Nowsheenah Farooq | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nowsheenah Farooq | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Jamia Millia Islamia | India

Dr. Nowsheenah Farooq is an accomplished chemist, researcher, and dynamic LLM Trainer and Subject Matter Expert at Turing, whose expertise spans both the scientific and technological domains. She combines her advanced understanding of chemistry with data-driven model evaluation to fine-tune large language models for real-world performance. Before joining Turing, she served as a Chemistry Lecturer at Wular Valley College of Education, where she played a pivotal role in academic instruction, laboratory supervision, and student mentorship. Her technical expertise encompasses a broad range of analytical instrumentation including FTIR, UV-Vis, PXRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, TGA, and Raman, supported by strong proficiency in software such as Origin, ChemDraw, and SciFinder. Her research contributions are reflected through multiple impactful publications in leading international journals, including J. Mater. Chem. A, J. Mol. Liq., Chem. Eng. J., ACS Appl. Polym. Mater., ACS Appl. Eng. Mater., Tetrahedron, and ChemistrySelect, as well as insightful book chapters in Photoinduced Synthesis of Nanoparticles and Medicinal Plant Mediated Nanoparticles published by Wiley. Her scholarly works focus on the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials, green chemistry innovations, and sustainable material design. She has also contributed to the field through a notable book chapter on Green Synthesis of Nanomaterials, highlighting her commitment to environmentally conscious scientific development. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Jamia Millia Islamia and prior degrees from Aligarh Muslim University and Bhagwant University, she has continuously demonstrated academic excellence. Her active participation in national and international conferences, poster presentations, and seminars reflects her dedication to collaborative learning and scientific outreach. Recognized with an ACS cover page mention, Dr. Farooq exemplifies the modern researcher—bridging chemistry, education, and artificial intelligence with innovation, integrity, and purpose.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Farooq, N., Taha, A., & Hashmi, A. A. (n.d.). Facile synthesis of a nitrogen-rich covalent organic framework for the efficient capture of iodine. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 12(17), 10539–10553.

Taha, A., Farooq, N., Singh, N., & Hashmi, A. A. (n.d.). Recent developments in Schiff base centered optical and chemical sensors for metal ion recognition. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 401, 124678.

Farooq, N., Malik, M. A., & Hashmi, A. A. (n.d.). Hydrothermal synthesis of melamine-based porous organic polymer for the advanced adsorption of iodine. Chemical Engineering Journal, 498, 154894.

Farooq, N., Malik, M. A., & Hashmi, A. A. (n.d.). Effective iodine adsorption and storage of volatile iodine by nitrogen-rich porous organic polymers from flexible building blocks. ACS Applied Polymer Materials.

Taha, A., Singh, N., Farooq, N., & Hashmi, A. A. (n.d.). Facile synthesis of Schiff base palladium (II) complex for efficient catalytic reduction of aromatic nitro compounds and organic dyes for wastewater remediation. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 426, 127343.

Devagi Kanakaraju | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju is a Malaysian chemist and educator dedicated to the advancement of sustainable environmental practices through science and education. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry from James Cook University, Australia, she has established herself as a prominent researcher and academic leader at UNIMAS. Her contributions to both research and pedagogy have earned her numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Malaysian Australian Alumni Council and multiple innovation medals at national and university expos. She continues to drive impact through research excellence, innovative teaching, and academic leadership.

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scholar

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry, James Cook University, Australia – 2014

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) – 2005

  • M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia – 2003

  • B.Sc. Ed (Hons) in Chemistry, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia – 2000

👨‍🔬 Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju is an academic with over two decades of experience in higher education, currently serving as Deputy Director at the Centre for Academic Development and Management at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Since joining UNIMAS in 2003, she has held various leadership and academic positions, including Program Coordinator at the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology (2015–2017, 2019–2023). She has contributed significantly to curriculum innovation, teaching excellence, and academic management. She began her professional career as a Publishing Editor at Penerbitan Pelangi Sdn Bhd (2002–2003). Dr. Kanakaraju is also an active member of the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, the American Chemical Society, and the Malaysian Young Chemists Network.

🔍 Research Interest

Dr. Kanakaraju’s research spans across Environmental Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, and Analytical Chemistry. Her work focuses on water and wastewater treatment, photocatalysis, green chemistry, and the development of novel composite materials for environmental remediation. She is particularly known for innovations like the “Capture and Break (Cab)” and “DARe-CP” photocatalyst systems for dye and waste degradation. Her multidisciplinary research integrates chemistry, environmental science, and sustainability.

📚 Publications 

  • Kanakaraju, D., Anak Kutiang, F.D., Lim, Y.C., Goh, P.S.
    “Recent progress of Ag/TiO₂ photocatalyst for wastewater treatment: Doping, co-doping, and green materials functionalization”
    Applied Materials Today, Volume 27, 101500 (2022)
    📈 Citations: 121
    🔬 This paper reviews cutting-edge advancements in Ag/TiO₂ photocatalysts, highlighting the role of metal/non-metal doping, co-doping, and eco-friendly functionalization techniques to enhance photocatalytic efficiency for wastewater treatment.

  • Kanakaraju, D., Ravichandar, S., Lim, Y.C.
    “Combined effects of adsorption and photocatalysis by hybrid TiO₂/ZnO-calcium alginate beads for the removal of copper”
    Journal of Environmental Sciences, Volume 55, pp. 214–223 (2017)
    📈 Citations: 116
    🧪 This study explores a dual-function hybrid bead system incorporating TiO₂/ZnO and calcium alginate, capable of simultaneously adsorbing and degrading copper ions from aqueous systems, paving the way for multifunctional treatment technologies.

  • Kanakaraju, D., Chandrasekaran, A.
    “Recent advances in TiO₂/ZnS-based binary and ternary photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants”
    Science of the Total Environment, Volume 868, 161525 (2023)
    📈 Citations: 105
    🧫 A comprehensive review of TiO₂/ZnS photocatalyst systems, this article details their mechanisms, synthesis techniques, and potential in degrading persistent organic pollutants through advanced photocatalytic reactions.

  • Al-Sharqi, A., Apun, K., Vincent, M., Kanakaraju, D., Bilung, L.M.
    “Enhancement of the antibacterial efficiency of silver nanoparticles against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria using blue laser light”
    International Journal of Photoenergy, 2019(1), Article ID 2528490
    📈 Citations: 81
    💡 This paper demonstrates the synergistic use of silver nanoparticles and blue laser light in improving antibacterial efficacy, showing promise for non-antibiotic antimicrobial strategies.

  • Wahi, R., Zuhaidi, N.F.Q., Yusof, Y., Jamel, J., Kanakaraju, D., Ngaini, Z.
    “Chemically treated microwave-derived biochar: An overview”
    Biomass and Bioenergy, Volume 107, pp. 411–421 (2017)
    📈 Citations: 81
    🌱 This overview assesses the potential of chemically modified, microwave-derived biochar for environmental applications, particularly in adsorption and soil enhancement.

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju stands out as a leading researcher in materials and environmental chemistry, with an outstanding record in sustainable innovation, high-impact publications, academic leadership, and applied research. Her contributions to novel photocatalyst systems and hybrid materials have direct implications for environmental sustainability and green technology.

She is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Materials Chemistry, with both the academic pedigree and real-world impact to represent excellence in this field.

Yaguang Zhang | Mechanism of ion conduction in solid electrolyte | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yaguang Zhang | Mechanism of ion conduction in solid electrolyte | Best Researcher Award

Assistant research fellow , central south university, China

Dr. Yaguang Zhang is an Assistant Research Fellow at Central South University, China, specializing in functional materials for energy storage. His research focuses on solid-state electrolytes and silicon-based anodes for next-generation high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. With a Ph.D. from Zhejiang University, he has contributed significantly to advancing solid-state battery technologies. Previously, he served as a Vice-General Manager of R&D at Zhejiang Li Chen New Material Technology Co., Ltd. and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Zhejiang University. Dr. Zhang has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Advanced Energy Materials, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Journal of Power Sources. His work aims to enhance battery safety, efficiency, and longevity through innovative material engineering.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Yaguang Zhang has a strong academic foundation in materials science and engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Physics and Chemistry from Zhejiang University (2015-2018) under Professor Deren Yang, focusing on advanced energy storage materials. He completed his Master’s degree (2012-2015) in Materials Science and Engineering at Zhejiang University, supervised by Professor Hui Zhang, where he worked on solid-state electrolytes. His Bachelor’s degree (2008-2012) was from Southeast University, where he studied under Professor Hengcheng Liao, gaining expertise in materials science fundamentals. His educational background has enabled him to develop innovative materials for lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, contributing to advancements in battery technology.

Experience 💼

Dr. Yaguang Zhang has extensive experience in academic research and industrial R&D. He is currently an Assistant Research Fellow at Central South University (2021-Present), focusing on solid-state electrolytes and silicon anodes for high-performance batteries. Before this, he was the Vice-General Manager of R&D at Zhejiang Li Chen New Material Technology Co., Ltd. (2020-2021), where he led cutting-edge battery materials research. He also completed a postdoctoral fellowship (2018-2020) at Zhejiang University under Professor Deren Yang, working on next-generation energy storage materials. His career blends academic excellence and industrial expertise, contributing to the development of safer, more efficient, and high-energy-density batteries.

Awards and Awards 🏆

Dr. Yaguang Zhang has received several accolades for his contributions to battery materials research. He has been recognized for his high-impact publications in top-tier journals, showcasing his pioneering work in solid-state electrolytes. His contributions to advanced lithium-ion battery technology have been acknowledged through grants and research funding for battery innovation. As an Assistant Research Fellow, he has been instrumental in mentoring researchers and leading innovative projects in solid-state battery development. His work has been widely cited, reflecting its significance in next-generation energy storage solutions.

Research Focus

Dr. Yaguang Zhang’s research is centered on functional materials for energy storage, with a specific emphasis on solid-state electrolytes and silicon-based anodes for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. His work aims to enhance battery performance, lifespan, and safety by developing high ionic conductivity materials and stabilizing lithium interfaces. He has introduced novel polymer electrolytes that improve ionic transport and electrochemical stability. Additionally, his research on Si-based anodes enhances energy density and cycle life, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable battery technologies. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing solid-state battery development, with applications in electric vehicles, grid storage, and portable electronics.

Publications 📚

  • “Atomic-Level Regulation of SiC₄ Units Enable High Li⁺ Dynamics and Long-Life Micro-Size SiCₓ Anodes”​

  • “Weakening Lithium-Ion Coordination in Poly(Ethylene Oxide)-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes for High Performance Solid-State Batteries”

Conclusion

Dr. Yaguang Zhang’s groundbreaking research in functional materials for energy storage has made a significant impact on the field of battery technology. His high-quality publications, industrial leadership, and commitment to scientific innovation strongly justify his nomination for the Best Researcher Award. His work bridges the gap between academic research and real-world applications, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.