Dragana Marinković | Renewable Energy Systems | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Dragana Marinković | Renewable Energy Systems | Women Researcher Award

Principal Research Fellow | Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences | Serbia

Dr. Dragana Marinković is a distinguished Principal Research Fellow at the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, recognized for her extensive contributions to nanomaterials science and their interdisciplinary applications. Her research focuses on advanced synthesis methods for nanomaterials in powder, colloidal, and thin-film forms, along with innovative approaches for their functionalization and coating. She has played a key role in developing next-generation photocatalysts for improved water splitting and environmental remediation, while also advancing nanomaterials used in photocatalysis, adsorption, pigmentation, biosensing, photothermal therapy, antimicrobial systems, biomarkers, scintillation, bioimaging, and optoelectronic technologies. Her scientific leadership is demonstrated through major nationally funded research programs in new materials and nanosciences, complemented by active involvement in international collaborations including HORIZON Europe, HORIZON 2020, and multiple COST Actions, where she has served in significant coordination roles. Participation in bilateral projects and Short-Term Scientific Missions across leading European institutions has further strengthened her contributions to luminescent nanomaterials, upconversion technologies, and advanced carbon-based nanostructures. A prolific scholar, she has authored 73 SCI-indexed publications, eight book chapters, and a scientific monograph, with her work widely referenced across materials science, environmental technologies, clean energy, and biomedical innovation. Her research continues to generate substantial societal impact in environmental protection, sustainable technologies, healthcare applications, and advanced photonics. Dr. Marinković’s academic influence and research excellence are reflected in her strong metrics 3,123 citations, 69 documents, and an h-index of 30, underscoring her sustained contributions to global scientific advancement.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Marinković, D., Righini, G. C., & Ferrari, M. (2025). Synthesis, optical, and photocatalytic properties of the BiVO₄ semiconductor nanoparticles with tetragonal zircon-type structure. Photonics, 12(5), 438.

2. Marinković, D., Righini, G. C., & Ferrari, M. (2025). Advances in synthesis and applications of bismuth vanadate-based structures. Inorganics, 13(8), 268.

3. Marković, Z., Dorontić, S., Jovanović, S., Kovač, J., Milivojević, D., Marinković, D., Mojsin, M., & Todorović Marković, B. (2024). Biocompatible carbon dots/polyurethane composites as potential agents for combating bacterial biofilms: N-doped carbon quantum dots/polyurethane and gamma ray-modified graphene quantum dots/polyurethane composites. Pharmaceutics, 16(12), 1565.

4. Vasiljević, B. R., Prekodravac, J. R., Ranđelović, M. S., Mitrović, J. Z., Bojić, A. Lj., Porobić Katnić, S., Momčilović, M. Z., & Marinković, D. (2024). Enhanced thermal stability and excellent electrochemical and photocatalytic performance of needle-like form of zinc-phthalocyanine. Ceramics International.

5. Vasiljević, B. R., Odobaša, D., Vujičić, I., Filimonović, M. B., Smits, K., Mijin, D., & Marinković, D. (2024). Sustainable and fast synthesis of zinc-phthalocyanine for gamma radiation dosimeter application. Radiation Physics and Chemistry, 211, 111816.

Dr. Dragana Marinković’s work advances the frontiers of nanomaterials science through innovative synthesis strategies and multifunctional applications that address critical challenges in clean energy, environmental protection, and biomedical technology. Her research accelerates the development of next-generation photocatalysts, sensors, and therapeutic platforms, driving scientific innovation with tangible societal and industrial impact.

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.