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

Raghukumar Bommenahalli | Mechanical Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

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Raghukumar Bommenahalli | Mechanical Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Prinicipal Engineer at DEKRA Certification, Inc. | United States

Mr. Raghukumar Bommenahalli is a seasoned mechanical engineer with over two decades of industrial experience specializing in zero-emission transportation and energy infrastructure. Currently serving as Principal Engineer at DEKRA Certification Inc., he leads the Vehicle Innovation Grid Lab (ViGIL) and ADAS Data Collection Program, advancing California’s clean transportation initiatives through rigorous EV and EVSE testing, standards compliance, and interoperability validation. Prior to this, he was Program Manager for Codes and Standards at Nikola Motor Corporation, where he guided regulatory compliance and standards development for battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles, including cybersecurity frameworks and ADAS integration for heavy-duty trucks. His earlier role at Cummins Inc. as Codes and Standards Compliance Leader saw him authoring 40+ validation plans across UL, CSA, IEC, and EN standards while pioneering hydrogen fuel cell and BEV compliance programs. Raghukumar has also contributed to major engineering projects in roles with TAAL Technologies, Creative Synergies Group, Toyo Denki Power Systems, and Cummins Generator Technologies. He is actively involved in global standards development as a voting member on multiple SAE task forces and as Co-Chair of the CharIN NACI Task Force. With a strong academic foundation that includes an Executive Master’s in Engineering Management from St. Cloud State University, a Master’s in Machine Design, and a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University, he complements his technical expertise with certifications such as PMP, DFSS, and internal auditing. In addition to his leadership in compliance, testing, and certification, he contributes as a peer reviewer for leading journals, organizes technical conferences, and holds a registered design patent in EV charging efficiency.

Pofile: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publication

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Effect of nickel on the mechanical properties of spray-formed Al-15Si-2Cu alloy at elevated temperatures. Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Computing device for enhancing charging efficiency in electric vehicle [Patent]. UK Intellectual Property Office.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Fuel cell Class 8 trucks: Pioneering the path to sustainable heavy transportation. Website article.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Navigating the future: Innovations reshaping the EV charging landscape. International Business Times.

Zewen Li | Nickel Slag | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Zewen Li | Nickel Slag | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology | China

Mr. Zewen Li is a dedicated researcher at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, specializing in sustainable metallurgical processes. His work focuses on the resource utilization of metallurgical solid waste, particularly in the reductive recovery and diversified application of nickel slag. With a strong passion for green metallurgy, Zewen has contributed to advancing environmentally friendly approaches to metal recovery while exploring new uses for industrial by-products. His academic endeavors include authoring impactful publications, such as a review in Minerals Engineering that highlights the extraction of valuable metals and the potential of nickel slag in various material applications. Zewen is committed to integrating scientific research with industrial practice to promote circular economy principles and reduce environmental impact. As a young professional, he strives to advance metallurgical innovation, aiming to develop cleaner, safer, and more efficient technologies for the sustainable management of critical resources.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Mr. Zewen Li pursued his higher education at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, where he developed a strong foundation in metallurgical engineering. His academic training emphasized the theoretical and applied aspects of metallurgy, with particular attention to solid waste resource recovery and sustainable metal extraction. During his studies, he actively engaged in research projects centered on the utilization of nickel slag, gaining expertise in analyzing its physical and chemical properties, as well as its potential for industrial reuse. His education provided him with a deep understanding of chemical thermodynamics, extractive metallurgy, and material characterization techniques. Through rigorous coursework, laboratory work, and collaborative projects, Zewen honed his ability to integrate scientific knowledge with practical industrial applications. This educational background not only equipped him with specialized knowledge in non-ferrous metallurgy but also cultivated his research-oriented mindset, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to the growing field of sustainable metallurgical processes.

Experience

Mr. Zewen Li’s professional and research experience has centered on the efficient recovery and sustainable utilization of metallurgical solid waste, with a strong focus on nickel slag. At Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, he has undertaken significant research projects, including his notable publication “Diversified Utilization of Nickel Slag: A Review” in Minerals Engineering. His work systematically analyzed methods of extracting valuable metals such as iron, nickel, cobalt, and copper from nickel slag and investigated applications in gelling materials, glass ceramics, and material-related industries. Beyond laboratory research, Zewen has contributed to understanding the broader implications of waste valorization in metallurgical industries by reviewing and proposing strategies for combining nickel slag recovery with battery recycling and secondary waste management. His experience reflects both technical expertise and innovative thinking in sustainable metallurgy. This professional trajectory highlights his commitment to addressing environmental challenges and developing efficient, eco-friendly solutions for industrial waste management.

Research Focus

Mr. Zewen Li’s research is primarily focused on the sustainable utilization of metallurgical solid waste, with particular emphasis on nickel slag. His work aims to explore the dual goals of resource recovery and environmental protection by investigating eco-friendly processes for extracting valuable metals such as Fe, Ni, Co, and Cu. He is also deeply interested in the potential applications of nickel slag in materials science, including its use in gelling agents, glass ceramics, and construction materials. His studies address both the theoretical mechanisms, including leaching, weathering process strengthening, and solvent extraction, and the practical industrial feasibility of these methods. Additionally, he considers the integration of nickel slag recycling with other waste management systems, such as battery recycling and secondary waste utilization, thereby contributing to broader strategies of sustainable resource management. His research reflects a holistic view of metallurgy, balancing technological innovation with environmental responsibility to promote circular economy practices.

Publication top Notes

Title: Diversified Utilization of Nickel Slag: A Review

Year: 2025

Conclusion

Mr. Zewen Li’s research demonstrates a commendable commitment to addressing pressing environmental and industrial challenges through sustainable metallurgical practices. His focused work on the comprehensive utilization of nickel slag reflects both academic insight and awareness of real-world applications. While his current achievements illustrate strong potential and emerging expertise, the scope and maturity of his portfolio are still developing. For the Best Researcher Award, which typically honors individuals with a sustained record of impactful innovations and broader academic leadership, further scholarly contributions and practical implementations would enhance his competitiveness. Nonetheless, his trajectory indicates significant promise, and he stands out as a valuable contributor to the next generation of metallurgical researchers, well-suited for early-career recognition and future leadership in the field.

Sarkawt Hamad | Heat Treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sarkawt Hamad | Heat Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Head of Scientific Development at University Hospital of Cologne, Germany.

Dr. Sarkawt Hamad is a leading researcher specializing in cardiac tissue engineering and stem cell technology 🧬. He is currently the Head of Scientific Development at the Marga-and-Walter-Boll-Laboratory, University of Cologne. With a passion for interdisciplinary health sciences 🌐, Dr. Hamad has made groundbreaking contributions to regenerative medicine and cell replacement therapies 🧪. His professional journey reflects his dedication to bridging basic science 🧫 and clinical applications 🩺, positioning him as a visionary leader in his field 🌟.

 

Professional Profiles📖

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Hamad earned his Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences 🧠 at the University of Cologne 🇩🇪 (2020), achieving magna cum laude 🌟 under Dr. Kurt Pfannkuche’s supervision. He completed his master’s in animal physiology 🦴 at Salahaddin University 🇮🇶 (2013), guided by Professor Dr. Ismail Maulood. His academic journey began with a bachelor’s in biology 🧬 (2007) and a baccalaureate of science 🎓 from Rwandz High School in Kurdistan (2003). Dr. Hamad’s education highlights his commitment to academic excellence 🏆, laying the foundation for his contributions to cardiac tissue engineering ❤️.

Professional Experience💼

Dr. Hamad’s career includes serving as Head of Scientific Development 🏢 at the University of Cologne 🇩🇪 (2025–present). He was a PostDoc research fellow 🧪 (2020–2025) and held a postdoctoral fellowship offer from Harvard Medical School 🇺🇸 (2024). Earlier roles include scientist 🧫 and assistant scientist (2017–2020) at the University of Cologne, and lecturer/researcher 🎓 (2013–2016) at Soran University 🇮🇶. He also managed private businesses 🏗️ in education and accounting during 2007–2010. His diverse professional journey blends research, teaching, and leadership 🌟.

Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Hamad’s research focuses on cardiac tissue engineering, human iPS cell-derived organoids 🧬, and stem cell signaling pathways 🔗. His work involves creating scalable cell culture systems for clinical applications 🏥. Integrating advanced bioengineering 🧪 and regenerative medicine, he addresses challenges in treating heart diseases. His interdisciplinary approach combines biology 🧫, physiology 🦴, and engineering 🔧, fostering innovative solutions for healthcare 🩺.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hamad’s accolades include the “Science Talent for Future” grant in 2023 🌟 and the Great Initiative Mind Award 🏅 at the Dubai Stem Cell Congress 🇦🇪 in 2024. In 2025, he was honored for his role in developing stem cell and regenerative medicine guidelines 🩺. These recognitions reflect his contributions to global health 🌍 and groundbreaking advancements in regenerative medicine 🧪.

Conclusion ✅

Dr. Sarkawt Hamad is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His robust academic foundation, innovative research, and leadership demonstrate exceptional merit. Addressing the suggested areas could further enhance his already impressive contributions to the scientific community.

Publications to Noted📚

Title: Generation of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes in 2D monolayer and scalable 3D suspension bioreactor cultures with reduced batch-to-batch variations

Authors: S. Hamad, D. Derichsweiler, S. Papadopoulos, F. Nguemo, T. Šarić, …

Citations: 86

Year: 2019

Title: Acid-sensitive ion channels are expressed in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes

Authors: X. H. Zhang, T. Šarić, N. Z. Mehrjardi, S. Hamad, M. Morad

Citations: 18

Year: 2019

Title: High-efficient serum-free differentiation of endothelial cells from human iPS cells

Authors: S. Hamad, D. Derichsweiler, J. A. Gaspar, K. Brockmeier, J. Hescheler, …

Citations: 16

Year: 2022

Title: Cigarette smoking risks on blood indices and liver enzymes of male and female smokers in Kurdistan, Iraq

Authors: P. O. Husen, R. A. Ahmed, K. M. Ahmed, I. D. Abdulla, H. M. Ayub, S. H. Hamad

Citations: 14

Year: 2015

Title: Engineering of cardiac microtissues by microfluidic cell encapsulation in thermoshrinking non-crosslinked PNIPAAm gels

Authors: P. Jahn, R. K. Karger, S. S. Khalaf, S. Hamad, G. Peinkofer, R. G. A. Sahito, …

Citations: 11

Year: 2022

Title: In Vitro Grown Micro-Tissues for Cardiac Cell Replacement Therapy in Vivo

Authors: R. G. A. Sahito, X. Sheng, M. Maass, N. Mikhael, S. Hamad, C. O. Heras-Bautista, …

Citations: 10

Year: 2019

Title: Salicylic diamines selectively eliminate residual undifferentiated cells from pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte preparations

Authors: K. Burkert, H. Taheri, S. Hamad, M. Oliverio, G. Peinkofer, J. W. Kornfeld, …

Citations: 3

Year: 2021

Title: Histological interfaces of liver, kidney, and cerebrum in male rats exposed to fluoxetine

Authors: S. H. Hamad, D. H. Hassan, K. H. Rasul, N. M. Mahmood

Citations: 3

Year: 2016

Title: Effect of Testosterone on Lead Acetate Toxicity in Male Albino Rats

Authors: N. M. S. Mahmood, S. H. A. Hamad, D. H. Hassan, K. I. Othman

Citations: 2

Year: 2017

Zhe Wang | Metallurgical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Zhe Wang | Metallurgical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Science and Technology Beijing, China

Zhe Wang is a professor at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. His academic journey, marked by extensive research in metallurgical engineering, began with a Ph.D. from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Since 2016, he has been a dedicated contributor to advancing recycling technologies for critical metals. With a focus on innovative solutions to supply security risks and environmental challenges, Dr. Wang’s work has significantly impacted industrial practices. His methods, such as supergravity-enhanced separation and matte smelting for lithium-ion batteries, are transformative, earning recognition from prestigious organizations. A prolific author and inventor, he holds multiple patents and has published over 43 SCI-indexed papers. His leadership extends to editorial roles and professional committees, fostering collaboration in the metallurgical community.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Wang’s educational foundation is deeply rooted in metallurgical engineering. He earned his doctoral degree (2012-2015) from the University of Wollongong, where he delved into innovative recycling methods for metal resources. His Ph.D. thesis focused on the molten separation of metals and related electrochemical processes. Prior to that, he pursued foundational studies in materials science, developing a profound understanding of alloy behaviors and high-temperature reactions. His academic pursuits emphasized practical applications, paving the way for his later industrial collaborations. This strong theoretical grounding underpins his current research, as he continues to educate future leaders in metallurgy at the University of Science and Technology Beijing.

Work Experience💼

Dr. Wang‘s professional career spans over a decade of impactful contributions to metallurgical research and education. From his initial role as an Associate Research Fellow at the University of Wollongong, he transitioned to teaching and research positions at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. Serving as a Lecturer (2016–2018), Associate Professor (2018–2024), and now as Professor, he has led numerous projects funded by national foundations and industry partners. His work bridges academia and industry, driving innovation in metal recycling technologies. His hands-on approach to research has resulted in industrial implementations with significant cost and efficiency benefits.

Research Focus

Dr. Wang specializes in high-value recycling of critical metal resources, tackling challenges in supply chain security and sustainability. His pioneering approaches, including supergravity-assisted separation and electrochemical methods, emphasize efficiency and scalability. His focus extends to recycling low-melting-point metals, refining titanium and zirconium through stable electrolytes, and developing smelting processes for precious metals. His research integrates theoretical insights and practical applications, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial utility.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Wang‘s achievements have been celebrated with numerous awards. Among these, the First Prize in the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Technological Invention Award (2022) stands out for his advancements in molten salt electrorefining. His contributions to supergravity-enhanced technologies have also been supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. As a recognized leader, he serves on editorial boards and professional committees, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work’s industrial impact has earned accolades from organizations such as Baosteel and Shougang Group.

Conclusion✅

Dr. Zhe Wang exemplifies the qualities of a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His pioneering work in high-value recycling of critical metals, combined with a track record of impactful publications, patents, and industrial applications, underscores his significant contributions to science and industry. Addressing minor areas for improvement, such as increasing global collaboration and interdisciplinary engagement, could further elevate his already stellar profile. Dr. Wang’s innovative research and dedication make him a strong contender for this prestigious recognition.

📚Publications to Noted

 

Extraction and recovery of rare earth elements from NdFeB waste using bismuth reinforced by supergravity

Authors: Z. Wang, Zhenxiang Zhang, Long Meng, Chunjiang Li, Zhancheng GuCitations: 0

Year: 2024

Sustainable recycling of pure aluminum from waste chips under supergravity-enhanced separation: A cleaning process

Authors: Bolin Sun, Lei Guo, Z. Wang, Xi Lan, Zhancheng Guo

Year: 2024

Preparation of SiC/Al composite material by supergravity infiltration method and its properties

Authors: Yuan Li, Z. Wang, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 6

Year: 2024

Grade-preserving recycling of highly polluted Al-Mg-Si alloys scrap: Continuous filtration under supergravity-induced

Authors: Bolin Sun, Xi Lan, Z. Wang, Ningjie Sun, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 1

Year: 2024

Weak Electrostatic Force on K+ in Gel Polymer Electrolyte Realizes High Ion Transference Number for Quasi Solid-State Potassium Ion Batteries

Authors: Huize Yang, Wei Wang, Zheng Huang, Shufeng Yang, Shuqiang Jiao

Citations: 12

Year: 2024

The fundamental research on suspended dross in hot dip Al–Zn galvanising process

Authors: Rensheng Chu, Z. Wang, Ningjie Sun, Chengliang Xu, Zhancheng Guo

Year: 2024

CFD simulation and water model experiments with overflow-type supergravity reactor set up for continuously removing inclusions from aluminum melt

Authors: Z. Wang, Qilong Wei, Meng Hu, Zhancheng GuoCitations: 0

Year: 2024

Effect of Al2O3/SiO2 mass ratio and CaO content on viscosity and structure of slag for pyrometallurgical processing of spent automotive catalysts

Authors: Z. Wang, Qilong Wei, Chengbin Shi, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 5

Year: 2024

Insight into compositional dependence of thermophysical properties and structure of Al2O3-SiO2-CaF2-CaO-Li2O melts

Authors: Xiuxiu Wan, Z. Wang, Jian Yang, Chengbin Shi

Citations: 5

Year: 2024

Review—Preparation of Hafnium Metal by Electrolysis

Authors: Ranran Wei, Zheng Huang, Tianwei Wei, Z. Wang, Shuqiang Jiao

Citations: 2

Year: 2024