Pravin Kodgire | Chemical Engnieering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 22/04/202523/04/2025 by sciencefather

Dr. Pravin Kodgire | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Pandit Deendayal Energy University, India

Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Pravin Kodgire embarked on his academic journey with a Ph.D. from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), where he laid the foundation for a career steeped in innovation in chemical and environmental engineering. Following his doctoral studies, he enhanced his research acumen as a post-doctoral fellow at the Colorado School of Mines, USA, further deepening his expertise in energy and environmental technologies.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Dr. Kodgire has held several pivotal roles, including that of the former Head of the Department. Over the past two decades, he has balanced teaching and research with leadership, playing a vital role in the department’s academic and infrastructural growth.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kodgire’s research intersects biofuels, sustainable energy, and environmental remediation, with a specialized focus on wastewater treatment aimed at providing clean and green technological solutions. As a founder member of the Centre for Biofuel and Bioenergy Studies (CBBS) at PDEU, he has been instrumental in establishing state-of-the-art research infrastructure that supports cutting-edge work in renewable energy technologies.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 75 peer-reviewed journal and conference publications, Dr. Kodgire has significantly contributed to the academic discourse in energy and environmental engineering. His research outcomes have had both academic and industrial implications, leading to several patents in process, product, and design innovations. His work not only informs scientific understanding but also translates into real-world applications that address global environmental challenges.

📚 Academic Citations and Research Recognition

Dr. Kodgire’s scholarly output has been cited by numerous researchers and professionals globally, underlining his contributions to the advancement of chemical engineering, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable waste management. His citations reflect a growing recognition of his thought leadership in biofuel and environmental technologies.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Expertise

His technical prowess includes biochemical process development, environmental process engineering, and energy systems modeling, making him a valued researcher in multidisciplinary projects. His command over both theoretical and applied aspects enables him to lead complex industrial consultancy and academic collaborations effectively.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With 20 years of teaching experience, Dr. Kodgire has mentored undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, delivering courses in chemical engineering fundamentals, energy engineering, and environmental systems. His dedication to pedagogy ensures the development of future leaders equipped with both academic rigor and industrial relevance.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kodgire’s legacy is marked by his holistic contribution to academia, research, and institutional development. His ongoing supervision of Ph.D. and PG students ensures a continuous stream of innovation and scholarship. Looking ahead, he is expected to play a leading role in integrating bioenergy solutions with national energy policies, while continuing to foster academic excellence and industrial partnerships.

Notable Publications

Title: Analysis of a novel high-speed homogenizer technique for methyl ester production using waste cooking oil: Multi-objective optimization and energy analysis
Authors: Nirav Prajapati, Surendra Singh Kachhwaha, Pravin Kodgire, Rakesh Kumar Vij
Journal: Chemical Engineering Research and Design
Year: 2024
Title: Hydrogen - Imminent Clean and Green Energy: Hydrogen Production Technologies Life Cycle Assessment Review
Authors: Pravin Kodgire, et al.
Journal: Process Safety and Environmental Protection
Year: 2024
Title: Enhanced castor seed oil extraction assisted by the synergistic effect of ultrasound and microwave: Impact on extraction effectiveness and oil quality
Authors: Kartik Thakkar, Surendra Singh Kachhwaha, Pravin Kodgire
Journal: Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification
Year: 2023
Title: Microwave-assisted biodiesel production using bio-waste catalyst and process optimization using response surface methodology and kinetic study
Authors: Pravin Kodgire, et al.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2023
Title: Optimization and kinetics of biodiesel production of Ricinus communis oil and used cottonseed cooking oil employing synchronised 'ultrasound + microwave' and heterogeneous CaO catalyst
Authors: Pravin Kodgire, Anvita Sharma, Surendra Singh Kachhwaha
Journal: Renewable Energy
Year: 2023

Makarand Ghangrekar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 08/04/202508/04/2025 by sciencefather

Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Technology Puducherry, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar’s academic foundation in civil and environmental engineering has been both distinguished and impactful. He earned his B.E. in Civil Engineering (with Distinction) from the Government College of Engineering, Karad, Maharashtra, in 1989. With a growing interest in environmental sustainability, he pursued a M.Tech. in Environmental Engineering from VNIT (then Visvesvaraya Regional College of Engineering), Nagpur, completing it in 1992. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay in January 1998, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to water and wastewater management research.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

With over 33 years of research experience, Prof. Ghangrekar has served in pivotal academic and research roles. He is currently affiliated with the National Institute of Technology Puducherry, where he continues to mentor students, guide doctoral research, and lead innovations in environmental engineering. Notably, he was the first Indian researcher to initiate studies in microbial fuel cells (MFCs)—a cutting-edge domain in bioelectrochemistry focusing on simultaneous wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Ghangrekar has made foundational contributions in environmental biotechnology and sustainable water treatment. His work on Up-flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) Reactors includes advancements in their design, operation, and maintenance, as well as in granulation and startup techniques. He has also been instrumental in developing low-cost sewage treatment methods using high-rate anaerobic technologies, such as anaerobic filters and baffled reactors. His research portfolio extends to microbial fuel cells, bio-energy recovery, desalination, and reuse of treated wastewater, all contributing significantly to decentralized and sustainable sanitation systems.

🌏 Impact and Influence

Prof. Ghangrekar’s impact transcends academic boundaries. As a pioneer in bioelectrochemical systems in India, he has shaped national dialogue on wastewater reuse, energy recovery, and cost-effective water treatment. His expertise has influenced public policy, industrial practices, and academic curricula. By integrating engineering with ecological and socio-economic considerations, he has fostered interdisciplinary approaches to solving real-world environmental challenges.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Though specific citation data is not included here, Prof. Ghangrekar’s pioneering status and three-decade-long contributions suggest a significant academic footprint. His early adoption and promotion of microbial fuel cell research in India, alongside publications and collaborations, have positioned him as a highly respected figure in environmental and civil engineering communities.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Research Expertise

Prof. Ghangrekar is equipped with an exceptional array of technical competencies:

Design and operation of UASB and anaerobic treatment systems
Microbial fuel cell technology for electricity generation from waste
Wastewater desalination techniques
Integration of anaerobic-aerobic package systems for decentralized sewage treatment
Systems for treated wastewater reuse and public water supply optimization

His practical research has resulted in real-world applications, especially in low-income or rural areas where resource-efficient treatment systems are essential.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

Throughout his academic tenure, Prof. Ghangrekar has been a guiding force for students, researchers, and young professionals. His mentorship has been critical in producing new leaders in environmental engineering. He is known for blending rigorous theoretical instruction with hands-on experimentation, especially in designing bio-treatment systems and evaluating their socio-technical impact.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

As an innovator, educator, and policy influencer, Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar leaves a lasting legacy in India’s environmental engineering landscape. His commitment to sustainable wastewater treatment, bioenergy recovery, and reuse technologies continues to inspire the next generation of scientists. Looking forward, his research is poised to contribute to smart city infrastructure, eco-sanitation models, and carbon-neutral wastewater systems, ensuring cleaner, energy-efficient, and resilient urban and rural water management for the future.

📖Notable Publications

Performance evaluation of hybrid electrochemical oxidation and ultraviolet light-based persulfate process for the abatement of sodium dodecyl sulfate from wastewater
Authors: A. Ahmad, M. Priyadarshini, M.M. Ghangrekar, R.Y. Surampalli
Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
Year: 2025

3D g‑C₃N₄/WS₂/Agarose Aerogel Photocatalyst for Near-Complete Degradation of Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics in Batch and Continuous Flow Modes
Authors: M.V.L. Gnanaguru, D. Dey, M.M. Ghangrekar, R.K. Sen, S. Chowdhury
Journal: ACS ES&T Engineering
Year: 2025

Catalysing holistic wastewater treatment, electricity generation, and emerging contaminant removal in a pre-pilot Fenton-microbial fuel cell
Authors: A. Dhanda, L.P. Thulluru, R. Raj, B.K. Dubey, M.M. Ghangrekar
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
Year: 2025

Improving algae-assisted bioelectrochemical system with the integration of advanced cell disruption process for lipid recovery: A mini-review
Authors: A. Tripathi, S. Das, M.M. Ghangrekar, B.K. Dubey
Journal: [No source information available]
Year: 2025

Sulfonated titanium nanotubes-modified clayware membranes for enhanced performance and cost-effective microbial fuel cell applications
Authors: A. Dhanda, L.P. Thulluru, S. Chowdhury, B.K. Dubey, M.M. Ghangrekar
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Year: 2025

Elena Kayukova | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 05/04/202505/04/2025 by sciencefather

Dr. Elena Kayukova | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Saint Petersburg State University, Russia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Elena Kayukova began her academic journey with a strong foundation in geology. In 1983, she graduated from Leningrad State University (now St. Petersburg State University) as an engineer and geologist. Her passion for the Earth sciences led her to pursue advanced research, culminating in the award of a Ph.D. in Geology and Mineralogy in 2018. Her academic background laid the groundwork for a lifelong career in hydrogeology and environmental geosciences.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kayukova’s career spans both industry and academia. From 1984 to 1993, she worked as a geologist at the All-Russia Petroleum Research Exploration Institute (VNIGRI), contributing to national-scale energy and resource exploration. Since 1993, she has been a dedicated academic at St. Petersburg State University, where she has served as a Senior Lecturer and currently holds the title of Associate Professor in the Department of Hydrogeology & Engineering Geology. Her professional roles have allowed her to mentor future geoscientists while continuing her impactful research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kayukova is a prominent researcher in the fields of hydrogeochemistry, groundwater quality, hydrochemical modeling, and environmental monitoring. Her primary focus areas include the Crimean Peninsula and the St. Petersburg region, where she has conducted extensive studies on mineral waters, salt lakes, mud volcanoes, and isotopic hydrogeology. She closely monitors springs and atmospheric precipitation in Mountainous Crimea, particularly in the Bodrak River basin, examining chemical and isotopic changes that indicate environmental trends and challenges. Her work is vital due to Crimea’s acute freshwater scarcity.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 25 years of fieldwork and research, Dr. Kayukova has made significant contributions to the understanding and protection of water resources in environmentally sensitive areas. Her studies on the Kerch Peninsula’s mud volcanoes and salt lakes offer critical insight into geochemical processes, while her groundwater monitoring projects help identify pollution sources and safeguard public health. Her dedication to environmental education and resource sustainability underscores her influence in shaping water policy and management in the region.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Kayukova’s research is widely recognized in the academic community, especially for its practical applications in environmental monitoring and water quality assessment. Her scientific publications and collaborations have contributed to the growing body of knowledge in hydrogeology and isotope geochemistry, earning citations that reflect her contributions to solving real-world water issues in geopolitically significant regions like Crimea.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Kayukova is skilled in hydrochemical analysis, environmental monitoring techniques, hydrogeological modeling, and the application of isotope geochemistry. Her technical capabilities also include managing long-term field studies, interpreting hydrological data, and designing environmental education programs. Her multidisciplinary expertise bridges geological sciences with environmental stewardship.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an Associate Professor at St. Petersburg State University, Dr. Kayukova has mentored numerous students in hydrogeology and environmental geoscience. She has played a pivotal role in developing academic curricula, guiding fieldwork, and fostering scientific inquiry among young scholars. Her teaching emphasizes the practical importance of geological sciences in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kayukova’s legacy is rooted in her unwavering commitment to protecting freshwater resources through research, education, and community engagement. Her long-standing work in Crimea is not only of academic value but also of profound social and environmental importance. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her studies on groundwater radioactivity and climate-related hydrochemical changes, contributing further to the sustainability of vital water ecosystems.

📖Notable Publications

Clinical case of malignant endometrioid-associated neoplasia of a postoperative scar

Author: E. V. Kayukova
Journal: MD-Onco
Year: 2025

The factors of the low iodine concentration in soil cover and drinking waters of the second ridge of the Mountain Crimea

Authors: Victor Yu. Berezkin, Victor V. Glebov, Elena P. Kayukova
Journal: RUDN Journal of Ecology and Life Safety
Year: 2023

Geological controls and the impact of human society on the composition of peloids of present-day salt lakes (coastal zones of the Black, Azov, and Dead Seas)

Authors: S. Kotov, I. Kotova, E. Kayukova
Journal: Journal of Coastal Conservation
Year: 2019

Characteristics of formation of chemical composition of groundwater of active water exchange zone of the Bodrak catchment area (South-Western Crimea)

Author: Elena Kayukova
Journal: Vestnik Sankt-Peterburgskogo Universiteta, Seriya 7. Geologiya i Geografiya
Year: 2017

The impact of environmental and anthropogenic factors on composition of peloids in modern salt lakes

Authors: I.K. Kotova, S.R. Kotov, E.P. Kayukova, L.V. Mordukhai-Boltovskaya
Journal: Vestnik of Saint Petersburg University. Earth Sciences
Year: 2017

Zhilin Xia | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 27/01/202518/02/2025 by sciencefather

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhilin Xia | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Hubei Engineering University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Scopus Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Zhilin Xia embarked on his academic journey in 2010 at the China University of Mining & Technology, Beijing, where he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in 2014. His curiosity and commitment to the field of technology led him to pursue a Master's Degree at the same institution from 2014 to 2017. During this period, he deepened his knowledge in his chosen area, which prepared him for his future academic endeavors. Building upon his solid foundation, he advanced to the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he pursued his Doctoral Degree from 2017 to 2021. His doctoral research expanded his expertise and led to significant discoveries that contributed to his field.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Zhilin Xia’s professional journey is marked by both academic research and industrial experience. In June 2021, he joined Shandong University as a Postdoctoral Researcher. Here, he honed his research skills, contributing to various projects and advancing the knowledge in his area of specialization. Simultaneously, from 2021 to 2023, he worked as an R&D Engineer at Shenzhen Changlong Technology Co., Ltd., bridging the gap between academia and industry. His work there reflected his ability to apply theoretical research to real-world challenges.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Zhilin Xia’s research interests primarily focus on engineering and technology with a particular emphasis on advanced materials, nanotechnology, and energy systems. His work on material science and innovative manufacturing techniques has significant applications in sustainable energy solutions and environmental protection. As a postdoctoral researcher and R&D engineer, he has contributed to the development of novel materials and technologies, aiming to address global challenges in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Zhilin Xia’s work has had a notable influence on both academic research and industrial applications. Through his postdoctoral research and collaboration with Shandong University and Shenzhen Changlong Technology Co., he has contributed to the development of new technologies that bridge academic theory with industrial practice. His academic insights and technical expertise are helping shape the future of engineering and technology innovation. His research, particularly in nanotechnology and energy systems, has the potential to create long-lasting impacts in the fields of renewable energy and environmental protection, making his contributions valuable to both academia and society.

📚 Academic Cites

Zhilin Xia’s research outputs have been widely recognized in the academic community, reflected in the citations of his published papers. These citations demonstrate the relevance and significance of his work in advancing knowledge in his field. His ability to contribute to high-impact journals has helped establish him as an expert, and his growing body of work continues to inspire new research directions.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Zhilin Xia’s academic and professional experience has equipped him with an extensive skill set, making him proficient in various analytical techniques and laboratory practices. His technical expertise includes: Nanomaterials Synthesis and Characterization, Energy System Optimization, Materials Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, Data Analysis and Modeling. These skills are integral to his contributions to both research and industrial applications, especially in the development of cutting-edge technologies.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an Associate Lecturer at Hubei Engineering University, Zhilin Xia has demonstrated a passion for educating and mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers. His teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, practical problem-solving, and a hands-on approach to learning. He actively guides students in their research projects and prepares them for real-world challenges by encouraging innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Zhilin Xia aims to continue his research and teaching efforts, pushing the boundaries of engineering and material science. His focus will remain on the development of sustainable technologies that address pressing environmental and energy challenges. Through his work, he hopes to leave a legacy of advancing scientific knowledge and fostering a new generation of innovative thinkers in the field of engineering and technology.

📖Notable Publications

UV-Light-Induced Aggregation of Arsenic and Metal Sulfide Particles in Acidic Wastewater: The Role of Free Radicals
- Authors: Kong, L.; Peng, X.; Hu, X.; Chen, J.; Xia, Z.
- Journal: Environmental Science and Technology
- Year: 2018
UV light irradiation improves the aggregation and settling performance of metal sulfide particles in strongly acidic wastewater
- Authors: Peng, X.; Xia, Z.; Kong, L.; Hu, X.; Wang, X.
- Journal: Water Research
- Year: 2019
Chemical solidification/stabilization of arsenic sulfide and oxide mixed wastes using elemental sulfur: Efficiencies, mechanisms and long-term stabilization enhancement by dicyclopentadiene
- Authors: Kong, L.; Xia, Z.; Hu, X.; Peng, X.
- Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
- Year: 2021
Hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of metal sulfide particles as a determinator of aggregation performance in wastewater
- Authors: Xia, Z.; Peng, X.; Kong, L.; Hu, X.
- Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering
- Year: 2021
Detection of heavy metals in strongly acidic wastewater by UV irradiation induced gel solidification-nanoparticle enhanced LIBS method
- Authors: Xia, Z.; Kong, L.; Hu, X.; Peng, X.
- Journal: Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering
- Year: 2020
Catalytic ozonation of organics in reverse osmosis concentrate with catalysts based on activated carbon
- Authors: Xu, X.; Xia, Z.; Li, L.; He, C.; Wang, J.
- Journal: Molecules
- Year: 2019

Saerom Park Remediation Technology Best Researcher Award

Posted on 12/10/202422/10/2024 by sciencefather

Dr. Saerom Park | Remediation Technology | Best Researcher Award

Korea Institute of Civil engineering building Technology, South Korea

👨‍🎓 Profile

Scopus Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Saerom Park earned her B.S. in Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering from Korea University, Seoul, in 2009, achieving an impressive GPA of 3.96/4.5. She continued her studies at Purdue University, where she completed both her M.S. (2013) and Ph.D. (2017) in Environmental Science, specializing in Environmental Chemistry within the Interdisciplinary Ecological Science and Engineering Program, both with a GPA of 3.89/4.0. Her early academic endeavors laid a strong foundation for her expertise in environmental issues and analytical chemistry.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Park currently serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Science and Technology in the Civil and Environmental Engineering department since March 2023. She is also a Senior Researcher at the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, where she has been contributing to environmental research since December 2019. Her previous roles include postdoctoral positions at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology and The University of Georgia, as well as research and teaching positions at Purdue University.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Park’s research primarily revolves around micropollutants, focusing on developing analytical technologies for contaminants such as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and microplastics (MPs). Her current projects include: Investigating the occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in various water systems, Developing advanced treatment technologies for micropollutant destruction in groundwater and wastewater, Implementing AI-based technologies for optimization and automation in micropollutant management.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Park’s research addresses critical environmental challenges posed by micropollutants, particularly PFAAs, which are known for their persistence and potential health risks. Her work contributes significantly to understanding and mitigating the impact of these contaminants on ecosystems and human health, particularly in groundwater resources. Her interdisciplinary approach positions her as a key figure in environmental science and engineering.

📚 Academic Cites

Dr. Park has a commendable record of scholarly contributions and presentations, which has garnered recognition within the scientific community. Her work has led to several awards, including the Postdoctoral Research Fellowship for Young Scientists (2018-2020) and the Purdue Bilsland Dissertation Fellowship (2017). These accolades underscore her contributions to the field and the impact of her research.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Park possesses a diverse set of technical skills essential for her research, including: Analytical Techniques: FT-IR microscopy, Pyr-GC/MS, LC/MS/MS, qTOF/MS/MS, GC/ECD/TCD/FID/MS, ICP/MS, and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, Laboratory Proficiency: Ion Chromatography, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Total Organic Analysis, and X-ray diffraction analysis, Specialized Equipment: Anaerobic Chamber, Fluoride Ion Selective Electrode, and Zetasizer nano ZSA.

📖 Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Park has imparted her knowledge through various teaching roles. She is currently teaching Water Quality Management of Rivers and Lakes as an Associate Professor and has served as a lab instructor for Environmental Soil Chemistry at Purdue University. Her teaching approach emphasizes hands-on experience and real-world applications of environmental science.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Saerom Park’s commitment to environmental science and engineering continues to drive her research and teaching. Her efforts in developing innovative analytical technologies and treatment methods for micropollutants have the potential to significantly improve water quality management practices. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her research on AI applications in environmental monitoring and remediation, further solidifying her legacy in the field.