Prof. Alena Novoselova | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award
IHTE UB RAS | Russia
Profiles
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Alena V. Novoselova laid a strong academic foundation in the field of chemistry, advancing into a specialization in high-temperature electrochemistry and radiochemistry. Her focus on analytical and thermodynamic studies of rare earth and actinide elements set the stage for her future scientific leadership. Her academic journey reflects a persistent dedication to exploring the fundamental behaviors of complex chemical systems, particularly those relevant to the nuclear sciences.
Professional Endeavors
As a Leading Researcher at the Radiochemistry Laboratory of the Institute of High-Temperature Electrochemistry of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IHTE UB RAS), Prof. Novoselova plays a central role in advancing research on the electrochemical behavior of lanthanides and actinides. She actively collaborates with national and international scientific bodies and contributes to strategic research at state and academic levels. She also holds memberships in prestigious dissertation councils and serves as an expert evaluator for the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Contributions and Research Focus
Her core research revolves around the electrochemistry and thermodynamics of rare earth and actinide compounds, with a strong emphasis on molten salt media, which are critical in nuclear material processing and recycling. She investigates the formation of alloys, separation of fission products, and high-purity metal production using molten salt systems. The outcomes of her work are essential in the context of closed nuclear fuel cycle technologies, contributing to innovations in nuclear waste reprocessing.
Impact and Influence
Prof. Novoselova’s research has had a notable influence on the development of advanced nuclear technologies. Her work informs safe and efficient methodologies for nuclear fuel reprocessing. She has collaborated with institutions such as the State Scientific Center – Research Institute of Atomic Reactors, Ural Federal University, and Harbin Engineering University, playing a pivotal role in the education of new scientists and engineers. Her citation indices on Scopus (h-index: 19) and Web of Science (h-index: 17) underscore the relevance and reach of her scientific publications.
Academic Citations and Publications
With over 75 publications indexed in Scopus, Prof. Novoselova has established herself as a prolific researcher. Her scholarly output includes chapters in internationally recognized books on electrochemical and thermodynamic studies of radioactive and rare-earth elements, notably focusing on uranium, curium, ytterbium, and thulium. Her publications are frequently cited, reflecting sustained academic impact in her field.
Technical Skills
Prof. Alena V. Novoselova possesses a comprehensive set of technical skills that are essential to the advancement of nuclear material science and the development of closed nuclear fuel cycles. Her expertise spans electrochemical techniques specifically designed for molten salt environments, enabling precise control over high-temperature chemical processes. She is proficient in thermodynamic modeling and measurement, which supports the prediction and analysis of chemical behaviors in complex systems. Prof. Novoselova has made significant contributions to the separation processes of lanthanides and actinides key elements in nuclear reprocessing and is skilled in the characterization of nuclear materials. Furthermore, her deep understanding of high-temperature reactor chemistry and material recovery technologies positions her as a vital contributor to the innovation and safety of next-generation nuclear energy solutions.
Teaching Experience and Academic Roles
In addition to her research contributions, Prof. Novoselova is engaged in student training and academic mentorship. She has served as a guest professor at Harbin Engineering University, sharing her expertise with the next generation of chemists and engineers. She is an active member of doctoral and post-doctoral evaluation boards, contributing to the quality and rigor of academic standards in chemical sciences.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Prof. Novoselova’s work contributes to the strategic goal of achieving sustainable and safe nuclear energy through recycling and reprocessing. Her role in advancing the scientific understanding of actinide behavior in molten salts has significant implications for global nuclear policy and technology. Future contributions are likely to focus on developing cleaner, more efficient processes for rare earth and nuclear material handling.
Notable Publications
Electrochemical properties and extraction of erbium on a liquid gallium electrode in the 3LiCl–2KCl molten salt
Authors: Jiabao Gao, Kewei Jiang, Alena Novoselova, Valeri Smolenski, Jing Yu, Qi Liu, Rumin Li, Jun Wang
Journal: New Journal of Chemistry
Year: 2025
Electrochemical behavior and effective extraction of erbium in fused LiCl–KCl eutectic
Authors: Henan Zhang, Wantong Li, Jing Yu, Qi Liu, Alena Novoselova, Valeri Smolenski, Yongde Yan, Milin Zhang, Jun Wang
Journal: Journal of Rare Earths
Year: 2025
Electrochemistry of Uranium on Liquid Sn Electrode in Molten NaCl–2CsCl Eutectic
Authors: Alena Novoselova, Valeri Smolenski
Journal: Journal of The Electrochemical Society
Year: 2025
Potentiometric study of the interaction of Sm³⁺ and O²⁻ ions: thermodynamic properties of samarium compounds in molten NaCl–2CsCl eutectic
Authors: Henan Zhang, Qi Liu, Alena Novoselova, Valeri Smolenski, Kewei Jiang, Yongde Yan, Milin Zhang, Jun Wang
Journal: New Journal of Chemistry
Year: 2024
Cathode processes and uranium electrochemical extraction on W and Ga electrodes in LiCl–KCl melt
Authors: Alena Novoselova, Valeri Smolenski
Journal: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
Year: 2024
Conclusion
Prof. Alena V. Novoselova is a distinguished figure in high-temperature electrochemistry and radiochemistry. Through her sustained academic excellence, impactful collaborations, and mentorship, she is advancing essential scientific knowledge in the field of nuclear chemistry. Her contributions are not only academically significant but also offer tangible pathways for improving global nuclear energy strategies.