Mrs. Eduarda Fraga Olivo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Eduarda Fraga Olivo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Eduarda Fraga Olivo is a researcher specializing in waste valorization and sustainable materials. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina (UNESC) and is currently pursuing a dual Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering (UNESC) and Mechanical Engineering, Energy, and Materials (IPVC, Portugal). Her research focuses on circular economy strategies, particularly in the agroindustry, contributing to innovative solutions in technosoils, organomineral fertilizers, and sustainable ceramics.

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🎓 Education

Eduarda Fraga Olivo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina (2022) and is currently pursuing a dual Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering at UNESC and Mechanical Engineering, Energy, and Materials at the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo. Her interdisciplinary education integrates biological sciences, materials engineering, and sustainability, equipping her with the expertise to develop innovative solutions in waste valorization and circular economy strategies.

💼 Experience

Eduarda Fraga Olivo is a researcher at UNESC's PPGCEM program, where she actively contributes to studies on waste valorization and sustainable materials. As a research project leader, she oversees multiple ongoing projects focused on circular economy strategies and innovative material applications. Additionally, her role as a graduate research assistant involves developing sustainable solutions for agriculture, construction, and industrial waste management, reinforcing her expertise in environmental and materials science.

🔬 Research Interests

Waste Valorization ♻️ – Converting industrial byproducts into valuable materials

Sustainable Raw Materials 🌱 – Development of eco-friendly materials for agriculture

Technical Ceramics 🏺 – Using waste-based minerals for ceramic applications

Circular Economy 🔄 – Strategies for sustainable resource management

🏆 Awards & Honors

CAPES/PROSUC Scholarship – Brazilian Federal Government

Recognition in Sustainable Research – University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina

📚 Selected Publications

📄 Systematic Selection of Waste from Run-of-Mine Coal Processing as Sustainable Raw Materials for Organo-Mineral Fertilizer Production (2025) – Sustainability

📄 Technosol Development Based on Residual Fraction of Coal Tailings Processing, Agro-Industrial Waste, and Paper Industry Waste (2024) – Sustainability

📄 Valorization of the Residual Fraction of Coal Tailings: A Mineral Circularity Strategy for the Clay Ceramic Industry in the Carboniferous Region of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil (2024) – Materials

 

 

 

 

Dr. Despoina Tounta | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Despoina Tounta | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Despoina D. Tounta is a Doctoral Candidate at the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. With a strong background in environmental science, disaster management, and public health, her research focuses on the interplay between climate change, pandemics, and zoonotic diseases. She has presented her work at international conferences and published in renowned scientific journals.

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🎓 Education

Despoina D. Tounta holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology and Geoenvironment from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, which she earned in 1991. Building on her expertise in environmental sciences, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Environmental, Disaster, and Crisis Management Strategies at the same institution, graduating in 2017. Currently, she is a Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, where her research focuses on the impact of climate change and pandemics from zoonotic diseases. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Climate Change and Pandemics from Zoonoses: Emerging Risks for Public Health and Strategies for Prevention in the Cyclades Island Complex,” explores the intersection of environmental changes and public health risks, with an emphasis on developing policies for disaster preparedness and mitigation.

💼 Experience

Despoina D. Tounta has actively contributed to environmental research and disaster management through training, conferences, and presentations. In 1993, she completed specialized training in Remote Sensing at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, focusing on natural environment protection. Her expertise in disaster resilience led her to present at SafeGreece 2017 (SafeAthens), where she discussed seismic risk prevention in public buildings. In 2021, she presented her research at the International CEST Conference, exploring the impact of weather conditions on COVID-19 spread. Continuing her work on environmental health, she spoke at the Climate Crisis Conference in 2022, analyzing the link between air pollution and COVID-19 mortality. Most recently, in 2023, she participated in COMECAP 2023, where she examined the association between solar irradiance, pollution, and COVID-19 cases in Athens, further reinforcing her role in climate and public health research.

🔬 Research Interests

🌍 Climate Change & Public Health – Investigating the link between environmental factors and zoonotic disease outbreaks.

🦠 Epidemics & Pandemics – Studying the spread of infectious diseases and their correlation with weather and pollution.

🏢 Seismic Risk Prevention – Assessing non-structural vulnerability in public buildings.

📡 Remote Sensing & Environmental Monitoring – Applying geospatial tools to analyze climate-related health risks.

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Speaker & Contributor at multiple international conferences on environmental hazards, pandemics, and disaster management.

Recognized Researcher for work on COVID-19, climate change, and public health strategies.

📚 Publications

Human Activities and Zoonotic Epidemics: A Two-Way Relationship – The Case of the COVID-19 Pandemic

📌 Authors: Tounta, D.D.; Nastos, P.T.; Tesseromatis, C.
📌 Journal: Global Sustainability (2022)
📌 Volume: 5, e19
📌 Citations: 3

Could Saliva Play a Role in Controlling the COVID-19 Pandemic?

📌 Authors: Papadopoulou, A.; Tounta, D.; Tesseromatis, C.
📌 Journal: Stomatologija

 

 

 

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.

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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. Young Hun Jeong | Energy Harvesting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Young Hun Jeong | Energy Harvesting | Best Researcher Award

Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology, South Korea.

Dr. Young Hun Jeong is a Chief Researcher at the Electronic Convergence Materials Division of the Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology. He specializes in piezoelectric sensors, actuators, acoustics, and energy harvesting, with a particular focus on wearable and flexible piezoelectrics for bio-sensors. His expertise extends to infrared sensor development, nano-architecture, and microwave dielectric thin-film growth. Young Hun is a highly skilled researcher proficient in designing high-k and low-k thin films for capacitors, PTCR materials, and advancing microwave dielectric materials for next-generation applications.

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Education 🎓

Young Hun Jeong holds a degree in Materials Science with a specialization in electronic materials. His academic foundation has empowered him to push the boundaries of materials innovation, particularly in the areas of piezoelectrics and energy harvesting technologies.

Experience 🛠️

With a proven track record, Young Hun has contributed significantly to over 21 ongoing research projects and 3 industry consultancy projects. He has developed key technologies and methodologies, such as the two-dimensionally dispersed templated grain growth (2DD TGG) technique, which has advanced the performance of piezoelectric materials. He is also a contributor to numerous patents (52 published) and has co-authored 57 SCI journal articles, solidifying his role as a leader in energy harvesting and sensing technologies.

Research Interests 🔬

Piezoelectric Sensors & Actuators

Young Hun Jeong enhances piezoelectric sensors and actuators for better efficiency and sensitivity in industrial and medical applications.

Acoustics and Energy Harvesting

His work in acoustics and energy harvesting focuses on capturing ambient energy for self-powered systems and sensors.

Wearable and Flexible Piezoelectrics for Bio-sensors

Jeong innovates in wearable and flexible piezoelectrics, advancing bio-sensor technologies for health monitoring and diagnostics.

Infrared Sensors and Nano-Architecture

He develops infrared sensors and nano-architecture for applications in environmental monitoring, security, and healthcare.

Microwave Dielectric Thin Film Growth & Characterization

Jeong contributes to microwave dielectric thin films, improving materials for communication systems and radar technologies.

High-k & Low-k Thin Films for Capacitors

His research on high-k and low-k thin films improves capacitor performance, enhancing energy storage in electronic devices.

PTCR Materials

Jeong advances PTCR materials for temperature sensing and self-regulating systems in energy management.

Microwave Dielectric Materials

His work on microwave dielectric materials supports high-frequency systems like 5G and satellite communications.

Impact on Sectors

His research impacts sensing technologies, bioelectronics, and energy harvesting, driving innovation in self-sustaining systems and wearable tech.

Publications Top Notes 📚

Low-temperature sintered 0.5Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.16PbZrO3–0.34PbTiO3 piezoelectric textured ceramics by Li2CO3 addition

Authors: Cho, S.W., Na, Y.-H., Baik, J.M., Park, K.-I., Jeong, Y.H., Published: 2024, Journal of the American Ceramic Society, Citations: 3. Link

Piezoelectric Pb(Ni,Nb)O3-Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 multilayer ceramics using Cu-Ag electrodes reduced by hydrazine solution treatment

Authors: Lee, M.-S., Jeong, Y.H., Published: 2024, Materials Today Communications, Link

Enhanced energy harvesting performance of piezoelectric cantilever using (Bi,Sm)ScO3-PbTiO3 ceramics textured by microstructural engineering, Authors: Lee, M.-S., Song, H.-C., Jeong, Y.H., Published: 2024, Materials Letters, Citations: 2. Link

Phase transition behavior and electrical properties of (Bi0.97Sm0.03)ScO3-PbTiO3 textured ceramics MPB-modified by BaTiO3 templates for high temperature piezoelectric device applications, Authors: Lee, M.-S., Jeong, Y.H., Published: 2023, Ceramics International, 49(23), Citations: 2. Link

Effects of Sm-substitution on dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of 0.36(Bi1-xSmx)ScO3-0.64PbTiO3 ceramics

Authors: Cho, S.W., Baik, J.M., Jeong, Y.H., Published: 2023, Ceramics International, 49(2), Link

 

 

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bo Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bo Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

South China Agricultural University, China

Bo Yang is an Associate Professor at the College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University (SCAU), specializing in organic chemistry. His research focuses on organic synthesis methodologies, including photochemistry, transition metal catalysis, and asymmetric synthesis. With a strong academic background and postdoctoral experience, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of chemistry, specifically in synthesis reactions and new functional reagents.

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Education🎓

Bo Yang holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Zhejiang University (2014–2018), where he conducted research under the guidance of Prof. Zhan Lu, focusing on advanced synthetic methodologies. His foundational education includes a Master’s in Organic Chemistry from Sun Yat-Sen University (2012–2014) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Chemistry from Southwest University of Science and Technology (2008–2012), which equipped him with a strong background in organic and applied chemistry essential for his current research.

Experience💼

Bo Yang is currently an Associate Professor at the College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University (SCAU) (2024–present), where he focuses on cutting-edge research in organic synthesis. Prior to this role, he served as an Associate Researcher at the School of Chemical Engineering and Energy Technology, Dongguan University of Technology (DGUT) (2022–2024), and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at South China University of Technology (SCUT) (2019–2022) under Prof. Shifa Zhu, gaining extensive expertise in photochemistry and catalysis.

Research Interests🔬

Photochemistry🌞

Bo specializes in photochemistry, studying light-driven reactions to develop efficient, sustainable processes for synthesizing complex organic compounds.

Transition Metal Catalysis⚙️

He is also focused on transition metal catalysis, employing metals as catalysts to streamline chemical reactions, making them more selective and efficient.

Asymmetric Synthesis🔄 

Bo’s research in asymmetric synthesis aims to create molecules with specific chiral properties, a critical approach for producing compounds in pharmaceutical chemistry.

Research Impact🎯 

Through his work, Bo Yang contributes to fields like pharmaceutical chemistry, materials science, and green chemistry by developing novel synthetic strategies and functional molecules with potential applications in medicine, sustainable materials, and environmentally friendly processes.

Publications Top Notes📚

Direct Synthesis of Dialkyl Ketones from Deoxygenative Cross-Coupling of Carboxylic Acids and Alcohols, Chem. Sci., 2024. Link

Visible Light-promoted Aerobic Oxidation of α-silyl Styrenes with Alcohols, Chin. J. Chem., 2024. Link

Bifunctional Two-Carbon Reagent: Made from Acetylene via 1,2-difunctionalization and Its Applications, Sci. China Chem., 2024. Link

Diverse Synthesis of C2-linked Functionalized Molecules via Molecular Glue Strategy with Acetylene, Nat. Commun., 2022. Link

Hydrogen Radical-Shuttle (HRS)-Enabled Photoredox Synthesis of Indanones via Decarboxylative Annulation, Nat. Commun., 2021. Link