing recognition from the global scientific community.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Wang is proficient in the synthesis and structural characterization of nanomaterials, electrochemical analysis, and performance testing of catalytic systems. Her laboratory expertise includes advanced techniques such as FTIR, XPS, SEM, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which she applies in optimizing catalytic performance for environmental applications.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

An experienced and passionate educator, Dr. Wang teaches a range of foundational and advanced chemistry courses including: Physical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Experiment, Comprehensive Chemical Experiments. Her teaching style integrates theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills, fostering critical thinking and innovation among undergraduate and postgraduate students.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wang is committed to fostering the next generation of scientists while continuing to innovate in the field of green materials and clean energy. With her ongoing research projects and student mentorship, she aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, contributing to China’s dual carbon goals and global sustainability.

📖Notable Publications

Construction of 3D hollow NiCo-layered double hydroxide nanostructures for high-performance industrial overall seawater electrolysis
Journal: Nano Research
Year: 2024
Citations: 6

Interface engineering of 2D NiFe LDH/NiFeS heterostructure for highly efficient 5-hydroxymethylfurfural electrooxidation
Journal: Chinese Chemical Letters
Year: 2024
Citations: 4

Nanoflower core-shell Cu@Pd catalysts for glycol oxidation reaction with an enhanced performance
Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Year: 2023
Citations: 3

Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak | Environmental Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Dr. Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak | Environmental Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Rzeszow University of Technology, Poland

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak began her academic journey at the Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology in Poland, where she earned her Master’s degree in Materials Engineering in 1996. Motivated by a deep interest in the intersection of materials and chemical technologies, she pursued further studies and obtained her Ph.D. in Chemical Technology from the same faculty in 2005. Her early academic work emphasized the practical applications of chemical processes in materials development, which became the foundation for her future research endeavors.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since 2005, Dr. Sitarz-Palczak has served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry at Rzeszow University of Technology. She has been actively involved in both academic teaching and research supervision. Her professional path is marked by a strong commitment to advancing analytical chemistry practices and mentoring students in rigorous scientific inquiry, thereby contributing to the academic development of the university.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research centers around the chemical analysis of heavy metals in industrial and environmental settings, an area of increasing importance in today’s environmentally conscious world. She also specializes in the application of alkaline-activated materials for environmental protection. These materials, often derived from industrial by-products, serve as sustainable alternatives for mitigating pollution and managing waste, highlighting her dedication to green chemistry and ecological innovation.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sitarz-Palczak’s work has made notable contributions to environmental sustainability. By providing detailed insights into the behavior and treatment of heavy metals, her research has influenced industry practices and environmental policies. Her exploration of alkaline-activated materials promotes the circular economy model, offering solutions for reusing industrial waste while protecting natural ecosystems.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not detailed, her long-standing academic role and consistent research activity suggest a respected presence within the scientific community. Her work has likely been referenced in various studies on environmental monitoring, materials engineering, and pollution control technologies.

🧪 Technical Skills

She is highly skilled in advanced analytical methods, including spectroscopic and titrimetric techniques for heavy metal detection. Her expertise encompasses laboratory-based research on inorganic substances, synthesis of eco-friendly materials, and performance evaluation of alkaline-activated composites. Her proficiency ensures high-quality research outcomes and valuable contributions to industrial and academic laboratories alike.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With nearly two decades of teaching experience, Dr. Sitarz-Palczak is an influential educator who guides students through the complexities of inorganic and analytical chemistry. She is involved in course design, laboratory instruction, and thesis supervision, fostering scientific curiosity and precision among students. Her teaching style emphasizes both theoretical depth and practical application.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sitarz-Palczak’s legacy is grounded in her unwavering dedication to environmental protection through innovative chemical technologies. As the field of green chemistry evolves, she continues to explore new frontiers in material science to develop safer and more effective solutions for industrial and ecological challenges. Her future contributions are likely to further enhance sustainable development practices and inspire a new generation of chemists.

📖Notable Publications

  • Title: Recycling Galvanic Sludge to Produce Geopolymer Modified with Algae
    Authors: Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak
    Journal: Minerals
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Utilization of Galvanic Sewage Sludge to Produce Alkali-Activated Materials
    Authors: Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak
    Journal: Journal of Ecological Engineering
    Year: 2024

  • Title: The Influence of Physical Modification on the Sorption Properties of Geopolymers Obtained from Halloysite
    Authors: Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak, Jan Kalembkiewicz
    Journal: Polish Journal of Environmental Studies
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Comparative Study on the Characteristics of Coal Fly Ash and Biomass Ash Geopolymers
    Authors: Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak, Jan Kalembkiewicz, D. Galas
    Journal: Archives of Environmental Protection
    Year: 2019

  • Title: Study of Potential Availability of Heavy Metals to Phytoremediation to Use of Ash from Biomass Combustion
    Authors: Elżbieta Sitarz-Palczak, D. Galas, Jan Kalembkiewicz
    Journal: Global Nest Journal
    Year: 2019

 

Zhongchuang Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Chemical Environmental Award

Dr. Zhongchuang Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Chemical Environmental Award

Chongqing Electric Power College, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Academic Background

Dr. Zhongchuang Liu is a distinguished environmental scientist specializing in ecological restoration, environmental quality assessment, and biological resource utilization. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering and is currently based at the Department of Environmental Engineering Technology, College of Power Engineering, Chongqing Electric Power College, China. His research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for environmental remediation and resource management, contributing to cleaner ecosystems and improved environmental policies.

🌱 Research Areas and Expertise

Dr. Liu’s expertise encompasses several critical areas in environmental science. His work in ecological restoration involves the phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil and polluted water bodies, utilizing plants to naturally cleanse ecosystems. His research in environmental quality assessment includes regional water and soil monitoring, investigating soil microenvironment changes, and assessing the ecological impact and risks of environmental pollutants. Additionally, his studies in biological resource utilization focus on the preparation and application of plant biomass charcoal and the sustainable disposal of vegetable and fruit waste, promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental pollution.

🎤 Conference Leadership and Contributions

Dr. Liu plays a key role in the international scientific community by leading discussions on environmental remediation and waste management. As the Chair of the International Symposium on Environmental Remediation and Sustainable Development (ERSD 2023), he guided expert discussions on innovative strategies for environmental sustainability. He has also served on the committee for the 6th International Conference on Recycling and Waste Management (2023), contributing his expertise in sustainable waste treatment and recycling technologies. His leadership in these conferences has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and advancements in environmental protection.

📝 Editorial Roles in Scientific Journals

In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Liu holds significant editorial positions in scientific publishing, ensuring the dissemination of high-quality research in environmental science. He serves as an Editorial Board Member for Plos One, a Lead Guest Editor for Environmental Science and Pollution Research, a Primary Guest Editor for JoVE – Journal of Visualized Experiments, and a Section Editor for Special Issues in Letters in Organic Chemistry. Through his editorial work, he supports the publication of innovative research in ecological restoration, pollution control, and sustainable development, fostering scientific progress in these fields.

🌍 Impact and Future Contributions

Dr. Liu’s research has a profound impact on environmental sustainability, bridging scientific innovation with practical solutions for ecosystem restoration and resource management. His work has contributed to the development of effective phytoremediation techniques, improved ecological risk assessment methodologies, and promoted sustainable waste management strategies. Looking ahead, he aims to enhance the efficiency of phytoremediation technologies, develop advanced environmental monitoring systems, and promote sustainable practices in waste management to further contribute to global environmental conservation efforts.

📖Notable Publications

Co-hydrothermal carbonization of styrofoam and sawdust: fuel properties evaluation and effect of water recirculation on hydrochar properties

Authors: N. Sultana, Nasrin; M. Atikul Islam, Md; Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; B.H. Hameed, Bassim H.; M.A. Islam, Md Azharul

Journal: Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery

Year: 2025

Role of metal and non-metal dopants in modulating g-C3N4 for photocatalytic applications

Authors: R. Muhammad, Rizwan; A. Zada, Amir; S. Azizi, Shohreh; Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; M.H. Eisa, M. H.

Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Year: 2025

Control strategies for microplastic pollution in groundwater

Authors: Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; A.U.R. Bacha, Aziz Ur Rahim; L. Yang, Lei

Journal: Environmental Pollution

Year: 2023