Dr. Nan Lu | catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nan Lu | catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Shandong Agricultural University, China

Profiles

Scopus

🎓 Education and Professional Experience

Lu Nan earned a Ph.D. in 2012 from Shandong Normal University, specializing in theoretical and computational chemistry. Following this, he began his academic career as a Lecturer at Shandong Agricultural University (2012-2018), where he contributed significantly to research and teaching. To further enhance his expertise, he pursued a Postdoctoral fellowship (2013-2016) at Shandong Agricultural University, focusing on advanced research in computational chemistry. Expanding his international exposure, he served as a Visiting Scholar at Albany State University (US) from 2017 to 2018, engaging in cutting-edge scientific collaborations. Since 2018, he has been an Associate Professor at Shandong Agricultural University, where he continues to drive research innovation in computational chemistry.

🔬 Research Area – Theoretical and Computational Chemistry

Lu Nan’s research is centered on theoretical and computational chemistry, exploring the properties and behavior of complex chemical systems using advanced computational models. His work contributes to the design and optimization of catalysts, nanomaterials, and electrochemical applications, pushing the boundaries of chemical research.

📑 Research Projects

Lu Nan has led and contributed to several pioneering research projects, including:

Theoretical Research on Transition Metal Complex Catalysts – This project focuses on understanding the fundamental properties and mechanisms of transition metal complex catalysts, which play a crucial role in various industrial and chemical processes. His theoretical insights help improve the efficiency and selectivity of these catalysts.

Theoretical Research on the Design and Related Properties of DNA-Based Nanowire Construction – Investigating the potential of DNA structures in nanotechnology, this research explores how DNA can be engineered to form functional nanowires with unique electrical and mechanical properties, opening doors to advancements in nanoelectronics and biocompatible materials.

Effect of Modified Bimetallic Nanoclusters on the Electro-Catalytic Activity of Ethanol Fuel Cells – This study focuses on how bimetallic nanoclusters can enhance the performance of ethanol fuel cells, a key technology for sustainable energy. By modifying nanocluster structures, Lu Nan aims to optimize their catalytic properties for improved energy conversion efficiency.

Noted Publications📝 

Title: Theoretical investigation on switchable [3 + 3] cycloaddition of vinyl sulfoxonium ylide with cyclopropenone for divergent synthesis of phenol
  • Authors: Lu, N., Miao, C., Lan, X.
    Journal: Computational and Theoretical Chemistry
    Year: 2023
Title: Alloy and media effects on the ethanol partial oxidation catalyzed by bimetallic Pt6M (M = Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ru, Rh, Pd, Sn, Re, Ir, and Pt)
  • Authors: Lu, N., Wang, Y.
    Journal: Computational and Theoretical Chemistry
    Year: 2023
Title: Study on Revealing Peanut-Related Disease Prevention Gene Clusters via Whole Transcriptome Sequencing
  • Authors: Du, H., Lu, N., Li, C.
    Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)
    Year: 2023
Title: Theoretical Investigation of the Mechanism of Rh(III)-catalyzed Annulation of 2-Biphenylboronic Acid with Activated Alkene
  • Authors: Lu, N., Miao, C., Lan, X.
    Journal: Chemical Research in Chinese Universities
    Year: 2023
Title: Ionic Liquid-Catalyzed C−C Bond Formation for the Synthesis of Polysubstituted Olefins
  • Authors: Lv, H., Han, F., Wang, N., Zhang, J., Miao, C.
    Journal: European Journal of Organic Chemistry
    Year: 2022

 

Prof. Hui DING, Catalysis, Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Hui DING, Catalysis, Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor at Tianjin University, China

Professional Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education Background

Hui DING Doctor of Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, completed in 2006. Prior to this, I earned my Master of Engineering degree, also in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, in 2003. My academic foundation in chemical engineering has been crucial to my research and development work in environmental and materials engineering.

🔍 Research Interests

My primary research interests focus on Normal Temperature Catalytic Oxidation (NTCO) for the treatment of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), a critical area in pollution control. Additionally, I am dedicated to Agricultural Soil Remediation, where I work on sustainable and innovative solutions to restore damaged soil. My interests also extend to Carbon Capture, exploring technologies that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which is essential in today’s environmental context.

📖 Courses Taught

In my teaching role, I instruct courses in Material Separation and Purification, where students gain foundational skills in chemical separation processes. Additionally, I teach Principles of Chemical Engineering, providing a thorough understanding of the core principles and methodologies essential in chemical engineering practices.

🤝 Professional Memberships

I am an active member of several professional organizations, including the All-China Environment Federation VOCs Pollution Prevention and Control Professional Committee and the China Industry-University-Research Institute Collaboration Association. My memberships also extend to specialized committees, such as the Hunan International Rice City Agricultural Technology Research Institute, the Beijing Energy and Environment Society’s Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Expert Committee, and the Chinese Society for Environmental Sciences. These affiliations support my professional development and involvement in collaborative efforts within the field.

💼 Positions & Employments

Throughout my career, I have held various notable positions. From 2019 to 2020, I served as a Senior Visiting Scholar at Melbourne University, enriching my expertise through international collaboration. Since 2017, I have also directed the Tianjin University-Taixing Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Industry Joint Research Center, overseeing initiatives to address key environmental challenges. Additionally, I have been an Associate Professor at the School of Environmental Science and Engineering at Tianjin University since 2014, where I contribute to research and teaching. I also held the role of Deputy Director at the Taixing Economic Development Zone Administrative Committee from 2014 to 2015, supporting regional development projects. My academic journey began as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Tianjin University, where I worked from 2006 to 2008, laying the groundwork for my subsequent research pursuits.

Publications Top Noted📚 

Is it possible to realize the catalytic oxidation of toluene on the atomic active site ZnNi/SNC catalysts without external energy?

Authors: Gao, G., Zhang, L., Dai, C., Zhao, D., Ding, H.

Journal: Separation and Purification Technology

Year: 2025

Layered double hydroxides for efficient treatment of heavy metals and organic pollutants: Recent progress and future perspectives

Authors: Dai, C., Wu, X., Wang, Q., Fu, B., Ding, H.

Journal: Separation and Purification Technology

Year: 2025

Mechanism of synthesis ammonia over atomically dispersed Ni/BCN catalyst under atmospheric pressure and low-temperature conditions

Authors: Dai, C., Wu, X., Gao, G., Fu, B., Ding, H.

Journal: Applied Surface Science

Year: 2024

Rapeseed cake (RSC) as a novel bulking agent for accelerated biodrying of dewatered sludge

Authors: Cao, X., Gao, J., Wang, Z., Liu, S., Ding, H.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Year: 2024

Catalytic Oxidation of Benzene over Atomic Active Site AgNi/BCN Catalysts at Room Temperature

Authors: Zuo, X., Zhang, L., Gao, G., Liu, S., Ding, H.

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2024

Dr. Isaac N. Beas, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isaac N. Beas, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation, Botswana

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar

Scopus

Orcid

🎓Educational Background

Dr. Beas earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Heterogeneous Catalysis from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2013. His thesis, titled “N-doped and B-doped carbon materials and Yolk carbon nanostructures: synthesis, characterisation, and application for heterogeneous catalysis,” explored the synthesis and applications of advanced nanomaterials. His doctoral studies were supervised by Prof. Neil Coville and Prof. R. Meijboom, focusing on oxidation, carbon nanomaterials, and hydrogenation.

He also holds an M.Sc. in Physical Chemistry and Computational Chemistry from the University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon (2010), where his thesis examined the thermodynamic solubility of gas oil in organic solvents under the supervision of Prof. Paul Mingo Ghogomu. Dr. Beas completed his B.Sc. in Physical Science at the same institution, with a focus on Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Photochemistry.

💼Working Experience 

Dr. Isaac N. Beas has been serving as a Research Scientist at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) since July 2017. His research primarily focuses on heterogeneous catalysis, gasification, and pyrolysis, contributing to advancements in materials science for energy and environmental sustainability. He also holds a dual role as a Research Fellow at the University of South Africa (since September 2017), where he supervises students, publishes cutting-edge research, and collaborates with industry to apply his findings to real-world applications.

From May 2013 to June 2017, he worked as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the University of South Africa, where he managed projects on carbon materials and nanoparticle catalysts. During this time, he played a critical role in graduating several master’s and Ph.D. students. He also led a major industrial project on reducing sulfur dioxide emissions using gold nanoparticles in partnership with Mintek. Prior to this, Dr. Beas gained valuable experience as a Visiting Researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand (2010–2012), where he conducted research on carbon nanomaterials for catalytic applications.

🔬Research Interests 

Dr. Beas’s research interests lie in catalysis, thermodynamics, Fischer-Tropsch reactions, and kinetics. He has a particular focus on zeolites and silica derived from fly ash, with recent efforts in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into material design and process optimization.

🧑‍🏫Teaching Experience 

Dr. Beas has extensive teaching experience, having taught Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry Practical, and Chemical Quality Assurance at the University of Johannesburg (2012–2014). Earlier in his career, he delivered lectures on Atomistics, Chemical Bonding, and Thermodynamics at the University of Yaoundé I (2001–2003).

👨‍🎓Academic Supervision 

As a committed mentor, Dr. Beas has supervised numerous students, including Tefo Olefile (M.Sc.) on catalytic dehydrogenation and Thabiso Sekai (M.Sc.) on aluminosilicates from coal fly ash. He is currently supervising several Ph.D. students conducting research on zeolite synthesis and silica nanoparticle applications.

📜Appointments 

Dr. Beas has held several prominent academic appointments, including serving as a Moderator for Advanced Inorganic Chemistry at Sol Plaatje University (July 2021) and as an External Examiner for Ph.D. research proposals at Banasthali Vidyapith, India (January 2024). He was also a Guest Speaker at Kirinyaga University, Kenya (May 2023), where he delivered a lecture on the synthesis of dimethyl ether and methanol from CO2.

🌐Professional Memberships 

He is a member of several prestigious scientific societies, including the Royal Society of Chemistry, United Kingdom (since 2010, Member #622502), the Catalysis Society of South Africa (since 2012, Member #110), and the African Materials Research Society (2022–2024).

Publications Top Noted📚

Mechano-synthesis of a AgSrFeO3 catalyst for epoxidation of ethylene in a chemical looping set-up

Authors: Chawangwa Damba; Isaac N. Beas; Mmilili M. Mapolelo; James Darkwa; E. J. Marek

Journal: Materials Advances

Year: 2024

High‐Purity Template‐Free Mesoporous Silica Synthesized FROM Coal Fly Ash

Authors: Thapelo Manyepedza; Emmanuel Gaolefufa; Isaac N. Beas; Moses T. Kabomo; Bakang Modukanele

Journal: ChemistrySelect

Year: 2024

Thermogravimetric-mass spectrometry study of pyrolysis of Botswana-Morupule coal: kinetic parameters determination using iso-conversional and model fitting methods

Authors: Kgalalelo P. Kgatlane; Sebusi Odisitse; Casper Gate; James Darkwa; Isaac N. Beas

Journal: Reaction Kinetics, Mechanisms and Catalysis

Year: 2023

The Transfer Hydrogenation of Cinnamaldehyde Using Homogeneous Cobalt(II) and Nickel(II) (E)-1-(Pyridin-2-yl)-N-(3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl)methanimine and the Complexes Anchored on Fe3O4 Support as Pre-Catalysts: An Experimental and In Silico Approach

Authors: Fortunate P. Sejie; Olayinka A. Oyetunji; James Darkwa; Isaac N. Beas; Banothile C. E. Makhubela; Nelson Y. Dzade; Nora H. de Leeuw

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2023

Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Ortho-Toluidine Blue: Activity of Lanthanum Composites LaxMOy (M: Fe, Co, Ni)

Authors: Mmabatho L. Mocwana; Puseletso P. Mokoena; Pontsho S. Mbule; Isaac N. Beas; Guy L. Kabongo; Simon N. Ogugua; Themba E. Tshabalala

Journal: Catalysts

Year: 2022

TiO2@hollow carbon spheres: A photocatalyst for hydrogen generation under visible irradiation

Authors: A. Boudjemaa; I. Nongwe; B.K. Mutuma; B.J. Matsoso; K. Bachari; N.J. Coville

Journal: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry

Year: 2021

Dr. Himanshu Bajpai, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Dr. Himanshu Bajpai, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, India

Professional Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Summary 🌟

Dr. Himanshu Bajpai is a dedicated researcher specializing in the design, synthesis, and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts for photo and electrochemical applications. With a robust background in reactor design and device fabrication, he brings a wealth of experience from prestigious institutions such as CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory and CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum. Dr. Bajpai’s research focuses on advancing solar-driven photocatalysis for hydrogen and value-added products generation.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry (2017-2023), CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
    Thesis: “Solar Light Driven Photocatalysis for Hydrogen and Value-added Products Generation”
  • M.Sc. in Chemistry (2015), Swami Ram Teertha Campus, Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Central University, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India.
  • B.Sc. (2012), Bappa Sri Narayan Vocational Post Graduate College, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Professional Experience 💼

  • Senior Project Associate
    CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (Oct 2023 – Present)
    Project: Photocatalyst device development for large-scale solar conversion of CO2 + H2O to value-added products.
  • Research Assistant
    CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (Sep 2022 – Mar 2023)
    Project: Preparation, Evaluation, and Supply of Li-LSX and Ca-LSX Zeolite Granules for Oxygen Enrichment.
  • Research Assistant
    CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (Aug 2016 – Jun 2017)
    Project: Evaluation of Dewaxing.

Research Interests 🔬

  • Heterogeneous Catalysis: Design and characterization of catalysts for photo and electrochemical applications.
  • Photocatalysis: Developing photocatalysts for hydrogen production and value-added products generation.
  • Reactor Design: Innovative designs for photocatalytic and electrocatalytic applications.
  • Device Fabrication: Thin film device fabrication for large-scale applications.
  • Instrument Proficiency: Skilled in handling GC, HPLC, SILAR, spin coater, PL, TCSPC, XRD, Gamry/Biologic potentiostat, BET, TPD, and reactors.

Skills 🛠️

  • Design, synthesis, and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts.
  • Device fabrication and reactor design.
  • Proficient in using graphic software like Adobe Illustrator, Blender, Adobe Photoshop, Image J, Paint 3D.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaborative skills.
  • Experienced in maintaining lab instruments, writing scientific papers, and managing multiple tasks.

Academic Achievements 🏆

  • 2021: NCL-RF Keerthi Sangoram Memorial Endowment Award for Best Research Scholar of the Year (Catalysis)
  • 2020: Best Oral Presentation Award, National Conference on Emerging Trends in Chemical and Material Sciences, Shivaji University, Kolhapur

Publication Top Noted📝

  • Article: Design of Bi-functional mixed oxide electrodes for selective oxidative C-C cleavage of glycerol to formate and synchronized green hydrogen production
    • Authors: Saha, A., Murugiah, V., Ranjan, R., Saha, A., Gopinath, C.S.
    • Journal: Sustainable Energy and Fuels
    • Volume: 8
    • Issue: 13
    • Pages: 2954–2968
    • Year: 2024
  • Article: Electrocatalytic Glycerol Conversion: A Low-Voltage Pathway to Efficient Carbon-Negative Green Hydrogen and Value-Added Chemical Production
    • Authors: Chauhan, I., Bajpai, H., Ray, B., Patra, K.K., Gopinath, C.S.
    • Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
    • Volume: 16
    • Issue: 20
    • Pages: 26130–26141
    • Year: 2024
  • Article: A baby step in assembling and integrating the components of an artificial photosynthesis device with forced heterojunctions towards improved efficiency
    • Authors: Salgaonkar, K.N., Bajpai, H., Mhamane, N.B., Joshi, K., Gopinath, C.S.
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
    • Volume: 11
    • Issue: 28
    • Pages: 15168–15182
    • Year: 2023
  • Article: Biomass components toward H2 and value-added products by sunlight-driven photocatalysis with electronically integrated Auδ−-TiO2: concurrent utilization of electrons and holes
    • Authors: Bajpai, H., Chauhan, I., Salgaonkar, K.N., Mhamane, N.B., Gopinath, C.S.
    • Journal: RSC Sustainability
    • Volume: 1
    • Issue: 3
    • Pages: 481–493
    • Year: 2023
  • Article: Nanostructured Co-doped BiVO4 for efficient and sustainable photoelectrochemical chlorine evolution from simulated sea-water
    • Authors: Chauhan, I., Patra, K.K., Bajpai, H., Salgaonkar, K.N., Gopinath, C.S.
    • Journal: Dalton Transactions
    • Volume: 52
    • Issue: 7
    • Pages: 2051–2061
    • Year: 2023

Dr. Mohammad Alkaseem, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad Alkaseem, Catalysis, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at owlstone medical, United Kingdom

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary🌟

  • Dr. Mohammad Alkaseem is a dedicated research scientist specializing in analytical chemistry. Despite facing significant physical challenges due to the amputation of his left hand, left foot, and two small fingers on his right hand, Mohammad has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, adaptability, and determination. His journey is marked by perseverance and a unique perspective, which he brings to all his professional endeavors.

Education 🎓

  • PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Control, University of Damascus, Syria (2010-2015, First Class)
  • MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Control, University of Damascus, Syria (2005-2007, Distinction Class)
  • Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Control, University of Damascus, Syria (2000-2001, First Class)
  • BSc in Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Damascus, Syria (1993-1998, Second Upper)

Professional Experience💼

  • 🧪 Senior Research and Analytical Scientist
  • Owlstone Medical, Cambridge (02/2022 – Present)
    • Developed and optimized analytical methods for biomarker discovery.
    • Conducted method validation and experimental design.
    • Provided technical support and trained R&D team members.
  • 📚 Lecturer of Analytical Chemistry
  • School of Chemistry, Lincoln University (02/2021 – 02/2022, Part-Time)
    • Taught and led the Analytical Chemistry module in Forensic Science.
    • Supervised student projects and marked coursework.
  • 🔬 Postdoctoral Research Assistant
  • School of Chemistry, Lincoln University (08/2019 – 02/2021, Full-Time; Part-Time thereafter)
    • Developed SPME-HS-GCMS methods for VOC analysis.
    • Validated STA-GC-MS and SPME-HS-GCMS methods.
  • 🖥️ Research Fellow
  • School of Computer Science, Lincoln University (08/2018 – Present, Part-Time; Full-Time from 12/2018 – 08/2019)
    • Conducted SPME-GC-MS analysis of VOCs and participated in data analysis.
  • 🌟 Volunteer
  • Cara (Council for At-Risk Academics) (08/2016 – Present)
    • Supported Syrian academics in exile and contributed to strategic development in academic skills.
  • 💼 Visiting Researcher
  • School of Chemistry, Lincoln University (04/2018 – 02/2019)
    • Conducted Raman spectroscopy and nanoparticle characterization.
  • 🌾 Research Chemist
  • Crop Intellect Co, Lincoln, UK (10/2017 – 10/2018, Part-Time)
    • Developed agri-tech solutions and performed analytical analysis.
  • 📊 Scientific Consultant
  • Makki – Kekhia Company (01/2008 – 02/2016)
    • Developed new product formulas and conducted contamination analysis.

Research Interests🔍

  • Analytical Techniques: TD-GC-MS, SIFT-MS, SPME-HS-GCMS, STA-GC-MS, Raman Spectroscopy, HPLC 🧪
  • Data Analysis & Processing: Proficient in Chromeleon, TurboMass, MassHunter, GCsolution 📈
  • Experimental Design & Method Validation: Extensive experience in designing experiments and validating methods 🧬

Skills 🛠️

  • Technical: TD-GC-MS, SIFT-MS, SPME-HS-GCMS, STA-GC-MS, Raman Spectroscopy, HPLC
  • Soft Skills: Team collaboration, training and mentoring, strong documentation and presentation, proposal writing
  • Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office, Chromeleon (Thermofisher), TurboMass (Perkin Elmer), MassHunter (Agilent), GCsolution (Shimadzu), Statistical Software

Publication Top Noted📝

  • Article: The Technical Examination of Nineteenth-Century Artists’ Pigments from John Opie’s Paintbox
    • Authors: Skipper, L.K., Baron, M., Sancho, N., Alkaseem, M.
    • Journal: Studies in Conservation
    • Year: 2024
  • Article: Author Correction: Mobile Real-Time Grasshopper Detection and Data Aggregation Framework
    • Authors: Chudzik, P., Mitchell, A., Alkaseem, M., Pearson, S., Al-Diri, B.
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 10
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 4644
  • Article: Mobile Real-Time Grasshopper Detection and Data Aggregation Framework
    • Authors: Chudzik, P., Mitchell, A., Alkaseem, M., Pearson, S., Al-Diri, B.
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 10
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 1150
  • Article: Modular assembly of proteins on nanoparticles
    • Authors: Ma, W., Saccardo, A., Roccatano, D., Soloviev, M., Ferrari, E.
    • Journal: Nature Communications
    • Year: 2018
    • Volume: 9
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 1489
  • Article: SERS and DFT study of 5F-PB-22
    • Authors: Alkaseem, M., Baron, M.
    • Journal: Journal of Raman Spectroscopy
    • Year: 2018
    • Volume: 49
    • Issue: 10
    • Pages: 1594–1606