Yasmine Gabi | Materials Science | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Yasmine Gabi | Materials Science | Excellence in Research Award

Saarland University | Germany

Dr. Yasmine Gabi is a senior scientist and expert in electromagnetic non-destructive testing (NDT) systems, with extensive experience in industrial and research-driven environments. She earned her Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Grenoble University (G2Elab), focusing on modeling the 3MA NDT system for online production of dual-phase steel, and holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Physics with specialization in magnetic systems engineering from Joseph Fourier University. Since 2012, she has played a key role at Fraunhofer IZFP, leading the development of physics-based simulation platforms using finite element methods and analytical models to validate experimental NDT signals. Her professional experience also includes advanced system modeling at Schneider Electric and nanomagnetism research with CNRS and the Swiss Light Source. Her research interests span electromagnetism, hysteresis modeling, eddy current analysis, and magnetic materials characterization. With strong scientific dissemination through high-impact publications and invited plenary talks, her work significantly advances reliable electromagnetic inspection technologies, contributing to both academic progress and industrial innovation.

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Featured Publications

Marcin Przybylak | Surface Modification | Materials Chemistry Advancement Award

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Dr. Marcin Przybylak | Surface Modification | Materials Chemistry Advancement Award

Poznan Science and Technology Park, Adam Mickiewicz University Foundation | Poland

Dr. Marcin Przybylak is a chemical scientist with expertise in applied and environmental chemistry and a strong focus on research-to-industry translation. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Chemistry and a PhD in Chemical Sciences from the Faculty of Chemistry at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. He currently serves as an Associate Researcher at the Poznań Science and Technology Park, where his responsibilities include scientific research, project implementation, publication and patent preparation, supervision of graduate research, coordination of research teams, and collaboration with industrial partners. His previous professional experience includes work as a Senior Technician at the Greater Poland Center for Advanced Technologies, with a focus on electrospinning research and scientific equipment processes, and as an Assistant at the Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants, contributing to experimental design and material characterization. His research interests include functional materials, electrospinning technologies, and applied chemical innovation. Recognized through institutional research achievements and competitive projects, he continues to make meaningful contributions to applied chemistry and technological development.

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Top 5 Publications

Noel Isack Kaaya | Geochemistry | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Noel Isack Kaaya | Geochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Government Chemist Laboratory Authority, Tanzania

Mr. Noel Isack Kaaya is an accomplished chemist and researcher with extensive expertise in hazardous chemical management, environmental monitoring, and analytical toxicology. He holds a Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of Dodoma and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Dar es Salaam, which laid the foundation for his strong scientific and analytical capabilities. With over a decade of professional experience at the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority, he has played a key role in conducting laboratory analyses related to environmental pollution, occupational safety, health risk assessment, and the detection of illicit substances. His research interests span acid mine drainage, soil contamination, geogenic pollutants, carcinogenic risk assessment, and the application of advanced analytical techniques to address environmental and public health challenges. He has contributed to peer-reviewed publications and has been recognized for his commitment to scientific integrity and service to environmental protection. Driven by a passion for improving chemical safety and promoting evidence-based environmental management, he continues to advance his expertise through research, collaboration, and capacity building. His career reflects dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to safeguarding communities through scientific excellence.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Kaaya, N.I., Vegi, M.R., & Macheyeki, A.S. (2026). “Acid mine drainage, soil pollution, and carcinogenic risk of geogenic contaminants in artisanal and small-scale gold mining areas of Geita, Tanzania.” Environmental Geochemistry and Health. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-025-02909-8

Kaaya, N.I., Vegi, M.R., & Macheyeki, A.S. (2025). “Graphene-based adsorbents for selective recovery of rare earth elements from mining wastes: A review.” FlatChem. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100954

Kaaya, N.I., Vegi, M.R., & Macheyeki, A.S. (2025). “Health risks of geogenic contaminants in gold mining areas in Geita, Tanzania.” Journal of Trace Elements and Minerals. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemin.2025.100222

Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

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Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

Durban University of Technology | South Africa

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi is an emerging chemist whose work spans inorganic chemistry, bioprocessing, biomass valorization, and physical chemistry, supported by strong academic training and multidisciplinary research experience. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the Durban University of Technology, focusing on the application of ZIF-8 and ionic liquids for converting glucose extracted from sugarcane bagasse into value-added biochemicals. Building on her Master’s research on Co(II) and Mn(II) dithiocarbamate complexes with bioactivity studies and her Honours and undergraduate training in chemistry and geology, she has cultivated a broad scientific foundation. Professionally, she has gained significant experience as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Water and Wastewater Technology, a Research Scientist Intern at the Technology Innovation Agency, a Sales Technology Chemist at Buckman Laboratories, and a Tutor and Laboratory Coordinator at both the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Fort Hare. Her expertise includes laboratory management, analytical chemistry, fermentation processes, biomass processing, and instrumental analysis such as HPLC and nutrient profiling. She has received several distinctions, including multiple certificates in quality systems, safety management, and digital literacy, as well as prestigious recognitions such as the National Research Foundation Scholarships and the James Moir Medal. Her growing body of work reflects a commitment to sustainable chemistry and impactful scientific innovation.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Tokoyi, V. (2024). Ferrocene-Based Bimetallic MOF Beads as Bifunctional Dye Scavenging and Degrading Materials. Chemical Engineering Transactions.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Potential Application of IL@ZIF-MOF Composites for Lignocellulosic Biomass Valorization: Recent Update. Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Should “Ionic Liquids” also be used for solid ionic compounds: Synthesis and characterization of p-anisidinium-based ionic compounds. Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Synthesis and antibacterial studies of p-anisidinium-based ionic liquids: Experimental, DFT calculations and molecular docking. Journal of Molecular Liquids.

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

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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. Sharon Kiprotich | Physics | Best Researcher Award

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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.