Azam Anaraki Firooz | chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azam Anaraki Firooz | chemistry
| Women Researcher Award

Associate Prof. at Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Iran.

Dr. Azam Anaraki Firooz is an Associate Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran. She specializes in nanochemistry, catalysis, and advanced functional materials. Her prolific academic career includes impactful publications in high-ranking journals such as Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, with an h-index of 18. Dr. Firooz has led research on heterogeneous catalysis, photocatalysis, gas sensors, and fuel cell technologies. A skilled experimentalist, she utilizes advanced synthesis (sol-gel, hydrothermal) and characterization techniques (XRD, TEM, BET, DR-UV/Vis). She has fostered international collaborations and mentored over 30 students. Her work contributes significantly to sustainable energy and environmental remediation solutions. With over a decade of experience, she is recognized for innovation, scientific leadership, and cross-disciplinary teamwork.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

ORCID

Google Scholar

Education📚

Dr. Firooz completed her Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry through a joint program between the University of Tehran and Tarbiat Modares University. Her doctoral research focused on the catalytic and sensing functions of SnO₂ nanostructures, where she ranked in the top 1% of her class. She also pursued a sabbatical at Nagasaki University in Japan, synthesizing mesoporous MoO₃ nanostructures via spray pyrolysis for gas sensing. She earned her M.Sc. from Tarbiat Modares University, working on the synthesis and characterization of N-carbonyl phospho compounds. Her education combined theoretical rigor with hands-on experimental expertise in material synthesis and characterization, forming the basis of her future research in smart catalysts, functional nanomaterials, and energy/environmental applications.

Professional Experience💼

Dr. Azam Anaraki Firooz has over a decade of academic and research experience. She serves as Associate Professor at Shahid Rajaee University, where she has also held the position of department head for six years. She has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in inorganic chemistry and supervised over 30 theses. As a visiting professor at the University of Twente (Netherlands), she designed and synthesized smart catalysts and collaborated on advanced research projects. She has led numerous experimental studies involving catalyst development, material characterization, and sensor design. Her leadership in research, teaching, and international collaboration highlights her ability to integrate academic excellence with impactful scientific contributions in the fields of energy and environmental science.

Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Firooz’s research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of advanced inorganic and nanostructured materials for applications in catalysis, environmental remediation, and sustainable energy. She designs smart catalysts and functional materials using methods like sol-gel and hydrothermal synthesis. Her work targets heterogeneous and photocatalytic reactions for water purification and gas pollutant breakdown. She also develops gas sensors, fuel cell components, and polymer-graphite hybrid materials. Her lab is equipped with advanced tools such as XRD, TEM, BET, and DR-UV/Vis for material analysis. A key area of her interest is the interface of nanochemistry with energy conversion and sensing technologies, striving to solve environmental challenges through innovative, scalable, and environmentally friendly materials.

Awards and Honors🏆

Dr. Firooz has consistently demonstrated excellence throughout her academic journey. She graduated in the top 1% of her Ph.D. class and was selected for a prestigious research sabbatical at Nagasaki University in Japan. She has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Applied Catalysis B, receiving strong citation metrics (h-index 18) that reflect the influence of her work. Her role as head of the chemistry department and visiting professor at international institutions like the University of Twente also attest to her leadership and recognition. While specific award titles are not mentioned, her accolades include competitive research fellowships, institutional leadership positions, and invitations to collaborate globally—all of which reinforce her standing as a distinguished and award-worthy researcher.

Conclusion ✅

Dr. Azam Anaraki Firooz is a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her research in inorganic and nanochemistry, backed by a solid publication record and international experience, reflects both depth and innovation. She has contributed significantly to environmental sustainability through catalysis and sensor development. While she could benefit from greater commercialization and global stage presence, her academic leadership, mentoring impact, and scientific excellence make her a standout in her field. This award would not only recognize her current achievements but also empower her future endeavors in advancing science and mentoring the next generation of women in STEM.

Publications to Noted📚

🌿 Green in situ synthesis of sandwich-like W-bridged siligraphene (g-SiC@WC@g-SiC) heterostructure from Saccharum Ravennae gum for ultrahigh-rate photodegradation of acetaminophen
🗓️ Year: 2024 | 🔍 Cited by: — | 🌞 Photodegradation | 🍃 Green Chemistry | 🧪 Nanomaterials

⚡ Achievement of an efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalyst based on carbon boosted with MnOx/MnCo₂O₄ with excellent electrocatalytic activity in neutral media
🗓️ Year: 2024 | 🔍 Cited by: 2 | 🔋 Electrocatalysis | 🌐 ORR | 🧪 Carbon-Based Materials

🧬 Synthesis of Ag and Mn/ZnO nanoparticles using a hydrothermal method – A brief study and their role in the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose in alkaline media
🗓️ Year: 2023 | 🔍 Cited by: 12 | 🧫 Nanoparticles | 💉 Glucose Sensing | ⚗️ Hydrothermal Synthesis

🧠 Green Synthesis of Nonprecious Metal-Doped Copper Hydroxide Nanoparticles for Construction of a Dopamine Sensor
🗓️ Year: 2021 | 🔍 Cited by: 14 | 🌿 Green Synthesis | 🧠 Dopamine Detection | 🔬 Biomedical Sensor

🔷 High electrochemical detection of dopamine based on Cu-doped single-phase hexagonally ZnO plates
🗓️ Year: 2021 | 🔍 Cited by: — | ⚡ Electrochemical Sensor | 🔵 ZnO Nanoplates | 🧪 Metal Doping

☀️ The Effect of Different Dopants (Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, and Ni) on Photocatalytic Properties of ZnO Nanostructures
🗓️ Year: 2020 | 🔍 Cited by: — | 🧪 Photocatalysis | 🔧 Doping Effect | 🌱 Environmental Nanoscience

 

 

Jianhua Zhu | Mineral processing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jianhua Zhu | Mineral processing | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Researcher at Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, China.

🌐 Jianhua Zhu, an accomplished Assistant Researcher at the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), specializes in advanced membrane technologies and deep-sea mineral concentration. Holding a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (2017), Jianhua has significantly contributed to water treatment innovations, focusing on polymeric membranes. His postdoctoral tenure at Nanyang Technological University (2017–2020) enhanced his expertise in antibacterial🌬️ membranes and nanocatalysts. With over 10 SCI publications, Jianhua has established himself as a thought leader, earning accolades like the CAS Outstanding Graduate Award (2017). His ongoing projects drive advancements in sustainable deep-sea mineral extraction and high-performance water filtration membranes, underlining his dedication to addressing global water challenges.

 

Professional Profiles📖

ORCID

Education 🎓

🎓 Jianhua Zhu’s educational journey reflects a strong foundation in chemistry and materials science. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, he pursued a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (2017). His doctoral research focused on the development of polymeric membrane materials for water treatment, a groundbreaking contribution that addressed efficiency and sustainability challenges. Post-Ph.D., Jianhua advanced his expertise during a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at Nanyang Technological University, delving into antibacterial🌬️ membrane technologies and innovative nanocatalyst applications. These educational milestones have equipped him with a robust theoretical and practical understanding of membrane technology and its implications for water treatment and environmental sustainability.

 

Work Experience💼

💼 Jianhua Zhu has amassed diverse experience in research and innovation. At Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, he leads pioneering projects like the Talent Team Program, focusing on advanced membrane technologies and deep-sea mineral concentration. His role involves interdisciplinary collaborations, including partnerships with the Sanya South China Sea Geological Research Institute. Earlier, Jianhua contributed to Nanyang Technological University’s research initiatives, where his work on antibacterial 🌬️membranes found applications in ship ballast water treatment. He has also actively participated in China’s national programs (863/973) and the NSFC. Jianhua’s research portfolio spans antibacterial technologies, sustainable resource utilization, and high-impact polymeric materials, positioning him as a key player in tackling water and environmental challenges.

 

Award and Honors🏅

🏆 Jianhua Zhu’s exemplary work has earned him prestigious accolades. In 2017, he received the CAS Outstanding Graduate Award, recognizing his innovative contributions during his Ph.D. journey. Additionally, he was honored with National Scholarships for his academic excellence and research potential. His pioneering work on membrane materials and nanotechnology has placed him among the top researchers in his field, with 3 first-author publications in CAS Q1-ranked journals. These achievements underscore his dedication to advancing water treatment and resource sustainability technologies.

 

Research Focus 🔍

🔧 Jianhua Zhu’s research revolves around cutting-edge solutions for water treatment and deep-sea mineral concentration. His expertise in polymeric membrane materials has led to innovations like positively charged nanofiltration membranes, enhancing flux and antifouling properties. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, Jianhua aims to develop sustainable technologies for extracting minerals from deep-sea environments,🌧️ bridging gaps between marine resource utilization and environmental conservation. His research outcomes not only contribute to academic knowledge but also offer practical solutions for pressing global challenges.

 

Conclusion ✅

Jianhua Zhu’s exceptional academic record, impactful research contributions, and leadership in national and institutional projects position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. To further strengthen his profile, he could focus on broadening industry collaborations, securing additional patents, and increasing his visibility in professional circles. Nonetheless, his achievements in advancing membrane technology and deep-sea mineral extraction 🌧️are groundbreaking and merit recognition.

📚Publications to Noted

 

Investigation of a Novel Membrane-Based Coupled Process for the Selective Concentration of Mineral Ions from Deep Seawater

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Li Zhang, Jinzhen Huang, Sawen Liu, Guoqiang Lu, Jie Ren, Sheng He

Citations: 15 (as of 2025)

Year: 2025

Antibacterial Ultrafiltration Membrane with Silver Nanoparticle Impregnation by Interfacial Polymerization for Ballast Water

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Aik Chong Lua

Citations: 30

Year: 2021

Preparation and Characterization of an Antibacterial Ultrafiltration Membrane with N-Chloramine Functional Groups

Authors: Shuhua Hou, Xue Dong, Jianhua Zhu, Jifu Zheng, Weihui Bi, Shenghai Li, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 25

Year: 2017

Ultrafiltration Membranes with Tunable Morphology and Performance Prepared by Blending Quaternized Cardo Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone)s Ionomers with Polysulfone

Authors: Chunli Liu, Hongchao Mao, Jianhua Zhu, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 20

Year: 2017

Correlation of the Polymer Hydrophilicity and Membrane Fabrication Process on the Properties of Asymmetric Membranes in a Vapor-Induced Phase-Inversion Process

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Qifeng Zhang, Jifu Zheng, Shuhua Hou, Suobo Zhang, Shenghai Li

Citations: 22

Year: 2017

Ionic Complexing Induced Fabrication of Highly Permeable and Selective Polyacrylic Acid Complexed Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Nanofiltration Membranes for Water Purification

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Jifu Zheng, Chunli Liu, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 40

Year: 2016

Green Fabrication of a Positively Charged Nanofiltration Membrane by Grafting Poly(Ethylene Imine) onto a Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Membrane Containing Tertiary Amine Groups

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Qifeng Zhang, Jifu Zheng, Shuhua Hou, Hongchao Mao, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 35

Year: 2016

High Performance Tetra-Sulfonated Poly(P-Phenylene-Co-Aryl Ether Ketone) Membranes with Microblock Moieties for Passive Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Authors: Jifu Zheng, Weihui Bi, Xue Dong, Jianhua Zhu, Hongchao Mao, Shenghai Li, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 28

Year: 2016

Fabrication of Thin Film Composite Nanofiltration Membranes by Coating Water Soluble Disulfonated Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) and In Situ Crosslinking

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Qifeng Zhang, Shenghai Li, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 32

Year: 2016

Antifouling Ultrafiltration Membrane Fabricated from Poly(Arylene Ether Ketone) Bearing Hydrophilic Hydroxyl Groups

Authors: Jianhua Zhu, Jifu Zheng, Qifeng Zhang, Suobo Zhang

Citations: 29

Year: 2016