Juan Wen | Water Treatment | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Juan Wen | Water Treatment | Research Excellence Award

Lanzhou University | China

Dr. Juan Wen is an Associate Professor in the School of Materials and Energy at Lanzhou University and a specialist in advanced ceramic materials and nanotechnology. His academic training includes a Ph.D. in Nuclear Science and Technology from Lanzhou University, complemented by undergraduate studies in Physical Science and Technology at the same institution. During his doctoral period, he gained international research exposure as a visiting student at the Ion Beam Materials Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, USA, where he strengthened his expertise in ion irradiation and accelerator-based materials research. His professional experience spans progressive academic roles, including Teaching Assistant, Assistant Professor, and Associate Professor, reflecting sustained contributions to teaching and research. Dr. Wen’s research interests focus on nanogenerators, ion irradiation effects on ceramic materials, structural and performance evolution of nanostructured ceramics under extreme conditions such as high temperature and irradiation, and the synthesis and microstructural characterization of polycrystalline oxide ceramics. He also possesses strong practical experience in the operation and maintenance of implanter and accelerator systems, bridging fundamental research with advanced experimental techniques. His work has earned recognition within the materials and nuclear science communities through scholarly publications and collaborative projects. Overall, Dr. Juan Wen’s career demonstrates a consistent commitment to advancing ceramic materials research for extreme environments and energy-related applications, contributing significantly to both academic knowledge and technological development.

View Google Scholar Profile

Featured Publications

Azim Khan | Metal Materials | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azim Khan | Metal Materials | Research Excellence Award

University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azim Khan is a dedicated materials scientist whose academic and professional journey spans advanced research, university teaching, and extensive laboratory expertise across China and Pakistan. He holds an M.Sc. and M.Phil. in Physics with a specialization in solid-state materials, followed by a Ph.D. in Physics/Material Science and Engineering from the Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he investigated metal oxide dispersion effects on alumina phase transformation and oxidation performance of Ni₂Al₃ coatings. His postdoctoral work and subsequent faculty roles at Anhui University of Technology further strengthened his contributions to high-temperature oxidation, corrosion behavior, phase transformation of nickel-based superalloys, thermal spray coatings, and catalyst development. He has also served as a lecturer and currently works as an associate researcher at the Yangtze River Delta Research Institute, focusing on catalyst synthesis and CVD-based fabrication of carbon nanomaterials such as SWCNTs, MWCNTs, and carbon nanocoils. His research interests include nanostructured coatings, diffusion coatings, nano-composite materials, and high-entropy alloys. Recognized for his scientific excellence, he has received multiple honors, including a prestigious young scientist research fund and awards from IMR-CAS and leading material science laboratories. Dr. Khan continues to advance innovative materials for high-temperature and catalytic applications.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Azim Khan, Rostami, K., Sedighi, M., Khan, S., & Ghasemi, M. (2025). “A Comparative Electrochemical Study of Pt and Ni–Oxide Cathodes: Performance and Economic Viability for Scale-Up Microbial Fuel Cells.” Catalysts. https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15121153

Yu, T., Chen, Y., Fan, Y., Chen, G., Khan, A., Liu, Y., & Jian, X. (2025). “Environmental-friendly visible-light inducing bond change of fluorinated carbon in large-scale for ultrahigh-rate lithium/fluorinated carbon battery.” Journal of Power Sources. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.236367

Chen, G., Fan, Y., Yu, T., Shoaib, M., Khan, A., Liu, Y., & Jian, X. (2024). “Efficient microwave induction to modify surface for high-rate lithium/fluorinated carbon battery with ultra-high power density.” Chemical Engineering Journal. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2024.154899

Ullah, S., Gul, U., Tariq, S., Ullah, R., Rahman, N., Ali, E.A., Husain, M., Abbas, M., Ullah, H., & Khan, A. (2024). “First principal investigations to explore the half-metallicity, structural, mechanical, and optoelectronic properties of sodium-based fluoroperovskites NaYF₃ (Y = Sc and Ti) for applications in spintronics and optoelectronics.” Inorganic Chemistry Communications. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.inoche.2024.112369

Rehman, S.U., Sun, Q., Wang, J., Lv, W., Khan, A., Liu, Y., Mahmood, N., & Xian, J. (2024). “In-plane heterostructures of transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers with enhanced charge separation and effective overall water splitting.” International Journal of Hydrogen Energy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.07.171

Shah, S.S.A., Liu, M., Khan, A., Ahmad, F., Abdullah, M.R., Zhang, X., Xu, S., & Peng, Z. (2024). “Twinning aspects and their efficient roles in wrought Mg alloys: A comprehensive review.” Journal of Magnesium and Alloys. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jma.2024.04.035

Ullah, S., Gul, U., Tariq, S., Ullah, R., Rahman, N., Ali, E.A., Husain, M., Abbas, M., Ullah, H., & Khan, A. (2023). “First Principal Investigations to Explore the Half-Metallicity, Structural, Mechanical, and Optoelectronic Properties of Sodium-Based Fluoroperovskites NaYF₃ (Y = Sc and Ti) for Applications in Spintronics and Optoelectronics.” SSRN. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4668900

Jinyuan Mao | Molecular Dynamics Simulations | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Jinyuan Mao | Molecular Dynamics Simulations | Research Excellence Award

BYD Auto Industry Company Ltd | China

Dr. Jinyuan Mao is a Senior Simulation Engineer whose work bridges computational materials science and advanced machine-learning methodologies to accelerate innovation in modern engineering materials. He earned his PhD in Soft Matter Science in 2024 from the South China University of Technology, where he received rigorous training in molecular modeling and multiscale simulation under expert mentorship. After completing his doctoral studies, he joined BYD Auto Industry Company Ltd. in collaboration with Fudan University, contributing to cutting-edge research that integrates atomic-scale simulations with data-driven modeling strategies. His professional experience spans the study of mechanical behavior in metals, composites, and soft matter, with an emphasis on understanding deformation mechanisms, reliability, and performance enhancement. Dr. Mao’s research interests include machine-learning-accelerated materials discovery, molecular dynamics simulations, mesoscale modeling, and the development of predictive frameworks for complex material systems. He has contributed to high-impact publications in computational materials science and has been recognized for scientific excellence through academic awards and research achievements during his doctoral years. Committed to advancing simulation-driven design, he continues to explore innovative computational approaches that bridge theory and application, supporting the development of next-generation materials for industrial and technological advancement.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Liu, J., Mao, J., Wang, B., Wang, Q., Zhang, N., & Pan, S. (2025). Study on the mechanical properties and critical temperature of FeNiCrMn alloy using MD-ML-MA framework. Journal of Molecular Modeling.

Mao, J., Zhou, J., & Liu, H. (2024). One-pot strategy for the preparation of nanoparticles grafted with bimodal polymers: An in-silico insight. Composites Science and Technology.

Mao, J., Jia, X.-M., Zhang, G., & Zhou, J. (2024). Excluded volume of slide rings in single-chain polyrotaxane. Macromolecules.

Li, C.-X., Mao, J.-Y., Li, S.-J., Wang, Y., & Liu, H. (2023). A long chain-induced depletion effect for abnormal grafting in the preparation of bimodal bidisperse polymer-grafted nanoparticles. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics.

Mao, J., Hu, Z., Hu, J., Zhu, X., & Xiong, H. (2019). A Density Functional Theory (DFT) study of the acyl migration occurring during lipase-catalyzed transesterifications. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Mr. Iheanyichukwu Ajoku | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Iheanyichukwu Ajoku | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Missouri University of Science and Technology | United States

Mr. Iheanyichukwu Ajoku is a dedicated researcher specializing in sustainable materials science, with a strong focus on nuclear waste management, energy storage, and advanced materials characterization. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering, majoring in Ceramic Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology, where he maintains a distinction grade and conducts research using advanced analytical techniques such as DSC/TGA, XRD, SEM/TEM, and Raman spectroscopy. He holds a B.Sc. in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from the University of Lagos and is also a Certified Management Specialist from London Graduate School. With diverse experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at Missouri S&T and the University of Lagos, as well as a Risk Engineer in the industrial sector, he has contributed to projects involving welding technology, industrial safety, and STEM education. His research interests include sustainable materials for nuclear waste immobilization, MXene synthesis, biomaterials processing, and industrial risk assessment. Ajoku has received notable honorary fellowships and doctoral recognitions from institutions like American Management University and Global Nation Open University. His professional growth is strengthened by active memberships in prestigious engineering and materials societies. He continues to make impactful contributions to sustainable engineering and materials innovation.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

Evarts, J. S., Riley, B. J., Lonergan, C. E., Harris, M. S., Bai, J., Bohannan, E., Ajoku, I., Chong, S., & McCloy, J. S. (2025). “Synergy in Materials: Leveraging Phosphosilicate Waste Forms for Electrochemical Salt Waste” in ACS Sustainable Resource Management.

Ajoku, I., & Ani, P. C. (2025). “Phosphate-based vitrification strategies for electrorefiner salt waste management” in Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry, Springer International Publishing.

Ajoku, I., Baba, A. A., Balogun, A. F., Tripathy, B. C., Okeola, F. O., Uba, F., Owolabi, A. O., Olaoluwa, D. T., & Jacob, S. O. (2025). “Preparation of an Indigenous Bismutite Ore for Improved Bismuth-Based Alloys Production” in TMS 2026 Conference Proceedings.

Dr. Arun Kumar S | Energy Storage Devices |Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arun Kumar S | Energy Storage Devices | Best Researcher Award

Kuppam Engineering College | India

Dr. Arun Kumar S is a dedicated physicist and academician with extensive experience in nanomaterials and energy storage applications. He completed his B.Sc. in Physics with First Class from Arignar Anna College, Krishnagiri, followed by an M.Sc. in Physics from Periyar University, Salem. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from Periyar University under the supervision of Prof. Dr. P. M. Anbarasan, focusing on hybrid supercapacitors using binder-free metal oxide electrodes for energy storage. Dr. Arun Kumar has held positions as Assistant Professor and Associate Professor in Physics at Kuppam Engineering College, where he teaches Engineering Physics, Quantum Technologies, and related courses. He has also delivered lectures in Nanoscience, Nanotechnology, and Polymer Science at CIPET: SARP-LARPM. His research expertise spans the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, thin-film fabrication, and development of advanced functional materials for supercapacitor devices. He possesses hands-on experience with XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, XPS, SEM, TEM, EDX, electrochemical workstations, electrospinning, and spin coating techniques. Dr. Arun Kumar’s work contributes to advancing energy-efficient technologies, with a strong focus on functional nanomaterials and polymer-based electrodes. His dedication to teaching, research, and innovation continues to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Gowdhaman, A., Arun Kumar, S., Elumalai, D., Balaji, C., Sabarinathan, M., Ramesh, R., & Navaneethan, M. (2023). “Ni-MOF derived NiO/Ni/r-GO nanocomposite as a novel electrode material for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor” in Journal of Energy Storage.

Aswathy, N.R., Arun Kumar, S., Mohanty, S., Nayak, S.K., & Palai, A.K. (2021). “Polyaniline/multi-walled carbon nanotubes filled biopolymer based flexible substrate electrodes for supercapacitor applications” in Journal of Energy Storage.

Prabhu, S., Maruthapandi, M., Durairaj, A., Arun Kumar, S., Luong, J.H.T., Ramesh, R., & Gedanken, A. (2023). “Performances of Co²⁺-Substituted NiMoO₄ Nanorods in a Solid-State Hybrid Supercapacitor” in ACS Applied Energy Materials.

Arun Kumar, S., Mohanty, A., Saravanakumar, B., Mohanty, S., Nayak, S.K., & Ramadoss, A. (2020). “Three-dimensional Bi₂O₃/Ti microspheres as an advanced negative electrode for hybrid supercapacitors” in Chemical Communications.

Chettiannan, B., Mathan, S., Arumugam, G., Srinivasan, A., & Rajendran, R. (2024). “Attaining high energy density using metal-organic framework-derived NiO/Co₃O₄/NiCo₂O₄ as an electrode in asymmetric hybrid supercapacitor” in Journal of Energy Storage.

Chettiannan, B., Srinivasan, A.K., Arumugam, G., Shajahan, S., Abu Haija, M., & Rajendran, R. (2023). “Incorporation of α-MnO₂ Nanoflowers into Zinc-Terephthalate Metal–Organic Frameworks for High-Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors” in ACS Omega.

Arun Kumar, S., Gowdhaman, A., Balaji, C., Ramesh, R., & Anbarasan, P.M. (2024). “Exploring the potential of two-dimensional NiCo₂O₄ sheets//BiPO₄ flakes as a hybrid supercapacitor device for energy storage application” in Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects.

Dr. Iheke Michael Nwachukwu | Electrochemical Energy Storage System | Best Review Paper Award

Dr. Iheke Michael Nwachukwu | Electrochemical Energy Storage System | Best Review Paper Award

National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja | Nigeria

Dr. Iheke Michael Nwachukwu is a motivated research scientist and university lecturer specializing in nanostructured metal oxides, energy-saving and conversion devices, and lithium-ion batteries with carbon nanocomposites. He holds a PhD in Solar Energy Physics (2023), an M.Sc in Solar Energy Physics (2016), and a B.Sc in Physics (2010) from the University of Nigeria. Dr. Nwachukwu has extensive experience in designing experiments, synthesizing and characterizing nanomaterials for supercapacitors and Li-ion battery applications, contributing to several journal publications and submissions. His expertise extends to renewable energy assessment, understanding environmental impacts, and translating scientific insights into practical applications. Skilled in SEM/EDX, TEM, AFM, XRD, UV-Vis, and electrochemical techniques including EIS and CV, he combines hands-on technical knowledge with strong research analysis, problem-solving, and communication abilities. In addition to research, he serves as Assistant Departmental Examination Officer, Faculty Representative to the Academic Board, and Departmental Physics Practical Coordinator at the National Open University of Nigeria. Recognized for his contributions to nanotechnology and energy research, he was awarded 2nd Best Poster Presenter at the 4th African Conference on Nanotechnology Applications (2021) and serves on the Editorial Board of the International Chemistry Scientist Awards (2024). Dr. Nwachukwu continues to advance sustainable energy solutions through innovative research and academic leadership.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Inyang, E., Ekechukwu, C., Nwachukwu, I., Thompson, E., William, E., & Lawal, K. (2025). Non-relativistic Solutions of the modified Hylleraas potential in the presence of external magnetic and Aharonov-Bohm flux fields for heteronuclear diatomic molecules. Physical Sciences and Technology.

Inyang, E.P., Nwachukwu, I.M., Ekechukwu, C.C., Ekong, I.B., William, E.S., Lawal, K.M., Simon, J., Momoh, K.O., & Oyelami, O.A. (2024). Analytical solution of the class of inversely quadratic Yukawa potential with application to quantum mechanical systems. Eurasian Physical Technical Journal.

Nwachukwu, I.M., Nwanya, A.C., Ekwealor, A.B.C., & Ezema, F.I. (2024). The potentials of LiMnPO4 cathode material for aqueous Li-ion batteries: An investigation into solid state and green chemistry approaches. Applied Surface Science Advances.

Ngongang, R.T., Nwanya, A.C., Onoh, E.U., Nwachukwu, I.M., Ugwuoke, C., Atawa, B., Ottou Abe, M.T., Ndjaka, J.-M.B., & Ezema, F.I. (2023). Studies of the dielectric properties of PVDF-CaCu3Ti4O12 composite thin film: Experimental and theoretical. SSRN Preprint.

Nwachukwu, I.M., Nwanya, A.C., Ekwealor, A.B.C., & Ezema, F.I. (2023). Research progress in solid-state synthesized LiMnPO4 cathode material for Li-ion battery applications. Applied Surface Science Advances.

Nwachukwu, I.M., Nwanya, A.C., Alshoaibi, A., Awada, C., Ekwealor, A.B.C., & Ezema, F.I. (2023). Recent progress in green synthesized transition metal-based oxides in LIBs as energy storage devices. Current Opinion in Electrochemistry.

Nwachukwu, I.M., & Nwanya, A.C. (2022). Recent progress in Mn and Fe-rich cathode materials used in Li-ion batteries. Journal of Energy Storage.

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.