Bozena Futoma-Koloch | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Faculty Award

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Dr. Bozena Futoma-Koloch | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Faculty Award 

University of Wroclaw | Poland

Dr. Bożena Futoma-Kołoch is an accomplished microbiologist whose research integrates microbial pathogenesis, antimicrobial resistance, and host–pathogen interactions, with a particular focus on Salmonella enterica. She is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Wrocław, where she has built a coherent and internationally recognized research program grounded in molecular microbiology, immunology, and environmental microbiology. Her scientific work has substantially advanced understanding of how environmental stressors especially disinfectants, antiseptics, and human serum—shape bacterial virulence and survival. A central theme of her research is the phenomenon of cross-resistance, whereby exposure to biocides influences bacterial tolerance to antibiotics and serum-mediated immune defenses. Through detailed phenotypic and proteomic analyses, Dr. Futoma-Kołoch has demonstrated that changes in outer membrane proteins (OMPs) play a pivotal role in mediating resistance to serum complement, antibiotics, and disinfectants. These findings have provided new mechanistic insights into bacterial adaptation and have identified OMPs as promising biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in the fight against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Her habilitation work, “Effect of disinfectants and serum on the phenotype associated with virulence in non-typhoid Salmonella enterica strains” (2024), represents a significant milestone, consolidating years of systematic research into how chemical and immunological pressures modulate virulence-associated traits. This research has strong translational relevance for public health, food safety, and infection control, particularly in the context of increasing antimicrobial resistance and widespread biocide use. Dr. Futoma-Kołoch is also actively engaged in interdisciplinary and applied research. Dr. Futoma-Kołoch’s scholarly output includes influential review articles that are widely cited and shape current thinking on bacterial virulence, serum resistance, and antimicrobial defense mechanisms. Her leadership in international collaborations, participation in COST Actions, and service as an editor and reviewer for high-impact journals further attest to her standing in the global microbiology community. Overall, her research profile reflects originality, continuity, and significant impact on both basic science and applied infectious disease research.

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Featured Publications


Biological activity of quaternary ammonium salts and resistance of microorganisms to these compounds

– World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2021 | Cited by: 57

 

Dr. Leonardo Di Giustino | Quantum Chromodynamics  | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Leonardo Di Giustino | Quantum Chromodynamics  | Best Researcher Award

University of Insubria, Italy.

Leonardo Di Giustino is an Italian theoretical physicist specializing in Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) and condensed matter physics. With two Ph.D. degrees in physics, his research spans from renormalization scale-setting in QCD to electron states in metal interfaces. He has held research positions at institutions such as the University of Insubria, Max Planck Institute, and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. In addition to his academic career, he has extensive experience as a high school teacher in mathematics and physics.

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Education🎓

Dr. Leonardo Di Giustino holds two Ph.D. degrees in physics, demonstrating his deep expertise in both theoretical and computational physics. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics (2022, cum laude) from the University of Insubria, Italy, with a thesis titled "The Renormalization Scale-Setting Problem in QCD," focusing on fundamental issues in quantum chromodynamics. Earlier, he completed his first Ph.D. in Physics (2005) at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy, where his research, "Ab initio study of NiO-Fe interfaces: electron states and magnetic configurations," explored the electronic and magnetic properties of materials at the atomic level. His academic journey began with an M.Sc. in Physics (2001) from the University of Rome "La Sapienza," where he investigated "Semileptonic Inclusive Decays of Heavy Flavors." In addition to his research credentials, he holds High School Teaching Qualifications from the University of Modena and the University of Parma, equipping him with the expertise to educate and inspire future generations in mathematics and physics.

Experience🏢

Dr. Leonardo Di Giustino is a dedicated researcher with extensive experience in theoretical physics, particularly in quantum chromodynamics (QCD) and renormalization scale-setting methods. From 2022 to 2024, he served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Insubria, Italy, where he contributed to advancements in high-energy physics. His research journey includes international collaborations, such as his role as a Visiting Scientist at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, USA (2011, 2018–2019), where he worked alongside leading physicists on cutting-edge particle physics projects. Additionally, he was a Fellowship Researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Physics, Germany (2012–2013), further strengthening his expertise in theoretical physics. Earlier in his career, he was a Research Fellow at the University of Parma, Italy (2006–2007), contributing to fundamental studies in physics. Alongside his research activities, Dr. Di Giustino has been committed to education, serving as a Mathematics and Physics teacher since 2007, inspiring and mentoring students in scientific disciplines. His diverse experience highlights his dedication to both academic research and science education.

Research Interests🔬

Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD)

Renormalization and Regularization Methods in QCD

Collider Physics and Precision Calculations

Condensed Matter Physics & Magnetic Interfaces

Awards & Fellowships🏆

Angelo Della Riccia Foundation Fellowship (2011)

Max Planck Institute Fellowship (2012-2013)

Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Insubria (2022-2024)

Selected Publications📚

1.Detailed Comparison of Renormalization Scale-Setting Procedures Based on the Principle of Maximum Conformality

Journal: Nuclear Physics B

Publication Date: April 2023

Contributors: Xu-Dong Huang, Jiang Yan, Hong-Hao Ma, Leonardo Di Giustino, Jian-Ming Shen, Xing-Gang Wu, Stanley J. Brodsky

Key Insights:

Compares various renormalization scale-setting methods.

Demonstrates the advantages of the Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) in eliminating scheme and scale ambiguities in QCD calculations.

2. Elimination of QCD Renormalization Scale and Scheme Ambiguities

Journal: Universe

Publication Date: April 2023

Contributors: Sheng-Quan Wang, Stanley Brodsky, Xing-Gang Wu, Jian-Ming Shen, Leonardo Di Giustino

Key Insights:

Focuses on how PMC removes renormalization ambiguities and improves QCD predictions.

Discusses applications of PMC in high-energy physics.

3. Elimination of QCD Renormalization Scale and Scheme Ambiguities (Preprint)

Publication Date: February 16, 2023

Contributors: Leonardo Di Giustino

Key Insights:

Early version of the Universe journal article.

Highlights the challenges in conventional renormalization procedures and how PMC provides a systematic solution.

4. The Renormalization Scale-Setting Problem in QCD (Ph.D. Thesis)

Publication Date: May 25, 2022

Contributors: Leonardo Di Giustino

Key Insights:

A comprehensive analysis of renormalization scale-setting methods in QCD.

Discusses theoretical foundations and applications of PMC.

5. Thrust Distribution for 3-Jet Production from e⁺e⁻ Annihilation within the QCD Conformal Window and in QED

Journal: Physics Letters B

Publication Date: December 2021

Contributors: Leonardo Di Giustino, Francesco Sannino, Sheng-Quan Wang, Xing-Gang Wu

Key Insights:

Applies PMC to 3-jet production in QCD and QED.

Examines the thrust distribution and its implications for high-energy physics.

 

 

 

Mr. Zheting Meng | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Zheting Meng | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Optics and Electron, China.

Mr. Meng Zheting is a graduate student at the Institute of Optoelectronics Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in light field regulation and vector light field control applications. With a strong background in physics and optoelectronics, he is dedicated to advancing laser wireless power transfer (LWPT) for UAVs. His research focuses on developing lightweight air-floating metalenses, significantly improving laser energy distribution and wireless charging efficiency.

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🎓 Education

Meng Zheting holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Sichuan University, where he developed a strong foundation in optics and photonics. His undergraduate studies sparked a deep interest in light field manipulation, leading him to pursue further specialization. Currently, he is enrolled in a Master of Science in Optoelectronics at the Institute of Optoelectronics Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. His graduate research focuses on the principle and method of light field regulation, particularly in vector light field control applications. Through his academic journey, he has gained extensive expertise in laser wireless power transfer (LWPT) and its innovative applications, contributing to the advancement of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) endurance and efficient long-range wireless energy transfer.

💼 Experience

Meng Zheting is currently a Graduate Researcher (2023–Present) at the Research Center on Vector Optical Fields, Institute of Optoelectronics Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. His research is dedicated to advancing Laser Wireless Power Transfer (LWPT) technologies, aiming to enhance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) endurance by overcoming critical challenges such as beam divergence, non-uniform irradiation, and alignment instability. His innovative work includes the development of a lightweight air-floating metalens that significantly improves laser focusing and energy distribution, achieving up to 75% uniformity in experiments. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize long-range wireless power transmission, expanding applications in aerospace, defense, and renewable energy sectors.

🔬 Research Interests

Light field regulation and vector light field control applications

Laser Wireless Power Transfer (LWPT) for UAVs

Metalens-based optical focusing for power transmission

📚 Publication

Meng, Z., Xiao, Y., Chen, L., Wang, S., Fang, Y., Zhou, J., Li, Y., Zhang, D., Pu, M., & Luo, X. (2025). Floating Multi-Focus Metalens for High-Efficiency Airborne Laser Wireless Charging. Photonics, 12(2), Article 150. DOI: 10.3390/photonics12020150

This study presents a floating multi-focus metalens designed to enhance airborne laser wireless charging efficiency. By improving laser focusing precision and energy uniformity, the proposed technology addresses key limitations in long-range wireless power transfer (LWPT), significantly boosting UAV endurance and operational capabilities.

 

 

Ms. Florence Acha | Super hydrophobic Coatings | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Florence Acha | Super hydrophobic Coatings | Best Researcher Award

University of Massachusetts Lowell, United States.

Florence Nkemamaka Acha is a dedicated researcher in polymer engineering, with expertise in biomaterials, nanotechnology, and composites. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Plastics Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, she has an impressive academic track record and multiple research publications. Florence has significant teaching, research, and industrial experience, complemented by numerous leadership and volunteer roles. She has received several prestigious awards for her academic excellence and leadership contributions.

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Education 🎓

Florence Nkemamaka Acha is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Plastics Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, where she is working under the supervision of Prof. Joey Mead on developing PFAS-free superhydrophobic coatings for textile applications. She holds a Master of Engineering in Plastics Engineering with honors from the same institution, with an impressive GPA of 3.917/4.0, and is expected to complete her degree in February 2025. Florence earned her Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer and Textile Engineering with first-class honors from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, in 2019, achieving a stellar GPA of 4.67/5.0. Her undergraduate thesis focused on evaluating the physical and end-use properties of alkyd paints using local materials as extenders. Prior to her university studies, she completed her secondary education at Elaihor Grammar School, Egweaholor-Isi, Edo State, Nigeria, in 2013.

Experience 💼

Florence Nkemamaka Acha has built a strong foundation in academic research and teaching through her roles at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell. She has been a Research Assistant since May 2023, working on innovative projects in plastics engineering, and served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant from August 2023 to August 2024, assisting in the delivery of key engineering courses.

In addition to her academic roles, Florence gained valuable industry experience during her production internship at Obino Industrial Company Limited in Nigeria. She also worked as a Research Assistant at Igwe Isaac Laboratory from 2019 to 2023 and as a Business Development Officer at Jimcol Resources Nig. Ltd., where she developed her business and technical expertise. This diverse experience equips her with both technical and leadership skills essential for addressing complex engineering challenges.

Research Interests 🤾‍♀️

Florence’s research focuses on:

Polymer Engineering

Polymer Science

Composites

Biomaterials

Material Science

Polymer Chemistry

Nanotechnology

Awards and Honors 🏆

Best Graduating Student Award, Polymer and Textile Engineering, FUTO (2019)

IBE MIT Alumni Award for Best Graduating Student, Polymer and Textile Engineering, FUTO (2019)

Educational Support Award, HillCity Foundation, Nigeria (2016-2019)

Delta State Bursary Scholarship, Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board (2015-2019)

Award of Excellence for Service and Leadership, Holiness Campus Fellowship, FUTO (2019)

Publications Top Notes 📝

Scheff T.; Acha, F.; Diaz Armas N.; Mead J.L.; Zhang, J. (2024). Tuning Wetting Properties Through Surface Geometry in the Cassie-Baxter State. Biomimetics, 2025, 10, 20.

Isaac O. Igwe, Florence N. Acha, et al. (2021). Utilization of Granite Quarry Dust Extender in Formulating Anti-Corrosive Paints for the Protection of Steel. Australian Journal of Science and Technology, 5(3), 631-637.

Book Chapter: Florence N. Acha (2024). Cleaning of Paints. In: Isaac O. Igwe (ed.). The Science and Technology of Paints. Submitted for publication.

Isaac O. Igwe, Florence N. Acha, Christian O. Anyaegbu, et al. (2020). Formulation of Anti-Corrosive Alkyd Paints Based on Umuahia Clay Extender. SSRG International Journal of Polymer and Textile Engineering, 7(2), 25-30.

Ifeoluwa Sarah Fesojaye, Favour Dada, Florence N. Acha (2023). Innovative Applications of Nanomaterials in Semiconductor Manufacturing: Advancing Efficiency and Performance for Next-Generation Technologies.