Jianhua Zhou | Solar Energy | Best Researcher Award

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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

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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

Bawoke Mekuye Getnet | Nanotechnology for Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Bawoke Mekuye Getnet | Nanotechnology for Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Mekdela Amba University | Ethiopia

Dr. Bawoke Mekuye Getnet is an Ethiopian physicist, lecturer, and researcher known for his impactful contributions to condensed matter physics, nanoscience, nanomaterials, and diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMS). He holds a B.Sc. in Physics from Dilla University and an M.Sc. in Physics from Debre Markos University, building a strong foundation in theoretical and computational physics. He serves as Lecturer and Coordinator of the College of Natural and Computational Sciences at Mekdela Amba University, where he leads academic coordination and teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students, drawing on earlier experience as a secondary school physics teacher that shaped his passion for inspiring future scientists. His research spans computational modeling of high Curie temperature in ferromagnetic semiconductors, size-dependent optical properties of nanomaterials, energy system dynamics, and antibacterial mechanisms of metallic nanoparticles, supported by expertise in Python, MATLAB, dielectric function analysis, nanomaterial simulations, scientific writing, and peer review. Dr. Bawoke has published in leading journals such as Nano Select, Frontiers in Physics, Energy Science & Engineering, Advances in Condensed Matter Physics, and IET Nanobiotechnology, contributed book chapters and systematic reviews, and serves as a peer reviewer for prominent journals including ACS Omega and Solid State Communications. Beyond research, he has conducted teacher training programs, delivered software workshops for physics graduates, and presented at major conferences on computational investigations of ferromagnetic semiconductors. His honors include the prestigious Best Researcher Award (International Top Research Award) in recognition of his commitment to advancing physics research and education. Dedicated to promoting innovation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building in Ethiopia and beyond, Dr. Bawoke aspires to expand Q1 journal publications, foster global research collaborations, and engage as a keynote speaker and editorial board member, positioning him to play a transformative role in nanotechnology, semiconductor physics, and energy research while inspiring future generations of researchers.

Profile: Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Featured Publications

Mekuye, B., & Abera, B. (2023). Nanomaterials: An overview of synthesis, classification, characterization, and applications. Nano Select, 4(8), 486–501. Cited by: 501

Mekuye, B. (2023). The impact of size on the optical properties of silver nanoparticles based on dielectric function. Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials Annual Volume 2024. Cited by: 18

Girma, A., Abera, B., Mekuye, B., & Mebratie, G. (2024). Antibacterial activity and mechanisms of action of inorganic nanoparticles against foodborne bacterial pathogens: A systematic review. IET Nanobiotechnology, 2024(1), 5417924. Cited by: 14

Girma, A., Alamnie, G., Bekele, T., Mebratie, G., Mekuye, B., & Abera, B., et al. (2024). Green-synthesised silver nanoparticles: Antibacterial activity and alternative mechanisms of action to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens: A systematic literature review. Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews, 17(1), 2412601. Cited by: 10

Girma, A., Mebratie, G., Mekuye, B., Abera, B., Bekele, T., & Alamnie, G. (2024). Antibacterial capabilities of metallic nanoparticles and influencing factors. Nano Select, 5(12), e202400049. Cited by: 9

Mojtaba Alirahmi | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral at Aalborg University | Denmark

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi is a distinguished researcher and process engineer recognized among the leading scientists in sustainable energy systems. His expertise spans operational research, energy system modeling, bioenergy, electrolysis, CCUS, and Power-to-X technologies, with a strong focus on practical solutions for decarbonization. He has contributed significantly to plant-wide process modeling, dynamic simulation, multivariable control, and techno-economic analysis of green fuel production, including hydrogen, methane, and ammonia. As a globally acknowledged scholar, he has established a reputation for excellence in mathematical optimization and interdisciplinary collaboration. His work bridges theory and application, demonstrating how advanced simulation, optimization, and system integration can drive innovation in renewable energy and carbon management. With an impressive publication record, active participation in international research projects, and mentorship of students, Dr. Alirahmi continues to influence both academia and industry. His career reflects a balance of scientific discovery, applied engineering, and dedication to building a sustainable energy future.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi pursued his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Aalborg University, where his research focused on renewable energy integration, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and Power-to-X pathways. His doctoral studies involved developing advanced models for system optimization, thermal management, and sustainable fuel production, contributing new methods to energy efficiency research. His academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, where he specialized in solar energy applications, multi-generation systems, and exergo-economic assessments. This strong foundation enabled him to apply both mechanical and chemical engineering principles to renewable energy challenges. Throughout his academic training, he engaged in advanced computational modeling, multi-objective optimization, and comparative analyses of energy systems. His education has been marked by innovation, a drive for solving global energy issues, and a continuous pursuit of excellence. The combination of theoretical knowledge and applied research has equipped him with the skills and insights to address pressing challenges in sustainable energy systems.

Experience

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi has accumulated diverse research and professional experience through roles at globally recognized institutions. As a postdoctoral researcher, he worked on projects focused on carbon capture and transportation in biomass CHP plants, combining academic research with industrial applications. His international research internships at institutions such as MIT, the University of Pau, and the Technical University of Denmark allowed him to collaborate on projects in oxy-combustion, waste heat recovery, and offshore infrastructure repurposing. Earlier roles as a research assistant involved optimizing energy systems, developing sustainable fuel technologies, and advancing renewable integration strategies. Beyond academia, he has actively contributed to industry-related projects, providing practical insights into process optimization and techno-economic analysis. His professional journey reflects a consistent focus on interdisciplinary problem-solving, global collaboration, and the application of cutting-edge modeling tools. These experiences have shaped him into a researcher who not only advances scientific understanding but also delivers impactful solutions to energy challenges.

Research Interest

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi’s research interests lie at the intersection of renewable energy, optimization, and sustainable systems. His work explores energy storage technologies such as compressed air, hydrogen, and thermal storage, alongside Power-to-X pathways, including power-to-gas, power-to-liquid, and power-to-chemicals systems. He is deeply engaged in advancing renewable sources like wind, solar, biomass, and fuel cells, integrating them into efficient energy frameworks. His studies in thermodynamics and multi-objective optimization focus on improving energy, exergy, and economic performance, while also addressing environmental sustainability. He has shown strong interest in refrigeration and desalination cycles, including heat pumps, absorption chillers, reverse osmosis, and multi-effect distillation, linking them with broader energy strategies. Additionally, he is keen on techno-economic analysis, uncertainty management, and machine learning applications for energy systems. His research is driven by the vision of accelerating the transition toward clean and efficient energy solutions, positioning him at the forefront of global efforts in sustainable technology development.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi has received multiple recognitions for his outstanding contributions to renewable energy research and process engineering. He has been acknowledged among the top global researchers in sustainable energy and mathematical optimization, underscoring his academic impact and leadership. His publications include several highly cited papers, with some ranked among the most influential works in the field of hydrogen and electrolyzers. His achievements also include conference best paper awards, travel grants for international scientific events, and recognition for the excellence of his master’s thesis. In addition to personal accolades, he has contributed as a reviewer for numerous international journals, further reflecting his influence on the scientific community. His consistent recognition demonstrates not only his academic productivity but also his innovation, collaboration, and impact on both research and practice. These honors highlight his role as a forward-thinking researcher whose contributions are shaping the advancement of clean energy systems worldwide.

Research Skills

Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi possesses advanced research skills that span modeling, simulation, optimization, and experimental analysis. He is highly proficient in MATLAB, machine learning techniques, and multi-objective optimization algorithms such as NSGA-II, MOPSO, and MOGWO, which he applies to complex energy systems. His technical expertise extends to simulation platforms including Aspen HYSYS, TRNSYS, ANSYS, and COMSOL, allowing him to model and analyze a wide range of renewable and conventional processes. He has strong capabilities in thermo-economic assessment, dynamic process control, and uncertainty management, making his research both comprehensive and practical. Additionally, his proficiency with CAD software and scientific visualization tools supports his ability to design, simulate, and communicate results effectively. Beyond technical expertise, he demonstrates strong collaboration, leadership, and mentoring skills, contributing to both academic and industry projects. His ability to integrate theory with practice makes him a versatile researcher capable of advancing innovations in sustainable energy technologies.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Multi-objective design optimization of a multi-generation energy system based on geothermal and solar energy
Authors: SM Alirahmi, SR Dabbagh, P Ahmadi, S Wongwises
Year: 2020
Citations: 315

Title: Comprehensive assessment and multi-objective optimization of a green concept based on a combination of hydrogen and compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems
Authors: SM Alirahmi, AR Razmi, A Arabkoohsar
Year: 2021
Citations: 275

Title: A comprehensive techno-economic analysis and multi-criteria optimization of a compressed air energy storage (CAES) hybridized with solar and desalination units
Authors: SM Alirahmi, SB Mousavi, AR Razmi, P Ahmadi
Year: 2021
Citations: 272

Title: A green hydrogen energy storage concept based on parabolic trough collector and proton exchange membrane electrolyzer/fuel cell: thermodynamic and exergoeconomic analyses
Authors: AR Razmi, SM Alirahmi, MH Nabat, E Assareh, M Shahbakhti
Year: 2022
Citations: 199

Title: Multi-criteria design optimization and thermodynamic analysis of a novel multi-generation energy system for hydrogen, cooling, heating, power, and freshwater
Authors: SM Alirahmi, M Rostami, AH Farajollahi
Year: 2020
Citations: 165

Title: Green hydrogen & electricity production via geothermal-driven multi-generation system: Thermodynamic modeling and optimization
Authors: SM Alirahmi, E Assareh, NN Pourghassab, M Delpisheh, L Barelli, …
Year: 2022
Citations: 154

Title: Multi-objective optimization of a biomass gasification to generate electricity and desalinated water using Grey Wolf Optimizer and artificial neural network
Authors: F Musharavati, A Khoshnevisan, SM Alirahmi, P Ahmadi, …
Year: 2022
Citations: 152

Title: A Sustainable model for the integration of solar and geothermal energy boosted with thermoelectric generators (TEGs) for electricity, cooling and desalination purpose
Authors: E Assareh, SM Alirahmi, P Ahmadi
Year: 2021
Citations: 145

Title: Energy, exergy, and exergoeconomics (3E) analysis and multi-objective optimization of a multi-generation energy system for day and night time power generation-Case study …
Authors: SM Alirahmi, E Assareh
Year: 2020
Citations: 131

Title: Soft computing analysis of a compressed air energy storage and SOFC system via different artificial neural network architecture and tri-objective grey wolf optimization
Authors: SM Alirahmi, SF Mousavi, P Ahmadi, A Arabkoohsar
Year: 2021
Citations: 105

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Mojtaba Alirahmi is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his groundbreaking contributions in renewable energy systems, optimization methods, and Power-to-X technologies. His strong publication record, global collaborations, and leadership in advancing sustainable solutions demonstrate his impact on both academic and industrial domains. With his dedication to innovation, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary research, he is well-positioned to drive future advancements in clean energy and inspire the next generation of researchers.

Shanling Zhang | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shanling Zhang | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Jilin University | China

Shanling Zhang is an emerging researcher specializing in geological engineering and energy resource development, with a strong focus on methane hydrate extraction technologies. His research integrates both theoretical and experimental approaches to explore efficient methods of gas recovery from hydrate-bearing sediments. Through his work, he aims to address global energy demands while promoting environmentally sustainable extraction strategies. Zhang has contributed significantly to academic literature with multiple publications in high-impact journals, reflecting his ability to conduct innovative studies and collaborate across disciplines. His research outcomes demonstrate strong analytical thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and technical expertise in energy engineering. Recognized with national-level scholarships and academic honors, he has established himself as a dedicated and promising scientist. Zhang continues to combine academic rigor with practical applications, contributing to advancements in clean energy technology and positioning himself as a future leader in energy and geological research.

Professional Profiles

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Shanling Zhang has pursued a progressive academic path that reflects his dedication to the energy and geological sciences. He completed his undergraduate degree in engineering at a leading Chinese university, where he gained strong fundamentals in applied sciences and energy systems. Building on this foundation, he advanced to graduate-level studies in energy and power engineering, focusing on methane hydrate extraction technologies and their potential applications in sustainable energy development. Currently, Zhang is engaged in doctoral research in geological engineering, where he deepens his exploration into advanced extraction methods for methane hydrates, with emphasis on simulation modeling, laboratory experimentation, and field application. His academic training has not only strengthened his subject expertise but also broadened his ability to conduct independent research, manage scientific projects, and collaborate in multidisciplinary teams. This educational background equips him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex challenges in energy engineering.

Experience

Shanling Zhang has accumulated valuable research experience through his active involvement in multiple scientific projects, including those supported by major national funding organizations. His contributions to studies on methane hydrate extraction involve numerical simulations, experimental setups, and kinetic mechanism analyses, all of which enhance the understanding of hydrate behaviors under varying environmental conditions. Zhang has participated in collaborative projects with supervisors and peers, demonstrating strong teamwork while also leading independent investigations. His experience includes authoring and co-authoring publications in reputed international journals, presenting advanced findings on hydrate extraction techniques, depressurization, and CO₂-CH₄ replacement processes. In addition to academic research, he has developed expertise in using specialized software for reservoir modeling and data interpretation, further strengthening his applied skills. His consistent involvement in cutting-edge research projects showcases his capability to manage complex technical tasks, contribute to scientific innovation, and remain actively engaged in advancing clean and efficient energy solutions.

Research Interest

Shanling Zhang’s research interests revolve around the exploration and development of methane hydrate resources as an alternative energy source. He is particularly focused on extraction methods that balance high recovery efficiency with environmental safety, such as CO₂ replacement techniques, depressurization methods, and thermal stimulation strategies. His investigations extend to the thermodynamic and kinetic mechanisms underlying hydrate formation and dissociation, with an emphasis on applying advanced simulation tools to model reservoir behaviors. Zhang is also deeply interested in the environmental aspects of methane hydrate recovery, seeking to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate ecological risks through innovative approaches. His interdisciplinary perspective connects geological engineering, energy technology, and environmental sustainability, positioning him at the forefront of research on future energy solutions. Ultimately, his research interests align with global efforts to develop clean, reliable, and economically viable energy alternatives that contribute to long-term resource security and climate-friendly technological advancements.

Awards and Honors

Shanling Zhang has earned multiple academic honors and scholarships that reflect his consistent excellence and dedication to scientific research. He has been awarded competitive national scholarships at both the master’s and doctoral levels, which recognize outstanding academic performance, research achievements, and leadership potential. His master’s thesis was recognized as an excellent contribution at the provincial level, highlighting the quality and originality of his research. Additionally, he has received institutional awards for being an outstanding graduate student and has secured first-class academic scholarships at the doctoral level. These honors demonstrate his capability to excel in competitive environments and affirm the value of his contributions to the field of energy engineering. His recognition extends beyond personal achievement, as his research outcomes have added to the broader scientific understanding of methane hydrate extraction. Collectively, these awards emphasize his strong academic standing and his potential to make lasting impacts in clean energy research.

Research Skills

Shanling Zhang has developed a comprehensive set of research skills that strengthen his contributions to the field of energy engineering. He is proficient in the use of advanced software tools such as CMG for reservoir modeling, Origin for data analysis, and various visualization and presentation platforms to communicate scientific findings effectively. His experimental skills include designing and conducting laboratory tests to investigate methane hydrate behaviors under controlled conditions, as well as analyzing the kinetics and thermodynamics of hydrate systems. He has strong scientific writing abilities, demonstrated through his multiple first-author publications in reputed international journals. Additionally, Zhang possesses effective problem-solving skills, teamwork experience, and the ability to conduct interdisciplinary research that bridges geological engineering, energy science, and environmental sustainability. His bilingual proficiency in English and Mandarin enables him to engage in international collaborations. These skills collectively position him as a capable researcher prepared to contribute meaningfully to global energy challenges.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Potassium acetate as an eco-friendly methane hydrate inhibitor: Implications for thermodynamics and kinetics
Authors: Shanling Zhang; Yating Huang; Yingrui Ma; Sheng Jiang; Shaoqi Yin; Xiuping Zhong; Chen Chen
Year: 2025
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

Title: Research progress on hydrate replacement mechanism and enhancement methods: A review
Authors: Shanling Zhang; Yingrui Ma; Yating Huang; Zhenhua Xu; Xiang Liu; Sheng Jiang; Xiaoxia You; Yafei Wang; Xiuping Zhong; Chen Chen
Year: 2025
Journal: Gas Science and Engineering

Title: Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical coupling analysis of spiral wellbores in horizontal wells for heat extraction from hot dry rock: A case study of the Gonghe Basin, Qinghai, China
Authors: Sheng Jiang; Chen Chen; Shanling Zhang; Zhenhua Xu; Xiang Liu; Guigang Tu; Songying Zhao
Year: 2025
Journal: Energy

Title: Current Status and Reflections on Ocean CO₂ Sequestration: A Review
Authors: Shanling Zhang; Sheng Jiang; Hongda Li; Peiran Li; Xiuping Zhong; Chen Chen; Guigang Tu; Xiang Liu; Zhenhua Xu
Year: 2025
Journal: Energies

Title: Study on the Characteristics of Gas Hydrate Replacement Extraction in Permafrost Regions
Authors: Shanling Zhang; Yingrui Ma; Sheng Jiang; Xin Li; Tengfei Cheng; Yafei Wang; Xuemin Zhang; Chen Chen
Year: 2025
Journal: Energy & Fuels

Title: Experimental study of gas recovery behaviors from methane hydrate-bearing sediments by CO₂ replacement below freezing point
Authors: Xuemin Zhang; Shanling Zhang; Qingqing Liu; Tingting Huang; Huijie Yang; Jinping Li; Yingmei Wang; Qingbai Wu; Chen Chen
Year: 2024
Journal: Energy

Title: Experimental study on mechanical damage and creep characteristics of Gonghe granite under real-time high temperature
Authors: Zhenhua Xu; Xiuping Zhong; Shanling Zhang; Yafei Wang; Kunyan Liu; Xiang Liu; Yuxuan Meng; Xinglan Hou; Chen Chen
Year: 2024
Journal: Geothermics

Conclusion

Shanling Zhang demonstrates strong potential as a young researcher, with an impressive record of publications, national-level project contributions, and recognition through competitive scholarships. His work on methane hydrate extraction technologies addresses a vital energy and environmental challenge, showcasing both technical depth and societal relevance. With his proven academic excellence, growing international research presence, and commitment to innovation, Zhang is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with the promise to contribute significantly to both scientific advancement and sustainable energy solutions in the years ahead.

Leyla Akbulut | Sustainable Energy Policies | Best Innovation Award

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Ms. Leyla Akbulut | Sustainable Energy Policies | Best Innovation Award

Lecturer at Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Turkey

Leyla Akbulut is a dedicated academic and researcher in the field of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, with a strong professional focus on renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, and distribution network optimization. She has combined academic teaching, applied research, and project leadership to contribute significantly to sustainable energy transitions. Her career demonstrates a unique blend of theoretical expertise and practical implementation, particularly in solar energy integration, energy performance contracting, and smart grid applications. Beyond her technical contributions, she has actively participated in cross-disciplinary projects that connect academia, industry, and government institutions, making her work relevant to both scientific advancement and societal needs. Known for her innovation-driven research, she has also earned recognition from prestigious organizations at both national and European levels. Her leadership in energy management initiatives, coupled with an active role in advancing education, positions her as an influential voice in the global move toward sustainable energy solutions.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Her academic journey began with a solid foundation in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, which she pursued through undergraduate and graduate studies. She completed her bachelor’s studies with a focus on power systems and energy distribution, later strengthening her expertise with a master’s degree centered on electrical distribution optimization. Her doctoral research advanced these foundations by focusing on cutting-edge approaches for optimizing power distribution networks through innovative algorithms and efficiency-oriented frameworks. This academic progression reflects her continuous pursuit of excellence, bridging core engineering concepts with applied problem-solving in renewable energy systems. Her academic path has equipped her with in-depth technical knowledge, advanced mathematical modeling skills, and strong problem-solving abilities, essential for addressing modern challenges in sustainable energy. Her education has not only shaped her expertise but has also provided her with the necessary analytical and leadership skills to engage in interdisciplinary projects that integrate engineering, sustainability, and innovation.

Experience

Leyla Akbulut’s professional experience spans academia, industry, and research, showcasing a dynamic career that connects technical expertise with practical application. In academia, she serves as a lecturer, teaching courses in high voltage engineering, power system analysis, renewable energy, and distribution systems. Beyond teaching, she has taken on administrative and leadership roles, such as energy management coordination, ensuring institutional compliance with sustainability and efficiency goals. Her industrial experience includes roles in electrical distribution companies, where she contributed to R&D projects, grid modernization, and urban development projects as a site manager and systems engineer. She has also been actively involved in national-scale projects for the installation of solar energy plants, energy performance contracting, and grid optimization, serving both as project leader and collaborator. This diverse career trajectory has enabled her to combine academic rigor with hands-on technical expertise, making her contributions impactful across education, industry, and applied innovation in energy systems.

Research Interest

Her research interests lie at the intersection of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and advanced optimization of power systems. She focuses on the design, modeling, and analysis of sustainable energy systems, with special attention to photovoltaic projects, smart grids, and energy performance contracting. She is particularly interested in exploring how solar and biomass systems can be integrated into circular energy solutions for campuses and communities, advancing eco-friendly and cost-effective models. Additionally, her work investigates the application of metaheuristic algorithms for demand-side management, energy cost optimization, and efficiency improvements in electrical distribution networks. She is also keen on exploring interdisciplinary dimensions of energy research, such as economic feasibility, regulatory frameworks, and digitalization of power systems. Her research philosophy emphasizes innovation that combines environmental sustainability with practical applicability, aiming to create solutions that not only address technical challenges but also contribute to global energy transition and climate change mitigation efforts.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Leyla Akbulut has received multiple prestigious recognitions that highlight both her academic excellence and her innovative contributions to energy research. She has been honored by national institutions for her efficiency-enhancing projects, reflecting her role in advancing applied research that directly impacts society. Internationally, her work has gained visibility through recognition by the European Commission, showcasing her ability to bring forward innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to renewable energy solutions. These awards emphasize her leadership in pioneering projects that improve sustainability and energy efficiency at institutional and community levels. In addition to formal awards, she has also been invited to present her work at scientific meetings and conferences, further confirming her position as a respected contributor in her field. Such distinctions not only validate her research but also demonstrate her influence in bridging academic innovation with real-world energy challenges and sustainable development goals.

Research Skills

Her research skills span a wide spectrum of analytical, technical, and interdisciplinary capabilities. She is proficient in advanced algorithmic modeling, including the use of genetic algorithms and mixed-integer linear programming for optimization of distribution systems. She has extensive experience in renewable energy integration, particularly in solar power plant installations and energy performance contracting frameworks. Her skills also extend to economic analysis of renewable energy projects, where she employs regression models and efficiency evaluations to assess feasibility and scalability. Beyond technical expertise, she has demonstrated strong leadership in managing collaborative research projects, coordinating teams of academics and practitioners from different sectors. She is equally skilled in preparing scientific publications for high-impact international journals, with experience in collaborative writing and interdisciplinary research dissemination. Her combined expertise in theory, application, and project management makes her a versatile researcher capable of producing innovative, sustainable, and impactful solutions in the energy domain.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Economic Efficiency of Renewable Energy Investments in Photovoltaic Projects: A Regression Analysis
Authors: A. Akbulut, M. Niemiec, K. Taşdelen, L. Akbulut, M. Komorowska, A. Atılgan, …
Journal: Energies
Year: 2025
Citation: 1

Title: Review of Metaheuristic Algorithms for Energy Efficiency, Demand Side Management and Cost Estimation
Authors: L. Akbulut, K. Taşdelen, A. Çoşgun
Journal: Rocznik Ochrona Środowiska
Year: 2025
Citation: 1

Title: Analysis of Electrical Distribution Network Voltage Configuration with Mixed Integer Linear Programming Algorithm and Genetic Algorithm in Terms of Energy Cost
Authors: L. Akbulut, S.S. Tezcan, A. Coşgun
Journal: Electrica
Year: 2020
Citation: 1

Title: Dağıtım Şebekesi Gerilim Konfigürasyonunun Karışık Tamsayı Lineer Programlama Algoritması ile Enerji Maliyeti Yönünden Araştırılması
Authors: L. Akbulut, S.S. Tezcan, A. Coşgun
Journal: Mühendislik Bilimleri ve Tasarım Dergisi
Year: 2019
Citation: 1

Title: Solar-Powered Biomass Revalorization for Pet Food and Compost: A Campus-Scale Eco-Circular System Based on Energy Performance Contracting
Authors: L. Akbulut, A. Coşgun, M.H. Aldulaimi, S.O.W. Khafaji, A. Atılgan, M. Kılıç
Year: 2025

Conclusion

In summary, Leyla Akbulut is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Innovation Award. Her pioneering research in renewable energy optimization, sustainable electricity distribution, and innovative campus-scale eco-energy systems demonstrates both technical excellence and societal impact. Her leadership in national projects, coupled with international publications and recognition by European and national institutions, underscores her innovation-driven contributions. With her strong academic background, professional expertise, and demonstrated capacity for impactful applied research, she stands out as a researcher who can continue driving cutting-edge solutions for sustainable energy futures, making her a worthy recipient of this award.