Fauzan Djamaluddin | Clean Transportation | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fauzan Djamaluddin | Clean Transportation | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Hasanuddin University | Indonesia

Dr. Fauzan, ST, MT, PhD, is a prominent scholar and researcher in mechanical and materials engineering, widely recognized for his expertise in impact engineering, finite element analysis, crashworthiness, and solid mechanics. His research primarily focuses on the design, analysis, and optimization of lightweight and energy-absorbing structures, particularly those utilizing aluminum foams and composite materials for advanced safety applications in automotive, marine, and rail transport systems. Through his innovative work, he has contributed significantly to improving energy absorption efficiency, structural resilience, and passenger safety while supporting the global transition toward sustainable engineering solutions. He has successfully led multiple funded research projects centered on the development and optimization of advanced materials and structural systems aimed at enhancing vehicle safety and energy efficiency. His research findings have been published in leading international journals, including Ocean Engineering, International Journal of Crashworthiness, Results in Materials, and Latin American Journal of Solids and Structures, reflecting the high scientific rigor and impact of his work. His studies combine experimental and computational approaches, employing advanced simulation tools such as MATLAB, Abaqus, and SolidWorks to model, validate, and optimize complex mechanical systems under various loading conditions. In addition to his strong research profile, Dr. Fauzan actively contributes to academic development through mentoring, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the dissemination of applied engineering knowledge. His work not only advances theoretical understanding but also delivers tangible benefits to society through safer, lighter, and more efficient mechanical systems. Dr. Fauzan’s academic excellence and research influence are reflected in his growing global recognition, with 311 citations, 36 publications, and an h-index of 10, underscoring his meaningful contributions to the fields of mechanical design and materials innovation.

Featured Publications

1. Djamaluddin, F., Abdullah, S., Ariffin, A. K., & Nopiah, Z. M. (2015). Optimization of foam-filled double circular tubes under axial and oblique impact loading conditions. Thin-Walled Structures, 87, 1–11. Cited by: 137

2. Djamaluddin, F., Abdullah, S., Ariffin, A. K., & Nopiah, Z. M. (2015). Non-linear finite element analysis of bitubal circular tubes for progressive and bending collapses. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences, 99, 228–236. Cited by: 35

3. Djamaluddin, F., Abdullah, S., Ariffin, A. K., & Nopiah, Z. M. (2015). Multi-objective optimization of foam-filled circular tubes for quasi-static and dynamic responses. Latin American Journal of Solids and Structures, 12(6), 1126–1143. Cited by: 35

4. Djamaluddin, F., Abdullah, S., Ariffin, A. K., & Nopiah, Z. M. (2016). Finite element analysis and crashworthiness optimization of foam-filled double circular under oblique loading. Latin American Journal of Solids and Structures, 13, 2176–2189. Cited by: 21

5. Djamaluddin, F., Abdullah, S., Ariffin, A. K., & Nopiah, Z. M. (2019). Optimisation and validation of full and half foam filled double circular tube under multiple load cases. International Journal of Crashworthiness. Cited by: 16

Dr. Fauzan Djamaluddin’s research advances global innovation in mechanical and materials engineering by developing lightweight, energy-absorbing structures that enhance vehicle safety, energy efficiency, and structural sustainability. His pioneering work in finite element modeling and crashworthiness design contributes to safer, greener, and more efficient transportation systems, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and real-world industrial applications.

Zhenghao Yang | Carbon Neutral Technologies | Young Scientist Award

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.

Mohsin Raza | Renewable Energy | Innovation Research Award

Dr. Mohsin Raza | Renewable Energy | Innovation Research Award

Post Doctoral Research Associate | University of Sharjah | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mohsin Raza, Ph.D., is a distinguished researcher specializing in biomass valorization, bioenergy, green chemistry, and nanocellulose production. He is currently advancing research in sustainable material science and bio-based innovations as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at a leading research institute. His academic background and scientific expertise center on transforming agricultural and lignocellulosic wastes into high-value materials through green and energy-efficient processes. Dr. Raza’s work integrates biomass conversion technologies, lignin recovery, nanocellulose extraction, and bio-based thermal insulation development, emphasizing environmental sustainability and circular economy principles. His core research skills include thermochemical processing, biopolymer synthesis, pyrolysis kinetics, and the use of natural deep eutectic solvents for eco-friendly material synthesis. Highly skilled in advanced analytical techniques such as TGA, DSC, XRD, FTIR, GC-MS, SEM, and TEM, he also demonstrates excellence in intellectual property development, holding multiple granted U.S. patents and additional applications in the fields of biomass valorization and green solvent technologies. As a prolific author with extensive publications in high-impact Q1 journals from leading publishers, Dr. Raza’s research contributions have significantly advanced understanding in renewable energy systems, sustainable chemistry, and nanomaterial engineering. His work has been recognized through multiple innovation and sustainability awards, reflecting his leadership and creativity in promoting clean technologies. Through collaborative research and continuous innovation, Dr. Raza continues to shape the future of renewable materials and sustainable energy, contributing to global progress toward a circular bioeconomy, with a documented record of 994 citations, 28 publications, and an h-index of 14.

Profile: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Inayat, A., & Raza, M. (2019). District cooling system via renewable energy sources: A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 107, 360–373. Cited by: 221

2. Raza, M., Abu-Jdayil, B., Al-Marzouqi, A. H., & Inayat, A. (2022). Kinetic and thermodynamic analyses of date palm surface fibers pyrolysis using Coats–Redfern method. Renewable Energy, 183, 67–77. Cited by: 161

3. Raza, M., Inayat, A., Ahmed, A., Jamil, F., Ghenai, C., Naqvi, S. R., Shanableh, A., & Park, Y. K. (2021). Progress of the pyrolyzer reactors and advanced technologies for biomass pyrolysis processing. Sustainability, 13(19), 11061. Cited by: 148

4. Raza, M., Abu-Jdayil, B., Banat, F., & Al-Marzouqi, A. H. (2022). Isolation and characterization of cellulose nanocrystals from date palm waste. ACS Omega, 7(29), 25366–25379. Cited by: 102

5. Raza, M., & Abu-Jdayil, B. (2022). Cellulose nanocrystals from lignocellulosic feedstock: A review of production technology and surface chemistry modification. Cellulose, 29(2), 685–722. Cited by: 77

 

Ao Wang | Biomass | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ao Wang | Biomass | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry | China

Dr. Ao Wang is an Associate Research Fellow at the Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry (CAF) and currently serves as a visiting scholar at Nanyang Technological University, fostering international research collaborations. His professional expertise centers on the preparation and application of advanced functional carbon materials derived from biomass, with a particular focus on electrochemical energy storage. He has led major research projects, including national key programs and fundamental research initiatives at CAF. Dr. Wang’s contributions include elucidating the evolution mechanism of carbon microcrystals during lignin and cellulose pyrolysis, demonstrating that the isotropy of carbon crystal seeds drives the ordered growth of graphite-like microcrystals, and revealing the critical influence of catalyst-induced pore sizes on the formation of closed pore structures in energy storage carbon materials. He has published over 30 articles in high-impact journals such as Progress in Materials Science, Advanced Functional Materials, and Carbon Energy, and has been granted 8 invention patents. His research skills encompass biomass carbon material synthesis, catalytic carbonization, pore structure engineering, and electrochemical characterization for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, as well as supercapacitors. Dr. Wang continues to advance the field of biomass-derived carbon materials for energy storage, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable energy solutions and functional material innovation, with a documented record of 1,899 citations, 99 documents, and an h-index of 24.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Fan, M., Yuan, Q., Zhao, Y., Wang, Z., Wang, A., Liu, Y., Sun, K., Wu, J., Wang, L., … (2022). A facile “double‐catalysts” approach to directionally fabricate pyridinic N–B‐pair‐doped crystal graphene nanoribbons/amorphous carbon hybrid electrocatalysts for efficient … Advanced Materials, 34(13), 2107040. Cited by 163.

2. Fan, M., Wang, Z., Sun, K., Wang, A., Zhao, Y., Yuan, Q., Wang, R., Raj, J., Wu, J., … (2023). N–B–OH site-activated graphene quantum dots for boosting electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production. Advanced Materials, 35(17), 2209086. Cited by 150.

3. Wang, A., Sun, K., Xu, R., Sun, Y., Jiang, J. (2021). Cleanly synthesizing rotten potato-based activated carbon for supercapacitor by self-catalytic activation. Journal of Cleaner Production, 283, 125385. Cited by 118.

4. Chen, C., Sun, K., Huang, C., Yang, M., Fan, M., Wang, A., Zhang, G., Li, B., Jiang, J., … (2023). Investigation on the mechanism of structural reconstruction of biochars derived from lignin and cellulose during graphitization under high temperature. Biochar, 5(1), 51. Cited by 66.

5. Cao, M., Liu, Y., Sun, K., Li, H., Lin, X., Zhang, P., Zhou, L., Wang, A., Mehdi, S., … (2022). Coupling Fe3C nanoparticles and N‐doping on wood-derived carbon to construct reversible cathode for Zn–Air batteries. Small, 18(26), 2202014. Cited by 58.

 

Yao-Ching Hsieh | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yao-Ching Hsieh | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Professor | National Sun Yat-sen University | Taiwan

Prof. Yao-Ching Hsieh is a distinguished professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at National Sun Yat-sen University, with extensive expertise in battery charging technology, power electronic converters, power factor correction, and wireless power transfer, focusing on innovative solutions for energy efficiency and grid integration of renewable energy. He has led significant research projects, including the “Wireless Battery Charging System for Under Water Vehicles” funded by the National Science and Technology Council, Taiwan, and collaborated with industry on projects such as EMI analysis of MOSFETs in adapter circuitry. Prof. Hsieh has contributed to power electronics through the development of soft-switching techniques for interleaved converters, novel charge-equalization topologies for battery strings, and center-tapped pickup winding methods to enhance wireless power transfer efficiency. An active IEEE member, he has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, served in editorial capacities, and engaged in international research collaborations. His work bridges theoretical innovation and practical applications, advancing energy systems and sustainable technologies while mentoring emerging engineers. Prof. Hsieh continues to drive innovation in battery and power electronics research, contributing to energy-efficient solutions and renewable energy integration, with a documented record of 3,729 citations, 139 documents, and an h-index of 25.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Hsieh, Y.-C., et al. (2024). Light load analysis and topology morphing between full-/half-bridge DC-to-DC converter. International Journal of Electronics. citation-1

Hsieh, Y.-C., et al. (2023). High-efficiency bidirectional resonant WPT system for electric vehicles. International Journal of Power Electronics and Drive Systems. citations-3

Hsieh, Y.-C., et al. (Conference Paper). Light-load conversion efficiency enhancement for three-phase dual active bridge DC-DC converters. citation-1

Hsieh, Y.-C., et al. (Conference Paper). A DC power connector with voltage spike suppression. citation-1

Hsieh, Y.-C., et al. (2025). State of health estimation for LiFePO4 batteries using incremental capacity analysis. Conference Paper.

Derese Kebede Teklie | Renewable Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie | Renewable Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Researcher | Istanbul Technical University | Ethiopia

Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie is an accomplished scholar in Development and Environmental Economics with a strong focus on the intersection of green economy, institutional quality, and sustainable development in Africa. Born on August 19, 1988, in Arsi, Ethiopia, he holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Istanbul Technical University, Turkey, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mete Han Yağmur. He is also pursuing a second Ph.D. in Green Economy and Sustainability at Brescia University, Italy, expanding his expertise in environmental policy and sustainable growth. Dr. Teklie earned his M.Sc. in Development Economics from Debre Markos University, Ethiopia, and a B.A. in Economics from Mekelle University. His academic journey has been enhanced by international exposure through the Erasmus Exchange Program at Istanbul Kültür University, fostering global research collaboration and cross-cultural learning. Professionally, he serves as an Assistant Researcher at Istanbul Technical University, contributing to projects on Africa’s economic growth, environmental sustainability, and green innovation. Previously, he worked as a Lecturer at Rift Valley University, Ethiopia, and held key roles in NGO project coordination and government research institutes, demonstrating his versatility across academia, research, and community development. His research interests include environmental economics, green growth, renewable energy policy, institutional development, and econometric modeling. Dr. Teklie is skilled in advanced analytical tools such as STATA, SPSS, EViews, MATLAB, Python, and CGE modeling, reflecting his technical proficiency in empirical research. His publications in Sustainability and the International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy address pressing issues in Africa’s environmental and economic transformation. Recognized for his academic dedication and contributions to sustainable development, Dr. Teklie continues to advance impactful interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie’s academic impact is reflected in his growing recognition with 19 citations, 3 documents, and an h-index of 2, highlighting his emerging influence in environmental and development economics research.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Teklie, D. K., & Yağmur, M. H. (2024). The Role of Green Innovation, Renewable Energy, and Institutional Quality in Promoting Green Growth: Evidence from African Countries. Sustainability, 16(14), 6166.

2. Teklie, D. K., & Yağmur, M. H. (2024). Effect of Economic Growth on CO₂ Emission in Africa: Do Financial Development and Globalization Matter? International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 14(1), 121–140.

3. Teklie, D. K., & Doğan, B. (2024). Analyzing the Dynamics: Asymmetric Effects of Economic Growth, Technological Innovation, and Renewable Energy on Carbon Emissions in Africa. International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 14(5), 509–519.

4. Teklie, D. K. (2021). Rural Household Poverty and Its Determining Factors: A Poverty Analysis Using Alternative Measurement Approaches. International Journal of Advanced Research.

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

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