Siphelo Ngqoloda | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Siphelo Ngqoloda | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher | Mintek | South Africa

Dr. Siphelo Ngqoloda is an emerging leader in advanced energy materials, electrocatalysis, and perovskite solar cell research, with a strong academic foundation and impactful research portfolio. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of the Western Cape, where his doctoral work focused on hybrid lead-halide perovskite thin films fabricated through sequential chemical vapor deposition (CVD) for high-efficiency solar cells. His research systematically explored thin-film formation mechanisms, device architecture engineering, and optoelectronic performance characterization using XRD, SEM, UV–Vis spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and J–V analysis. Building on this expertise, Dr. Ngqoloda’s current postdoctoral research at Mintek centers on synthesizing and tailoring platinum-based alloy nanocrystals for the oxygen reduction reaction in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells, addressing catalytic activity, durability, and structural optimization via controlled nanostructuring and rotating-disk electrode electrochemical analysis. He has authored and co-authored nearly 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters, reflecting active dissemination of research across materials science, nanotechnology, and renewable energy systems. His contributions have earned 197 citations across 21 publications, with an h-index of 7, demonstrating growing scientific influence in the fields of perovskite photovoltaics and nanocatalysis. In addition to research, Dr. Ngqoloda has five years of undergraduate lecturing experience and has supervised Master’s students, showcasing strong academic leadership and mentorship. He also managed a thin-film deposition laboratory, gaining practical expertise in thermal CVD, thermal evaporation, wet-chemical synthesis, and lab safety systems. Dr. Ngqoloda’s technical strengths include programming (Python, MATLAB), spectroscopy, microscopy, thin-film fabrication, and device physics. With strong communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills, combined with achievements such as best poster recognition in materials science, he exemplifies a dynamic, multidisciplinary researcher dedicated to advancing clean-energy technologies and sustainable materials innovation.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications


Ngqoloda, S., Ngwenya, T., Madima, N., Chauke, N., Stevenson, M., Barron, O., & Raphulu, M. (2025). Hot-injection synthesis of Pt–Ni rhombic dodecahedral nanoframes for oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalysis. Catalysis Letters, 155, 358.

Madima, N., Chauke, N., Ngqoloda, S., Mmelesi, O., & Raphulu, M. (2025). Recent advances in the development of defective black TiO₂ nanomaterials for application in energy and environmental sustainability: A review. Results in Engineering, 26, 104868.

Ngqoloda, S., Chauke, N., Ngwenya, T., & Raphulu, M. (2024). Shaped and structured Pt–3d transition metal alloy nanocrystals as electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction. Results in Chemistry, 11, 101831.

Chauke, N. M., Mohlala, R. L., Ngqoloda, S., & Raphulu, M. C. (2024). Harnessing visible light: Enhancing TiO₂ photocatalysis with photosensitizers for sustainable and efficient environmental solutions. Frontiers in Chemical Engineering, 6, 1356021.

Magubane, S., Burns, R., Ngqoloda, S., Oliphant, C., Miceli, P., & Arendse, C. (2023). Sequential chemical vapor deposition of two-dimensional Sn–Pb compound perovskite thin films and its exciton transport. ACS Applied Electronic Materials, 5, 5352.

Jugal Bori | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Sneha C | Catalysis | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Sneha C | Catalysis | Women Researcher Award

NIT Karnataka, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Sneha C, from Elathur, Calicut, Kerala, has maintained an excellent academic record since her early education. She began with strong performances in school, which led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering at Government College of Engineering, Kannur. Motivated by a deep interest in advanced science and technology, she then undertook a Master’s program in Nanotechnology at NIT Karnataka. Her academic path reflects a clear progression toward interdisciplinary expertise at the intersection of electronics and materials science.

👩‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Sneha has been actively involved in the academic field, teaching at a private coaching institute where she mentors students in engineering disciplines. In addition to her instructional responsibilities, she has also worked as a Teaching Assistant in nanotechnology, supporting course delivery and student engagement in advanced topics.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Her academic journey includes a range of impactful projects. During her undergraduate studies, she developed a Heartbeat Analyzer using LabVIEW, applying electronic systems to biomedical contexts. For her postgraduate research, she focused on the influence of substrate temperature on the characteristics of ZnO and AZO thin films created by thermal vapor deposition. Currently pursuing doctoral research, her focus is on the design and fabrication of gas sensors, investigating how material properties and doping techniques affect sensor behavior and sensitivity.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Sneha has contributed significantly to scientific literature through multiple peer-reviewed publications. She has authored articles in prestigious journals including Springer’s Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, and Elsevier’s Sensors and Actuators A: Physical and Surfaces and Interfaces. Her work on thin-film nanomaterials and sensor technology is well-regarded, and she serves as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, demonstrating her recognized expertise in the field.

📊 Academic Cites and Recognition

Her commitment to academic excellence is further reflected in her achievements in national-level competitive examinations. She has earned accolades for her technical presentations, including the Best Oral Presentation Award at an international conference hosted at NIT Calicut. These achievements underscore her analytical skills and effective communication of complex research.

💻 Technical Skills

Sneha possesses strong technical competencies, including programming knowledge in C and MATLAB, and is adept with Windows and Ubuntu operating systems. Her core areas of interest lie in electronics, nanotechnology, thin-film materials, and sensor devices, aligning with her academic background and research contributions.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With extensive teaching experience, Sneha has guided numerous students in understanding complex concepts in electronics and nanoscience. Her involvement in academic instruction as a teaching assistant, along with her mentoring roles, highlights her dedication to cultivating the next generation of engineers and researchers.

🏅 Leadership, Outreach, and Extracurriculars

Sneha has actively contributed to academic communities beyond the classroom. She served as a class representative during both her undergraduate and postgraduate studies and was involved in organizing key technical events. She played integral roles in Explore, the technical fest at her engineering college, and led the publication and program committees for an international conference at NIT Calicut. These leadership activities highlight her teamwork, coordination, and communication skills.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Sneha C is shaping her legacy as a researcher at the intersection of electronics and nanotechnology. With a focus on solving real-world problems through innovation in sensor technologies, her future contributions are expected to advance environmental and biomedical monitoring systems. As an educator and scholar, she is committed to fostering academic excellence and scientific progress in the years ahead.

📖Notable Publications

  • Antimony doped tin oxide MOS sensors for hydrogen detection at low concentrations
    Contributors: C. Sneha, V.K. Baiju, S. Varghese
    Journal: Sensors and Actuators A: Physical
    Year: 2023

  • Effect of substrate temperature on the characteristics of ZnO films produced by a combination of thermal vapor deposition and oxidation processes
    Contributors: C. Sneha, C. Prabukumar, M. Jayalakshmi, S. Bhat, K. Udaya Bhat
    Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
    Year: 2017

  • Structural and morphological changes with substrate heating in zinc films synthesized by thermal vapor deposition technique
    Contributors: C. Sneha, C. Prabukumar, M. Jayalakshmi, K.U. Bhat
    Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
    Year: 2017

  • Nickel-sensitized Sb:SnO₂ thin films for enhanced room temperature hydrogen gas sensing
    Contributors: C. Sneha, S. Varghese
    Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces
    Year: 2025

 

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