Andrzej Piotrowicz | Engineering and Technology | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Andrzej Piotrowicz | Engineering and Technology | Research Excellence Award

Head of the Hydrometallurgy Department at Eco Harpoon Recycling, Poland

Mr. Andrzej Piotrowicz is a highly accomplished metallurgist with advanced academic training from AGH University of Science and Technology, specializing in metallurgy, recycling, and chemical technology. He currently serves as Head of the Hydrometallurgy Department at Eco Harpoon, leading research, process scaling, and team management in advanced recycling technologies, particularly for lithium-ion batteries and electronic waste. He has extensive industry experience across leading organizations, contributing to both hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical innovations while managing R&D teams and collaborating with international partners. Alongside his industrial work, he is actively involved in academic tutoring, scientific publications, patent preparation, and conference representation, demonstrating strong engagement in both education and research. His expertise is further strengthened by numerous specialized trainings in circular economy, resource recovery, and industrial innovation across Europe. He has contributed to multiple research projects focused on zinc recovery, battery recycling, and sustainable metallurgical processes, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental and technological advancement.

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Featured Publications

 

RAŞİT KARAKUŞ | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr.RAŞİT KARAKUŞ | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr.RAŞİT KARAKUŞ | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

FNSS Savunma Sistemleri A.Ş, Turkey

Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Raşit Karakuş’s journey in mechanical engineering began with a Bachelor's degree from Gazi University (2003–2009), followed by academic enrichment at Technische Universität Kaiserslautern. He pursued his Master’s (2009–2012) and Ph.D. (2012–2019) at Hacettepe University, Department of Mechanical Engineering in Ankara. His graduate studies were marked by deep engagement with compliant mechanisms, lightweight structures, and automotive applications — laying the foundation for a career blending academia and industry.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Karakuş boasts a dynamic career spanning academia and the defense and mobility sectors. From 2010 to 2012, he was a Research Assistant at Hacettepe University, then served as a Mechanical Engineer and Lecturer (2016–2023), mentoring the next generation of engineers. Simultaneously, he led design efforts at EVT Motor and other automotive startups, focusing on L7e and M1 class electric vehicle design and production. At FNSS Defence Systems Inc., he rose to become e-Mobility Unit Manager in 2023 after serving as a Technical Consultant, overseeing electric mobility systems for defense applications.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Karakuş has made substantial contributions to compliant mechanism design, particularly in applications related to suspension systems, wipers, and universal joints. His research bridges theory and practice, often exploring the optimization of additive manufacturing, vacuum infusion, and preformed flexible segments. With a focus on mechanical innovation, his work pushes the envelope in adaptive systems and structural flexibility.

Impact and Influence

His peer-reviewed works are widely cited, including top-tier journals such as Machines, Mechanical Sciences, International Journal of Mechanics and Materials in Design, and Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology. His patents on compliant mechanisms and award-winning designs underline his impact on practical engineering challenges. Notably, he won the Best Academic Invention Award at the Istanbul International Inventions Fair in 2016, a testament to his innovative spirit and translational research.

Academic Citations & Publications

Dr. Karakuş has authored several influential publications:

  • A Novel Compliant Four-Bar Mechanism-Based Universal Joint Design (Machines, 2025)

  • Compliant Universal Joint with Preformed Flexible Segments (J Mech Sci Tech, 2022)

  • Novel Compliant Wiper Mechanism (Mechanical Sciences, 2018)

  • Altı Çubuklu Bir Esnek Mekanizma ile Araç Yönlendirme Sistemi (OGÜ MMF Dergisi, 2024)

He also holds two patents:

  • Compliant Suspension Mechanism – TR2022017803

  • Compliant Wiper Mechanism – TR201310617

These achievements affirm his expertise in compliant systems, with increasing citations reflecting his growing academic presence.

Technical Skills

Dr. Karakuş is proficient in:

  • CAD & CAM software (SolidWorks, CATIA)

  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

  • Additive Manufacturing & Rapid Prototyping

  • Compliant Mechanism Simulation

  • Mobility Systems Integration

  • Suspension & Powertrain Design for EVs

His technical breadth supports both theoretical development and hands-on engineering innovation.

Teaching Experience

Throughout his academic career at Hacettepe University, Dr. Karakuş has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in mechanism design, automotive systems, computer-aided design, and engineering dynamics. He has supervised numerous student projects, emphasizing creativity and interdisciplinary engineering.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Karakuş’s legacy lies in his interdisciplinary approach, uniting mechanical engineering principles with real-world defense and e-mobility challenges. His entrepreneurial project with TÜBİTAK on electric kick scooters with compliant suspension design exemplifies this vision. As the e-Mobility Unit Manager at FNSS, his future endeavors likely involve advancing green defense technologies and contributing to smart, compliant systems in rugged vehicle applications. His work will continue to influence the convergence of mechanical innovation, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing.

 Notable Publications

A Novel Compliant Four-Bar Mechanism-Based Universal Joint Design and Production

  • Authors: Raşit Karakuş

  • Journal: Machines

  • Year: 2025

Novel Compliant Wiper Mechanism

  • Authors: Raşit Karakuş, Tanık E.

  • Journal: Mechanical Sciences

  • Year: 2018

Transmission Angle in Compliant Four-Bar Mechanism

  • Authors: Raşit Karakuş, Tanık E.

  • Journal: International Journal of Mechanical Materials and Design

  • Year: 2023

Compliant Universal Joint with Preformed Flexible Segments

  • Authors: Raşit Karakuş, Tanık Ç.M.

  • Journal: Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology

  • Year: 2023

Optimization of Additive Manufacturing by Vacuum Infusion Method

  • Authors: Raşit Karakuş, Tanık Ç.M.

  • Journal: Gazi University Journal of Engineering and Architecture

  • Year: 2023

 

 

Dr. Michał Hajos | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Michał Hajos | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Agriculture in Krakow, Poland.

Michal Hajos is a skilled academic and researcher currently working at the University of Agriculture in Krakow, Poland. With a strong foundation in metallurgy and extensive experience in industrial research, Hajos has dedicated his career to exploring innovative solutions in material science, combustion processes, and plant-based material research. He has worked on numerous industrial and academic projects, contributing significantly to both the research and development sectors. His research interests include the study of combustion and drying processes and the exploration of green methods for nanoparticle production.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Michał Hajos holds a PhD in Metallurgy from AGH University in Krakow (2008–2014), with a dissertation on "Physicochemical parameters of the electrochemical process for the production of zinc oxide nanoparticles." He also earned a Master of Science in Metallurgy from the same institution (2002–2008), where his thesis focused on binders in molding sands. Additionally, he completed his Environmental Protection Technician qualification at Zespół Szkół Chemicznych in Krakow (1995–2000), researching the use of industrial waste as alternative fuels in the cement industry.

Work Experience 💼

Dr. Michał Hajos is currently an Assistant at the University of Agriculture in Krakow (2022–present), focusing on research and teaching in mechanical engineering and agrophysics, with expertise in material science and thermodynamics. He served as Head of Executive at CBR Rock Master (2021–2022), overseeing R&D, production planning, and product certification. Prior to that, he was a Laboratory Analyst (2019–2021) at the same company, specializing in designing and testing prototypes for height safety systems. Dr. Hajos also worked as a Process Engineer at NYCZ Intertrade (2016–2018), leading nickel recovery processes from galvanic waste. Earlier, he contributed as a Research Assistant and Lecturer at AGH University of Science and Technology (2012–2015), designing measurement stands and conducting research for shale gas extraction projects.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Michał Hajos focuses on the study of combustion and drying processes 🔥💧, aiming to optimize energy efficiency and material properties.

Physico-Chemical Properties of Plant-Based Materials 🌿

He investigates the physico-chemical properties of plant-based materials, exploring sustainable alternatives for various industrial applications.

Green Nanoparticle Production 🌱🔬

A significant aspect of his research is the development of green methods for nanoparticle production, striving to create eco-friendly technologies for the future.

Achievements 🏆

Third Degree Award in the "Technician 2000" competition (2000)
For his thesis on alternative fuels for the cement industry.

Patent in Nickel Recovery Process (2014)
Involved in the patenting process for the method of manufacturing molds and cores in smelting technologies.

Multiple Conference Contributions (2008–2013)
Organized and participated in various national and international conferences, contributing to both research dissemination and academic development.

Selected Publications 📚

Size Distribution of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Depending on the Temperature of Electrochemical Synthesis
Hajos, M., Starowicz, M., Brzychczyk, B., Basista, G., Francik, S.
Materials, 2025, 18(2), 458
Focus: This study investigates how the temperature during electrochemical synthesis affects the size distribution of zinc oxide nanoparticles.

Prediction of Brake Pad Wear of Trucks Transporting Oversize Loads Based on the Number of Drivers’ Braking and the Load Level of the Trucks—Multiple Regression Models
Basista, G., Hajos, M., Francik, S., Pedryc, N.
Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 2024, 14(13), 5408
Focus: This article uses multiple regression models to predict brake pad wear in trucks transporting oversize loads.

Citations: 1

Modeling the Drying Process of Onion Slices Using Artificial Neural Networks
Francik, S., Łapczyńska-Kordon, B., Hajos, M., Zawiślak, A., Francik, R.
Energies, 2024, 17(13), 3199
Focus: The study explores the application of artificial neural networks to model the drying process of onion slices.

Cohesion and Adhesion Properties of Modified Water Glass with Colloidal Solutions of ZnO
Smyksy, K., Kmita, A., Hutera, B., Hajos, M., Starowicz, M.
Metalurgija, 2014, 53(4), pp. 459–462
Focus: The article discusses the cohesion and adhesion properties of modified water glass combined with colloidal solutions of zinc oxide.

Citations: 5

Morphology and Structure of ZnO Nanoparticles Produced by Electrochemical Method
Stypuła, B., Kmita, A., Hajos, M.
Medziagotyra, 2014, 20(1), pp. 3–9
Focus: This paper examines the morphology and structure of zinc oxide nanoparticles produced through an electrochemical method.

 

 

Dr. Yongcaho Xue | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yongcaho Xue | Petroleum Engineering | Best Researcher Award

China University of Petroleum (Beijing), China

Xue Yongchao (Ph.D.) is a professor at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing). With over two decades of academic and research experience, he specializes in stochastic modeling, reservoir characterization, and petroleum engineering. He has contributed significantly to advancements in low-permeability reservoirs and heavy oil thermal recovery.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Xue Yongchao holds a Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from the China University of Petroleum (2004), showcasing his advanced expertise in the field. He also earned an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Northeast Petroleum University (2001) and a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from the same institution (1994), solidifying his strong foundation in both petroleum and mechanical engineering disciplines. His diverse academic background enables him to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in petroleum engineering.

Experience 💼

Dr. Xue Yongchao has an impressive career in academia and research. Since 2015, he has been serving as a Professor in the Department of Petroleum Engineering at China University of Petroleum-Beijing, where he leads cutting-edge research and teaches advanced courses. From 2010 to 2011, he was a Visiting Scholar at Texas A&M University, USA, where he collaborated on international projects and expanded his global expertise. Prior to his professorship, he worked as a Lecturer at the same university from 2004 to 2015, building a solid foundation in teaching and research.

Research Interests 🔬

Stochastic Modeling 🔍

Dr. Xue specializes in stochastic modeling, employing advanced probabilistic methods to analyze and predict complex reservoir behaviors, enabling more accurate forecasting and decision-making in petroleum engineering.

Reservoir Characterization 🛢️

His expertise in reservoir characterization focuses on understanding the physical and geological properties of reservoirs, ensuring efficient exploration and extraction strategies.

Geology and Development of Oil & Gas Fields 🌍

Dr. Xue contributes to the study and teaching of oil and gas field development, integrating geological insights with engineering principles to optimize resource utilization and sustainability.

Awards 🏆

2017: Second Prize, Science and Technology Progress of Ministry of Education, for "The new theory and application of heavy oil multi-medium thermal development."

2012: First Prize, Teaching Achievements, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), for "Advanced Mechanics of Fluids in Porous Media" course system construction.

2010: First Prize, Science and Technology Progress of China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association, for "Non-linear seepage and development technology of ultra-low permeability reservoirs."

Selected Publications 📚

Probabilistic performance forecasting in history matching of low-permeability reservoirs, SPE-188100-MS (2017). Link

A new fracture prediction method by combining genetic algorithm with neural network in low permeability reservoirs, Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering (2014). Cited by: 68 articles. Link

The influence of interlayer of bottom water reservoirs during development stage, Petroleum Science and Technology (2013). Link

Experimental comparison study of stress sensitivity at different levels of permeability core, Advanced Materials Research (2012). Link

An Integrated Method of Data-Driven and Water-Drive Mechanism for Oil Production Forecast in High Water Cut Reservoir, Link