Prof. Chae-Ryong Cho | Secondary batteries | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Chae-Ryong Cho | Secondary batteries | Best Researcher Award

Department of Nanoenergy Engineering/Pusan National University, South Korea.

Prof. Chae-Ryong Cho is a distinguished physicist specializing in nanoenergy engineering. Currently serving as a professor at Pusan National University (PNU) in Busan, Korea, he has made significant contributions to the fields of lithium-ion batteries, photocatalysts, and nanostructured materials. His research has been widely recognized, with numerous publications and patents to his name.

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Education 🎓

Prof. Chae-Ryong Cho earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics from Pusan National University, Busan, Korea (1982-1986). He then pursued a Master of Science (M.S.) in Surface Physics at Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea (1986-1988). Later, he completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Solid-State Physics at Pusan National University, Busan, Korea (1991-1995), specializing in the advanced study of solid-state materials and their physical properties.​

Experience 🏢

Prof. Chae-Ryong Cho is a Professor of Nanoenergy Engineering at Pusan National University (PNU) since 2006, specializing in secondary batteries and surface physics. He currently serves as Director of the Secondary Battery Convergence and Open Sharing System (COSS) and Secondary Battery Convergence Major at PNU (2023-Present), as well as Director of the Secondary Batteries Industry Technical Human Resource Development Center (SBitHRD) (2021-Present).

Previously, he was Dean of the College of Nanoscience & Nanotechnology at PNU (2018-2020) and a Visiting Scholar at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2013-2014). His research experience includes roles at Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), University of Minnesota, and UIUC. His work focuses on solid-state physics, surface analysis, and secondary battery technology.

Research Interests 🔬

Lithium-ion Batteries: Focus on developing advanced anode and cathode materials.

Sodium (Na) and Potassium (K) Ion Batteries: Exploration of alternative energy storage solutions.

All-Solid-State Batteries: Researching safer and more efficient battery technologies.

In Situ Structural Analysis: Studying real-time structural changes in materials.

Electrochemical Analysis of Active Materials: Investigating the electrochemical properties of battery components.

Awards 🏆

2005: President's Award (ROK)

2018: Busan Science and Technology Award

2018: Busan Mayor Award

2021: Congratulatory Plaque from BISTEP Director

2024: Deputy Prime Minister Award, Ministry of Education

Selected Publications 📚

Realization of a 2H-Si microneedle with an ultrafast growth rate of 6.7 × 10⁴ Å·s⁻¹

Authors: S. Mun, K. Kim, S. Park, Y. Kang, H. Ahn

Journal: Semiconductor Science and Technology, 2025

Enhanced Li storage of pure crystalline-C60 and TiNb₂O₇-nanostructure composite for Li-ion battery anodes

Authors: I. Jeon, L. Yin, D. Yang, H. Ahn, C. Cho

Journal: Journal of Energy Chemistry, 2024

Citations: 3

Enhancing Li-Ion Battery Anodes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrochemical Performance of Crystalline C60 Nanorods with Controlled Morphology and Phase Transition

Authors: L. Yin, D. Yang, I. Jeon, M. Park, C. Cho

Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, 2024

Citations: 3

Enhanced electrochemical performance and interdiffusion behavior of sodium ions in onion-derived freeze-dried and KOH-activated carbon for sodium-ion battery anodes

Authors: I. Jeon, T. Kim, J. Seo, D. Yang, C. Cho

Journal: Applied Surface Science, 2024

Citations: 5

Electrochemical behavior of Ag nanoparticle-incorporated Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ nanofibers as Li-ion battery anodes under visible light exposure

Authors: H. Yang, D. Yang, I. Jeon, J. Seo, C. Cho

Journal: Applied Surface Science, 2024

 

 

Dr. Elitsa Petkucheva | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Elitsa Petkucheva | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

BAS - Institute of Electrochemistry and Energy Systems, Bulgaria.

Dr. Elitsa Petkucheva is a dedicated hydrogen enthusiast committed to advancing clean energy solutions. With a robust background in engineering and a profound understanding of hydrogen fuel cells, she actively collaborates with industry leaders, government officials, and academic researchers to promote hydrogen-based applications across various sectors, including power generation, transportation, and industrial processes.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Elitsa Petkucheva holds an Executive MBA in Energy Management from the Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva, Switzerland, which she completed between March 2022 and May 2024. She earned her Ph.D. in Electrochemistry from the Acad. E. Budevski Institute of Electrochemistry and Energy Systems (IEES) in Sofia, Bulgaria, where she conducted research from September 2013 to May 2018. Prior to that, she obtained an M.Sc. in Hydrogen Technologies from the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy (UCTM) in Sofia, Bulgaria, graduating in June 2013. Dr. Petkucheva also holds a B.Sc. in Biotechnologies from UCTM, which she completed between September 2007 and September 2011.​

💼 Experience

Dr. Elitsa Petkucheva is currently serving as a Chief Assistant in Research and Development at the Institute of Electrochemistry and Energy Systems (IEES) within the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, a position she has held since July 2019. Prior to this role, she worked as a Research Assistant at IEES-BAS from September 2017 to July 2019. Additionally, she gained international research experience as a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Catalysis (LSCI) at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland, where she was involved in advanced research from January 2016 to January 2017.​

🔬 Research Interests

Hydrogen technologies

Electrocatalysis

Electrochemistry

Biotechnologies

Development of membrane electrode assemblies for PEM hydrogen systems

🏆 Awards

"Eurika" Foundation Honoree Diploma in the category "Young Inventor" (2021)

"Prof. Hristo Balarev" Award for prominent young scientist in the field of Inorganic Chemistry, Bulgarian Union of Chemists (November 2, 2020)

First Place in the category "Science and/or Technological Development" of the program "The Most Prominent Young People in Bulgaria 2020," part of the international movement Junior Chamber International (JCI) (May 6, 2020)

Acad. M. Drinov Prize 2020 for the best scientist (under 35 years) in the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, in the category "Energy Resources and Energy Efficiency"

Zeno Karl Schindler Foundation Doctoral Exchange Grant (2016-2017)

📚 Selected Publications

An unconventional iron-nickel catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction
F. Song, M. M. Busch, B. Lassalle-Kaiser, C. S. Hsu, E. Petkucheva, ...
ACS Central Science, 5(3), 558-568 (2019)Citations: 363

Ebonex supported iridium as anode catalyst for PEM water electrolysis
E. Slavcheva, G. Borisov, E. Lefterova, E. Petkucheva, I. Boshnakova
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 40(35), 11356-11361 (2015)Citations: 42

Gold-supported magnetron sputtered Ir thin films as OER catalysts for cost-efficient water electrolysis
E. Petkucheva, G. Borisov, E. Lefterova, J. Heiss, U. Schnakenberg, ...
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 43(35), 16905-16912 (2018)Citations: 29

Highly KOH doped para-polybenzimidazole anion exchange membrane and its performance in Pt/TinO2n−1 catalyzed water electrolysis cell
H. Penchev, G. Borisov, E. Petkucheva, F. Ublekov, V. Sinigersky, I. Radev, ...
Materials Letters, 221, 128-130 (2018)Citations: 13

Co-electrodeposition of iron and sulfur in aqueous and non-aqueous electrolytes
V. A. Majidzade, S. P. Mammadova, E. S. Petkucheva, E. P. Slavcheva, ...
Bulgarian Chemical Communications, 52, 73-78

Dr. Riccardo Narducci | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Riccardo Narducci | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Tor vergata university, Italy.

Riccardo Narducci is an Italian researcher currently holding a fixed-term research position (RTDb) at the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata. He obtained his National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in Chemical Foundations of Technologies (CHEM-06/A) on January 13, 2020. His research focuses on advanced materials for energy applications, particularly ion-conducting membranes for fuel cells.

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🎓 Education:

Dr. Riccardo Narducci holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences and Sciences des Matériaux, earned in 2014 through a double degree program between the University of Rome Tor Vergata and Aix-Marseille Université. His dissertation, titled "Ion Conducting Membranes for Fuel Cells," was awarded Cum Laude under the supervision of Prof. M.L. Di Vona and Prof. Philippe Knauth. Prior to his doctorate, he completed a Master’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Perugia in 2004, specializing in Inorganic and Material Chemistry, with a final grade of 108/110. His thesis focused on the "Effect of Acceptor-Donor Pair Adsorption on Surface Conductivity of Non-Stoichiometric Oxides." Dr. Narducci's academic journey began with a Technical Diploma in Industrial Chemistry from I.T.I.S. "L. Allievi" in Terni, where he graduated with the highest distinction (60/60) in 1998.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Riccardo Narducci is currently a Researcher (RTDb) (2022-2025) at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Industrial Engineering, where he is an active member of several research grant selection committees and a participant in the 2024 PACE project.

Previously, he served as a Research Fellow (2017-2022) at the same university, contributing to the HORIZON 2020 CREATE project focused on energy and hydrogen production. From 2016 to 2017, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow under the VINCI Grant, working on functionalized polymers for next-generation redox flow batteries.

Between 2010 and 2017, Dr. Narducci held the position of Research Associate, collaborating on various European and industrial projects, including LoLiPEM, MAESTRO, and HVAC systems research. In addition to his research activities, he has also served as a Contract Professor at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Faculty of Engineering.

🔬 Research Interests:

Energy Materials: Ion-conducting membranes for fuel cells and hydrogen production.

Polymeric and Composite Materials: Functionalized polymers and nanostructured materials.

Electrochemical Devices: Redox flow batteries and electrochemical energy conversion.

Environmental Technologies: Sustainable heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

🏆 Awards & Grants:

National Scientific Qualification for Associate Professor (2020).

VINCI Grant (2016) – Université Franco Italienne for postdoctoral research.

Several European Research Grants (FP7, HORIZON 2020).

Research funding from the University of Rome Tor Vergata.

📚 Selected Publications:

One-Component Catalytic Electrodes from Metal–Organic Frameworks Covalently Linked to an Anion Exchange Ionomer
Molecules (2025-03-10) 
DOI: 10.3390/molecules30061230
Contributors: Riccardo Narducci, Emanuela Sgreccia, Alessio Vincenzo Montella, Gianfranco Ercolani, Saulius Kaciulis, Suanto Syahputra, Emily Bloch, Luca Pasquini, Philippe Knauth, Maria Luisa Di Vona

Composite Membranes Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol and Lamellar Solids for Water Decontamination
New Journal of Chemistry (2024) 
DOI: 10.1039/D3NJ04942F
Contributors: Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Eziz Naryyev, Annarita Petracci, Irene Di Guida, Riccardo Narducci

Composite Anion Exchange Membranes Containing a Long-Side Chain Ionomer and Exfoliated Lamellar Double Hydroxides
Membranes (2024-12-20)
DOI: 10.3390/membranes14120275
Contributors: Riccardo Narducci, Suanto Syahputra, Maria Luisa Di Vona, Philippe Knauth, Luca Pasquini

Porous Polymers Based on PSU and PSU-TMA with Grafted Zirconium-Organic Moieties: Synthesis and Application for Removal of Arsenite and Arsenate Water Pollutants
Preprint (2024-11-20)
DOI: 10.20944/preprints202411.1539.v1
Contributors: Alessio Vincenzo Montella, Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Emanuela Sgreccia, Maria Luisa Di Vona, Riccardo Narducci

Polyvinyl Alcohol Coatings Containing Lamellar Solids with Antimicrobial Activity
Physchem (2024-08-01) 
DOI: 10.3390/physchem4030019
Contributors: Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Raúl Escudero García, Irene Di Guida, Carla Russo, Donatella Pietrella, Riccardo Narducci

 

 

Dr. James C. L. Chow | Quantum Computing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. James C. L. Chow | Quantum Computing | Best Researcher Award

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Canada.

Dr. James Chun Lam Chow, PhD, FCCPM, FInstP, FIET, SMIEEE, PPhys, CPhys, CSci, is a distinguished medical physicist specializing in radiation oncology and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare. He is currently an Associate Professor in Material Science and Engineering at the University of Toronto and a Clinician Investigator at the Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute. With over two decades of experience in medical physics, his research focuses on AI-driven healthcare solutions, radiation therapy optimization, and Monte Carlo simulations for cancer treatment.

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Education🎓

Dr. James C. L. Chow earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Hong Kong in 1995 under the supervision of Prof. Peter Fung, following a BSc in Applied Physics (First Class Honours) from City University of Hong Kong in 1992. He was awarded a Croucher Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Cambridge (1995-1997), then continued his research as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Toronto (1997-1998) and later as a Postdoctoral Fellow at McMaster University (1998-2000). Transitioning into medical physics, he completed his Medical Physics Residency at the London Regional Cancer Centre (2000-2002), gaining clinical expertise in radiation therapy and medical imaging.

Professional Experience🌟

Dr. James C. L. Chow is an accomplished medical physicist and academic with extensive experience in radiation oncology and materials science. He is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Toronto (2025–Present) and has been an Associate Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Toronto since 2019. In addition to his academic roles, he serves as a Medical Physicist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (2005–Present), where he also leads as the Physics On-Call Lead (2010–Present). His research contributions are further reflected in his role as a Clinician Investigator at the Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute (2023–Present) and his affiliation with the Acceleration Consortium at the University of Toronto (2024–Present).

Previously, Dr. Chow held multiple key positions, including Assistant Professor in Radiation Oncology at the University of Toronto (2006–2019) and Medical Physics Site Lead for Skin Cancer at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (2010–2015). Before joining Princess Margaret, he worked as a Medical Physicist and Deputy Radiation Safety Officer at Grand River Regional Cancer Centre (2002–2005). He has also contributed to academia as an Adjunct Professor at Ryerson University and the University of Waterloo (2005–2010). His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing medical physics, cancer treatment, and interdisciplinary research in materials science and engineering.

Research Interests📚

Dr. Chow’s research focuses on:

Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics: Treatment optimization using Monte Carlo simulations

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: AI-driven diagnostic tools and chatbot applications in oncology

Nanotechnology in Radiation Therapy: Gold nanoparticle-enhanced radiotherapy

Clinical Data Analysis: Predictive modeling for cancer treatment outcomes

Awards & Recognitions🏆

2024 Outstanding Reviewer, Nuclear Engineering and Technology Journal

2024 Most-Viewed Article, JMIR Cancer

2024 Outstanding Author of the Year, AIMS Biophysics Journal

2019 Top Peer Reviewer, Web of Science Group

2012 Outstanding Reviewer, Medical Physics Journal

2010 SciNet Local Resource Allocation Award (1 million supercomputing hours for Monte Carlo simulations)

Selected Publications📖

Gold nanoparticles for drug delivery and cancer therapy
S Siddique, JCL Chow
Applied Sciences 10(11), 3824 (2020) – Cited: 382

Chatbot for health care and oncology applications using artificial intelligence and machine learning: Systematic review
L Xu, L Sanders, K Li, JCL Chow
JMIR Cancer 7(4), e27850 (2021) – Cited: 375

Application of nanomaterials in biomedical imaging and cancer therapy
S Siddique, JCL Chow
Nanomaterials 10(9), 1700 (2020) – Cited: 325

Irradiation of gold nanoparticles by X‐rays: Monte Carlo simulation of dose enhancements and the spatial properties of secondary electron production
MKK Leung, JCL Chow, BD Chithrani, MJG Lee, B Oms, DA Jaffray
Medical Physics 38(2), 624-631 (2011) – Cited: 311

Machine learning in healthcare communication
S Siddique, JCL Chow
Encyclopedia 1(1), 220-239 (2021) – Cited: 142

 

 

Assist. Prof. Dr. H A Yousefi | Ammonia Combustion | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. H A Yousefi | Ammonia Combustion | Best Researcher Award

Kookmin University, South Korea.

Dr. Hossein Ali Yousefi Rizi is an accomplished researcher and academic with over 15 years of experience in mechanical system engineering, occupational and environmental safety, and industrial hygiene. He has contributed significantly to combustion technologies, renewable energy systems, and workplace safety measures. Currently, he is a researcher at Kookmin University in South Korea, with previous academic roles at Hansung University and Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. His work spans teaching, research, reviewing, and editorial responsibilities in prestigious journals.

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🎓 Education

Dr. H. A. Yousefi earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical System Engineering from Kookmin University, South Korea, in 2024. His doctoral research focused on the stability and safety analysis of pure ammonia flameless combustion for hydrogen production, contributing to advancements in clean energy technologies. He previously obtained his M.Sc. in Occupational Health Engineering from Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, in 1996, where he investigated the evaluation of electromagnetic fields at extremely low frequencies (ELF) and their health effects on high-voltage substation workers. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Physics from Isfahan University, Iran, in 1991, providing him with a strong foundation in physical sciences and engineering principles.

🏛 Experience

Dr. H. A. Yousefi is a researcher at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, New Energy Lab, Kookmin University (2022-2025), where he focuses on advancing sustainable energy solutions. He has extensive academic experience, having served as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mechanical System Engineering, Hansung University, and previously at the Department of Occupational Safety and Health Engineering, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (1997-2021). His contributions to scientific research extend beyond teaching, as he has also been a Guest Editor for the Journal of Energies, Switzerland (2022-2024), and a Reviewer for both the Iranian Journal of Public Health (2022-2024) and the Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran (MJIRI) (2020-2024).

🔬 Research Interests

Combustion Technologies: Ammonia combustion, NOx reduction, flameless combustion

Renewable Energy Systems: Hydrogen production, ammonia cracking, energy efficiency

Occupational & Environmental Health: Industrial ventilation, risk management, toxicology

Thermal Systems: Heat transfer, cooling systems, thermal stress control

Electromagnetic Safety: Health risks in high-voltage substations

🏆 Awards & Honors

Academic Excellence Award, Kookmin University (2024)

Academic Excellence Award, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (2012)

Outstanding Researcher Medal, Isfahan Foundation for Elites (2011)

Outstanding Researcher Medal, Foundation for Elites (2008)

Special Scholarship, Ministry of Health, Medical Education (1992)

📚 Notable Publications

Energy Research:

Development of Ammonia Combustion Technology for NOx ReductionEnergies (2025)

Green Hydrogen Production Technologies from Ammonia CrackingEnergies (2022)

Contributors: Yousefi H. A., Donghoon Shin

Occupational Health:

Evaluation of Occupational Noise Levels in the Ear Canal of Exposed WorkersInternational Journal of Preventive Medicine (2022)

Contributors: Asady, H.; Fuente, A.; Pourabdian, S.; Rizi, H. A. Y.; Forouharmajd, F.

Nanotechnology & Medicine:

Polymeric Nanoparticles in Cancer Chemotherapy: A Narrative ReviewIranian Journal of Public Health (2022)

Contributors: Yousefi Rizi, H. A.; Shin, D. H.; Rizi, S. Y.

 

 

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesna Vučurović | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesna Vučurović | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, Department of Biotechnology, Serbia.

Prof. Vesna Vučurović is a distinguished researcher in bioethanol technology, food biotechnology, yeast technology, adsorption, and biomaterial characterization. she is currently an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad. With extensive expertise in microbiological processes and industrial biotechnology, she has significantly contributed to the advancement of renewable energy sources, fermentation technologies, and sustainable material development.

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🎓 Education

Prof. Vesna Vučurović earned her BSc & MSc in Technological Engineering (1996-2003) from the University of Novi Sad, researching beer barley quality. She completed her Magister degree (2003-2007) with a thesis on bioethanol production from grains, achieving a perfect score (10.00). Her PhD (2007-2012) focused on optimizing alcoholic fermentation of molasses and sugar beet juice using immobilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, contributing to advancements in bioethanol technology and sustainable fuel production.

🏢 Experience

Prof. Vesna Vučurović has been a dedicated academic at the Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad since 2003. She began as a Senior Technical Assistant & Teaching Assistant (2003-2005), progressing to Trainee Teaching Associate (2005-2008) and Teaching Associate (2008-2014). She was later promoted to Assistant Professor (2014-2019) and currently serves as an Associate Professor (2019-Present).

🔬 Research Interests

Bioethanol Technology – Renewable energy production and biofuels

Food Biotechnology – Fermentation processes and food processing innovations

Yeast Technology – Yeast cultivation and metabolic engineering

Adsorption – Applications in environmental remediation and material development

Biomaterial Characterization – Enhancing materials for industrial and medical use

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Contributor to multiple national and international research grants

Peer reviewer for high-impact journals like Journal of Cleaner Production, Waste and Biomass Valorization, Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, Fermentation (MDPI), Foods (MDPI), Polymers (MDPI), and Environmental Engineering and Management Journal

Member of the Serbian Chemical Society, Chemical Society of Vojvodina, and Serbian Society for Microbiology

📚 Selected Publications

🔹 Bioethanol Production from A-Starch Milk and B-Starch Milk as Intermediates of Industrial Wet-Milling Wheat Processing
Fermentation, 2024-03 | DOI: 10.3390/fermentation10030144
Contributors: Aleksandra Katanski, Vesna Vučurović, Damjan Vucurovic, Bojana Bajić, Žana Šaranović, Zita Šereš, Siniša Dodić

🔹 Influence of yeast extract enrichment on fermentative activity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and technological properties of spelt bread
Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly, 2022 | DOI: 10.2298/ciceq200915016v
Contributors: Vesna Vučurović, Vesna Radovanovic, Jelena Filipović, Vladimir Filipovic, Milenko Kosutic, Nebojsa Novkovic, Vuk Radojevic

🔹 Bioethanol Production from Spent Sugar Beet Pulp—Process Modeling and Cost Analysis
Fermentation, 2022-03 | DOI: 10.3390/fermentation8030114
Contributors: Damjan Vucurovic, Bojana Bajić, Vesna Vučurović, Rada Jevtić-Mučibabić, Siniša Dodić

🔹 The impact of enological products for tartaric stabilization on wine filterability
Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly, 2021 | DOI: 10.2298/ciceq200913003p
Contributors: Vladimir Puskas, Uroš Miljić, Vesna Vučurović

🔹 The effect of yeast extract addition on bread quality parameters
Journal of the Serbian Chemical Society, 2020 | DOI: 10.2298/jsc191024137f
Contributors: Vesna Vučurović, Vladimir Filipovic, Jelena Filipovic, Vesna Vucurovic, Vesna Radovanovic, Milenko Kosutic, Nebojsa Novkovic, Natasa Vukelic

 

 

 

Dr. Stefan Gordanić | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stefan Gordanić | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Institute for Medicinal Plants Research “Dr Josif Pančic”, Serbia.

Dr. Stefan Gordanić is a dedicated agricultural scientist specializing in medicinal plants and sustainable farming. Currently a Research Associate at the Institute for Medicinal Plant Research "Dr. Josif Pančić" in Belgrade, Serbia, Dr. Gordanić has focused his career on biodiversity conservation, domestication of medicinal plants, and optimizing agro-technical measures for resource efficiency. His Ph.D. dissertation evaluated the morphological and chemical properties of wild garlic (Allium ursinum L.) from Serbia. He actively contributes to international projects and conferences and has published extensively in his field.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Stefan Gordanić has a robust academic background in agriculture, specializing in crop farming, land and water management, and agronomy. He earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture, focusing on Crop Farming, from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, in 2018. In 2019, he completed an M.Sc. in Agriculture with a specialization in Land and Water Management at the same institution. Furthering his expertise, Dr. Gordanić pursued and successfully completed a Ph.D. in Agronomy at the University of Belgrade, spanning from 2019 to 2024, solidifying his role as a dedicated expert in the field.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Stefan Gordanić has accumulated diverse professional experience in agriculture and research. From 2018 to 2019, he worked as an Agricultural Advisor at PSSS Loznica, providing expertise and guidance to enhance agricultural practices. Following this, from 2019 to 2020, he served as a Researcher at the Zemun Polje (ZP) Maize Institute, where he contributed to advancements in maize research. Since 2020, Dr. Gordanić has been a Research Trainee and Associate at the Institute for Medicinal Plant Research "Dr. Josif Pančić" in Belgrade, focusing on medicinal plant research and furthering his contributions to the scientific community.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Gordanić's research focuses on:

Biodiversity conservation

Domestication of medicinal and aromatic plants

Agro-technical measures for resource efficiency

Sustainable agriculture and soil management

Awards 🏆

Participant in the "International Training Workshop on Modern Breeding and Cultivation Technology of Vegetables & Flowers" (2021)

Member of organizing committees for international conferences on sustainable agriculture

Selected Publications 📚

Influence of Habitat Factors on the Yield, Morphological Characteristics, and Total Phenolic/Flavonoid Content of Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum L.) in the Republic of Serbia

Horticulturae (2025-01-22)

Contributors: Stefan V. Gordanić, Aleksandar Ž. Kostić, Đorđe Moravčević, Sandra Vuković, Sofija Kilibarda, Ana Dragumilo, Željana Prijić, Milan Lukić, Tatjana Marković

Analysis of the State of Organic Soybean Production in Serbia

Acta agriculturae Serbica (2024)

Contributors: Jelena Golijan-Pantović, Bojan Dimitrijević, Mile Sečanski, Stefan Gordanić

The Natural Habitats, Nutrients, and Heavy Metal Status of Wild Steppe Peony Populations in Serbia

Horticulturae (2024-09-12)

Contributors: Tatjana Marković, Bojana Tanasić, Stefan Gordanić, Željana Prijić, Snežana Mrđan, Ana Dragumilo, Milan Lukić, Dragoja Radanović

Nutritional and Phytochemical Comparative Analysis of Conventional/Organic Maize Grain Before and After Subjection to Accelerated Aging Test - A Preliminary Study

Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca (2024-06-03)

Contributors: Jelena Golijan Pantović, Radivoj Petronijević, Stefan Gordanić, Danijel D. Milinčić, Radiša Đorđević, Dušica Jovičić, Slavoljub Lekić, Aleksandar Ž. Kostić

In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidative Activities of the Extracts of Petals of Paeonia lactiflora and Calendula officinalis Incorporated in the New Forms of Biobased Carriers

Food and Feed Research (2022)

Contributors: P.M. Batinić, M.D. Milošević, M.M. Lukić, Ž.S. Prijić, S.V. Gordanić, V.M. Filipović, A.D. Marinković, B.M. Bugarski, T.Lj. Marković

 

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ruiming Fang | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ruiming Fang | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Anhui University of Technology, China.

Fang Ruiming is an Associate Professor at the School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University of Technology. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. jointly trained by Chongqing University and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, his work centers on CO2 valorization and photocatalytic processes for hydrogen production. With over 400 citations across 20 publications in prestigious journals, including Journal of Materials Chemistry A and Energy and Fuel, he has garnered recognition through awards like the National Scholarship for Graduate Students in High-level University Construction and the Outstanding Graduate Student Honor from Chongqing University.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Ruiming Fang is currently pursuing his Ph.D. as a joint candidate between Chongqing University, China, and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, specializing in energy and environmental engineering. This collaborative training program enables him to merge cutting-edge research approaches from two prestigious institutions. Prior to his Ph.D., he earned both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Energy and Environmental Engineering, laying a strong foundation in sustainable energy technologies, environmental processes, and advanced material applications. His academic journey reflects a commitment to tackling global energy and environmental challenges through innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Experience 💼

Dr. Ruiming Fang serves as an Associate Professor at the School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, where he contributes to advancing sustainable energy solutions. As a Guest Editor for the Special Issue "Impacts of Combustion and Thermo-Chemistry", he actively collaborates with the global research community to address pressing issues in energy transformation and carbon reduction technologies.

With a focus on CO2 valorization, photocatalysis, and hydrogen production mechanisms, Dr. Fang's research explores innovative pathways to sustainable energy generation. His work on catalytic systems and reaction mechanisms has provided groundbreaking insights into renewable energy processes, enhancing both academic and industrial applications.

Research Interests 🔬

CO2 Valorization

Innovative solutions to convert CO2 into valuable products

Photocatalysis

Mechanisms and material development for hydrogen production

Sustainable Energy Systems

Advanced catalytic systems such as borane-ammonia complexes

Awards 🏆

National Scholarship for Graduate Students in High-level University Construction
Outstanding Graduate Student Honor, Chongqing University

Selected Publications 📚

"Constructing and strengthening the 'Electron Bridge' of BMO/CPP to enhance photothermal synergistic catalytic CO2 reduction"
Wu, X., Guo, M., Wang, Z., ... He, J., Yang, Z.
Separation and Purification Technology, 2024, 345, 127330.
Cited by: 2 articles.

"Double defects cooperatively mediated BiOClBr-OV for efficient round-the-clock photocatalytic CO2 reduction"
Fang, R., Yang, Z., Wang, Z., ... Ran, J., Godin, R.
Fuel, 2024, 367, 131514.
Cited by: 5 articles.

"g-C3N4@CPP/BiOClBr-OV biomimetic fractal heterojunction synergistically enhance carrier dynamics for boosted CO2 photoreduction activity"
Fang, R., Yang, Z., Guo, M., ... Ran, J., Xue, C.
Applied Surface Science, 2024, 656, 159712.
Cited by: 3 articles.

"Dioxygen atom co-doping g-C3N4 for boosted photoreduction activity of CO2 and mechanistic investigation"
Jiang, Z., Guo, M., Yang, Z., ... Wang, Z., Ran, J.
Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2024, 12(19), pp. 11591–11601.
Cited by: 3 articles.

"Synergistic mediation of dual donor levels in CNS/BOCB-OV heterojunctions for enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction"
Fang, R., Yang, Z., Sun, J., ... Wang, Z., Xue, C.
Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2024, 12(6), pp. 3398–3410.
Cited by: 7 articles.

 

 

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

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.

 

 

Mr. Yi Cui | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yi Cui | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Stanford University, United States.

Mr. YI Cui is a Ph.D. candidate in Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). YI's research delves into the cutting-edge fields of materials science, particularly focusing on phase segregation dynamics in mixed halide perovskites and twisted epitaxial growth of gold nanodiscs in 2D materials. His innovative work has earned him recognition in the field of nanotechnology and energy materials.

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Education 🎓

YI Cui is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University, California, under the guidance of Professors Yi Cui and Bob Sinclair (Jan. 2021 - Jun. 2025). Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) in Hefei, where he was part of the prestigious Special Class for the Gifted Young, Department of Chemical Physics (Aug. 2016 - Jun. 2020).

Experience 💼

YI Cui has worked on groundbreaking research projects, including studying phase segregation dynamics in mixed halide perovskites using advanced cryo-EM techniques and pioneering twisted epitaxial growth methods for nanodiscs in 2D materials. His projects span from energy materials to nanotechnology, making significant contributions to understanding the behavior of materials at the atomic level. He has gained extensive research experience through collaborations with top professors at Stanford and USTC, focusing on the development of innovative materials for energy applications.

Research Interests 🔬

Phase segregation dynamics in mixed halide perovskites, particularly through cryogenic electron microscopy.

Twisted epitaxial growth of gold nanodiscs within twisted bilayer 2D materials, such as molybdenum disulfide.

Investigation of advanced materials for energy storage, such as lithium metal batteries and solid-state electrolytes.

Developing novel techniques for characterizing and manipulating materials at the atomic and nanoscale.

Publications Top Notes📚

Design Principles of Artificial Solid Electrolyte Interphases for Lithium-Metal Anodes, Cell Reports Physical Science, 2020
Contributors: Yu Zhiao, Cui Yi, Bao Zhenan. Link

Transient Voltammetry with Ultramicroelectrodes Reveals the Electron Transfer Kinetics of Lithium Metal Anodes, Adv. Energy Lett., 2020, Contributors: Boyle David, Kong Xian, Pei Allen, Rudnicki Paul, Shi Feifei, Huang William, Bao Zhenan, Qin Jian, Cui Yi. Link

Atomic-level insights into strain effect on p-nitrophenol reduction via Au@Pd core-shell nanocubes as an ideal platform
Journal of Catalysis, 2020-01-01, Contributors: Cui, Yi; Ma, Kaibo; Chen, Zhao; Yang, Jinlong; Geng, Zhigang; Zeng, Jie. Link

Dynamic Structure and Chemistry of the Silicon Solid-Electrolyte Interphase Visualized by Cryogenic Electron Microscopy, Matter, 2019, Contributors: Huang William, Wang Jiangyan, Braun R Michael, Zhang Zewen, Li Yuzhang, Boyle T David, McIntyre C Paul, Cui Yi. Link