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

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.

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.