Najma Laaroussi | Energy Systems | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Najma Laaroussi | Energy Systems | Women Researcher Award

Professor at University Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco

Najma Laaroussi πŸ‡²πŸ‡¦ is a dynamic professor at the Higher School of Technology of SalΓ©, University Mohammed V of Rabat, specializing in sustainable energy systems and smart building technologies. With a global academic journey starting from INSA Lyon πŸŽ“ to the University of Paris-Est Marne-la-VallΓ©e πŸ›οΈ, she blends technical expertise with innovative research vision. Her core mission revolves around improving building energy performance 🏘️ and optimizing solar thermal and photovoltaic applications β˜€οΈπŸ”‹. Najma has contributed significantly to the international scientific community with impactful publications πŸ“š, conference talks 🎀, and peer-review roles in top-tier journals. She also takes pride in mentoring emerging scholars πŸ§‘β€πŸŽ“πŸ‘©β€πŸŽ“, guiding master’s and Ph.D. candidates in clean energy domains. A blend of scientific rigor and real-world insight, she is helping shape the green future of Morocco and beyond 🌍. Najma Laaroussi is a thought leader merging research excellence with environmental responsibility πŸŒ±πŸ’‘.

Professional ProfileΒ 

πŸŽ“ Education

Najma Laaroussi’s academic roots are grounded in excellence 🌟. She earned her Master’s degree in Thermal and Energy from the prestigious INSA Lyon, France πŸ‡«πŸ‡· β€” a hub of scientific innovation. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Energy Systems and Thermal Processes from the University of Paris-Est Marne-la-VallΓ©e, awarded in 2008 πŸŽ“. This academic foundation empowered her with a robust understanding of advanced thermodynamics, sustainable energy, and environmental control πŸ”₯♻️. Her education journey uniquely equipped her to address global energy challenges with scientific precision and interdisciplinary creativity. With this strong academic pedigree, Najma seamlessly bridges theory and practice, applying her scholarly insights to solve real-world energy efficiency issues in Morocco and beyond 🌍. Her dedication to academic growth and energy research continues to inspire students and professionals alike πŸ“–βœ¨.

πŸ§ͺ Professional Experience

Najma Laaroussi’s professional path is a testament to her applied expertise and global experience 🌐. From 2009 to 2011, she worked as a Research & Development Engineer at Socotec Industries in France 🏒, where she tackled real-world industrial energy systems and optimization processes. Her industry experience added practical depth to her academic insights, setting the stage for her future endeavors. Since 2011, she has been a key member of the Materials, Energy, and Acoustics Team (MEAT) at the University Mohammed V of Rabat πŸ‡²πŸ‡¦. As a Professor (PES) in the Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, she has taken on a dual role of educator and researcher πŸ‘©β€πŸ«πŸ”¬. Her role includes supervising graduate theses, conducting energy audits, and participating in applied sustainability projects. Najma’s unique blend of academic and industrial experience allows her to design solutions that are both innovative and practical βš™οΈπŸ’Ό.

πŸ”¬ Research Interests

Najma Laaroussi’s research passion lies in creating energy-resilient and environmentally responsible systems πŸ”‹πŸŒ. Her work focuses on energy efficiency in buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption through smart design and thermal optimization πŸ πŸ’¨. She explores advanced thermal solar systems and photovoltaic technologies to harness clean energy in urban environments β˜€οΈπŸ™οΈ. Najma’s work intersects material science, energy engineering, and environmental acoustics, making her a multidisciplinary force in Moroccan and international research πŸ”„πŸ”¬. Through computational modeling, field testing, and policy-informing analysis, she aims to make cities more sustainable and energy-smart πŸŒ†πŸ“‰. She also contributes significantly to scientific literature and reviews top journals in the energy and environment domains πŸ“šπŸ–‹οΈ. As a research mentor, she empowers the next generation of engineers and researchers to develop holistic and scalable green solutions πŸŒ±πŸ§‘β€πŸ”¬.

πŸ† Awards and Honors

While official awards are not explicitly listed, Najma Laaroussi’s career is marked by prestige, recognition, and academic influence πŸ₯‡. Her invitation to review for several international journals in energy, building, and environmental science is a strong marker of her authority in the field πŸ“„βœ…. Her continuous engagement in conferences, workshops, and editorial boards speaks volumes of her scientific impact 🌐🎀. Supervising numerous master’s and doctoral candidates, she has become a trusted leader in research mentorship and curriculum development πŸ§‘β€πŸŽ“πŸ“˜. Her enduring commitment to research excellence, cross-border collaborations, and contributions to renewable energy discourse make her a silent award-winner in the academic and professional community πŸ…πŸ’«. With over a decade of experience post-PhD, her achievements are embedded not just in accolades, but in the tangible difference she makes to science, sustainability, and student success πŸŒŸπŸ“ˆ.

πŸ“š Publications Top NoteΒ 

1. Measurement of thermal properties of brick materials based on clay mixtures

Authors: N. Laaroussi, G. Lauriat, M. Garoum, A. Cherki, Y. Jannot
Year: 2014
Citations: 81
Source: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 70, pp. 351–361
Summary:
This study focuses on evaluating the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of clay-based bricks using a mixture of natural components. Experimental setups were designed to measure thermal responses under varying conditions, helping determine the suitability of local materials for energy-efficient construction in warm climates.


2. Energy efficiency and thermal properties of the composite material clay-straw

Authors: K. El Azhary, Y. Chihab, M. Mansour, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2017
Citations: 74
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 141, pp. 160–164
Summary:
This paper investigates a composite material made of clay and straw, highlighting its insulation capacity, energy savings potential, and eco-friendly attributes. The results confirm its promise in sustainable building systems, especially in rural or semi-urban settings.


3. Acoustical and thermal characterization of sustainable materials derived from vegetable, agricultural, and animal fibers

Authors: S. Bousshine, M. Ouakarrouch, A. Bybi, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum, A. Tilioua
Year: 2022
Citations: 65
Source: Applied Acoustics, Vol. 187, 108520
Summary:
The study evaluates natural fibers (plant, agricultural, and animal origins) as bio-based materials for construction. Key parameters like sound absorption and thermal conductivity were tested, proving their potential in green insulation panels.


4. Thermal performances and environmental analysis of a new composite building material based on gypsum plaster and chicken feathers waste

Authors: M. Ouakarrouch, K. El Azhary, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum, F. Kifani-Sahban
Year: 2020
Citations: 65
Source: Thermal Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 19, 100642
Summary:
Introduces an innovative gypsum-chicken feather composite, exploring its thermal behavior, mechanical stability, and environmental footprint. The approach promotes recycling of poultry waste into effective construction materials.


5. Thermal properties of a sample prepared using mixtures of clay bricks

Authors: N. Laaroussi, A. Cherki, M. Garoum, A. Khabbazi, A. Feiz
Year: 2013
Citations: 62
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 42, pp. 337–346
Summary:
Analyzes different clay mixtures used in traditional brick fabrication. The paper emphasizes thermal diffusivity, conductivity, and their impact on building energy consumption, aiming at improving local housing standards.


6. Acoustic and thermal performances assessment of sustainable insulation panels made from cardboard waste and natural fibers

Authors: M. Ouakarrouch, S. Bousshine, A. Bybi, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2022
Citations: 45
Source: Applied Acoustics, Vol. 199, 109007
Summary:
Explores using recycled cardboard and natural fibers to manufacture eco-insulation panels. The panels were tested for thermal resistance and sound absorption, proving effective for indoor comfort and waste valorization.


7. Thermal inertia and energy efficiency enhancements of hollow clay bricks integrated with phase change materials

Authors: Y. Chihab, R. Bouferra, M. Garoum, M. Essaleh, N. Laaroussi
Year: 2022
Citations: 45
Source: Journal of Building Engineering, Vol. 53, 104569
Summary:
Introduces phase change materials (PCMs) into hollow clay bricks to improve thermal inertia and energy regulation. Simulation and experimentation show reduced thermal fluctuation, ideal for passive energy buildings.


8. Thermal study of clay bricks reinforced by three ecological materials in south of Morocco

Authors: M. Lamrani, M. Mansour, N. Laaroussi, M. Khalfaoui
Year: 2019
Citations: 45
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 156, pp. 273–277
Summary:
Focuses on enhancing clay bricks by reinforcing them with natural additives found in southern Morocco. The results show improved thermal efficiency, promoting locally-sourced sustainable construction techniques.


9. An example of comparison between ISO Norm calculations and full CFD simulations of thermal performances of hollow bricks

Authors: N. Laaroussi, G. Lauriat, S. Raefat, M. Garoum
Year: 2017
Citations: 38
Source: Journal of Building Engineering, Vol. 11, pp. 69–81
Summary:
Compares ISO standard thermal calculations with CFD simulations for hollow bricks. The study finds that simulation-based methods offer more accurate thermal performance predictions, useful for building design refinement.


10. Energy performance and thermal properties of three types of unfired clay bricks

Authors: K. El Azhary, S. Raefat, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2018
Citations: 33
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 147, pp. 495–502
Summary:
Evaluates unfired (sun-dried) clay bricks made using three different compositions. The paper analyzes thermal conductivity, density, and environmental impact, supporting low-energy, low-emission construction alternatives.

πŸ”š Conclusion

Najma Laaroussi embodies the spirit of academic rigor, environmental stewardship, and global collaboration πŸŒπŸ’‘. From France to Morocco, from thermal dynamics to renewable systems, her journey reflects unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and societal impact πŸ”¬πŸŒ±. As a professor, mentor, and researcher, she continues to shape the field of energy efficiency with resilience and innovation πŸ› οΈβš‘. Her work not only advances Morocco’s energy transition but also contributes to international knowledge-sharing and green development. Najma’s story is one of cross-disciplinary expertise, real-world relevance, and academic generosity πŸŽ“πŸŒ. With a strong foothold in academia and a vision for sustainable futures, she stands out as a beacon in the energy research community. Her legacy will echo through the buildings she optimizes, the systems she improves, and the minds she mentors πŸ”πŸ‘©β€πŸ«. A true academic leader for a cleaner tomorrow πŸ’š.

Shahriyar Safat Dipta | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Shahriyar Safat Dipta | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

PhD Scholar at University of New South Wales, Australia

Shahriyar Safat Dipta 🌱 is a dynamic Project Engineer and accomplished academic with a rich background in electrical and renewable energy systems. With a PhD from UNSW πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί and a stellar undergraduate record at BUET πŸ‡§πŸ‡©, he blends academic brilliance with hands-on technical expertise. From lecturing in Bangladesh to leading energy projects in Australia, Shahriyar has built a multidisciplinary profile in solar photovoltaics, battery storage, and smart building systems. He has contributed to cutting-edge research, holds a patent in solar encapsulation, and has delivered impactful energy solutions in both industrial and academic settings ⚑. Adept in tools like MATLAB, PSCAD, and Python, he demonstrates fluency in both system-level design and detailed analysis πŸ–₯️. Shahriyar’s collaborative spirit, punctuality ⏱️, and communication prowess make him an exceptional asset in complex, team-driven environments. Passionate about sustainable innovation 🌞 and future-proof technologies, he remains committed to transforming energy systems for a greener planet 🌍.

Professional ProfileΒ 

πŸŽ“ Education

Shahriyar’s academic trajectory is a testament to his pursuit of excellence πŸ“š. He earned his PhD in Renewable Energy Engineering from the prestigious University of New South Wales (UNSW), where he delved deep into electrical modeling and photovoltaic analysis. His doctoral work led to published papers and a patent on phenolic encapsulation for perovskite solar cells πŸ§ͺ. Prior to this, he completed his B.Sc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at BUET, Dhaka, ranking among the top 5% of his class with a remarkable CGPA of 3.89/4.00 πŸ…. At BUET, he immersed himself in numerous research-based and design-focused projects in electronics, power systems, and communication technologies. His formal education provided a robust foundation in theoretical and applied engineering, equipping him with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex energy systems. His passion for learning and technical excellence continues to fuel his work across academia and industry 🌟.

🧰 Professional Experience

Shahriyar brings a wealth of diverse experience across academia and industry 🌐. Currently serving as a Project Engineer at iAuto Energy in Melbourne, he leads building electrical services initiativesβ€”designing, commissioning, and quoting projects that align with Green Star and NABERS energy standards βš™οΈ. He has played a pivotal role in deploying Schneider EV chargers and automating systems to promote sustainability. Previously, he contributed as a Graduate Researcher at UNSW, working on solar performance, device efficiency, and supervising student projects 🌞. Before moving to Australia, he shaped young engineering minds as a Lecturer at East-West University and Green University of Bangladesh, teaching power systems and guiding final year research πŸ“–. Shahriyar’s career reflects a consistent progression in leadership, technical depth, and a commitment to sustainable energy transitions. His cross-continental experience underscores his adaptability, precision, and ability to deliver results in fast-evolving energy environments πŸ”Œ.

πŸ”¬ Research Interests

At the heart of Shahriyar’s professional passion lies a strong research identity driven by renewable innovation and system optimization 🌿. His core interests revolve around photovoltaic technology, especially the stability and modeling of perovskite solar cells. At UNSW, he investigated advanced solar encapsulation techniques and contributed to SCAPS-1D-based simulation models for solar efficiency improvement. He also explored plant growth under regulated light environments πŸŒ±β€”an intersection of energy and agriculture. Earlier at BUET, he studied solar cell behavior and began building his foundation in electrical modeling. Shahriyar is also deeply interested in smart energy systems, battery integration, and grid-connected solutions, utilizing tools like PSSE and PSCAD to simulate dynamic energy flows πŸ”„. His portfolio includes IoT-driven energy monitoring devices and motion-based communication systems. With a strong publication record, a patent, and real-world applications, Shahriyar continues to bridge the gap between innovative research and implementable technologies for clean energy futures ⚑.

πŸ† Awards and Honors

Shahriyar’s academic and professional journey is richly decorated with accolades that spotlight his brilliance πŸ…. He earned the Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship for his PhD at UNSWβ€”a prestigious award recognizing high-potential researchers. He also secured the UNSW Higher Degree Research Completion Scholarship and the Development and Research Training Grant, reflecting his research excellence in photovoltaic systems. Earlier in his academic career, he received the BUET Merit Scholarship for his outstanding undergraduate performance πŸŽ“. His excellence dates back to high school, where he won a Bronze Medal at the International Mathematics Competition in Chiang Mai, Thailandβ€”a rare and early indicator of his analytical strength 🧠. These accolades demonstrate Shahriyar’s consistent pursuit of knowledge and innovation, from foundational education to high-impact research. Each honor represents not just recognition, but also a reminder of the responsibility he carries in reshaping the future of clean energy and sustainable systems 🌎.

πŸ“š Publications Top NoteΒ 

1. Stability issues of perovskite solar cells: A critical review

  • Authors: SS Dipta, A Uddin

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 70

  • Source: Energy Technology, 9(11), 2100560

  • Summary: A comprehensive review identifying degradation mechanisms in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), covering environmental, intrinsic material, and interfacial instabilities. The paper also discusses strategies to improve device lifetime.


2. Performance analysis of an efficient and stable perovskite solar cell and a comparative study of incorporating metal oxide transport layers

  • Authors: A Ghosh, SS Dipta, SSS Nikor, N Saqib, A Saha

  • Year: 2020

  • Citations: 54

  • Source: Journal of the Optical Society of America B, 37(7), 1966–1973

  • Summary: Examines the efficiency and stability of PSCs using various metal oxide layers. It compares electron and hole transport layers, providing insights into optimizing device performance.


3. Estimating the potential for semitransparent organic solar cells in agrophotovoltaic greenhouses

  • Authors: SS Dipta, J Schoenlaub, MH Rahaman, A Uddin

  • Year: 2022

  • Citations: 50

  • Source: Applied Energy, 328, 120208

  • Summary: Investigates how semitransparent organic solar cells can be integrated into greenhouse roofs. Simulates energy generation and crop yield to evaluate viability in agrophotovoltaic systems.


4. Encapsulating perovskite solar cells for long-term stability and prevention of lead toxicity

  • Authors: SS Dipta, MA Rahim, A Uddin

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 27

  • Source: Applied Physics Reviews, 11(2)

  • Summary: Focuses on advanced encapsulation techniques to enhance PSC stability and contain lead leakage, addressing environmental safety concerns for commercial deployment.


5. Enhanced light management and optimization of perovskite solar cells incorporating wavelength dependent reflectance modeling

  • Authors: SS Dipta, A Uddin, G Conibeer

  • Year: 2022

  • Citations: 22

  • Source: Heliyon, e11380

  • Summary: Uses modeling to optimize light harvesting in PSCs by analyzing wavelength-dependent reflectance. Shows improved efficiency through better photon management.


6. Stable and efficient perovskite solar cell with metal oxide transport layers

  • Authors: A Ghosh, S Safat, MS Islam

  • Year: 2019

  • Citations: 11

  • Source: 2019 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Communication Engineering

  • Summary: Presents a stable PSC architecture using metal oxide transport layers. Demonstrates experimental stability improvements over conventional organic transport layers.


7. Stable and Lead‐Safe Polyphenol‐Encapsulated Perovskite Solar Cells

  • Authors: SS Dipta, AJ Christofferson, PV Kumar, V Kundi, M Hanif, J Tang, N Flores, …

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 10

  • Source: Advanced Science, 11(31), 2403057

  • Summary: Introduces polyphenol-based encapsulation to enhance PSC stability and inhibit lead leakage. Shows promise for safer and more durable perovskite devices.


8. Highly efficient double-side-passivated perovskite solar cells for reduced degradation and low photovoltage loss

  • Authors: SS Dipta, MH Rahaman, WB Tarique, AH Howlader, A Pratik, JA Stride, …

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 9

  • Source: Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 266, 112655

  • Summary: Employs passivation on both sides of the perovskite absorber layer to reduce degradation and improve photovoltage retention under operational conditions.


9. Self‐Formation of SnCl2 Passivation Layer on SnO2 Electron‐Transport Layer in Chloride–Iodide‐Based Perovskite Solar Cell

  • Authors: AH Howlader, SS Dipta, WB Tarique, Y Qi, A Pratik, Y Yin, MA Hossain, …

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 5

  • Source: Advanced Energy and Sustainability Research, 5(7), 2400030

  • Summary: Demonstrates self-passivation using SnClβ‚‚, improving charge transport and reducing interfacial recombination in chloride–iodide PSCs.


10. Comparative analysis of the stability and performance of double-, triple-, and quadruple-cation perovskite solar cells for rooftop and indoor applications

  • Authors: SS Dipta, AH Howlader, WB Tarique, A Uddin

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 5

  • Source: Molecules, 29(12), 2758

  • Summary: Studies the effect of different cation combinations on PSC performance and durability, assessing their feasibility for both indoor and rooftop applications.


11. Solution-Processed Bilayered ZnO Electron Transport Layer for Efficient Inverted Non-Fullerene Organic Solar Cells

  • Authors: WB Tarique, MH Rahaman, SS Dipta, AH Howlader, A Uddin

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 5

  • Source: Nanomanufacturing, 4(2), 81–98

  • Summary: Proposes a bilayer ZnO-based ETL in inverted organic solar cells, achieving better charge mobility and enhanced overall efficiency.


12. 2-d motion based real time wireless interaction system for disabled patients

  • Authors: SS Dipta, A Ghosh, A Kundu, A Saha

  • Year: 2019

  • Citations: 3

  • Source: 2019 International Conference on Wireless Communications, Signal Processing and Networking

  • Summary: Develops a real-time motion tracking system using wireless technology to assist disabled individuals in interacting with digital environments.


13. Defects passivation in chloride-iodide perovskite solar cell with chlorobenzylammonium halides

  • Authors: AH Howlader, WB Tarique, SS Dipta, A Pratik, Y Yin, A Uddin

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 2

  • Source: Solar Energy, 282, 112968

  • Summary: Highlights a novel passivation method using chlorobenzylammonium halides to suppress defects and enhance the efficiency and longevity of chloride–iodide PSCs.

βœ… Conclusion

In conclusion, Shahriyar Safat Dipta is a future-facing, solution-driven Electrical and Energy Engineer whose work spans education, research, and engineering execution 🌟. His profile harmonizes academic rigor with practical insights, offering a rare combination of theoretical depth and hands-on expertise in solar energy, smart systems, and project implementation. With a PhD focused on solar technology, an industry role in building electrification, and a foundation in top-tier universities across two continents, Shahriyar exemplifies the modern energy professional πŸ’‘. He is not only a contributor to science but a mentor, a collaborator, and an innovator driven by impact. Whether designing solar grids or mentoring student researchers, his influence is consistent and meaningful. As the world moves toward net-zero targets, professionals like Shahriyar will be essential in driving real transformation. His future is undoubtedly bright, and his contributions are poised to light the way for a more sustainable world πŸŒžπŸ”‹πŸŒ.

Alka Rani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alka Rani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Orcid ProfileΒ 

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