Humaira Rashid Khan | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by MTE Awards

Dr. Humaira Rashid Khan | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Universiti Sains Malaysia | Pakistan

Dr. Humaira Rashid Khan is a highly accomplished materials scientist whose research excellence in energy storage, nanomaterials, and photoelectrochemical systems strongly aligns with the expectations of the Best Researcher Award. Her work spans advanced polymer electrolyte membranes, Li–air battery challenges, supercapacitor development, nanocomposite engineering, and ZnO-based photoanodes for solar-driven water splitting, demonstrating both depth and multidisciplinary impact. She has produced significant contributions as evidenced by her 118 Scopus citations, 4 Scopus-indexed documents, and an h-index of 3, while her broader scholarly footprint includes more than 25 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact Q1 and Q2 journals, book chapters with Springer and Elsevier, and major review articles framing the future of next-generation electrochemical devices. Her publications address critical bottlenecks in battery chemistries, propose innovative membrane-fabrication strategies, and report enhanced photocurrent densities through rational nanostructure engineering, reflecting both originality and practical relevance. Dr. Khan has consistently advanced the scientific understanding of charge-transfer mechanisms, thin-film fabrication, dopant-driven band-gap tuning, and nanostructured electrode performance, supporting the global transition toward clean and sustainable energy technologies. Her international postdoctoral research experience, collaborative projects, and contributions to device-level prototypes highlight her ability to translate complex materials science concepts into scalable solutions. Through her rigorous experimentation, mastery of electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques, and sustained high-quality publication record, Dr. Khan demonstrates the research leadership, innovation, and scholarly influence that make her highly suitable for recognition under the Best Researcher Award category.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Khan, H. R., & Ahmad, A. L. (2025). Supercapacitors: Overcoming current limitations and charting the course for next-generation energy storage. Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, 141, 46–66. Cited by 149

Khan, H. R., & Ahmad, A. L. (2025). Vapor induced phase separation approach for fabricating high-performance PVDF-HFP/PEO polymer electrolyte membranes with improved electrochemical properties. Materials Today Communications, 42, 111330. Cited by 6

Shuja, F. S. A., Khan, H. R., Murtaza, I., Ashraf, S., & Yousra, … (2024). Supercapacitors for energy storage applications: Materials, devices and future directions: A comprehensive review. Journal of Alloys and Compounds. Cited by 89

Khan, M. S., Murtaza, I., Shuja, A., Fahad, S., Khan, M. W., Ahmmad, J., … Khan, H. R. (2024). Energy on-the-go: V2O5-pBOA-Graphene nanocomposite for wearable supercapacitor applications. Electrochimica Acta, 486, 144119. Cited by 14

Muhammad Shahid Khan, A. N., Murtaza, I., Shuja, A., & Khan, H. R. (2024). Tailored NiO-pBOA-GNP ternary nanocomposite: Advances in flexible supercapacitors and practical applications for wearable technology and environmental monitoring. Journal of Energy Storage, 86, 111128. Cited by 17

 

Tianjie Qiu | Electrochemical Energy | Editorial Board Member

Published on by MTE Awards

Dr. Tianjie Qiu | Electrochemical Energy | Editorial Board Member

Research Assistant at Peking University | China

Dr. Tianjie Qiu is an emerging leader in advanced materials research, distinguished by 2,075 citations, 25 Scopus-indexed publications, and an h-index of 17, reflecting strong global impact in electrocatalysis and energy storage. His work focuses on rationally engineered ruthenium-based nanocomposites derived from metal-organic frameworks, enabling highly porous structures with exceptional hydrogen and oxygen evolution activity for efficient water splitting. Through innovative alloy modulation, heterostructure formation, and confinement within B/N co-doped carbon nanotubes, he has advanced fundamental understanding of catalytic mechanisms, validated through rigorous experimental–theoretical correlation. His ESI Highly Cited Papers in leading journals such as Nano Energy, ACS Energy Letters, and Angewandte Chemie highlight the significance of his discoveries in tuning active sites, optimizing charge transport pathways, and enhancing catalytic durability. In parallel, he has made notable contributions to potassium-ion battery development by constructing nitrogen-doped microporous carbon superstructures derived from MOF precursors, elucidating adsorption energetics, multi-element doping effects, and structure-driven ion storage enhancements. His work integrates materials design, structural analysis, and electrochemical modeling to deliver high-capacity, high-rate anode systems. Additionally, his influential reviews on MOF-derived materials and graphene-based systems have served as authoritative resources for the broader research community. Dr. Qiu’s consistent high-impact outputs, cross-disciplinary expertise, and ability to bridge nanoscale design with practical energy applications establish him as a strong and deserving candidate for the Editorial Board Member.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Liang, Z., Zhao, R., Qiu, T., Zou, R., & Xu, Q. (2019). Metal-organic framework-derived materials for electrochemical energy applications. EnergyChem, 1(1), 100001. (Cited by: 532)

Qiu, T., Liang, Z., Guo, W., Tabassum, H., Gao, S., & Zou, R. (2020). Metal–organic framework-based materials for energy conversion and storage. ACS Energy Letters, 5(2), 520–532. (Cited by: 488)

Wang, D. G., Qiu, T., Guo, W., Liang, Z., Tabassum, H., Xia, D., & Zou, R. (2021). Covalent organic framework-based materials for energy applications. Energy & Environmental Science, 14(2), 688–728. (Cited by: 351)

Qiu, T., Gao, S., Liang, Z., Wang, D. G., Tabassum, H., Zhong, R., & Zou, R. (2021). Pristine hollow metal–organic frameworks: Design, synthesis and application. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 60(32), 17314–17336. (Cited by: 219)

Qiu, T., Liang, Z., Guo, W., Gao, S., Qu, C., Tabassum, H., Zhang, H., Zhu, B., & Zou, R. (2019). Highly exposed ruthenium-based electrocatalysts from bimetallic metal-organic frameworks for overall water splitting. Nano Energy, 58, 1–10. (Cited by: 217)

 

Saadi Berri | Hydrogen Storage | High-Temperature Metallurgy Award

Published on by MTE Awards

Dr. Saadi Berri | Hydrogen Storage | High-Temperature Metallurgy Award

Senior Lecturer at University of M’Sila | Algeria

Dr. Saadi Berri is a distinguished materials scientist specializing in computational and theoretical investigations of metallic and intermetallic compounds for high-temperature applications. His research employs first-principles calculations and density functional theory to explore the mechanical, magnetic, optical, and thermoelectric characteristics of advanced alloys, perovskites, and hydrides. Through systematic modeling of high-temperature phase stability, electronic structure, and thermodynamic responses, Dr. Berri provides predictive insights crucial for developing energy-efficient materials. His studies on Heusler and perovskite-type compounds have clarified the origin of half-metallicity, spin polarization, and thermal conductivity in ferromagnetic and thermoelectric systems. Additionally, his hydrogen storage analyses of borohydrides and complex hydrides advance the understanding of lightweight energy carriers suitable for extreme environments. He has published 69 peer-reviewed papers, amassing 2,131 citations and attaining an h-index of 26 on Scopus, underscoring his consistent research impact. His theoretical frameworks contribute substantially to the advancement of metallurgical science, particularly in the domain of high-temperature performance and functional material design.

Featured Publications

Berri, S. (2021). Half-metallic and thermoelectric properties of Sr₂EuReO₆. Computational Condensed Matter, 28, e00586. Cited by 143

Berri, S. (2022). Thermoelectric properties of A₂BCl₆: A first-principles study. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 170, 110940. Cited by 134

Berri, S. (2015). First-principles study on half-metallic properties of the Sr₂GdReO₆ double perovskite. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, 385, 124-128. Cited by 126

Berri, S. (2023). First-principles calculations to investigate structural, electronic, elastic, optical, and transport properties of halide double perovskites Cs₂ABF₆ (AB = BiAu, AgIr, CuBi, GaAu). Chemical Physics Letters, 826, 140653. Cited by 124

Berri, S., Ibrir, M., Maouche, D., & Attallah, M. (2014). Robust half-metallic ferromagnet of quaternary Heusler compounds ZrCoTiZ (Z = Si, Ge, Ga and Al). Computational Condensed Matter, 1, 26-31. Cited by 111

Xiaomi Zhou | Hydrogen Energy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by MTE Awards

Dr. Xiaomi Zhou | Hydrogen Energy | Best Researcher Award

Doctor at Jining University | China

Dr. Xiaomi Zhou is a distinguished faculty member at the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Jining University, whose research centers on next-generation energy materials and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). She has made notable contributions to the field through the development of molten hydroxide-based electrolytes that enable efficient operation at low temperatures, addressing one of the major limitations in traditional SOFC systems. Her innovative work on molten aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) as a high-performance electrolyte led to the creation of a bilayer structure (Al(OH)₃/SrTiO₃), facilitating superior proton conduction through a dynamic hydrogen-bonding network. Dr. Zhou’s research, supported by the Hundred Outstanding Talent Program of Jining University, has been published in leading international journals such as Ceramics International, where her paper “Molten Al(OH)₃ as an Innovative Electrolyte for SOFCs Below 500 °C” stands out as a significant scientific contribution. She has collaborated with prominent institutions including Hubei University, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, and Kaili University, enhancing interdisciplinary research and innovation in energy systems. According to her Scopus profile, Dr. Zhou has authored 12 publications, received 148 citations, and holds an h-index of 7, reflecting her growing influence in the materials and energy research community. Her pioneering studies on proton transport mechanisms via the Grotthuss process have substantially advanced the understanding of low-temperature SOFCs, paving the way for sustainable, high-efficiency fuel cell technologies with potential industrial and environmental benefits.

Profile: Scopus | Research Gate

Feautured Publications

Zhou, X., Niu, S., Tian, Q., Ma, X., Jing, Y., Fu, M., & Wang, B. (2025). Molten Al(OH)₃ as an innovative electrolyte for SOFCs below 500 °C. Ceramics International.

Chen, H., Zhong, D., Xia, C., Zhou, X., & Wang, B. (2025). Cr poisoned the LiNi₀.₈Co₀.₁₅Al₀.₀₅O₂−δ cathode and the alkaline Li impregnation to recover the performance of Cr poisoned solid oxide fuel cell. Journal of Power Sources.

Zhou, X., Zheng, D., Wang, Q., Xiang, Y., & Wang, B. (2023). In situ formation of Ba₃CoNb₂O₉/Ba₅Nb₄O₁₅ heterostructure in electrolytes for enhancing proton conductivity and SOFC performance. Journal of Materials Chemistry A. Cited by 5

Xiang, Y., Jiang, C., Zheng, D., Zhou, X., & Wang, B. (2022). Interlayer conducting mechanism in α-LiAlO₂ enables fast proton transport with low activation energy for solid oxide fuel cells. Electrochimica Acta, 431, 141208. Cited by 13

 

Maheshika Perera | Sustainable Hydrogen | Best Researcher Award

Published on by MTE Awards

Mrs. Maheshika Perera | Sustainable Hydrogen | Best Researcher Award

Queensland University of Technology | Australia

Mrs. Maheshika Perera is an energetic and motivated researcher with strong expertise in chemistry, nanotechnology, and sustainable energy. With over seven years of experience in research and development, she has made significant contributions in areas such as green hydrogen generation, material chemistry, nanomaterials, and electrochemistry. Her career spans both industrial and academic research, with projects focused on environmental remediation, nanofertilizers, electrocatalysts, and advanced functional materials. She has successfully bridged scientific innovation with practical applications, developing novel nano-based formulations for cosmetics, healthcare, and sustainable agriculture. Currently, she is pursuing her Ph.D. at Queensland University of Technology, Australia, focusing on advanced electrocatalysts for green energy solutions. Maheshika has published peer-reviewed research articles, authored a book chapter, and contributed to international conferences. Her drive for excellence, combined with her ability to collaborate across disciplines, positions her as a rising scientist dedicated to addressing critical global challenges through innovative chemistry and nanotechnology.

Professional Profile

Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Education

Mrs. Maheshika Perera’s educational foundation demonstrates her strong academic journey in chemistry and material sciences. She earned her B.Sc. (Special) in Chemistry with Second Class Upper Division Honors from the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. Her undergraduate thesis focused on the development of a fluorescent sensor for fluoride ion detection. Building on this, she pursued her M.Phil. in Chemistry at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, where she developed environmentally benign nano-fertilizers for nitrogen management in agriculture. Her M.Phil. research integrated material chemistry, nanotechnology, and plant physiology to create hybrid nano-carriers for controlled nutrient release. She began her Ph.D. at Queensland University of Technology, Australia, under the supervision of leading academics, focusing on the plasma-assisted synthesis of advanced electrocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production and water splitting. She is also an Associate Member of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, reflecting her professional affiliation with the chemical sciences community.

Experience

Mrs. Maheshika Perera has extensive research and development experience spanning academia and industry. She worked as a Research and Development Chemist and Quality Assurance Executive at Seri Natural, Sri Lanka, formulating and testing cosmetic and personal care products. She then joined the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) as a Research Scientist, where she contributed to the development of gold nanoparticle-based cosmetics, wound dressings, hydrogels, and green catalysts. She served as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Fundamental Studies, Sri Lanka, while pursuing her M.Phil., focusing on precision nitrogen management using hybrid nanomaterials. She began her Ph.D. research at Queensland University of Technology, advancing work on green hydrogen generation and electrocatalysts. Across her career, she has gained expertise in synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials, alongside collaborations with industry to commercialize innovative formulations.

Awards and Honors

Mrs. Maheshika Perera has received recognition for her contributions to science, leadership, and innovation. She was the President of the Young Scientist Association at the National Institute of Fundamental Studies, where she fostered research collaboration among early-career scientists. She has been an active member of professional and scientific communities, including the Hydrogen Society of Australia and the SEF-HDR Society. Her early career also reflects a blend of academic and extracurricular achievements: she secured first place at the All-Island Inter-School Western Music and Dance Competition (Provincial Level) and third place nationally. She also won second place in a Rocket & Space Science quiz contest, demonstrating her long-standing passion for science. Additionally, her contributions to cosmetic and nanotechnology-based product development at SLINTEC gained industry recognition. Her international conference presentations and invited talks further highlight her growing influence as a young scientist working on sustainable nanotechnology and green energy solutions.

Research Focus

Mrs. Maheshika Perera’s research focus lies at the intersection of nanotechnology, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy systems. Her work primarily targets the design and development of green nanomaterials for applications in hydrogen generation, environmental remediation, and agriculture. She has conducted pioneering studies on environmentally benign nanofertilizers for nitrogen management, contributing to sustainable agriculture through precision nutrient delivery. Her current Ph.D. research expands into green hydrogen generation, where she investigates plasma-assisted synthesis of bifunctional electrocatalysts for efficient water splitting. She also explores gold- and silver-based nanocomposites for photocatalysis and environmental remediation. Her multidisciplinary expertise extends to inorganic chemistry, surface science, and material characterization techniques, enabling her to work across energy, environmental, and industrial challenges. By combining innovative nanomaterial synthesis with advanced characterization and application-driven research, Mrs. Perera aims to contribute solutions to pressing global issues including clean energy production, environmental sustainability, and advanced materials development for industrial applications.

Publication top Notes

Gold nanoparticle decorated titania for sustainable environmental remediation: Green synthesis, enhanced surface adsorption and synergistic photocatalysis
Cited by: 39
Year: 2020

Nanoclay composites as agrochemical carriers
Cited by: 7
Year: 2023

Plasma‐Electrified Synthesis of Atom‐Efficient Electrocatalysts for Sustainable Water Catalysis and Beyond
Cited by: 2
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Mrs. Maheshika Perera is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially in fields tied to sustainable energy, green hydrogen, and nanotechnology. Her blend of academic research, practical innovations, and community engagement aligns well with the award’s vision to recognize transformative scientific contributions. With continued emphasis on publishing in leading journals and scaling her innovations, she has the potential to be an influential leader in sustainable materials and energy research.