Dr. Vincenzo Mazzaracchio | Sensors | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vincenzo Mazzaracchio | Sensors | Best Researcher Award

University of Rome “Tor Vergata” | Italy

Dr. Vincenzo Mazzaracchio is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the University of Rome “Tor Vergata,” working in the research group of Professor Fabiana Arduini. He specializes in analytical chemistry and electrochemical sensor technology, focusing on the design and development of miniaturized, portable, and wearable electrochemical (bio)sensors for environmental, food, and biomedical applications. Dr. Mazzaracchio obtained his academic training in chemistry and analytical sciences, equipping him with a strong foundation in nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and device fabrication. His research integrates carbon-based and metallic nanomaterials with advanced sensing platforms, such as paper-based, screen-printed, and microfluidic devices, to achieve sensitive, cost-effective, and real-time detection. He has carried out international research experiences at Technische Universität Chemnitz (Germany), the University of Johannesburg (South Africa), and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (Japan), enhancing his global scientific perspective. With over 40 publications in peer-reviewed journals and an H-index of 19, his contributions have significantly advanced electrochemical biosensing and wearable diagnostics. Dr. Mazzaracchio has received recognition for innovation in analytical device development and continues to explore wireless, user-friendly systems for point-of-care testing. His work bridges chemistry, engineering, and digital technology, driving the future of smart sensing for health and environmental sustainability.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Colozza, N., Mazzaracchio, V., Di Gregorio, C., Seddaoui, N., Aquilani, D., Pizziconi, A., Gullo, L., Argiriadis, E., & Arduini, F. (2026). “3D-printed extraction chamber and paper-based screen-printed sensors for zinc analysis in soil and Antarctic sediments.” Talanta.

Chebil, A., Mazzaracchio, V., Duranti, L., Gullo, L., & Arduini, F. (2025). “Paper-based metal-air battery electrochemical sensor for smartphone-assisted oxygen monitoring in food packaging.” Sensors and Actuators A: Physical.

Mazzaracchio, V., & Arduini, F. (2025). “Smart microfluidic devices integrated in electrochemical point-of-care platforms for biomarker detection in biological fluids.” Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry.

Gosti, C., Mousavi, Z., Fiore, L., Mazzaracchio, V., Olivieri, F., Gentile, G., Arduini, F., & Bobacka, J. (2025). “Carbon Black and PEDOT:PSS in a synergistic solid contact for reliable printed potentiometric sensors.” ACS Sensors.

Nocerino, V., Miranda, B., Dardano, P., Colella, S., Vedi, V., Antonacci, A., Mazzaracchio, V., Fiore, L., Arduini, F., De Stefano, L., et al. (2024). “Design of an electrochemical hydrogel nanocomposite immunosensor for the detection of hemoglobin in blood.” Microchemical Journal.

Mazzaracchio, V., Fiore, L., Gullo, L., Seddaoui, N., Duranti, L., Siliprandi, V., La Placa, G., Frank, G., Raffaelli, G., Gualtieri, P., et al. (2024). “Near field communication-assisted paper-based electrochemical sensing platform for study in personalized nutrition.” Microchemical Journal.

Sharifi, A. R., Mazzaracchio, V., Duranti, L., Gullo, L., Brannetti, S., Peyravian, M., Kiani, M. A., & Arduini, F. (2024). “Nanopaper integrated smart device: An opto-electrochemical biosensor for real-time dual on-field detection of organophosphorus pesticides.” ACS Sensors.

Dr. Sharon Kiprotich | Physics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharon Kiprotich | Physics | Best Researcher Award

Murang’a University of Technology | Kenya

Dr. Sharon Kiprotich is an accomplished physicist and materials scientist whose academic and professional journey exemplifies excellence in experimental and applied physics. She earned her Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Physics from the University of the Free State, South Africa, graduating with distinction, after completing her B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics at the same institution and a B.Ed. (Science) in Physics and Mathematics from Kenyatta University, Kenya. Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in Physics at Murang’a University of Technology, she has also held roles as Lecturer, Research Assistant, and Secondary School Educator, contributing extensively to academic instruction, mentorship, and research. Her administrative responsibilities include serving as Department Chair, Program Coordinator for postgraduate studies, and member of multiple academic committees. Dr. Kiprotich’s research interests span condensed matter physics, material sciences, experimental spectroscopy, semiconductor characterization, thin film technology, and nanomaterial fabrication. She is an active member of professional bodies such as the Materials Research Society, African Materials Research Society, and the Physical Society of Kenya. Recognized for her scholarly contributions and leadership, Dr. Kiprotich continues to advance research in emerging materials and technologies, fostering scientific innovation and education across Africa’s growing research landscape.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Bethwel Kiprotich, Peter Waithaka, Sylvia Opiyo, & Sharon Kiprotich. (2025). Green Synthesis of Ga-Doped SnO₂ Nanoparticles: Effects of Ga Doping Concentrations on the Structural and Optical Properties. Journal of Photonic Materials and Technology.

Simon Waweru Gakuru, Sharon Kiprotich, Peter Waithaka, & Francis B. Dejene. (2025). Synergetic Effects of Zn:Fe-Codoped TiO₂ Nanoparticles on the Structural, Optical, and Morphological Properties. physica status solidi (a).

Nancy Kiprotich, Peter Waithaka, Sharon Kiprotich, & John Njagi. (2025). Effects of Tin Doping Concentration on the Structural and Optical Properties of Cadmium Oxide Nanoparticles. Advances in Materials.

Joan Jepngetich, Peter W. Njoroge, Sylvia Opiyo, & Sharon Kiprotich. (2025). Synthesis and Characterization of Ag-ZnO Using Citrus reticulata Peel Extract. Materials Research Express.

Samuel Ndungu Waithira, Ali Halake Wako, Simba Nyamato, & Sharon Kiprotich. (2024). Effects of Synthesis Temperature on the Structural and Optical Properties of CaAl₂O₄:Eu²⁺,Dy³⁺ Nanoparticles. Scientific African.

Simon Gakuru, Sharon Kiprotich, & Peter Waithaka. (2024). Structural and Optical Properties of Fe-Doped TiO₂ Nanoparticles: Investigation of Effects of Different Doping Concentrations. Advances in Materials.

Anati N. Nkaule, Sharon Kiprotich, Leandre B. Brandt, Thomas Gerber, Abram M. Madiehe, Nandipha L. Botha, & Martin O. Onani. (2023). Effects of Reaction Temperature and Cadmium Source on the Optical, Morphological, and Cytotoxic Properties of CdSe/ZnSe Quantum Dots. ChemistrySelect.

Dr. M. Belen Garcia Bl | Recubrimientos Protectores | Best Researcher Award

Dr. M. Belen Garcia Bl | Recubrimientos Protectores | Best Researcher Award

Fundación Cidetec | Spain

Dr. M. Belén García-Blanco is a distinguished researcher specializing in surface modification of materials through chemical and electrochemical processes, including anodizing, plasma electrolytic oxidation, electropolishing, and anaphoretic deposition. She earned her Ph.D. in Electrochemistry from the University of Barcelona, following a DEA from the same institution and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Sciences from the University of the Basque Country. She currently serves as Principal Investigator and Project Leader at Fundación CIDETEC, where she has contributed to over twenty national and European research projects. Her notable projects include coordinating and leading large-scale European initiatives focused on advanced surface treatments and eco-friendly coatings for conventional and additive-manufactured materials. Dr. García-Blanco has authored multiple articles in high-impact journals on surface treatments and additive manufacturing and has actively participated in international conferences presenting her work on anodizing, electropolishing, and sustainable coatings. She has also guided undergraduate and graduate research projects, mentoring students in electrodeposition and surface engineering, and delivered specialized seminars in surface engineering technologies. Fluent in Basque and English, she is recognized for her scientific leadership, interdisciplinary expertise, and commitment to advancing sustainable and innovative surface modification strategies. Her work continues to drive developments in both fundamental research and industrial applications.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Mancisidor, A.M.; García-Blanco, M.B.; Quintana, I.; Arrazola, P.J.; Espinosa, E.; Cuesta, M.; Albizuri, J.; Garciandia, F. (2023). Effect of Post-Processing Treatment on Fatigue Performance of Ti6Al4V Alloy Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion. Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing.

Fernández-Calvo, A.I.; Delgado, C.; Dufour, P.; Aldanondo, E.; Díaz, M.; García-Blanco, M.B. (2023). New EoL Routes of Al-Li Aircraft Integral LBW and FSW Welded Panels including New Cr-Free Coatings. Crystals.

García-Blanco, M.B. (2022). A study of parameter and post-processing effects on surface quality improvement of Binder Jet 3D-printed Invar36 alloy parts. Progress in Additive Manufacturing.

García-Blanco, M.B. (2021). Comparative study of different surface treatments applied to Ti6Al4V parts produced by Selective Laser Melting. Transactions of the IMF.

Garcia-Blanco, M.B.; Querejeta, A.; Perez-Garcia, M.R.; Ochoa, J.; Rodriguez, J.; Hope, P.; Hope, J.; Nunez, Y.; Gonzalez, C.; De Saja, R.; et al. (2020). Eco-friendly anaphoretic e-coating for corrosion protection in aeronautic applications (part 2). Galvanotechnik.

García-Blanco, M.B.; Diaz-Fuentes, M.; Espinosa, E.; Mancisidor, A.M.; Vara, G. (2020). Study of the effect of EP, blasting and laser treatments on the surface roughness of Ti6Al4V alloy fabricated by SLM at different build angles. Euro PM 2018 Congress and Exhibition.

García-Blanco, M.B. (2020). Corrosion protection of aeronautic components by an eco-friendly anaphoretic e-coating.

García-Blanco, M.B. (2019). Obtaining tailored surface characteristics by combining shot peening and electropolishing on 316L stainless steel. Applied Surface Science.

Dr. Mohammad Barati | Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad Barati | Modeling | Best Researcher Award

University of Kashan | Iran

Dr. Mohammad Barati is an accomplished researcher and assistant professor in applied chemistry at the University of Kashan. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Chemistry from the University of Tehran, following an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry from the University of Tabriz. Dr. Barati has extensive research experience in renewable energy and nanotechnology, focusing on the conversion of microalgae into biodiesel and bio-jet fuel using supercritical media, simultaneous bio-diesel and hydrogen production, and the development of polymer nanocomposites for drug delivery and bio-applications. His work also encompasses the synthesis and performance evaluation of magnetic polymer nanocomposites and their use as scaffolds in cell culture. Recognized for his excellence in teaching, he has been ranked first in annual faculty teaching evaluations at the University of Kashan and has received awards including the provincial first prize for university startups and the second-rank award at the Sabzkooh National Technology Festival. Dr. Barati’s research contributes significantly to sustainable energy, biofuel production, and advanced polymer materials, reflecting his dedication to both scientific innovation and academic excellence.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Fanaee, G., Barati, M., & Bashiri, H. (2026). “Process optimization, kinetics, thermodynamics and kinetic Monte Carlo modeling of catalyzed biodiesel production in supercritical medium” in Renewable Energy.

Aghilinategh, M., Barati, M., & Hamadanian, M. (2024). “Supercritical microalgae conversion to biofuel and value‐added components (oxygenates, hydrocarbons, and aromatics): A catalyst characterization study” in Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy.

Alirezaei Alavije, A., Barati, F., Barati, M., Nazari, H., & Karimi, I. (2021). “Polyethersulfone/MWCNT nanocomposite scaffold for endometrial cell culture: preparation, characterization, and in vitro investigation” in Biomedical Physics & Engineering Express.

Barati, M. (2019). “Nanobiocatalytic processes for producing biodiesel from algae” in Sustainable Bioenergy (Book chapter).

Alirezaie Alavijeh, A., Barati, M., Barati, M., & Abbasi Dehkordi, H. (2019). “The potential of magnetic nanoparticles for diagnosis and treatment of cancer based on body magnetic field and organ-on-the-chip” in Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin.

Mirzaie, Z., Reisi-Vanani, A., & Barati, M. (2019). “Polyvinyl alcohol-sodium alginate blend, composited with 3D-graphene oxide as a controlled release system for curcumin” in Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology.