Nada Nikolić | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Analytical Chemistry

Dr. Nada Nikolić | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Niš, Faculty of Technology, Serbia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Nada Nikolić’s journey into the world of biochemistry began with a deep-rooted fascination for the molecular mechanisms that sustain life. From an early age, her academic curiosity stood out. She pursued her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry at a prestigious institution, where she quickly distinguished herself as a top-performing student. Her passion for understanding complex biological systems drove her to continue with postgraduate studies, earning her a Master’s and subsequently a Ph.D. in Biochemistry. During this period, she authored several academic papers that hinted at her potential to make meaningful contributions to the field.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

After completing her doctoral studies, Nada Nikolić embarked on a professional path that saw her take on roles in leading research institutions and universities. As a biochemist, her career has spanned both academic and applied scientific settings. She has been a lecturer, a senior researcher, and a project lead in various interdisciplinary projects. Her professional portfolio is characterized by collaborations with international teams, cross-disciplinary work in molecular biology and chemistry, and mentorship roles that have supported the growth of young scientists.

🔍 Contributions and Research Focus

Nada Nikolić is best known for her groundbreaking work in enzyme kinetics and protein-ligand interactions, key areas in modern biochemical research. Her studies have contributed significantly to understanding metabolic pathways and disease mechanisms at the molecular level. She has also been at the forefront of research in drug design, particularly in exploring how molecular structures can be engineered for therapeutic purposes.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Nada Nikolić’s dedication and innovation have earned her several accolades throughout her career. The most notable among them is the Best Researcher Award, a recognition that honors her exemplary contributions to the field of biochemistry and her influence on scientific progress. This award reflects her persistent pursuit of excellence and her ability to address complex biochemical problems with clarity and precision.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of Nada Nikolić’s work extends beyond her laboratory and lecture hall. She is regarded as a mentor to many upcoming scientists and has played a crucial role in fostering a research-driven academic culture. Her ability to translate scientific concepts into accessible knowledge has inspired both students and professionals.

🧬 Legacy and Future Contributions

Nada Nikolić’s legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and scholarly excellence. As she continues to explore new frontiers in biochemistry, she remains committed to shaping the future of scientific inquiry. Her work is paving the way for the next generation of researchers, with a focus on sustainable biochemical applications and personalized medicine.

📖Notable Publications

THE EXTRACTION OF FOUR PHTHALATES FROM MUSHY PEACH AND APPLE JUICE UTILIZING DIFFERENT SOLVENTS ALONG WITH A REGRESSION ANALYSIS OF THE EXTRACTION RECOVERIES FOR THE PHTHALATES, Food Analytical Methods.

Author: Nada Nikolić; Suzana Cakić; Ljubiša Nikolić; Ivan Ristić; Snežana Ilić-Stojanović; Goran Nikolić

Journal: Food Analytical Methods

Year: 2025

The Extraction of Four Phthalates from Mushy Peach and Apple Juice Utilizing Different Solvents Along with a Regression Analysis of the Extraction Recoveries for the Phthalates

Author: Nada Č. Nikolić; Suzana Cakić; Ljubiša Nikolić; Ivan Ristić; Snežana Ilić-Stojanović; Goran Nikolić

Journal: Food Analytical Methods
Year: 2025

DETERMINATION OF OXIDATIVE INDUCTION TIME OF SESAME SEEDS OIL BY DSC ANALYSIS AND THE KISSINGER-AKAHIRA-SUNOSE METHOD

Author: Nada Nikolić; Suzana Cakić; Ljubiša Nikolić; Ivan Ristić; Snežana Ilić-Stojanović; Ljiljana Takić

Journal: The 3rd International UNIFood Conference – UNIFood 2024

Year: 2024

Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Analytical Chemistry

Assist. Prof. Dr. Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Chungbuk National University, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Wanhee Im began her academic journey deeply rooted in the study of lignocellulosic materials, which would go on to define her research direction. She earned her Ph.D. from the Department of Forest Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Seoul National University, one of South Korea’s premier institutions. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Preparation and characterization of carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils”, laid a strong foundation in cellulose chemistry, focusing on optimizing carboxymethylation processes, improving environmental sustainability through isopropanol recycling, and analyzing the physicochemical characteristics of CM-CNF (carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils). Under the mentorship of Prof. Hak Lae Lee, she honed critical analytical and technical research skills that would shape her future endeavors.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Im has built an impressive professional trajectory, working across academia, industry, and research institutes. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wood & Paper Science at Chungbuk National University, she leads projects focused on the functionalization of cellulose materials. Her career path includes pivotal roles such as Senior Researcher at Moorim P&P (2020–2024), where she developed high aspect ratio cellulose nanofibril powders. She also gained international research experience as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British Columbia and a Visiting Researcher at FPInnovations in Canada, contributing to the development of high-strength paper for construction membrane applications. Her early career included R&D roles at Huvis Corp. and Seoul National University, where she contributed to polymer fiber development and chemical fiber modification.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Im’s research has consistently revolved around sustainable and functional cellulose-based materials. Her core expertise includes the chemical modification and characterization of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and the development of cellulose composites for advanced material applications. Notable contributions include innovations in eco-friendly carboxymethylation processes, recyclable solvent systems, and structural analysis of nanocellulose to tailor performance in fiber-based materials. At Moorim P&P and FPInnovations, she contributed to the commercial translation of nanocellulose technology, reinforcing her role as a bridge between research and industrial application.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Im’s work has significant implications in both academic and industrial domains, especially within sustainable material science and green polymer research. Her efforts in developing renewable, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic polymers resonate with global environmental initiatives. Her cross-continental collaborations in South Korea and Canada highlight her international research presence and technical leadership in cellulose science. Through her R&D leadership in industry, she influenced the commercialization of nanocellulose, proving her ability to translate laboratory innovation into market-ready technologies.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not listed in the CV, Dr. Im’s ongoing academic role, international postdoctoral experiences, and leadership in cellulose research suggest a growing academic footprint. Her contributions are recognized through collaborations with top institutions like Seoul National University and the University of British Columbia, and partnerships with research organizations like FPInnovations, underscoring her visibility and recognition in the cellulose and materials science communities.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Im is equipped with a broad array of technical proficiencies essential for advanced materials research: chemical modification techniques (carboxymethylation, CNF derivatization), polymer synthesis and analysis, fiber characterization (aspect ratio, strength properties), sustainable solvent systems and recycling methodologies, wet-laid fiber systems, and mechanical performance testing. These skills are integral to her success in both academic research and industrial product development.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As an Assistant Professor at Chungbuk National University, Dr. Im actively engages in teaching and guiding undergraduate and graduate students. Her deep industrial experience provides students with practical, applied knowledge, while her research-led approach ensures students remain at the forefront of cellulose science. Her mentorship is shaped by global exposure, interdisciplinary understanding, and a commitment to sustainability.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wanhee Im is poised to make lasting contributions to sustainable material science, with a continued focus on the development of functional, biodegradable, and high-performance cellulose-based materials. She envisions expanding the application of cellulose nanofibrils in energy, packaging, and construction sectors, aligning scientific innovation with environmental stewardship. As a rising academic leader, she is expected to influence curricula development, international collaboration, and next-generation eco-material research in South Korea and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

Effect of quaternization on the re-dispersion properties of cellulose nanofibrils after drying
Authors: Yoon-hyuck Choi, Soo-jeong Shin, Wanhee Im
Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
Year: 2025

Evaluation of print mottle of double coated paper by octave band filtering technique
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2024

Characteristics of polypropylene biocomposites: Effect of chemical treatment to produce cellulose microparticle
Authors: Jaegwan Moon, Jong Hoon Lee, Kiseob Gwak, Wanhee Im
Journal: Cellulose
Year: 2022

Wet strength improvement of nanofibrillated cellulose film using polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resin: The role of carboxyl contents
Authors: Wanhee Im, Shin Young Park, Jegon Lee, Simyub Yook, Hak Lae Lee, Hye Jung Youn
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022

Dynamic water penetration behavior of top coating color and its effects on structure properties of double-coated layer
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022