Hippolyte Tene Mouafo | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hippolyte Tene Mouafo | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

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Orcid Profile

Educational Details:

Dr. Hippolyte Tene Mouafo is a distinguished researcher and academic in the fields of food science, microbiology, and microbial biotechnology. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Science with a specialization in Food Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, awarded in 2020 by the National School of Agro-Industrial Sciences (ENSAI), University of Ngaoundéré, Cameroon, and CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, India. He also holds a Master’s degree in Science and Technology (2013) from ENSAI, Cameroon, another MSc in Biochemistry (2010), and a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry (2009), both from the University of Douala, Cameroon. Prior to his undergraduate studies, he obtained a Baccalaureate in Mathematics and Life and Earth Sciences from the High School of Oyack, Cameroon, in 2005.

 

Professional Experience

Dr. Mouafo has an extensive professional background spanning research and academia. Since 2017, he has been a Research Officer (Scientist) and Deputy Head of the Laboratory of Development of Food Technologies at the Centre for Food, Food Security and Nutrition Research, part of the Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plant Studies in Yaoundé, Cameroon. In this role, he supervises research teams, manages projects, designs experiments, and oversees student mentorship. In parallel with his research career, Dr. Mouafo has held lecturer positions at several institutions in Cameroon, including the Catholic University of Central Africa, the Higher Institute of Biological and Applied Sciences of Yaoundé, and the University Institute of Sciences and Techniques of Yaoundé. His teaching portfolio covers diverse topics such as antimicrobial testing, pharmacology, drug discovery, food microbiology, food safety, quality control, and chromatographic techniques in food characterization. Between 2012 and 2017, he also served as a Technical Assistant at the University Institute of Technology of Ngaoundéré, where he was involved in the preparation and evaluation of practical microbiology and pharmacology classes and the guidance of students.

Research Interest

Dr. Mouafo’s research interests are interdisciplinary and impactful, spanning microbial biotechnology, pharmacology, and food safety. His work focuses on antimicrobial discovery (including biosurfactants, bacteriocins, and plant extracts), drug resistance, biofilms, probiotics, and food contaminants. He is particularly interested in microbial ecology, bacterial adhesion, metagenomic analysis, and gut microbiota, with ongoing studies in next-generation sequencing (NGS) and the development of novel food products. His expertise also extends into cancer research, particularly relating to Helicobacter pylori and its links to cancer.

 

Top Notable Publications

“The Potential Protective Effects of Yellow Star on Comorbidity Risk Factors and Disorders Associated with Severe COVID-19 Outcomes”

Journal: Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics

Date: September 15, 2024

DOI: 10.22270/jddt.v14i9.6761

Authors: (Not directly listed here; please access via Crossref for complete author details)

“Formulation of Nutritious and Functional Meal-Based Biscuits from Mixture of Soybean, Papaya Fruit Pulp, and Baobab Fruit Pulp Flours”

Journal: Heliyon

Date: September 2024

DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38171

Authors: (Available through Crossref)

“Effect of Local Fermentation on Sensory, Nutritional and Microbiological Quality of ‘Bobolo’ (Manihot esculenta Crantz)”

Journal: International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences

Date: July 2, 2024

DOI: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20241304.11

Authors: (Access via Crossref for full author listing)

“Antibacterial Activity of Bioemulsifiers/Biosurfactants Produced by Levilactobacillus brevis S4 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum S5 and Their Utilization to Enhance the Stability of Cold Emulsions of Milk Chocolate Drinks”

Journal: Food Science & Nutrition

Date: January 2024

DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3740

Authors: (View on Crossref)

“Methods of Purification and Characterization of Biosurfactants: An Overview”

Journal: Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Date: July 20, 2023

DOI: 10.9734/jabb/2023/v26i5635

Authors: (Crossref source available for more info)

“Biofilm Inhibition, Antibacterial and Antiadhesive Properties of a Novel Biosurfactant from Lactobacillus paracasei N2 against Multi-Antibiotics-Resistant Pathogens Isolated from Braised Fish”

Journal: Fermentation

Date: July 9, 2023

DOI: 10.3390/fermentation9070646

Authors: (Available via Crossref)

“Mycotoxins and Heavy Metals of Poultry Feeds from the Centre, Littoral, and Western Regions of Cameroon”

Journal: Journal of World’s Poultry Research

Date: March 25, 2023

DOI: 10.36380/jwpr.2023.8

Authors: (Check via Crossref)

“Popular Cleaning Systems of Bottles Reused for Traditional Food Packaging in the City of Yaoundé (Cameroon) and Study of Their Prospective Effectiveness on Biofilms”

Journal: Frontiers in Food Science and Technology

Date: December 14, 2022

DOI: 10.3389/frfst.2022.1060880

Authors: Hippolyte T. Mouafo and others

“Development of Fermented Sweet Potato Flour (Ipomoea batatas L.) Supplemented with Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) Meal-Based Biscuits”

Journal: International Journal of Food Science

Date: October 28, 2022

DOI: 10.1155/2022/8033978

Authors: (Available via Crossref)

 

Mallesh Baithi | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Mallesh Baithi | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Scopus Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Educational Details:

Mr. Baithi is pursuing his Ph.D. in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics at Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea, with a thesis titled “Quantum Phenomena in Two-Dimensional van der Waals Materials”. He began his doctoral studies in March 2020 and is expected to complete them by February 2025. He holds a Master of Science in Physics from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, India (2016–2018), where his thesis focused on “Annealing Effects on Diamond and Boron-Doped Diamond Thin Films Grown by Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition (HFCVD) Method”. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Osmania University, India (2012–2015), majoring in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Professional Experience

Since March 2020, Mr. Baithi has been a doctoral student at the IBS-Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Department of Energy Science, Sungkyunkwan University. His research focuses on bulk growth of TMDCs, nano-device fabrication, and conducting Hall measurements at cryogenic temperatures. Prior to this, he worked as a Project Assistant at the Nanoscale Devices Laboratory, Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru (January 2019–December 2019), where he was involved in device characterization and electron transport studies in two-dimensional van der Waals heterostructures. During his Master’s program at IIT Madras (June 2017–December 2018), Mr. Baithi conducted research on the annealing and characterization of diamond thin films.

Research Interest

Mr. Baithi’s research interests are focused on experimental condensed matter physics, particularly quantum phenomena in two-dimensional van der Waals materials, device fabrication, and the growth of TMDCs. He is also interested in exploring the electronic and optical properties of low-dimensional materials, transport studies at cryogenic temperatures, and developing energy-efficient quantum materials for sustainable applications.

Top Notable Publications

Incommensurate Antiferromagnetic Order in Weakly Frustrated Two-Dimensional van der Waals Insulator CrPSe3
Authors: M. Baithi, N.T. Dang, T.A. Tran, J.P. Fix, D.H. Luong, K.P. Dhakal, D. Yoon, …
Journal: Inorganic Chemistry
Year: 2023
Citations: 8

High-Performance p-Type Quasi-Ohmic of WSe2 Transistors Using Vanadium-Doped WSe2 as Intermediate Layer Contact
Authors: X.P. Le, A. Venkatesan, D. Daw, T.A. Nguyen, M. Baithi, H. Bouzid, T.D. Nguyen
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
Year: 2024
Citations: (Not yet available, recently published)

Signature of Possible Spin Liquid State at 2K in Spin-Frustrated Cr1-xFexPSe3 Alloy
Authors: M. Baithi, N.T. Dang, T.D. Nguyen, T.A. Tran, T.K. Dinh, S. Choi, D.L. Duong
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2024
Citations: (Not yet available, recently published)

Observation of Strange Metal in Hole-Doped Valley-Spin Insulator
Authors: T.D. Nguyen, B. Mallesh, S.J. Kim, H. Bouzid, B. Cho, X.P. Le, T.D. Ngo, W.J. Yoo, …
Journal: arXiv preprint
Year: 2022
Citations: (Preprint, citation data varies on indexing platforms)

Lakshakoti Bochu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lakshakoti Bochu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Orcid Profile

Educational Details:

Mr. Lakshakoti Bochu is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, since 2022. He holds an M.Tech in VLSI and Embedded Systems from Kakatiya Institute of Technology & Sciences, where he graduated with 62.70% in 2014. Lakshakoti completed his B.Tech in ECE at SR Engineering College, achieving 66.24% in 2012. His foundational education includes an Intermediate degree in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry from A.P.S.W.R.S/Jr. College, Jakaram, with a notable score of 86.8% in 2008, and an SSC from A.P.S.W.R.S School, Jakaram, where he scored 83.3% in 2006. His strong academic background underpins his research pursuits in engineering.

Technical Skills 

Mr. Lakshakoti Bochu possesses a strong technical skill set that complements his academic and research endeavors. He is proficient in programming with the C language and is experienced with a variety of tools, including Arduino IDE, Xilinx 9.2i, Vivado, and COMSOL, as well as design and simulation platforms like TinkerCAD, Multisim, and Microwind. His expertise extends to data analysis and networking tools such as MATLAB, NS2, and Wireshark. Additionally, he is skilled in using software packages like Mendeley and Origin, and is familiar with both Linux and Windows operating systems, including computer hardware setups. With a typing speed of 32 words per minute, Lakshakoti efficiently manages technical documentation and communication in his work.

Work Experience

Mr. Lakshakoti Bochu is currently a Junior Research Fellow at the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, where he has been conducting research since August 2022. His work focuses on energy harvesting and storage, flexible electronics, and biomedical sensors, including the development of innovative flexible and wearable triboelectric nanogenerators. Prior to this position, he served as an Assistant Professor at Balaji Institute of Technology and Science, Warangal, from September 2021 to August 2022. He also held a similar role at Talla Padmavathi College of Engineering, Kazipet, from March 2016 to September 2021. During his tenure in academia, Lakshakoti managed various subjects and labs, teaching courses such as VLSI Design, Digital Signal Processing (DSP), and Digital Image Processing (DIP), while also coordinating departmental activities and student engagement. His extensive teaching and research experience reflects his dedication to advancing knowledge in engineering and technology.

Top Notable Publications

Lakshakoti, B. (2024). Innovative triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) design utilizing a stress ball. Engineering Research Express, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1088/2631-8695/ad2245

Lakshakoti, B. (2024). Innovative integration of triboelectric nanogenerators into signature stamps. Engineering, 2024. https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5020052

Lakshakoti, B. (2023). Facile direct growth of ZIF-67 metal-organic framework. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 11(47). https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c05198

Lakshakoti, B. (2023). Enhancing triboelectric nanogenerator performance with metal-organic-framework-modified ZnO nanosheets. ACS Applied Nano Materials, 6(24). https://doi.org/10.1021/acsanm.3c03430

Lakshakoti, B. (2023). Transforming medical plastic waste into high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 11(32). https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c03136

Lakshakoti, B. (2023). Surface-engineered high-performance triboelectric nanogenerator. ACS Applied Engineering Materials, 1(10). https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaenm.3c00416

Lakshakoti, B. (2022). IoT surveillance robot using ESP-32 Wi-Fi CAM & Arduino. IJFANS Journal, 11(06). https://doi.org/10.48047/IJIEMR/V11/SPL

Lakshakoti, B. (2021). Design and implementation of RFID-GSM based signal jump e-challan system. pp. 10221–10229.

Lakshakoti, B. (2023). Object detection in motion estimation and tracking analysis for IoT devices. ResearchGate, 2023(9). https://doi.org/10.48047/IJIEMR/V11/SPL

Lakshakoti, B. (2021). Design of a high-speed N-bit Vedic multiplier using mux-based compressors. In Proceedings of ICMRCET-2020 (pp. [page numbers]). ISBN 978-93-5437-153-0.

Jitendra Kumar | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jitendra Kumar | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Educational Details

Dr. Jitendra Kumar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, awarded in 2008. He then completed his Master’s degree in Agricultural Physics at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, in 2010, with a thesis titled “Hyperspectral Remote Sensing of Aphid Infestation Under Varying Weather Conditions.” Dr. Kumar earned his PhD from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, in 2019, with a dissertation focused on “Temporal and Spatial Variation of Soil Carbon Sequestration Potential in Rice-based Cropping Systems.” His academic background underscores his expertise in soil physics and agricultural research.

Professional experience:

Dr. Jitendra Kumar has built a distinguished career as a scientist since 2011, completing over thirteen years of service with various institutions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Throughout this time, he has made significant contributions to twelve research and extension projects and has conducted numerous human resource development (HRD) training sessions for scientists, faculty, farmers, and other stakeholders. His fieldwork has taken him to remote areas, where he identified local challenges and developed effective management strategies. Dr. Kumar has actively participated in over 30 national and international seminars, symposiums, and conferences, sharing his research findings widely. He has developed multiple technologies aimed at improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers and has published more than 70 research articles and book chapters, reflecting his commitment to advancing agricultural science and supporting rural communities.

Awards:

Dr. Jitendra Kumar has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his academic career, highlighting his contributions to agricultural research. He obtained the Junior Research Fellowship from ICAR through a competitive examination for his Master’s program and the CSIR-UGC Junior Research Fellowship for his PhD in Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences. Additionally, he was honored with both Junior and Senior Fellowships from IARI for his Master’s and Doctoral studies, respectively, and received the ICAR SRF for his PhD in Soil Physics and Soil and Water Conservation. Dr. Kumar has also been recognized for his outreach efforts, receiving an award for outstanding dissemination of agromet advisories to farmers. On October 15, 2020, he was conferred the Young Scientist Award and the Best Doctoral Researcher Award by the Society for Biotic and Environmental Research. His achievements also include a research excellence award from the Institute of Scholar in 2020, and he is a fellow of both the Society of Agriculture and Nutrition and the South Asian Institute for Advanced Research and Development.

Top Notable Publications
Kumar, J., Vashisth, A., Sehgal, V. K., & Gupta, V. K. (2013). Assessment of aphid infestation in mustard by hyperspectral remote sensing. Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing, 41(1), 83-90.

Kumar, J., Kalita, H., Rekhung, W., Alone, R. A., Angami, T., Jini, D., & Chaudhary, R. S. (2023). Dynamics of soil organic carbon of jhum agriculture land-use system in the heterogeneous hill of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 12156.

Kumar, J., Vashisth, A., Sehgal, V. K., & Gupta, V. K. (2010). Identification of aphid infestation in mustard by hyperspectral remote sensing. Journal of Agricultural Physics, 10, 53-60.

Kumar, J., Kalita, H., Angami, T., Ramajayam, D., Chandra, A., Kumar, D., & Mohanty, M. Effect of mulching on growth and quality of tissue culture banana (var. Grand Naine) and soil properties in mid hill jhum lands of Arunachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Agroforestry, 22(2).

Rani, A., Sinha, N. K., Jyoti, B., Kumar, J., Kumar, D., Mishra, R., & Srivastava, A. (2024). Spatiotemporal variations in near-surface soil water content across agroecological regions of mainland India: 1979–2022 (44 years). Remote Sensing, 16(16), 3108.

Choudhary, M., Sinha, N. K., Mohanty, M., Jayaraman, S., Kumari, N., Jyoti, B., Kumar, J., & Pattanayak, A. (2023). Response of contrasting nutrient management regimes on soil aggregation, aggregate-associated carbon, and macronutrients in a 43-year long-term experiment. Sustainability, 15(3), 2679.

Sinha, N. K., Mohanty, M., Somasundaram, J., Chaudhary, R. S., Patra, H., Hati, K. M., Kumar, J., & Prabhakar, M. (2021). Maize productivity analysis in response to climate change under different nitrogen management strategies. Journal of Agrometeorology, 23(3), 279-285.

Jitendra, K., Kscitiz, S., Amit, S., Anup, C., Rupankar, B., & Wangnem, R. (2017). Effect of different processes of jhuming on soil properties in the mid-hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Environment and Ecology, 35(2A), 999-1003.

Kumar, J., Kalita, H., Angami, T., Ramajayam, D., Shukla, A., & Shukla, K. (2020). Impact of application of fertilizer and lime on yield of banana (Grand Naine) and soil parameters in acidic soil of Arunachal Pradesh. International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 32(4), 9-17.

Kumar, D., Sinha, N. K., Haokip, I. C., Kumar, J., Wanjari, R. H., Verma, S., & Mishra, R. (2022). Impact of fertilizer consumption on soil health and environmental quality in India. Indian Journal of Fertilisers, 18(10), 992-1005.

Maricel Agop | Biophysics | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Maricel Agop | Biophysics | Best Researcher Award

Google Scholar Profile

Educational Details

Prof. Dr. Maricel Agop has an impressive academic background, marked by significant achievements in physics. He earned his PhD in Physics from the Faculty of Physics “Al. I. Cuza” in Iași in 1983. His educational journey began with exceptional performance at the same faculty, where he specialized in “Solid Body for Research Institutes” and graduated at the top of his class with an average of 9.98. In 2013, he was honored with the Doctoral degree “HONORIS CAUSA” from the University “Vasile Alecsandri” in Bacău. Dr. Agop’s early education includes attendance at George Bacovia Theoretical High School in Bacău and Elementary School no. 5, laying a strong foundation for his illustrious career in academia and research.

 

Professional Experience:

Prof. Dr. Maricel Agop is a distinguished physicist with a long academic career at multiple Romanian institutions. Since 1997, he has served as a Professor of Physics at “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iași. He is also an Associate Professor and Ph.D. supervisor at “Al. I. Cuza” University of Iași since 2002, and holds a similar role at “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacău since 2011, where he is a member of the Doctoral School. His earlier experience includes roles as a physicist at the Institute of Energetic Nuclear Reactors and the Romanian Academy’s Iași Branch. Dr. Agop has been actively contributing to the field of physics since the 1980s, with a focus on both academic and research endeavors.

Awards and Honors:

Prof. Dr. Maricel Agop has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. He received the Prize of Excellence from the Union of Armenians in Romania (1995) and was named Doctor Honoris Causa by “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacău (2013). He is also a Corresponding Member of the Romanian Academy of Scientists (since 2018). Among his accolades are Romanian Academy Awards for his contributions to scale relativity physics and radiomics, as well as international recognition, including an “Honorable Mention” from the American Gravity Research Foundation (1986) and two gold medals at Brussels Eureka ’94 for his inventions.

Top Notable Publications

S. Gurlui, M. Agop, P. Nica, M. Ziskind, C. Focsa (2008). “Experimental and theoretical investigations of a laser-produced aluminum plasma,” Physical Review E, 78(2). 137 citations.

I. Merches, M. Agop (2015). “Differentiability and fractality in dynamics of physical systems,” World Scientific. 131 citations.

S. Bungau, D.M. Tit, K. Fodor, G. Cioca, M. Agop, C. Iovan, D.C.N. Cseppento, et al. (2018). “Aspects regarding the pharmaceutical waste management in Romania,” Sustainability, 10(8), 2788. 105 citations.

C. Bujoreanu, F. Nedeff, M. Benchea, M. Agop (2017). “Experimental and theoretical considerations on sound absorption performance of waste materials including the effect of backing plates,” Applied Acoustics, 119, 88-93. 104 citations.

P. Nica, P. Vizureanu, M. Agop, S. Gurlui, C. Focsa, N. Forna, P.D. Ioannou, et al. (2009). “Experimental and theoretical aspects of aluminum expanding laser plasma,” Japanese Journal of Applied Physics, 48(6R), 066001. 64 citations.

G.V. Munceleanu, V.P. Paun, I. Casian-Botez, M. Agop (2011). “The microscopic-macroscopic scale transformation through a chaos scenario in the fractal space-time theory,” International Journal of Bifurcation and Chaos, 21(02), 603-618. 60 citations.

E.S. Bacaita, B.C. Ciobanu, M. Popa, M. Agop, J. Desbrieres (2014). “Phases in the temporal multiscale evolution of the drug release mechanism in IPN-type chitosan based hydrogels,” Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 16(47), 25896-25905. 59 citations.

M. Agop, N. Forna, I. Casian-Botez, C. Bejenariu (2008). “New theoretical approach of the physical processes in nanostructures,” Journal of Computational and Theoretical Nanoscience, 5(4), 483-489. 58 citations.

M. Agop, V.P. Păun (2017). “On the New Perspectives of Fractal Theory: Fundaments and Applications,” Editura Academiei Române. 56 citations.

C. Focsa, S. Gurlui, P. Nica, M. Agop, M. Ziskind (2017). “Plume splitting and oscillatory behavior in transient plasmas generated by high-fluence laser ablation in vacuum,” Applied Surface Science, 424, 299-309. 55 citations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alka Rani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alka Rani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Orcid Profile 

Educational Details

Dr. Alka Rani holds a B.Sc. in Agriculture (Hons.) from Punjab Agricultural University, where she graduated in 2014 with an impressive 88.8%. She continued her academic journey at the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi, earning her M.Sc. in Agricultural Physics in 2016 with a distinction of 90.3%. Dr. Rani completed her Ph.D. in the same field in 2023, achieving a commendable 89.4%. Her strong educational foundation has equipped her with a deep understanding of soil science and its critical applications in sustainable agriculture.

Work experience:

Dr. Alka Rani has held significant positions in various esteemed institutions. She began her career as a Scientist at the ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management in Hyderabad from January to April 2019. Following that, she worked as a Scientist (Trainee) at the ICAR-National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning in Nagpur for a brief period in mid-2019. Since August 2019, Dr. Rani has been serving as a Scientist at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science in Bhopal, where she continues to contribute to research in soil science and sustainable agriculture. Her roles have been recognized within the pay scale of PB-3 (15,600–39,100) with a grade pay of 6,000, reflecting her expertise and dedication to the field.

Awards:

Dr. Alka Rani has received numerous awards and fellowships throughout her academic and professional career, highlighting her dedication to research in soil science. In 2024, she was honored with the Young Scientist Award at the 39th M.P. Young Scientist Congress and a Fellowship for Training of Young Scientists from the M.P. Council of Science and Technology. Her research presentations have also garnered recognition, including Best Poster Presentation Awards at the International Conference on Sustainable Natural Resource Management in 2023 and the National Seminar on Agrophysics for Smart Agriculture in 2022. Dr. Rani was awarded the 3rd Best Paper Presentation at the National Symposium on i-GEOMATICS in 2021 and received multiple accolades during her undergraduate studies, including a Gold Medal for securing the first position in her B.Sc. Agri. (Hons.) from Punjab Agricultural University in 2014. Her accomplishments reflect her commitment to excellence in agricultural research and education.

Top Notable Publications

Spatiotemporal Variations in Near-Surface Soil Water Content across Agroecological Regions of Mainland India: 1979–2022 (44 Years)

Authors: [Author names not provided]

Year: 2024

Journal: Remote Sensing

DOI: 10.3390/rs16163108

Identification of salt-affected soils using remote sensing data through random forest technique: a case study from India

Authors: [Author names not provided]

Year: 2022

Journal: Arabian Journal of Geosciences

DOI: 10.1007/s12517-022-09682-3

Machine learning for soil moisture assessment

Authors: [Author names not provided]

Year: 2022

Book Chapter: [Publisher and book details not provided]

DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-323-85214-2.00001-X

Vishal Kumar Parida | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Vishal Kumar Parida | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

Google Scholar Profile

Orcid Profile 

Educational Details

Vishal is currently a Ph.D. Research Scholar (08/2020 – 06/2024) at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur in the School of Environmental Science and Engineering. His research focuses on the Development of a Hybrid Technology for Removal of Pharmaceutical Contaminants from Municipal and Hospital Wastewater. This work includes the synthesis of advanced photocatalysts for contaminant degradation, evaluation of reactor performance, and the synchronous removal of multiple pharmaceutical contaminants using novel photocatalytic systems. His research is supervised by Prof. Ashok Kumar Gupta and Dr. Shamik Chowdhury.

He earned his Master of Technology (M. Tech) in Environmental Engineering from the National Institute of Foundry and Forge Technology (NIFFT), Ranchi (08/2018 – 11/2020), where his thesis focused on Recent Trends on Fluoride Removal from Groundwater. He conducted detailed literature reviews, analyzed fluoride levels in groundwater samples, and explored various removal techniques.

Vishal also holds a Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) in Civil Engineering from the College of Engineering Bhubaneswar (06/2012 – 08/2016), where he worked on projects related to water fountains and geotextile applications in pavement design. He gained industry exposure through technical visits and workshops, including seminars on wastewater treatment and advancements in road design. His academic journey started at Kendriya Vidyalayas in Balasore and Rangapahara Cantt., where he completed his high school education.

Research Experience

As a research scholar, Vishal has undertaken various roles in experimental research and data analysis. His key tasks include conducting detailed literature reviews to identify research gaps, fabricating materials and reactors for lab experiments, and developing novel techniques for environmental remediation. He has worked on projects involving the synthesis of photocatalysts, evaluation of their performance in removing pharmaceutical contaminants, and the design of continuous photocatalytic reactors for large-scale wastewater treatment. His research has been presented in reports and peer-reviewed journals.

Vishal has also been involved in fieldwork and laboratory analysis during his postgraduate and undergraduate studies, such as analyzing fluoride levels in groundwater and studying geotextile applications in civil engineering. His hands-on experience extends to technical visits, workshops, and industrial exposure, where he gained valuable insights into wastewater treatment, road design, and biofuels.

Research Interest

Development of advanced photocatalysts for wastewater treatment.

Hybrid technologies for the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants.

Fluoride removal from groundwater.

Sustainable water purification and wastewater management techniques.

Applications of nanotechnology and photocatalysis in environmental remediation.

Top Notable Publications

Emerging contaminants in wastewater: A critical review on occurrence, existing legislations, risk assessment, and sustainable treatment alternatives

Authors: VK Parida, D Saidulu, A Majumder, A Srivastava, B Gupta, AK Gupta

Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Year: 2021

Citation: 215

DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2021.105966

Treatment of saline wastewater using physicochemical, biological, and hybrid processes: Insights into inhibition mechanisms, treatment efficiencies and performance enhancement

Authors: A Srivastava, VK Parida, A Majumder, B Gupta, AK Gupta

Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Year: 2021

Citation: 114

DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2021.105775

An assessment of hospital wastewater and biomedical waste generation, existing legislations, risk assessment, treatment processes, and scenario during COVID-19

Authors: VK Parida, D Sikarwar, A Majumder, AK Gupta

Journal: Journal of Environmental Management

Year: 2022

Citation: 100

DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114609

Facile synthesis of 2D/0D Bi2O3/MnO2 Z-scheme heterojunction for enhanced visible light-assisted photocatalytic degradation of acetaminophen

Authors: VK Parida, SK Srivastava, S Chowdhury, AK Gupta

Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

Year: 2023

Citation: 34

DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2023.144969

Facile synthesis of a 2D/3D Z-scheme Cu-g-C3N4/BiOBr heterojunction for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin under visible light irradiation

Authors: VK Parida, R Dhakad, S Chowdhury, AK Gupta

Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Year: 2023

Citation: 12

DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2023.111569

A critical assessment of SARS-CoV-2 in aqueous environment: Existence, detection, survival, wastewater-based surveillance, inactivation methods, and effective management

Authors: VK Parida, D Saidulu, A Bhatnagar, AK Gupta, MS Afzal

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2023

Citation: 12

DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138503

A review on nanomaterial-based heterogeneous photocatalysts for removal of contaminants from water

Authors: VK Parida, SK Srivastava, AK Gupta, A Rawat

Journal: Materials Express

Year: 2023

Citation: 8

DOI: 10.21494/TEWKS.2023.0173

Visible Light-Assisted Degradation of Sulfamethoxazole on 2D/0D Sulfur-Doped Bi2O3/MnO2 Z-Scheme Heterojunction Immobilized Photocatalysts

Authors: VK Parida, SK Srivastava, S Chowdhury, AK Gupta

Journal: Langmuir

Year: 2023

Citation: 6

DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02786

 

Laura Celentano | Automation | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr.Laura Celentano | Automation | Best Researcher Award

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Educational Details

Laura Celentano earned her M.S. Laurea Degree (summa cum laude) in Computer Engineering, specializing in Automatic Control and Robotics, from the University of Naples Federico II in 2003. Her master’s thesis focused on advanced robotics, specifically the design of a robot for environmental monitoring and fire intervention in road and railway tunnels. She pursued her Ph.D. in Automation and Computer Science Engineering at the same institution, with a major in Automatic Control and System Analysis, completing her degree in 2006. Her Ph.D. thesis was titled “Modeling and Control of Rigid and Flexible Mechanical Systems.”

Research Experience

Currently, Dr. Celentano is an Associate Professor of Automation and Control at the University of Naples Federico II. She has also been involved in teaching at the University of Naples “Parthenope” and the Italian Air Force Academy, Naples, covering topics such as Systems Theory, Fundamentals of Dynamical Systems, Modeling and Simulation, and Automation of Navigation Systems. Beyond academia, she has collaborated extensively with public and private organizations, including projects funded by the European Union, the Italian Ministry of University and Research, and regional initiatives.

She is an active science communicator, contributing to radio programs and scientific journals. Dr. Celentano holds various editorial roles, including Associate Editor for several prestigious journals such as The Journal of the Franklin Institute, IEEE Access, and IEEE Transactions on Cybernetics. She is also a Senior Member of IEEE and a Full Member of the Sigma Xi scientific honor society. Notably, she has chaired and organized numerous international conferences and scientific events.

Research Interest

Dr. Celentano’s research interests encompass the design of versatile, fast, and robust control systems for both linear and nonlinear uncertain systems. She focuses on methods for stability analysis and stabilization of MIMO and discrete-time systems, with applications in mechatronic and transportation systems (e.g., cars, trains, ships), rescue and security robotics, and tele-monitoring systems. She is also exploring brain-computer interfaces for disabled individuals and deep learning techniques for medical applications, including myeloid leukemia. Her work extends into the modeling and control of rigid and flexible mechanical systems and smart sensors and actuators.

Top Notable Publications

L. Celentano, A. Garza-Alonso, and M.V. Basin, “Prescribed-time practical stabilization via majorant systems,” Journal of the Franklin Institute, in press, 2024.
Citation: In press, 2024.

L. Celentano, M. De Riso, R. Di Palo, M. Coppola, P. Guerriero, and S. Daliento, “A new modelling approach for a Cuk converter for on-field diagnostics of PV modules,” 2024 International Symposium on Power Electronics, Electrical Drives, Automation and Motion (SPEEDAM), Napoli, Italy, pp. 1236-1241, 2024.
Citation: Conference paper, 2024.

L. Celentano, “An approach to model and control a flexible spacecraft,” IFAC-PapersOnLine, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 11551-11557, 2023.
Citation: 2023, IFAC-PapersOnLine, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 11551-11557.

L. Celentano, “A fast design technique for robust industrial controllers,” Journal of the Franklin Institute, vol. 360, no. 8, pp. 5689-5727, 2023.
Citation: 2023, Journal of the Franklin Institute, vol. 360, no. 8, pp. 5689-5727.

L. Celentano, M.V. Basin, and P. Shi, “Majorant-based control methodology for mechatronic and transportation processes,” IEEE Access, vol. 9, pp. 157916-157939, 2021.
Citation: 2021, IEEE Access, vol. 9, pp. 157916-157939.

L. Celentano, M.V. Basin, and P. Shi, “A systematic robust control method for marine surface vehicles,” IEEE SMC 2021 International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics, Melbourne, Australia, pp. 1305-1312, 2021.
Citation: Conference paper, 2021.

M.V. Basin, L. Celentano, M. Chadli, and P. Shi, Editorial “Special issue on emerging control techniques for mechatronic and transportation systems,” Asian Journal of Control, vol. 23, no. 5, pp. 2039-2041, 2021.
Citation: 2021, Asian Journal of Control, vol. 23, no. 5, pp. 2039-2041.

L. Celentano, M.V. Basin, and M. Chadli, “Robust tracking design for uncertain MIMO systems using proportional-integral controller of order v,” Asian Journal of Control, vol. 23, no. 5, pp. 2042-2063, 2021.
Citation: 2021, Asian Journal of Control, vol. 23, no. 5, pp. 2042-2063.

L. Celentano, and M. Basin, “Optimal estimator design for LTI systems with bounded noises, disturbances, and nonlinearities,” Circuits, Systems, and Signal Processing, vol. 40, no. 7, pp. 1476-1489, 2021.
Citation: 2021, Circuits, Systems, and Signal Processing, vol. 40, no. 7, pp. 1476-1489.

Yalini Devi Neelan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Google Scholar Profile

Educational Details

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan completed her Ph.D. in Energy Harvesting Applications at Anna University, India, from 2016 to 2021. Her doctoral research focused on innovative methods for harnessing energy through advanced materials and nanotechnology. Prior to her Ph.D., she earned an M.Tech. in Nanoscience and Technology from Anna University, where she achieved an impressive GPA of 8.24/10 from 2014 to 2016. Dr. Neelan’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, also from Anna University, where she graduated in 2014 with a GPA of 6.41/10. This solid educational background has equipped her with a strong foundation in both engineering principles and nanomaterials, driving her passion for research in energy solutions.

Research Experience

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Milano, Italy, in the Thermoelectric’s Laboratory, where she focuses on the preparation and characterization of nanostructured silicon for thermoelectric applications. Her key responsibilities include preparing nanostructured materials, examining their physicochemical characteristics, and studying their Seebeck coefficient, electrical, and thermal conductivity to calculate the figure of merit (ZT). Prior to this, she was a Postdoctoral Researcher at Chungnam National University, South Korea, where she worked on nanostructured oxide-based materials for antibiotic degradation and battery applications, analyzing their photodegradation and electrochemical properties. Dr. Neelan also served as a Research Associate at Anna University, India, where she focused on energy harvesting and storage applications, preparing oxide-based nanomaterials and managing communications with funding agencies. During her Ph.D. at Anna University, she investigated nanostructured strontium titanate-based oxide thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting from waste heat. Additionally, she collaborated with Shimomura Laboratory at Shizuoka University, Japan, to enhance the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SrTiO3 through Gd and Nb co-substitution. Earlier in her academic journey, Dr. Neelan was a project student at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, where she developed graphene oxide-based strain sensors for motion monitoring. Her diverse research experiences reflect her strong expertise in nanomaterials and energy applications.

Research Focus

Energy harvesting applications, particularly in thermoelectrics, focus on converting waste heat into usable electrical energy, thus promoting sustainable energy solutions. The synthesis of nanomaterials plays a crucial role in this field, as nanostructured materials exhibit enhanced thermoelectric properties due to their unique physical and chemical characteristics. These materials are engineered to optimize energy conversion efficiencies, allowing for effective harvesting from various heat sources. Additionally, advancements in energy storage applications complement energy harvesting by ensuring that the harvested energy can be effectively stored and utilized when needed. By integrating innovative synthesis techniques and exploring novel nanomaterials, researchers aim to improve the performance and efficiency of thermoelectric devices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

Top Notable Publications

Enhancing effects of Te substitution on the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SnSe₁₋ₓTeₓ
Authors: D. Sidharth, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, R. Rajkumar, N.Y. Devi, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Year: 2019
Citations: 32

Effect of Gd and Nb co-substitution on enhancing the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SrTiO₃
Authors: N.Y. Devi, K. Vijayakumar, P. Rajasekaran, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, et al.
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2021
Citations: 26

Enhanced thermoelectric performance of band structure engineered GeSe₁₋ₓTeₓ alloys
Authors: D. Sidharth, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, R. Akilan, A. Srivastava, B. Srinivasan, et al.
Journal: Sustainable Energy & Fuels
Year: 2021
Citations: 25

Enhancement of thermoelectric power factor of hydrothermally synthesised SrTiO₃ nanostructures
Authors: N.Y. Devi, P. Rajasekaran, K. Vijayakumar, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, et al.
Journal: Materials Research Express
Year: 2020
Citations: 15

Biogenic synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles: evaluation of their larvicidal, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities
Authors: S. Mahalingam, P.K. Govindaraji, V.G. Solomon, H. Kesavan, Y.D. Neelan, et al.
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2023
Citations: 11

Effect of Bismuth substitution on the enhancement of thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured BiₓCo₃₋ₓO₄
Authors: A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, N.Y. Devi, R. Rajkumar, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2019
Citations: 11

Effective Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Harmful Antibiotics Using Reduced Graphene Oxide-Zinc Sulfide-Copper Sulfide Nanocomposites as a Catalyst
Authors: J.K. Shanmugam Mahalingam, Yalini Devi Neelan, Senthil Bakthavatchalam, et al.
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2023
Citations: 10

Enhancing the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured ZnCo₂O₄ by Bi substitution
Authors: A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, R. Rajkumar, N.Y. Devi, K. Maeda, et al.
Journal: RSC Advances
Year: 2020
Citations: 7

High thermoelectric power factor of Ag and Nb co-substituted SrTiO₃ perovskite nanostructures
Authors: N.Y. Devi, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
Year: 2023
Citations: 3

Soad Fars | Nanomaterial | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Soad Fars | Nanomaterial | Best Researcher Award

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Educational Details:

Prof. Soad Fars earned her B.Sc. in Physics from the Faculty of Science at Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt, in September 1981. She pursued her M.Sc. in Nuclear Physics at Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, completing it in 1986. In October 1992, she was awarded her Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from Suez Canal University. Her academic journey continued, and in 2012, she became an Associate Professor in Radiation Physics. Prof. Fars has built a distinguished career specializing in nuclear and radiation physics, contributing to research, teaching, and advancing knowledge in her field.

Employment Duties

Prof. Soad Fars currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Radiation Physics Department at the National Center of Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority. Her role encompasses several key responsibilities: overseeing routine operations in the Gamma Spectroscopy Lab, including supervising lab activities and organizing workshops, and supervising both M.Sc. and Ph.D. student theses. Additionally, Prof. Fars conducts her own independent research in radiation physics. Presently, she is also affiliated with Al-Baha University in Saudi Arabia, where she holds the position of Coordinator for the Physics Department and serves as Supervisor of the Development and Quality Committee at the Faculty of Science and Arts (Girls section). Her diverse roles highlight her dedication to both academic leadership and scientific research.

Professional Experience

Throughout her career, Prof. Soad Fars has gained extensive expertise in operating, analyzing, and interpreting data from a variety of scientific instruments. She has significant experience with Gamma Spectrometric Techniques, including both high and low-level gamma spectrometric analysis, and their applications in calculating natural radioactivity levels (NORMs), activity concentrations, and assessing radiological risks. Her work also involves evaluating external and internal radiation hazard indices, as well as understanding the theoretical aspects of these phenomena. Additionally, she has applied DC and AC Electrical Conductivity Circuits to various models, worked with X-Ray Diffraction to determine the structure of both ordered and disordered materials, and utilized UV-Visible-NIR instruments. Prof. Fars is also proficient in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, she has studied the effects of gamma irradiation on polymers and nanomaterials, focusing on modifying their properties for improved applications.

Top Notable Publications

Alshahrani, B., Korna, A.H., Fares, S., Ali, A.H. (2024). Assessment of Radioactivity in Groundwater and Silt from some Underground Wells in Southern Sinai, Egypt. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 235(8), 481.

Fares, S.S., Korna, A.H. (2024). Gamma-irradiation-induced tailoring of physical, electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of PVC/PANI/TiO2 nanocomposites for different applications. Optical Materials, 153, 115544.

Fares, S.S. (2024). Impact of Fertilizer Factory Emissions on Radiological Content of Soil: A Study in Upper Egypt. Pollution, 10(2), 790–807.

Fares, S.S. (2024). Determine the hazards of radioactive elements and radon gas manufacturing processes in an Egyptian fertilizer factory. Nuclear Engineering and Technology, 56(5), 1781–1795.

Alshahrani, B., Korna, A.H., Fares, S. (2024). Effect of gamma radiation on the structural, ferromagnetic resonance, optical, and dispersion properties of PVC/MnFe2O4–ZnMn2O4 nanocomposite films. Journal of Materials Science. (Article in Press)

Alshahrani, B., ElSaeedy, H.I., Fares, S., Fahim, R.A., Awed, A.S. (2021). Revealing the effect of gamma irradiation on structural, ferromagnetic resonance, optical, and dispersion properties of PVC/Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nanocomposite films. Optical Materials, 118, 111216.

Alshahrani, B., ElSaeedy, H.I., Fares, S., Ashour, A.H., Awed, A.S. (2021). The effect of gamma irradiation on structural, optical, and dispersion properties of PVA/Zn0.5Co0.4Ag0.2Fe2O4 nanocomposite films. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 32(10), 13336–13349.

Alshahrani, B., ElSaeedy, H.I., Fares, S., Gobara, M., Maksoud, M.I.A.A. (2021). Structural, optical, and magnetic properties of nanostructured Ag-substituted Co-Zn ferrites: insights on anticancer and antiproliferative activities. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 32(9), 12383–12401.

Alshahrani, B., ElSaeedy, H.I., Fares, S., Gobara, M., Ashour, A.H. (2021). The effect of Ce3+ doping on structural, optical, ferromagnetic resonance, and magnetic properties of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 32(1), 780–797.

Elmaghraby, E.K., Abdelaal, S., Abdelhady, A.M., Salama, S., Mansour, N.A. (2020). Experimental determination of the fission-neutron fluence-to-dose conversion factor. Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research, Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment, 949, 162889.