You Qiang | Nanotechnology for Renewable Energy | Best Faculty Award

Prof. Dr. You Qiang | Nanotechnology for Renewable Energy | Best Faculty Award

Professor | University of Idaho | United States

Dr. You Qiang, a distinguished Professor of Physics at the University of Idaho, has dedicated over four decades to pioneering research in nanoparticles and nanomaterials, with a particular focus on nanoclusters, nanocomposites, and their magnetic, optical, and transport properties. He received his B.S. in Engineering Physics from Hefei University of Technology, China, an M.S. in Physics from Harbin Institute of Technology and the Chinese Academy of Space Technology, and his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Freiburg, Germany. His professional journey includes significant roles as Research Scientist and Senior Scientist at the University of Freiburg, Research Assistant Professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and since 2002, a progressive career from Assistant to Full Professor at the University of Idaho, where he also holds an adjunct appointment in Nuclear Engineering. Dr. Qiang’s research interests lie in the synthesis and characterization of advanced nanomaterials and their application to nuclear energy, radiation detection, and radioactive waste separation, integrating fundamental physics with practical technological solutions. His research skills span experimental synthesis, advanced spectroscopy, ion irradiation studies, and nanoscale materials characterization, contributing to high-impact publications in JACS, Nanoscale, Environmental Science & Technology, Advanced Functional Materials, and Journal of Physical Chemistry C. Beyond his scholarly output, he has demonstrated strong leadership as President of the Idaho Academy of Science and Engineering, organizer and chair of multiple international conferences, and editorial board member for leading journals. His dedication to mentorship has been recognized with multiple Alumni Awards for Excellence in Graduate Student Mentorship, underscoring his commitment to training the next generation of scientists. Dr. Qiang’s academic impact is substantial, with his growing recognition reflected in 2,906 citations, 97 documents, and an h-index of 27, demonstrating his influential role in advancing nanomaterials and nuclear energy research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Haberland, H., Mall, M., Moseler, M., Qiang, Y., Reiners, T., & Thurner, Y. (1994). Filling of micron‐sized contact holes with copper by energetic cluster impact. Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A: Vacuum, Surfaces, and Films, 12(5), 2925–2930. Cited by: 540

2. Wang, C. M., Baer, D. R., Thomas, L. E., Amonette, J. E., Antony, J., & Qiang, Y. (2005). Void formation during early stages of passivation: Initial oxidation of iron nanoparticles at room temperature. Journal of Applied Physics, 98(9), 094308. Cited by: 331

3. Wang, C., Baer, D. R., Amonette, J. E., Engelhard, M. H., Antony, J., & Qiang, Y. (2009). Morphology and electronic structure of the oxide shell on the surface of iron nanoparticles. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 131(25), 8824–8832. Cited by: 290

4. Qiang, Y., Antony, J., Sharma, A., Nutting, J., Sikes, D., & Meyer, D. (2006). Iron/iron oxide core-shell nanoclusters for biomedical applications. Journal of Nanoparticle Research, 8(3), 489–496. Cited by: 262

5. Baer, D. R., Amonette, J. E., Engelhard, M. H., Gaspar, D. J., Karakoti, A. S., Kuchibhatla, S. V. N. T., & Qiang, Y. (2008). Characterization challenges for nanomaterials. Surface and Interface Analysis, 40(3–4), 529–537. Cited by: 189

Christian Idogho | Solar Energy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Christian Idogho | Solar Energy | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | University of Vermont | United States

Mr. Christian Idogho is a Ph.D. Candidate in Materials Science at the University of Vermont, where he focuses on semiconductor thin-film growth, materials characterization, and renewable energy systems. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Agriculture, Makurdi (2020) and a Diploma in Chemical Engineering from Auchi Polytechnic. His professional and research experience spans multiple institutions and international collaborations, including advanced thin-film deposition projects using CVD, sputtering, and pulsed-laser deposition, as well as in-situ X-ray scattering studies at Brookhaven National Laboratory. He has also contributed to renewable energy forecasting research using machine learning at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and held teaching assistantships at both the University of Vermont and Auchi Polytechnic, mentoring students in physics and core engineering subjects. His research interests include semiconductor thin-film growth, thermoelectric materials, machine learning for clean energy forecasting, renewable energy systems, and advanced materials characterization techniques such as XRD, SEM, AFM, and ellipsometry. Mr. Idogho’s research skills cover a wide spectrum, including COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Python, CAD tools (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor), and simulation of photovoltaic and thermoelectric systems. His awards and honors include the Best Researcher Award in Machine Learning (2025), Best Undergraduate Thesis Award (2020), and the Olive Real Estate Science and Engineering Scholarship. He is also an active reviewer for journals such as Energy Research and Clean Energy and maintains memberships in Sigma Xi, the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST), Material Advantage, NSBE, and Black in AI. Mr. Idogho’s contributions through publications in Energy Science & Engineering, Energies, and Unconventional Resources underscore his growing reputation in clean energy and advanced materials. With his vision, technical expertise, and commitment to international collaboration, he is positioned to become a global leader in sustainable energy materials and semiconductor research. Mr. Idogho’s growing academic impact is reflected in 21 citations, 4 documents, and an h-index of 1, demonstrating his emerging influence in materials science and renewable energy research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Maduabuchi, C., Nsude, C., Eneh, C., Eke, E., Okoli, K., Okpara, E., & Idogho, C. (2023). Renewable energy potential estimation using climatic-weather-forecasting machine learning algorithms. Energies, 16(4), 1603. Cited by: 25

2. Onuh, P., Ejiga, J. O., Abah, E. O., Onuh, J. O., Idogho, C., & Omale, J. (2024). Challenges and opportunities in Nigeria’s renewable energy policy and legislation. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 23(2), 2354–2372.  Cited by: 15

3. Idoko, P. I., Ezeamii, G. C., Idogho, C., Peter, E., Obot, U. S., & Iguoba, V. A. (2024). Mathematical modeling and simulations using software like MATLAB, COMSOL and Python. Magna Scientia Advanced Research and Reviews, 12(2), 62–95. Cited by: 6

4. Maduabuchi, C., Nsude, C., Eneh, C., Eke, E., Okoli, K., Okpara, E., & Idogho, C. (2023). Renewable energy potential estimation using climatic-weather-forecasting machine learning algorithms. Energies, 16(4), 1603.  Cited by: 3

5. Idogho, C., Abah, E. O., Onuh, J. O., Harsito, C., Omenka, K., Samuel, A., Ejila, A., & Idoko, I. P. (2025). Machine learning-based solar photovoltaic power forecasting for Nigerian regions. Energy Science & Engineering, 13(4), 1922–1934. Cited by: 1

Vahed Ghiasi | Renewable Energy | Pioneer Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Vahed Ghiasi | Renewable Energy | Pioneer Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Malayer university | Iran

Dr. Vahed Ghiasi is an accomplished civil and geotechnical engineer with a Ph.D. in Geotechnical and Geological Engineering from University Putra Malaysia (2012), where his research focused on the effects of weak rock geomechanical properties on tunnel stability. He currently serves as Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Civil and Architecture Engineering, Malayer University, Iran, with extensive experience in supervising graduate students, managing large-scale research projects, and contributing to both national and international engineering initiatives. His professional expertise encompasses tunnel engineering, soil-structure interaction, foundation engineering, advanced soil mechanics, and landslide hazard assessment, supported by practical work in seismic and earth dam engineering. Dr. Ghiasi has led numerous research projects, including international collaborations on landslide hazard mapping using neural networks and fuzzy logic, while publishing over 130 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals such as SN Applied Sciences, Results in Engineering, Geomechanics and Engineering, and Natural Hazards. He is also an active contributor to the global scientific community, serving on editorial boards for journals like SN Applied Sciences and Applied Engineering and Technology, and reviewing for more than 20 international journals. His research interests include geotechnical design, tunnel stability analysis, landslide risk assessment, soil improvement, and advanced numerical modeling techniques, utilizing software such as PLAXIS, PHASE 2 FEM, and FDM. Dr. Ghiasi’s professional involvement extends to memberships in prominent societies including SEAGS, IGS, ITA-AITES, ASCE, and IEM, and he has been recognized with awards such as the Most Outstanding Iranian Student in Malaysia (2011) and Superior Researcher of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Malayer University (2019–2023). His work demonstrates a commitment to advancing geotechnical engineering knowledge, mentoring future engineers, and contributing to resilient infrastructure development. Dr. Ghiasi’s growing academic impact is reflected in 316 citations, 45 documents, and an h-index of 11, demonstrating his sustained influence in geotechnical engineering research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Safaei, M., Omar, H., Huat, B. K., Yousof, Z. B. M., & Ghiasi, V. (2011). Deterministic rainfall induced landslide approaches, advantage and limitation. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 16, 1619–1650. Cited by 47

2. Mafian, S., Huat, B. B. K., & Ghiasi, V. (2009). Evaluation on root theories and root strength properties in slope stability. European Journal of Scientific Research, 30(4), 594–607. Cited by 43

3. Ghiasi, V., & Koushki, M. (2020). Numerical and artificial neural network analyses of ground surface settlement of tunnel in saturated soil. SN Applied Sciences, 2(5), 939. Cited by 42

4. Kazemian, S., Prasad, A., Huat, B. B. K., Ghiasi, V., & Ghareh, S. (2012). Effects of cement–sodium silicate system grout on tropical organic soils. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 37(8), 2137–2148. Cited by 38

5. Safaei, M., Omar, H., Yousof, Z. B. M., & Ghiasi, V. (2010). Applying geospatial technology to landslide susceptibility assessment. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 15(G), 677–696. Cited by 31

 

Ahmet Elbir | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ahmet Elbir | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Süleyman Demirel University | Turkey

Dr. Ahmet Elbır, Ph.D. in Energy Systems from Süleyman Demirel University (2021), is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in thermodynamic systems, renewable energy, and sustainable energy optimization. His educational background includes multiple degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Energy Systems Engineering, culminating in advanced research on transcritical CO₂ heat pumps and ground-source heat pump thermodynamics. Professionally, he serves as a Lecturer at Süleyman Demirel University’s Renewable Energy Research Center (YEKARUM), contributing to national and international research projects, including biogas reactor design and hybrid energy storage systems. His research interests encompass energy and exergy analysis, thermodynamic cycle optimization (Kalina, ORC, Brayton, and Rankine cycles), AI-assisted energy modeling, phase-change materials for energy storage, and sustainable cooling and heating technologies. Dr. Elbır possesses strong research skills in experimental and theoretical thermodynamic analysis, Python and AI-based simulation, fuzzy logic modeling, energy system optimization, and environmental impact assessment of industrial processes. His extensive publication record includes articles in top-tier journals such as Applied Thermal Engineering, Journal of Building Engineering, Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy, and multiple international conference proceedings, alongside chapters in scientific books on renewable energy and thermodynamic systems. He has also contributed to editorial work at YEKARUM and actively mentors students in energy research projects. Recognized for his scientific contributions, Dr. Elbır has received accolades for innovative approaches in energy efficiency and sustainable system design. His leadership in research, academic service, and community engagement underscores his commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and mentoring the next generation of engineers. Dr. Elbır’s growing academic impact is reflected in 12 citations, 18 documents, and an h-index of 2, demonstrating his sustained influence in energy systems and renewable energy research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Akarslan, K. F., Elbır, A., & Şahin, M. E. (2023). Wool drying process in heat-pump-assisted dryer by fuzzy logic modelling. Thermal Science, 27(4 Part B), 3043–3050. Cited by 6

2. Öztürk, M., Elbır, A., & Özek, N. (2011). Akdeniz bölgesine gelen güneş radyasyonunun ekserji analizi. In Proc. 6th International Advanced Technologies Symposium (IATS’11). Cited by 6

3. Öztürk, M., Elbır, A., Özek, N., & Yakut, A. K. (2011). Güneş hidrojen üretim metotlarının incelenmesi. 6th International Advanced Technologies Symposium (IATS’11), 16–18. Cited by 5

4. Elbır, A. (2010). Toprak kaynaklı ısı pompasının termodinamik analizi. Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü. Cited by 5

5. Elbır, A., Kodaloğlu, F. A., Üçgül, İ., & Şahin, M. E. (2022). Thermodynamic analysis of refrigerants used in ORC-VCC combined power systems for low temperature heat sources. Thermal Science, 26(4 Part A), 2855–2863. Cited by 4

Jianhua Zhou | Solar Energy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Jianhua Zhou | Solar Energy | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Guilin University of Electric Technology | China

Prof. Jianhua Zhou, a distinguished scholar in materials science and engineering, currently serves as a Professor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Electronic Technology. He earned his B.S. in Applied Electrochemistry, M.S. in Applied Chemistry, and Ph.D. in Materials Processing Engineering from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Nagoya University, Japan. His professional career includes roles as Assistant Professor at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lecturer, Associate Professor, and now full Professor at Guilin University of Electronic Technology. Prof. Zhou’s primary research interests focus on solar steam generation, thermoelectric conversion materials, lithium-ion batteries, and photothermal–thermoelectric hybrid systems. His research skills span advanced materials design, interfacial regulation, nanostructure engineering, and the development of sustainable energy harvesting and water treatment systems. He has led and participated in multiple prestigious projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Guangxi Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars, and other national programs, advancing fundamental understanding and applications in renewable energy. Prof. Zhou has published 107 SCI/Scopus-indexed papers in leading international journals and conferences, authored the book Fundamentals of Functional Materials and Devices, and holds 12 granted patents with 20 under review. He also serves on the editorial boards of Nano Materials Science, Green Carbon, and Eco Energy, and actively contributes to international collaborations, student mentorship, and professional platforms, demonstrating both academic leadership and community engagement. His contributions have been recognized through funded research awards and professional memberships, reflecting his commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies for global sustainability. Prof. Zhou’s growing academic impact is reflected in 4,039 citations, 122 documents, and an h-index of 35, demonstrating his significant and sustained influence in materials science and renewable energy research.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate 

Featured Publications

1. Zhou, J., et al. (2025). Solar-driven interfacial evaporation coupling with photo-Fenton of floating Prussian blue/polypyrrole/paper film for volatile organic compounds-containing wastewater treatment. Separation and Purification Technology. Citations: 5

2. Zhou, J., et al. (2025). High-performance NiCu hydroxide self-supported electrode as a bifunctional catalyst for AOR and OER. Battery Energy. Citations: 2

3. Zhou, J., et al. (2025). Photo-Fenton catalyst embedded in photothermal aerogel for efficient solar interfacial water evaporation and purification. Green Carbon. Citations: 13

4. Zhou, J., et al. (2025). Carbon–MoS₂ composite loaded in poly(vinyl alcohol)–chitosan aerogel as dual-functional photothermal material for efficient water evaporation and thermal storage under solar irradiation. ACS Applied Polymer Materials.

5. Zhou, J., et al. (2025). Multicolor electrochromic electrodes with infrared emittance modulation based on WO₃ photonic crystal. Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics.

 

Mehdi Safaei | Sustainable Energy | Renewable Energy Education Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehdi Safaei | Sustainable Energy | Renewable Energy Education Award

Assistant Professor | Istanbul Gelişim University | Turkey

Dr. Mehdi Safaei is an accomplished scholar with over 12 years of teaching and research experience in Industrial Engineering, specializing in supply chain management, logistics optimization, and sustainable supply networks. He earned his Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering (Logistics and Supply Network) from the University of Bremen, Germany in 2014, graduating with magna cum laude distinction and a perfect GPA, supported by the prestigious IGS scholarship. He also holds an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Sharif University of Technology, Iran, where he ranked first in the highly competitive national entrance examination. Professionally, Dr. Safaei has served as Assistant Professor at Istanbul Gelisim University since 2019, leading TÜBİTAK-funded projects, publishing extensively, and supervising more than 400 undergraduate and 30 graduate theses. His previous roles include Assistant Professor at Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Lecturer at the University of Tehran and Al-Zahra University, and Research Assistant at BIBA-LogDynamic, Germany, where he received three Best Paper Awards. His research interests include dynamic supply network design, green supply chain management, machine learning in logistics, crisis management, and Industry 4.0 integration. He is skilled in supply chain modeling, project management, risk analysis, and quantitative research, with advanced expertise in simulation, ERP systems, and statistical analysis. A dedicated mentor and collaborator, he has translated key logistics texts, authored two books, and published 40+ journal and conference papers in reputed outlets such as IEEE, Elsevier, and Scopus-indexed journals. His professional affiliations include INFORMS, CSCMP, EurOMA, IISE, and IAENG, reflecting his active engagement with the global research community. Dr. Safaei’s outstanding achievements have earned him honors such as “Magna Cum Laude” recognition, national top rankings, and multiple international awards. Dr. Safaei’s growing academic impact is reflected in 132 citations, 17 documents, and an h-index of 7, demonstrating his significant and sustained influence in the field of industrial engineering and sustainable supply chain management.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Alsharif, A. H., Salleh, N. Z. M., Baharun, R. B., & Safaei, M. (2020). Neuromarketing approach: An overview and future research directions. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology, 98(7), 915–925. Cited by 65

2. Safari, Y., Abdollahi, S. A., Mahmoudi, M., Safaei, M., Taghinia, F., & Pasha, P. (2023). Numerical study of heat transfer of wavy channel supercritical CO2 PCHE with various channel geometries. International Journal of Thermofluids, 18, 100330. Cited by 32

3. Mosier, W., Elhadary, T., Elhaty, I. A. M., & Safaei, M. (2020). Crisis management and the impact of pandemics on religious tourism. Dublin Institute of Technology Conference Proceedings. Cited by 30

4. Safaei, M. (2014). An integrated multi-objective model for allocating the limited sources in a multiple multi-stage lean supply chain. Economic Modelling, 37, 224–237. Cited by 26

5. Safaei, M., & Thoben, K. D. (2014). Measuring and evaluating of the network type impact on time uncertainty in the supply networks with three nodes. Measurement, 56, 121–127. Cited by 20

Tesfa Nega Gesese | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tesfa Nega Gesese | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Bioenergy research group coordinator | Bahir Dar University | Ethiopia

Mr. Tesfa Nega Gesese is a Lecturer and Bioenergy Research Group Coordinator at Bahir Dar Institute of Technology, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, with over seven years of teaching and research experience. He holds an M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering and has built a strong academic foundation in renewable energy, waste valorisation, and greenhouse gas mitigation. His professional experience includes serving as a lecturer, course chair, and project leader, where he has coordinated large-scale research initiatives such as the mega project on integrated production of bioethanol, bio-hydrogen, and biogas from sesame stalk feedstock, as well as thematic research on computational modelling of anaerobic digestion and photosynthetic algae integration. His research interests span biomass valorisation, biofuels, pyrolysis, gasification, bio-composite materials, and sustainable energy systems. He has demonstrated advanced research skills in biomass pyrolysis kinetics, waste-to-energy conversion, and the development of renewable energy pathways tailored to local resources. Mr. Tesfa has authored and co-authored more than 15 peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, focusing on biomass conversion technologies, bio-based materials, and environmental sustainability. His leadership role as a bioenergy research coordinator has enabled him to foster collaborative research, mentor young scholars, and deliver impactful solutions addressing Ethiopia’s energy challenges. He has also contributed to the scientific community as a reviewer for international journals and as a member of the Society of Ethiopian Chemical Engineers. His dedication to research excellence has earned recognition through funded research projects and academic achievements that align with global sustainability goals. Overall, Mr. Tesfa is committed to advancing bioenergy innovation, expanding international collaborations, and influencing policy toward clean energy transitions. Mr. Tesfa Nega Gesese’s growing academic impact is reflected in 26 citations, 10 documents, and an h-index of 3, demonstrating his emerging influence in the field of bioenergy and sustainable engineering.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Mersha, D. A., Gesese, T. N., Sendekie, Z. B., Admase, A. T., & Bezie, A. J. (2024). Operating conditions, products and sustainable recycling routes of aminolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET)–A review. Polymer Bulletin, 81(13), 11563–11579. Cited by: 20

2. Bantie, Z., Tezera, A., Abera, D., & Nega, T. (2024). Nanoclays as fillers for performance enhancement in building and construction industries: State of the art and future trends. In Developments in Clay Science and Construction Techniques. Cited by: 11

3. Gesese, T. N., Fanta, S. W., Mersha, D. A., & Satheesh, N. (2022). Physical properties and antibacterial activity of cotton fabric treated with methanolic extracts of Solanum incanum fruits and red onion peels. The Journal of The Textile Institute, 113(2), 292–302. Cited by: 6

4. Gesese, T. N., Getahun, E., & Getahun, A. A. (2024). Investigation of thermal degradation properties and chemical kinetic characteristics of biomass pyrolysis via TG/DTG and FTIR techniques: Sesame stalks as a potential source. International Journal of Energy Research, 2024(1), 8891126. Cited by: 4

5. Gesese, T. N., Getahun, E., & Getahun, A. A. (2025). Pyrolysis kinetics, thermodynamics, and reaction performance of wheat straw and water hyacinth using TGA‐DTG analysis: Bioenergy potential in Ethiopia. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining, 19(3), 705–729.  Cited by: 2

 

Valeria Cafaro | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Valeria Cafaro | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Post – Doc researcher | National Research Council of Italy – Institute of BioEconomy| Italy

Dr. Valeria Cafaro is a dedicated Post-Doctoral Researcher at the National Research Council of Italy – Institute of BioEconomy (CNR–IBE), Catania, Sicily, specializing in crop physiology, sustainable agronomic practices, and genetic improvement of Mediterranean crops under abiotic stress. She holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Science (Doctor Europaeus, University of Catania), where her research focused on strategies to improve crop resilience and productivity under challenging climate conditions. Professionally, she contributes to the Agritech PNRR project on tomato adaptation to climate change and collaborates on research initiatives including Multicanapa and Ricinolio. Her research interests encompass plant adaptation to drought, salinity, and climate variability, seed biology, sowing optimization, and integrating molecular tools with field experimentation to improve yield, quality, and nutraceutical properties. Dr. Cafaro’s research skills include advanced plant phenotyping, statistical data analysis, experimental design, and development of sustainable crop management protocols. She has authored 11 peer-reviewed articles in Scopus/WoS-indexed journals, with one under review, and presented over 20 contributions at international conferences such as SIA, SOI, EUBCE, and ISHS, earning multiple awards for excellence in plant physiology and agronomy research. She serves as Guest Editor for Horticulturae (Special Issue: “Seed Biology in Horticulture: From Dormancy to Germination”) and peer reviewer for reputed journals including Agronomy, Plants, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Professionally, she is a member of the Società Italiana di Agronomia (SIA) and holds formal qualifications as Agronomist and Biologist. Dr. Cafaro’s growing academic impact is reflected in 59 citations, 15 documents, and an h-index of 5, demonstrating her significant and sustained influence in the field of crop physiology and climate-resilient agriculture.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn 

Featured Publications

1. Badagliacca, G., Testa, G., La Malfa, S. G., Cafaro, V., Lo Presti, E., & Monti, M. (2024). Organic fertilizers and bio-waste for sustainable soil management to support crops and control greenhouse gas emissions in Mediterranean agroecosystems: A review. Horticulturae, 10(5), 427. Cited by: 28

2. Arlotta, C., Ciacciulli, A., Strano, M. C., Cafaro, V., Salonia, F., Caruso, P., & Others. (2020). Disease resistant citrus breeding using newly developed high resolution melting and CAPS protocols for Alternaria brown spot marker assisted selection. Agronomy, 10(9), 1368. Cited by: 24

3. Cafaro, V., Alexopoulou, E., Cosentino, S. L., & Patanè, C. (2023). Germination response of different castor bean genotypes to temperature for early and late sowing adaptation in the Mediterranean regions. Agriculture, 13(8), 1569. Cited by: 12

4. Lippolis, A., Gezan, S. A., Zuidgeest, J., Cafaro, V., van Dinter, B. J., Elzes, G., & Others. (2025). Targeted genotyping (90K-SPET) facilitates genome-wide association studies and the prediction of yield-related traits in faba bean (Vicia faba L.). BMC Plant Biology, 25(1), 558. Cited by: 3

5. Cafaro, V., Alexopoulou, E., Cosentino, S. L., & Patanè, C. (2023). Assessment of germination response to salinity stress in castor through the hydrotime model. Agronomy, 13(11), 2783. 
Cited by: 6

Renjith Krishnan | Bioenergy | Young Researcher Award

Dr. Renjith Krishnan | Bioenergy | Young Researcher Award   

R&D Engineer | Nasser S. Al Hajri Corporation | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Renjith Krishnan is a distinguished mechanical engineer and educator with nearly a decade of experience in science and engineering, specializing in sustainable energy, waste management, biofuel production, lithium-ion batteries, and Industry 5.0 applications. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology Mizoram, India (2022), with a thesis on the production, characterization, and testing of bamboo biodiesel in a variable compression ratio engine. He also holds an M.Tech in Computer Integrated Manufacturing from the University of Calicut (2015) and a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kerala (2013). Dr. Krishnan has served in multiple academic and industry roles, including Assistant Professor positions at Saveetha Engineering College, Madanapalle Institute of Technology & Science, and SHM Engineering College, as well as R&D Piping Engineer at Nasser S. Al Hajri Corporation, UAE. His research interests encompass biofuels, biomass gasification, lithium extraction, machine learning for sustainability, and clean energy systems. He possesses strong research skills in experimental design, process optimization, computational modeling, and data analysis using tools such as Ansys, SolidWorks, Origin, and Python. Dr. Krishnan has an impressive publication record, including Q1 and Q2 journals such as Cleaner Engineering and Technology, Energy Science & Engineering, and Environmental Science and Pollution Research, along with 14 patents in areas ranging from water flow measurement to portable air purifiers. He actively contributes to professional communities as a member of the World Society of Sustainable Energy Technologies and AICTSD and has completed certifications in AI, Python, and Product Management. Dr. Krishnan is committed to mentoring students and fostering innovation in academia and industry. He is the recipient of multiple recognitions for his teaching and research. His growing academic impact is reflected in 80 citations, 9 documents, and an h-index of 4, demonstrating his significant and sustained influence in the field of sustainable energy and mechanical engineering.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Krishnan, R., & Gopan, G. (2024). A comprehensive review of lithium extraction: From historical perspectives to emerging technologies, storage, and environmental considerations. Cleaner Engineering and Technology, 20, 100749. Cited by: 64

2. Krishnan, R., Hauchhum, L., Gupta, R., & Pattanayak, S. (2018). Prediction of equations for higher heating values of biomass using proximate and ultimate analysis. In 2nd International Conference on Power, Energy and Environment: Towards Smart Technology. IEEE.  Cited by: 28

3. Gopan, G., Hauchhum, L., Pattanayak, S., Kalita, P., & Krishnan, R. (2022). Prediction of species concentration in syngas produced through gasification of different bamboo biomasses: A numerical approach. International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering, 13(4), 1383–1394. Cited by: 9

4. Krishnan, R., Hauchhum, L., Gupta, R., & Gopan, G. (2022). Production and characterisation of biodiesel extracted from Indian bamboos. International Journal of Oil, Gas and Coal Technology, 31(3), 316–331. Cited by: 6

5. Gopan, G., Hauchhum, L., Kalita, P., Krishnan, R., & Pattanayak, S. (2021). Parametric study of tapered fluidized bed reactor under varied taper angle using TFM. AIP Conference Proceedings, 2396(1), 020020. Cited by: 4

 

Muhammad Ali Shahbaz | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Ali Shahbaz | Bioenergy | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University of Engineering and Technology | Pakistan

Dr.-Ing. Muhammad Ali Shahbaz is an accomplished academic and researcher in Mechanical Engineering, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Automotive Engineering Centre, University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, Pakistan. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany, where his research focused on developing advanced endoscopic optical diagnostics for combustion engines, including temperature imaging, fuel film analysis, and soot incandescence studies. His M.Sc. research involved visualization of flame fronts using OH*-chemiluminescence and LIF techniques, and he holds a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from UET Lahore with a thesis on biodiesel synthesis and engine performance. Professionally, he has over 14 years of teaching and research experience, having supervised multiple master’s and bachelor’s theses, reviewed and developed graduate curricula, and advised government agencies on EV policy and emissions testing standards. His research interests span optical diagnostics for internal combustion engines, alternative fuels, pyrolysis for bio-oil and biochar, waste-to-energy technologies, renewable energy systems, and integrated solid waste management. He possesses strong experimental and analytical skills in LIF, chemiluminescence, soot imaging, MATLAB, instrumentation, and pyrolysis systems. Dr. Shahbaz has contributed to major projects including EU Horizon 2020 research, biodiesel optimization funded by HEC Pakistan, and vibration analysis for electric vehicle development. His work is widely published in reputed journals such as Applied Optics, Experiments in Fluids, and Energy Science & Engineering and presented at global conferences including the Gordon Research Conference and European Combustion Meeting. He is the recipient of multiple awards including the Best Teacher Award and DAAD Scholarship. His growing academic impact is reflected in 2,940 citations, 139 documents, and an h-index of 31, demonstrating his significant and sustained influence in the field of combustion diagnostics and sustainable energy research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Munir, M. A., Habib, M. S., Hussain, A., Shahbaz, M. A., Qamar, A., Masood, T., Sultan, M., Mujtaba, M. A., Imran, S., Hasan, M., Akhtar, M. S., Ayub, H. M. U., & Salman, C. A. (2022). Blockchain adoption for sustainable supply chain management: Economic, environmental, and social perspectives. Frontiers in Energy Research, 10, 899632. (Cited by 150)

2. Razzaq, L., Mujtaba, M. A., Shahbaz, M. A., Nawaz, S., Khan, H. M., Hussain, A., & others. (2022). Effect of biodiesel–dimethyl carbonate blends on engine performance, combustion and emission characteristics. Alexandria Engineering Journal, 61(7), 5111–5121.  (Cited by 33)

3. Nawaz, A., Ahmed, Z., Shahbaz, A., Khan, Z., & Javed, M. (2014). Coagulation–flocculation for lignin removal from wastewater – A review. Water Science and Technology, 69(8), 1589–1597. (Cited by 27)

4. Shahbaz, M. A., Jüngst, N., Grzeszik, R., & Kaiser, S. A. (2021). Endoscopic fuel film, chemiluminescence, and soot incandescence imaging in a direct-injection spark-ignition engine. Proceedings of the Combustion Institute, 38(4), 5869–5877. (Cited by 12)

5. Nawaz, A., Shahbaz, M. A., & Javed, M. (2015). Management of organic content in municipal solid waste – A case study of Lahore. International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 15(1), 15–23. (Cited by 8)