Muhammad Mubeen | Anti-Corrosion | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Muhammad Mubeen | Anti-Corrosion | Young Scientist Award

University of Science and Technology of China | China

Dr. Muhammad Mubeen is a highly motivated and accomplished researcher in the field of materials science and engineering, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of Science and Technology of China, following an M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Beijing University of Chemical Technology and a B.Sc. in Metallurgy and Materials Engineering from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan. Mubeen has made significant contributions to corrosion-resistant coatings, nanomaterials, and advanced composite materials, authoring 25 documents with a total of 620 citations and an h-index of 12 according to Scopus. His key publications include studies on anti-corrosion self-healable epoxy coatings reinforced with Guanine-MRS@MoS2 heterostructures, heterostructured melamine resin spheres@GO epoxy composites for automotive applications (Chemical Engineering Journal, 2024), and the development of automated rust detection networks for steel structures (Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, 2025). Mubeen’s research experience spans the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, fabrication of smart coatings for Zn-Al-Mg coated steel, and exploration of Nitinol alloys for biomedical applications. He has also actively engaged in professional internships at Pepsico, Inc., and PECS Industries, contributing to engineering, supply chain, and corporate affairs projects. His accolades include the Chinese Government Scholarship, PEEF Merit-Based Scholarship, and recognition for best research posters and interuniversity leadership. In addition to research, he has volunteered with organizations such as the Edhi Foundation and Bike Angel Association of China, reflecting his commitment to societal impact and STEM outreach.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Murtaza, H., Zhao, J., Tabish, M., Wang, J., Mubeen, M., Zhang, J., & Zhang, S. (2024). Protective and flame-retardant bifunctional epoxy-based nanocomposite coating by intercomponent synergy between modified CaAl-LDH and rGO. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 16(10), 13114–13131.

Mubeen, M., Zhao, J., Tabish, M., Wang, J., Mahmood, M., Murtaza, H., & Jawad, M. (2024). Heterostructured melamine resin Spheres@GO reinforced epoxy composite achieving robust corrosion-resistance of Zn-Al-Mg coated steel for automotive applications. Chemical Engineering Journal, 499, 156070.

Mahmood, M., Mubeen, M., Wang, W., Tabish, M., Murtaza, H., & Jawad, M. (2025). Mechanically robust and self-healing protective coating for Zn-Al-Mg coated steel enhanced by benzotriazole-5 carboxylic acid intercalated MgAlCe ternary LDH. Progress in Organic Coatings, 201, 109107.

Flehan, A., Jinna, L., Tabish, M., Kumar, A., Mohammed, Y. A. Y. A., & Mubeen, M. (2023). Development of anti-corrosion and hydrophobicity of a nanostructured Ce-La film via the PDA post-treatment modification. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 968, 172139.

Khalid, S., Mubeen, M., Tabish, M., Jawad, M., Malik, M. U., Ilyas, H. M. A., & others. (2025). When low-dimensional nanomaterials meet polymers: A promising configuration for flame retardancy and corrosion protection. Chemical Engineering Journal, 515, 163678.

Vipin Kumar Sharma | Advanced Separation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vipin Kumar Sharma | Advanced Separation | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at Indian Institute Of Technology (IIT) Tirupati | India

Dr. Vipin Kumar Sharma is a dedicated and accomplished chemical engineer with a strong academic and professional background. He earned his B.Tech. and M.Tech. in Chemical Engineering with First Class Distinction from SRM University, where he was awarded a Gold Medal and an SRM University Scholarship for academic excellence. He also holds postgraduate diplomas in Health, Safety & Environment and Business Administration from Annamalai University, both with First Class Distinction. Dr. Sharma completed his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati. With over 15 years of professional experience, he has made significant contributions in the fields of heavy vessel design, fertilizer, cement, and uranium processing industries. Currently, he serves as Additional Superintendent (Mill & Safety) at Uranium Corporation of India Limited under the Department of Atomic Energy, where he oversees operations, safety, and regulatory compliance with agencies such as AERB, CPCB, and BARC. His research has been published in several SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, earning accolades such as the Best Paper Award during the Platinum Jubilee Celebration of IIChE (2022), and multiple technical paper awards. He has 4 publications with 5 citations and an h-index of 2, according to his Scopus profile. Dr. Sharma is affiliated with numerous professional bodies including ASME, IEI, IAENG, IFERP, and ISHMT, and serves as an Executive Alumni Member and Board of Studies Member at SRM University and KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Sharma, V. K., Namboori, V. R., Tunga, C. R., & Lankalapalli, K. (2023). Technical modification of alkali leaching circuit to improve slurry throughput into the autoclave. Chandrasekhar, L., Lankalapalli, K., & Sarkar, S. (8).

Sharma, V. K., Thamida, S. K., & Reddy, B. N. K. (2023). Carbonation and modeling study for process liquor in batch mode using flue gas in the mining and mineral processing industry. Chemical Papers, 11(4), 1–17.

Sharma, L. R. V. K. (2019). Case study of air quality at Tummalapalle Mill and effective actions for improvement. In 36th DAE Safety & Occupational Health Professional Meet organised by Nuclear… (7*).

Sharma, V. K., Thamida, S. K., & Reddy, B. N. K. (2023). Engineering study of water jacket system in place of a spiral heat exchanger at mining and mineral ore processing industry. European Chemical Bulletin, 12(7), 1507–1512.

Sharma, V. K. (2020). Effective use of LDO fired boiler flue gas in carbonation of process liquor at alkali leaching based Tummalapalle Mill. Singhania University, District Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, India. (5).

Qi Shi | Refractory Metals | Best Researcher Award

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Qi Shi | Refractory metals | Best Researcher Award

Senior Engineer at Ningbo University of Technology | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Shi is a distinguished researcher in materials science with a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Technology from Loughborough University, UK. Since returning to China, he has focused on the R&D of near-net-shape technologies, including advanced metal powders, powder metallurgy, and additive manufacturing. His pioneering work in radio-frequency (RF) plasma spheroidization of refractory metals has achieved breakthroughs in stable feeding technology for ultrafine powders, enabling consistent feeding and effective dispersion of low-density powders. He has also developed ultrasonic-fluidized bed wet classification methods for efficient micro-nano powder separation, leading to the production and commercialization of low-oxygen tantalum powder, ultrafine tungsten powder, and ultra-high hardness cast tungsten carbide powder. His research extends to metal additive manufacturing and post-processing, where he has advanced powder suitability evaluation and clarified the role of powder characteristics in selective laser melting (SLM). Through hot isostatic pressing and high-pressure heat treatment, he has enhanced strength–toughness synergy and significantly improved high-cycle fatigue performance in stainless steel, tantalum, and tungsten. Qi Shi has led five major government-funded projects, securing over RMB three million, and contributed to more than ten additional national and regional initiatives. He has published 35 academic papers in prestigious journals such as Additive Manufacturing, Materials Science and Engineering: A, and Journal of Materials Research and Technology, including 15 as first or corresponding author. According to his Scopus profile, he has more than 356 citations and an h-index of 13. He has also applied for 21 patents (15 granted), contributed to national standards, authored professional books, and received multiple awards, including the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Science and Technology Award (Second Prize) and the National Technical Standard Excellence Award (First Prize).

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Shi, Q., Li, D., Du, W., Wu, A., & others. (2024). Improved mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of laser powder bed fused tungsten by using hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 2

Pu, Y., Zhao, D., Liu, B., Shi, Q., & others. (2024). Microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of Ti-25Ta alloy fabricated by selective laser melting and hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 1

Xu, J., Chen, H., Shi, Q., Liu, X., & others. (2024). Interdiffusion mechanism of hybrid interfacial layers for enhanced electrical resistivity and ultralow loss in Fe-based nanocrystalline soft magnetic composites. Cited by: 3

Qin, F., Shi, Q., Zhou, G., Wen, J., & others. (2024). Simultaneously enhanced strength and plasticity of laser powder bed fused tantalum by hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 2

Qin, F., Shi, Q., Zhou, G., Yao, D., & others. (2023). Influence of powder particle size distribution on microstructure and mechanical properties of 17-4 PH stainless steel fabricated by selective laser melting. Cited by: 14

Michele Greque De Morais | Hydrothermal Synthesis | Breakthrough Research Award

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Michele Greque De Morais | Hydrothermal Synthesis | Breakthrough Research Award

Research scholar at Federal University of Rio Grande |  Brazil

Prof. Dr. Michele Greque de Morais is a distinguished scholar at the Federal University of Rio Grande, recognized for her pioneering research in food engineering, biotechnology, and nanobiotechnology. She earned her degrees in Food Science and Engineering at FURG, complemented by international academic experiences at Philipps-Universität Marburg in Germany, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the University of California, San Diego. Her scientific output is extensive, with over 150 peer-reviewed journal articles, 56 book chapters, 58 published books, and more than 200 conference papers. She has also contributed significantly to innovation with 27 patents and the development of 13 technological products. According to Scopus, she has authored 185 indexed works, accumulating 7246 citations with a robust h-index of 47, reflecting the global impact and recognition of her research contributions. Beyond academia, she has led 33 completed and 23 ongoing research projects, partnered with industries in 16 consultancy projects, and played key roles in national and international collaborations focused on sustainable development, microalgae-based bioproducts, and carbon biofixation technologies. Her editorial leadership includes serving as Associate Editor for Bioresource Technology. She has supervised numerous graduate and postgraduate students, shaping future generations of researchers, and has been recognized among the world’s most influential scientists by PLOS Biology. Through her dedication to advancing sustainable bioprocesses, food security, and biotechnology applications, Professor Michele Greque de Morais has established herself as a leading researcher with a profound impact on both scientific knowledge and societal development

Pofile: Scopus |  ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publication

De Morais, M. G., & Costa, J. A. V. (2007). Biofixation of carbon dioxide by Spirulina sp. and Scenedesmus obliquus cultivated in a three-stage serial tubular photobioreactor. Journal of Biotechnology, 129(3), 439–445.

De Morais, M. G., Vaz, B. S., De Morais, E. G., & Costa, J. A. V. (2015). Biologically active metabolites synthesized by microalgae. BioMed Research International, 2015(1), 835761.

De Morais, M. G., & Costa, J. A. V. (2007). Isolation and selection of microalgae from coal-fired thermoelectric power plant for biofixation of carbon dioxide. Energy Conversion and Management, 48(7), 2169–2173.

De Morais, M. G., & Costa, J. A. V. (2007). Carbon dioxide fixation by Chlorella kessleri, C. vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus and Spirulina sp. cultivated in flasks and vertical tubular photobioreactors. Biotechnology Letters, 29(9), 1349–1352.

Costa, J. A. V., & De Morais, M. G. (2011). The role of biochemical engineering in the production of biofuels from microalgae. Bioresource Technology, 102(1), 2–9.

da Silva Vaz, B., Moreira, J. B., De Morais, M. G., & Costa, J. A. V. (2016). Microalgae as a new source of bioactive compounds in food supplements. Current Opinion in Food Science, 7, 73–77.

Huajie Luo | Thermal Crystal | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo | Thermal Crystal | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Science and Technology Beijing | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo is an accomplished researcher and associate professor at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, specializing in the design, structure, and performance regulation of ferroelectric ceramics and thin films. With over 60 published papers in high-impact journals, including Nature Communications, Science Advances, JACS, and Angewandte Chemie, he has made significant contributions to energy storage materials and piezoelectric technologies. His expertise spans from macroscopic electrostrain and energy density to atomic-level structural evolution using advanced synchrotron XRD, neutron diffraction, and total scattering techniques. Over the years, Dr. Luo has developed a strong profile in multi-scale crystal structure analysis and has been instrumental in unveiling mechanisms that enhance piezoelectric and energy storage performance in lead-free ceramics. With multiple national invention patents and recognition for his innovative contributions, Dr. Luo stands at the forefront of advancing sustainable and high-performance functional materials for energy applications.

Professional Profile

ORCID | Scopus

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo pursued his higher education at the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB), where he embarked on a rigorous academic journey in materials science. He earned both his master’s and doctoral degrees in Physical Chemistry, with research focusing on the fundamental mechanisms and performance optimization of ferroelectric ceramics. His doctoral training emphasized advanced characterization techniques, including synchrotron XRD, neutron diffraction, and inverse Monte Carlo analysis, which allowed him to link structural evolution with macroscopic material properties. Following this, he undertook a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at USTB’s Department of Physical Chemistry  where he deepened his research on high-performance electroceramics and functional thin films. His strong educational background not only provided him with profound theoretical knowledge but also with highly practical experimental skills, positioning him as a promising scholar and innovator in crystallography, energy storage materials, and piezoelectric systems.

Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo’s professional career reflects a steady progression through advanced academic and research roles at the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB). After completing his doctoral studies, he became a postdoctoral researcher at USTB’s Department of Physical Chemistry, where he contributed to national-level projects focused on ferroelectric ceramics, synchrotron radiation analysis, and electrochemical energy storage. He was appointed associate professor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, USTB. His role includes leading independent research projects, mentoring graduate students, and collaborating internationally on energy storage and structural design studies. Dr. Luo has also participated in major research programs such as China’s Key Research and Development initiatives, serving as both project leader and key contributor. His broad professional experience integrates materials chemistry, structural crystallography, and electroceramic design, providing both academic and industrial sectors with impactful solutions for energy storage, environmental sustainability, and next-generation materials innovation.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo has received multiple recognitions for his outstanding contributions to materials science and engineering. He was selected for China’s prestigious 7th Postdoctoral Innovative Talent Program, an initiative by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security to support promising young scientists. He was named Outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, reflecting his exceptional contributions during his fellowship. He also earned the Wiley China High Contribution Author Award acknowledging the global impact of his research publications. Additionally, Dr. Luo was invited to join the Youth Editorial Board of Microstructures, highlighting his reputation as a rising leader in crystallography and electroceramics. His academic achievements are complemented by recognition in international conferences, where his oral and poster presentations have received attention in Japan, China, and global forums, solidifying his status as an innovative and influential researcher.

Research Focus

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo’s research centers on the design, structural analysis, and performance optimization of ferroelectric ceramics and thin films. His work emphasizes regulating macroscopic properties such as electrostrain and energy storage by tailoring multi-scale crystal structures. Using advanced techniques like synchrotron X-ray diffraction, neutron scattering, and total scattering analysis, he investigates the evolution of both short- and long-range structures to reveal the mechanisms behind high piezoelectricity and capacitive energy storage. Dr. Luo has made significant breakthroughs in achieving giant electrostrain in lead-free piezoelectrics and developing high-efficiency energy storage ceramics, with results published in top-tier journals including Science Advances, JACS, and Angewandte Chemie. His research not only provides new scientific insights but also proposes practical solutions for sustainable energy storage materials. By bridging fundamental crystallography with applied materials design, Dr. Luo aims to contribute to cleaner, greener energy systems while pushing the boundaries of functional materials innovation.

Publication top Notes

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huajie Luo is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, given his impressive publication record, patents, and contributions to the understanding and development of lead-free ferroelectric ceramics with high electrostrain and energy storage properties. His research shows both academic depth and industrial applicability, making him a strong candidate. With expanded international collaborations and broader societal engagement, his impact could become even more profound.

 

Oriol Gavalda Diaz | Micromechanics | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda Diaz | Micromechanics | Best Researcher Award

Imperial College London | United Kingdom

Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz is a materials scientist whose research bridges advanced ceramics, fracture mechanics, and structural composites. His work focuses on pushing the limits of mechanical performance by combining experimental micromechanics with state-of-the-art characterisation methods. Through his leadership, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of fracture processes at micro, nano, and atomic scales, establishing new pathways to engineer tougher structural and functional ceramics. His academic journey has been shaped by training in aerospace and materials engineering, leading to his role as a lecturer in ceramics at Imperial College London. He has held research positions at leading institutions, collaborated with industrial partners, and built strong networks across academia and industry. Beyond research, he has contributed to education, outreach, and mentorship, inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. With more than two dozen publications and patents, his work reflects both academic excellence and industrial relevance.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz pursued his academic path across leading European institutions, beginning with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya in Barcelona. He then specialized further with a master’s degree in aerospace engineering, focusing on structures and materials, from the Université de Bordeaux in France. Building on this foundation, he completed his doctoral studies in manufacturing and materials engineering at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom. His PhD research combined advanced micromechanical testing and characterisation of structural ceramics and composites, guided by internationally recognized experts in the field. This educational trajectory provided him with an integrated understanding of both the theoretical and applied aspects of aerospace structures, materials design, and ceramic composites. His cross-disciplinary academic formation positioned him to develop novel experimental methods, address complex material challenges, and lead high-impact research in fracture mechanics, ceramics, and composite structures.

Experience

Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz has developed a dynamic academic career that spans postdoctoral research, independent fellowship positions, and a lectureship at Imperial College London. His early postdoctoral research centered on micromechanical testing and in-situ characterisation, enabling breakthroughs in the understanding of ceramic and composite fracture processes. He later secured a transitional assistant professorship at the University of Nottingham, supported by competitive fellowship funding, where he led independent projects on fracture mechanics and ceramic composites. Returning to Imperial College London, he took on the role of lecturer in ceramics within the Department of Materials, where he now directs a growing research group equipped with advanced in-situ testing facilities. His teaching portfolio includes undergraduate and postgraduate courses in fracture mechanics, surfaces and interfaces, and structural ceramics. He has also supervised multiple doctoral and master’s students, guiding them through projects funded by both national research councils and industrial collaborations.

Awards and Honors

Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz has received several notable fellowships and recognitions that highlight his academic leadership and research excellence. Among them is the prestigious Transitional Assistant Professor Fellowship, awarded through the EPSRC Composites Manufacturing Hub, which provided long-term support for independent research at the University of Nottingham. He was also offered the María Zambrano Fellowship from the Spanish government, acknowledging his international standing as an early-career researcher. His invited talks at major international conferences, including gatherings organized by the European Ceramic Society, UCSB, and the International Ceramics Congress, have further reinforced his reputation as a leading expert in ceramics and fracture mechanics. In addition, he has been entrusted with organizing conferences and summer schools, such as the CASC Summer School in Ceramics, reflecting his strong role in scientific community building. His contributions are widely recognized by peers, journals, and institutions across the field of materials science.

Research Focus

The research of Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz centers on advancing the mechanical performance of ceramics and ceramic composites by developing innovative experimental testing and characterisation techniques. His vision is rooted in understanding fracture across multiple length scales, from atomic-level mechanisms to structural behavior. By employing advanced in-situ methods in optical, SEM, and TEM platforms, his group investigates crack-tip behavior, interfacial fracture, and thermomechanical degradation. His work not only advances fundamental scientific knowledge but also has direct industrial applications, particularly in aerospace, energy, and structural engineering. He collaborates extensively with industry partners to explore repair, healing, and performance optimization of ceramic composites under extreme conditions. With over 28 publications in leading journals, his research combines rigorous scientific inquiry with practical relevance. He also places strong emphasis on training the next generation of researchers, embedding mentorship, teaching, and sustainability into his research program.

Publication top Notes

The new challenges of machining Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs): Review of surface integrity
Cited by: 356
Year: 2019

State-of-the-art of surface integrity in machining of metal matrix composites
Cited by: 249
Year: 2019

Grain refinement mechanism of nickel-based superalloy by severe plastic deformation–mechanical machining case
Cited by: 178
Year: 2019

Towards understanding the cutting and fracture mechanism in ceramic matrix composites
Cited by: 125
Year: 2017

On understanding the microstructure of SiC/SiC Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) after a material removal process
Cited by: 113
Year: 2019

Real-time insight into the multistage mechanism of nanoparticle exsolution from a perovskite host surface
Cited by: 43
Year: 2023

Precursor engineering of hydrotalcite-derived redox sorbents for reversible and stable thermochemical oxygen storage
Cited by: 42
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Assist. Prof. Dr. Oriol Gavalda-Diaz is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. His strong record of publications, successful acquisition of competitive grants, and demonstrated leadership in both academic and industrial collaborations place him among the most promising researchers in advanced materials. His combination of scientific excellence, mentorship, and community engagement aligns perfectly with the award’s vision to honor impactful and innovative researchers. With further expansion into broader interdisciplinary and international arenas, his influence on the future of materials science is set to grow even stronger.