Abdullateef Mustapha | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Abdullateef Mustapha | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

General Manager | Ammam Rice Mill | Nigeria

Dr. AbdulAteef Mustapha is a multidisciplinary scholar in Food Science and Engineering whose work advances innovative technologies in food processing, preservation, food microbiology, lipidomics, and sustainable utilization of agri-food by-products. His research emphasizes ultrasound-assisted processing, microbial inactivation kinetics, quality enhancement, nutrient retention, and green-processing methods that support safer and more efficient food systems. With a strong record of publications in high-impact journals, his contributions span areas such as polysaccharide extraction, protein modification, kinetic modelling, intelligent processing systems, and quality-prediction frameworks. He collaborates widely with researchers across continents, integrating advanced analytical techniques, experimental design, data modelling, and processing equipment optimization to address global challenges in food safety, postharvest losses, and nutrient-dense product development. His applied research also extends to process optimization, technology translation, quality improvement, and product innovation, resulting in practical impacts on food production efficiency, safety management, and value addition. Beyond research, he contributes to community-oriented initiatives supporting food security, public awareness, and educational development. Dr. Mustapha’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics 918 citations, 29 documents, and an h-index of 17 underscoring his growing contributions to global food science and engineering research.

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

Featured Publications

1. Osae, R., Zhou, C., Xu, B., Tchabo, W., Tahir, H. E., Mustapha, A. T., & Ma, H. (2019). Effects of ultrasound, osmotic dehydration, and osmosonication pretreatments on bioactive compounds, chemical characterization, enzyme inactivation, color, and antioxidant properties. Journal of Food Biochemistry, 43(5), e12832.

2. Nasiru, M. M., Frimpong, E. B., Muhammad, U., Qian, J., Mustapha, A. T., Yan, W., … & Xu, B. (2021). Dielectric barrier discharge cold atmospheric plasma: Influence of processing parameters on microbial inactivation in meat and meat products. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 20(3), 2626–2659.

3. Ji, Q., Yu, X., Yagoub, A. E. A., Chen, L., Mustapha, A. T., & Zhou, C. (2021). Enhancement of lignin removal and enzymolysis of sugarcane bagasse by ultrasound-assisted ethanol synergized deep eutectic solvent pretreatment. Renewable Energy, 172, 304–316.

4. Ji, Q., Yu, X., Wu, P., Yagoub, A. E. A., Chen, L., Taiye, M. A., & Zhou, C. (2021). Pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse with deep eutectic solvents affects the structure and morphology of lignin. Industrial Crops and Products, 173, 114108.

5. Fakayode, O. A., Aboagarib, E. A. A., Yan, D., Li, M., Wahia, H., Mustapha, A. T., … & Ma, H. (2020). Novel two-pot ultrasonication and deep eutectic solvent pretreatment approaches for watermelon rind delignification: Parametric screening and optimization via response surface methodology. Energy, 203, 117872.

Alessandro De Oliveira Rios | Climate Change | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Alessandro De Oliveira Rios | Climate Change | Excellence in Research Award

Full Professor | Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul | Brazil

Dr. Alessandro de Oliveira Rios is a distinguished researcher affiliated with the University Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil. With an exceptional academic record, he has authored over 160 scientific publications and received more than 6,600 citations, reflecting his significant impact in food science, biotechnology, and sustainable materials, supported by an h-index of 47 that highlights his sustained research excellence. His work focuses on biodegradable materials, natural bioactive compounds, food packaging innovations, and plant-based product development, exploring advances such as microencapsulation of Amazonian buriti fruit oil for oxidative stability in meat products, biodegradable sodium alginate films enriched with carotenoids, and intelligent nonwoven indicators for food spoilage detection. By integrating green chemistry, food engineering, and material science, his research emphasizes circular economy principles and eco-innovative strategies that minimize environmental impact. Beyond materials innovation, Dr. Rios contributes to functional foods and nutrition science, studying the stability of phenolic and carotenoid compounds in regional fruits like Caryocar brasiliense and developing plant-based and hybrid burger formulations aligned with global sustainability goals. Collaborating with over 350 international co-authors across Latin America, Europe, and Asia, he has established a strong global research network, publishing in leading journals such as Food Hydrocolloids, Food Research International, and Biomass. Through his pioneering, interdisciplinary contributions, Dr. Rios advances sustainable food systems, environmental protection, and public health, reinforcing his reputation as one of Brazil’s leading scientific voices in food innovation and sustainability, while actively supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through impactful, real-world applications of biotechnological research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Rios, A. de O., et al. (2025). Microcapsules with Amazonian buriti fruit oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) on maintaining oxidative stability of ground beef. Food Hydrocolloids. Citations: 7

2. Rios, A. de O., et al. (2025). Biodegradable sodium alginate films incorporated with lycopene and β-carotene for food packaging purposes. Food Science and Technology International. Citations: 11

3. Rios, A. de O., et al. (2025). Hybrid and plant-based burgers: Trends, challenges, and physicochemical and sensory qualities. [Open Access Review]. Citations: 6

4. Rios, A. de O., et al. (2024). Unlocking the potential of pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.): Stability of phenolic compounds, carotenoid profile, and vitamin A after drying. Food Research International. Citations: 6

5. Rios, A. de O., et al. (2024). Efficient and sustainable production of intelligent nonwovens as indicators of food spoilage through solution blow spinning of proteins and natural pigments from agri-food waste. Food Control.
Citations: 11

Dr. Alessandro de Oliveira Rios’s pioneering research advances sustainable food systems and green technologies, bridging science, industry, and environmental innovation. His work transforms biodegradable materials and natural bioactives into practical solutions that reduce waste, enhance food security, and support global sustainability goals.

Zhenghao Yang | Carbon Neutral Technologies | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Zhenghao Yang | Carbon Neutral Technologies | Young Scientist Award

Doctor | Air Force Engineering University | China

Dr. Zhenghao Yang is a distinguished researcher at the Air Force Engineering University, Xi’an, China, specializing in advanced combustion systems, energy conversion efficiency, and sustainable propulsion technologies. With 16 publications, 113 citations, and an h-index of 6, he has established a growing academic presence in renewable and green energy research. His work focuses on optimizing combustion and energy conversion mechanisms under specialized and extreme operating conditions, particularly for high-altitude applications in aerospace systems. A notable example of his research is the study titled “Optimization research of combustion and energy conversion efficiency of elliptical rotary engine at high altitude using green hydrogen fuel” (Renewable Energy, 2026), which exemplifies his innovative efforts in integrating hydrogen-based propulsion technologies as sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil-fuel engines. His expertise encompasses computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermodynamic modeling, performance optimization, and hybrid energy system integration, contributing to advancements in energy efficiency and emission reduction. Collaborating with 18 co-authors across various institutions, Dr. Yang demonstrates strong interdisciplinary engagement that connects mechanical engineering, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability. His research holds significant relevance for both aviation and defense sectors, addressing global challenges related to clean energy utilization, decarbonization, and eco-efficient propulsion. Through his continued exploration of hydrogen-fueled engines and high-performance energy systems, Dr. Zhenghao Yang contributes meaningfully to the worldwide transition toward sustainable energy technologies and low-carbon innovation, positioning himself as a promising leader in the field of green propulsion research.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Yang, Z., Jia, G., Fang, Z., Du, Y., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2026). Optimization research of combustion and energy conversion efficiency of elliptical rotary engine at high altitude using green hydrogen fuel. Renewable Energy.

2. Yang, Z., Du, Y., Jia, G., Gao, X., Fang, Z., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Clean combustion of a hydrogen-doped elliptical rotary engine based on turbulent jet ignition: Synergistic enhancement of thermodynamic and emission performance via flow field coupling. Energy Conversion and Management.

3. Yang, Z., Du, Y., Jia, G., Gao, X., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Effect of multi-hole passive jet ignition on thermodynamic and combustion characteristics of hydrogen-doping elliptical rotary engine in high-altitude environment. Energy.

4. Yang, Z., Jia, G., Du, Y., Fang, Z., Gao, X., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Investigation of high-tumble chamber of ammonia-hydrogen fueled elliptical rotary engine based on turbulence and combustion characteristics. Fuel.

5. Du, Y., Yang, Z., Zhang, Z., Wang, Z., He, G., Wang, J., & Zhao, P. (2024). Control strategy optimization exploration of a novel hydrogen-fed high-efficiency X-type rotary engine hybrid power system by coupling with recuperative organic Rankine cycle. Energy.

Dr. Zhenghao Yang’s research advances the development of clean, high-efficiency hydrogen-fueled rotary engines, contributing to global decarbonization, sustainable aviation, and next-generation propulsion technologies. His innovative work bridges energy science and engineering, fostering breakthroughs that support a greener and more energy-efficient future for society and industry alike.

Mehdi Safaei | Sustainable Energy | Renewable Energy Education Award

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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

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.