Hongying Cai | Agri-Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hongying Cai | Agri-Energy | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Dr. Hongying Cai is a dedicated researcher in microbiology with a strong focus on probiotics and microbial applications in health and agriculture. Her work explores the mechanisms by which lactic acid bacteria influence obesity, lipid metabolism, and host health, leading to innovative approaches in microbial ecological preparations. She has successfully combined basic scientific research with practical applications, contributing to both academic knowledge and industrial development. With numerous publications in SCI-indexed journals and multiple authorized national patents, her contributions reflect originality, innovation, and societal impact. As an Associate Professor at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, she has demonstrated leadership in significant national-level projects and contributed to technology transfer that benefits the agricultural and health sectors. Dr. Cai’s career reflects a balance of research excellence, innovation, and collaborative engagement, positioning her as an emerging leader in microbiological and biotechnological research.

Professional Profiles

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Cai pursued her higher education in microbiology at the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where she completed her doctoral studies with a strong focus on probiotics and metabolic regulation. During her academic journey, she acquired rigorous training in molecular biology, microbial genetics, and applied biotechnology, equipping her with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. Her academic foundation provided a pathway into advanced research, where she explored the interactions between microorganisms and host metabolic systems. Following her doctoral degree, she continued her academic development through a postdoctoral fellowship at the Institute of Feed Research, where she gained further exposure to interdisciplinary approaches and advanced methodologies. This educational journey strengthened her ability to address complex biological problems while cultivating a broad perspective on microbiological applications in agriculture and health sciences. Her academic background has been instrumental in shaping her current role as a leading researcher in her field.

Experience

Dr. Cai has accumulated rich professional experience in microbiology and feed research through her work at the Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. She has undertaken extensive postdoctoral research and now serves as an Associate Professor, where she leads projects at the intersection of microbiology, biotechnology, and animal health. Her experience includes designing and executing high-impact national research projects under competitive funding programs and developing innovative microbial ecological preparations. She has successfully managed multi-disciplinary teams, coordinated with industrial partners, and facilitated technology transfer, demonstrating her ability to bridge scientific discovery with real-world application. Her leadership extends to supervising junior researchers and contributing to collaborative studies, enhancing the reach and relevance of her work. The blend of academic research and industry-linked projects has given her comprehensive expertise in both scientific innovation and practical outcomes, positioning her as an experienced researcher with strong professional impact.

Research Interest

Dr. Cai’s primary research interests center on the role of probiotics, particularly lactic acid bacteria, in regulating host metabolism and improving health outcomes. She is deeply engaged in uncovering the mechanisms through which these microorganisms influence lipid metabolism, obesity control, and glucose regulation. Her work further extends into the development of microbial ecological preparations that can be applied in both animal husbandry and human health, with a vision of improving sustainability and wellness. She has established advanced in vitro screening systems to identify promising microbial strains, offering new tools for probiotic research and development. Dr. Cai also explores the broader potential functions of beneficial microbes, seeking to integrate microbiology with biotechnology for innovative solutions. Her research contributes not only to scientific discovery but also to practical applications in agriculture, food sciences, and health care, highlighting the interdisciplinary significance of her work in addressing global challenges.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Cai has received recognition for her outstanding contributions to microbiological research, particularly in the areas of probiotics and microbial biotechnology. Her work has been supported through competitive funding programs, including prestigious national research grants, which reflect the value and impact of her scientific ideas. She has successfully completed multiple government-supported projects and contributed to advancing national research priorities. In addition to these achievements, she has secured several authorized national invention patents, which demonstrate the innovative nature of her research and its potential for practical application. Her publications in respected international journals, where she has often served as first or corresponding author, further highlight her scholarly excellence. These accomplishments collectively illustrate her ability to deliver impactful research outcomes, gain professional recognition, and contribute to both academic advancement and applied innovation. Her record of honors and achievements reflects her commitment to advancing knowledge and benefiting society.

Research Skills

Dr. Cai has developed strong research skills that combine advanced laboratory expertise, analytical ability, and leadership in scientific inquiry. She is proficient in microbiological techniques, molecular biology methods, and microbial genetic analysis, which allow her to explore the complex mechanisms of probiotic functions. Her skills extend to establishing innovative screening systems for lactic acid bacteria, enabling effective evaluation of microbial strains with potential health benefits. She is experienced in project management, having led several major research initiatives that required coordination, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, Dr. Cai demonstrates skill in translating laboratory discoveries into practical applications, supported by her record of patents and technology transfers. She is also adept at scientific communication, as reflected in her publications in internationally recognized journals. Her ability to integrate experimental precision, strategic project leadership, and innovation underscores her strong profile as a skilled and versatile researcher in microbiology and biotechnology.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Heat-Inactivated Lactiplantibacillus plantarum FRT4 Alleviates Diet-Induced Obesity via Gut–Liver Axis Reprogramming
Authors: Yuyin Huang; Qingya Wang; Xiling Han; Kun Meng; Guohua Liu; Haiou Zhang; Rui Zhang; Hongying Cai; Peilong Yang
Year: 2025
Journal: Foods (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute – MDPI)

Conclusion

Dr. Hongying Cai is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a strong foundation in microbiology, she has advanced the understanding of lactic acid bacteria and their role in regulating metabolism, contributing both to science and its practical applications in health and agriculture. Her significant research projects, impactful publications, patents, and dedication to technology transfer highlight her commitment to both innovation and societal benefit. With her strong research background and potential for future leadership in international collaborations, Dr. Cai stands out as a promising researcher who will continue to make substantial contributions to science and society.

Vivek Garg | Waste-to-Energy Conversion | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vivek Garg | Waste-to-Energy Conversion | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer and Applied Engineering Research Specialist at University of Greenwich | United Kingdom

Dr. Vivek Garg is an accomplished researcher and technical leader specializing in powder technology, bulk solids handling, mineral processing, and formulation science. Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer and Applied Engineering Research Specialist at the University of Greenwich, he leads interdisciplinary projects across the pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and environmental sectors. His expertise lies in bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application, delivering scalable solutions for formulation design, process optimization, and test method development. He has successfully secured competitive research funding and major consultancy projects, demonstrating his ability to attract resources and deliver measurable impact. His scholarly contributions include research publications in reputed international journals, patents in advanced systems and technologies, and book chapters addressing innovative engineering solutions. Widely recognized for his innovation and leadership, Dr. Garg actively contributes to scientific communities through invited talks, technical committees, and journal reviewing, while mentoring early-career researchers.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Vivek Garg’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in engineering and applied sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Bulk Solids and Handling from the University of Greenwich, where his research focused on powder flow properties and their implications in industrial applications. Prior to that, he completed his Master’s degree in Thermal Engineering from Thapar University, where he expanded his expertise in advanced mechanical processes and energy systems. He began his academic pursuit with a Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering from IET Bhaddal, India, where he built the fundamental skills that would later shape his career as a researcher. Throughout his education, Dr. Garg has combined theoretical knowledge with practical experimentation, contributing to his expertise in formulation, process optimization, and sustainable solids handling. His academic achievements have been complemented by his strong engagement with industrial projects, enabling him to integrate academic learning with practical engineering challenges.

Experience

Dr. Vivek Garg brings over a decade of professional and research experience in powder technology, formulation science, and mineral processing. At the University of Greenwich, he has worked as a Senior Lecturer and Applied Engineering Research Specialist, where he has led industry-oriented R&D and consultancy projects, developed laboratory rigs for powder characterization, and guided students and researchers. His work spans diverse sectors including pharmaceuticals, food, chemicals, and environmental systems, focusing on developing innovative methods for powder flow measurement, material characterization, and process optimization. Earlier in his career, he contributed to engineering roles in leading industries such as Federal Mogul Goetze and Bhushan Power and Steel, where he provided solutions that improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. Through his consultancy and collaborative projects, he has partnered with global industries and academic institutions, successfully translating research outcomes into practical solutions. His leadership in project execution demonstrates his ability to deliver high-impact results.

Research Interest

Dr. Vivek Garg’s research interests lie in the study and advancement of powder technology and bulk solids handling, with applications across pharmaceutical, food, and chemical industries. He focuses on powder formulation and characterization, including flowability, compressibility, segregation, and caking, which are crucial factors in ensuring product quality and process efficiency. He also explores advanced topics such as air permeability, fluidization behavior, and the development of lab-to-full scale rigs for material characterization. In addition, his work in additive manufacturing, particularly 3D tablet printing, highlights his interest in combining pharmaceutical innovation with engineering design. He is equally committed to exploring sustainable solids handling, addressing industrial challenges in waste processing and renewable material applications. His approach integrates experimental methods, material science, and computational modeling to develop innovative solutions that bridge scientific research with industrial needs. By pursuing these areas, Dr. Garg aims to strengthen global research and innovation in material science and engineering.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Vivek Garg has been widely recognized for his contributions to engineering research and innovation through multiple prestigious awards. He has received distinctions for innovation in powder technology, materials handling, and applied research, demonstrating his ability to deliver high-impact solutions that bridge academia and industry. His recognition includes awards celebrating rising talent, newcomer contributions, and international excellence in young research, highlighting both his early promise and continued professional success. Beyond institutional awards, Dr. Garg has earned accolades from professional associations and industrial organizations, affirming the global relevance of his work. These honors reflect his ability to consistently push the boundaries of powder technology and applied engineering. His leadership in winning competitive research grants, along with contributions to interdisciplinary collaborations, further validates his achievements. Collectively, these recognitions underscore his growing influence in his field and affirm his position as a researcher of international distinction, committed to advancing science and innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Vivek Garg has developed a strong portfolio of research skills that combine experimental expertise, analytical rigor, and project leadership. He is highly skilled in powder characterization techniques such as particle size analysis, powder flow testing, air permeability, and compressibility studies, supported by tools including DVS, SEM, ImageJ, and pycnometers. He has experience in developing bespoke laboratory rigs and smart test facilities that enable real-time monitoring of powder behavior, a key contribution to both academic research and industrial applications. In addition, his knowledge extends to design software such as SolidWorks and simulation approaches that integrate characterization techniques into virtual toolkits. He has also gained expertise in project management, having secured competitive funding, managed budgets, and led multi-disciplinary research teams. His ability to translate experimental insights into industrial solutions demonstrates both technical competence and applied innovation. These skills, combined with strong stakeholder engagement, make him a versatile and impactful researcher.

Publication Top Notes

Title: An investigation into the flowability of fine powders used in pharmaceutical industries
Authors: V. Garg, S.S. Mallick, P. García-Trinanes, R.J. Berry
Year: 2018
Citations: 93

Title: An experimental investigation on the effect of particle size into the flowability of fly ash
Authors: L. Rohilla, V. Garg, S.S. Mallick, G. Setia
Year: 2018
Citations: 32

Title: An experimental study on free-surface rolling segregation and correlations with angle of repose and particle sphericity
Authors: T. Deng, V. Garg, H. Salehi, M.S.A. Bradley
Year: 2020
Citations: 25

Title: A study of particle adhesion for cohesive powders using a novel mechanical surface energy tester
Authors: T. Deng, V. Garg, M.S.A. Bradley
Year: 2021
Citations: 19

Title: 3D Printing of Personalised Carvedilol Tablets Using Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: A.G. Tabriz, Q. Gonot-Munck, A. Baudoux, V. Garg, R. Farnish, O. Katsamenis, et al.
Year: 2023
Citations: 18

Title: Comparative studies of powder flow predictions using milligrams of powder for identifying powder flow issues
Authors: T. Deng, V. Garg, L.P. Diaz, D. Markl, C. Brown, A. Florence, M.S.A. Bradley
Year: 2022
Citations: 18

Title: Correlations between segregation intensity and material properties such as particle sizes and adhesions and novel methods for assessment
Authors: T. Deng, V. Garg, H. Salehi, M.S.A. Bradley
Year: 2021
Citations: 18

Title: A new method for assessing powder flowability based on physical properties and cohesiveness of particles using a small quantity of samples
Authors: V. Garg, T. Deng, M. Bradley
Year: 2022
Citations: 12

Title: Optimising Spread-Layer Quality in Powder Additive Manufacturing: Assessing Packing Fraction and Segregation Tendency
Authors: H. Salehi, J. Cummins, E. Gallino, V. Garg, T. Deng, A. Hassanpour, et al.
Year: 2023
Citations: 8

Title: Electrostatic Charging of Fine Powders and Assessment of Charge Polarity Using an Inductive Charge Sensor
Authors: T. Deng, V. Garg, M. Bradley
Year: 2023
Citations: 8

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Vivek Garg exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his pioneering contributions in powder technology, interdisciplinary research leadership, and impactful industrial collaborations. His scholarly output, patents, and recognition through awards such as the Best Innovation Award and the Rising Star Award reflect his dedication to advancing both scientific knowledge and industrial practices. With his proven track record of innovation, community engagement, and future-oriented research in sustainable solids handling and pharmaceutical technologies, Dr. Garg is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His potential for continued leadership and global research impact positions him as an emerging leader in engineering science and applied technology.