Joanna Szymkowiak | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Joanna Szymkowiak | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Adam Mickiewicz University | Poland

Dr. Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak, is a dedicated scientist in the field of supramolecular chemistry. Since January 2025, she has been working as an Adjunct Postdoctoral Scientist at the Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University (AMU), Poland. Her career spans various esteemed institutions, including her previous role as a Senior Scientist at Selvita S.A. and as a Postdoctoral Scientist at the University of British Columbia, Canada. Throughout her academic journey, Joanna has made significant contributions to organic chemistry, particularly in functionalized chiral macrocycles and organic cages.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Research Background: Dr. Szymkowiak has a diverse and impactful research portfolio, with a focus on chiral materials and supramolecular chemistry. Her research is cutting-edge, with recent papers published in reputable journals like Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters and Chemistry – A European Journal.

  • Impressive Academic and Industry Experience: She has held various postdoctoral positions at prestigious institutions like Adam Mickiewicz University (AMU) and the University of British Columbia, as well as industry experience with Selvita S.A. Her ability to bridge academia and industry is an asset for driving practical applications of her research.

  • Recognized by the Scientific Community: Dr. Szymkowiak has received multiple accolades for her work, such as the Aleksander Zamojski’s Award and an honorable mention for her doctoral dissertation. These honors are a testament to the quality and significance of her contributions to organic and supramolecular chemistry.

  • Contribution to International Collaboration: Her involvement in high-level international projects, such as the Mieczysław Bekker Program funded by the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA), and collaborations with world-renowned researchers like Prof. Mark MacLachlan, underscores her ability to work within global scientific communities.

  • Prolific Publication Record: Dr. Szymkowiak has contributed to numerous high-impact publications across a range of prestigious journals. Her work covers diverse aspects of chemistry, particularly in the development of functionalized chiral materials and organic cages, which are highly relevant to modern chemistry research.

Education 🎓

Dr. Szymkowiak completed her PhD in 2018 at AMU, where she focused on “Functionalized Chiral Macrocycles and Organic Cages” under the supervision of Prof. Marcin Kwit. Her earlier studies at AMU led her to a deep engagement with chemistry, particularly biological chemistry, and chemical analysis. Her education has laid a strong foundation for her ongoing research in organic and materials chemistry.

Experience 💼

Dr. Szymkowiak’s career spans prestigious positions across both academic and industry sectors. She has worked on cutting-edge research projects at AMU, the University of British Columbia, and Selvita S.A., bringing her expertise to a wide range of research areas. Her responsibilities included scientific project management, student supervision, and active participation in scientific conferences. She has also made significant strides in interdisciplinary research, focusing on chiral materials, mesoporous organosilica films, and supramolecular chemistry.

Research Interests On Materials 🔬

Dr. Szymkowiak’s research interests lie at the intersection of organic chemistry, materials science, and supramolecular chemistry. She specializes in the design and synthesis of chiral organosilica materials, including mesoporous films and organic cages. Her work aims to develop innovative solutions for materials with unique optical and mechanical properties, crucial for applications in nanoscience and other advanced fields.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Szymkowiak has received several prestigious awards and recognitions. These include a Postdoctoral Fellowship from the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) in the Mieczysław Bekker Program and the Aleksander Zamojski’s Award for her outstanding doctoral dissertation. Additionally, she has been honored with multiple awards for oral and poster presentations at national conferences and was acknowledged by the Royal Chemical Society in 2025 for her publication on Nanoscale.

Publication 📚

Dr. Szymkowiak has contributed to numerous high-impact journals in the field of chemistry. Her recent publications include:

  • Thio-modified trianglimines, a novel group of chiral macrocyclic compounds of high structural dynamics

    • Authors: Natalia Prusinowska, Agnieszka Czapik, Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak, Marcin Kwit

    • Publication Year: 2025

  • Excited State Dynamics Govern Emission Properties of Unique Silsesquioxane-Salphen-Based Zinc Compounds

    • Authors: Joanna Szymkowiak, Tomasz Pędziński, Beata Dudziec

    • Publication Year: 2025

  • Hybrid Inclusion Materials Based on Chiral Nematic Mesoporous Organosilica with Incorporated Cyclodextrin Receptors

    • Authors: Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak

    • Publication Year: 2025

  • Controlling the optical properties of chiral nematic mesoporous organosilica films with bioadditives

    • Authors: Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak, Lucas Andrew, Wadood Y. Hamad, Mark MacLachlan

    • Publication Year: 2024

  • Halloysite nanotubes enhance the mechanical properties and thermal stability of iridescent cellulose nanocrystal films

    • Authors: Gao, H.; Soto, M.A.; Szymkowiak, J.K.; Andrew, L.J.; Hamad, W.Y.; MacLachlan, M.J.

    • Publication Year: 2023

  • Unravelling Structural Dynamics, Supramolecular Behavior, and Chiroptical Properties of Enantiomerically Pure Macrocyclic Tertiary Ureas and Thioureas

    • Authors: Natalia Prusinowska, Joanna Szymkowiak, Marcin Kwit

    • Publication Year: 2023

  • Specific Noncovalent Association of Truncated exo-Functionalized Triangular Homochiral Isotrianglimines through Head-to-Head, Tail-to-Tail, and Honeycomb Supramolecular Motifs

    • Authors: Janiak, A.; Gajewy, J.; Szymkowiak, J.; Gierczyk, B.; Kwit, M.

    • Publication Year: 2022

  • Tuning the Properties of Chiral Nematic Mesoporous (Organo)silica Through Thiol‐Ene Click Chemistry

    • Authors: Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak

    • Publication Year: 2022

  • Simple modifications of nicotinic, isonicotinic, and 2,6-dichloroisonicotinic acids toward new weapons against plant diseases

    • Authors: Czerwoniec, P.; Szymkowiak, J.; Smiglak, M.

    • Publication Year: 2021

  • Consistent supramolecular assembly arising from a mixture of components-self-sorting and solid solutions of chiral oxygenated trianglimines

    • Authors: Szymkowiak, J.; Warżajtis, B.; Rychlewska, U.; Kwit, M.

    • Publication Year: 2018

Conclusion 🌍

Dr. Joanna Katarzyna Szymkowiak is an accomplished researcher with significant contributions to the field of supramolecular and materials chemistry. Her dedication to advancing the understanding of chiral materials and organic cages has made her a respected figure in both academic and scientific communities. With a strong foundation in education and experience, she continues to push the boundaries of chemistry, inspiring future research in nanoscience and materials development.

Zahra Zamani Miandashti | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Zahra Zamani Miandashti | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Isfahan University of Technology | Iran

Dr. Zahra Zamani Miandashti is a distinguished Iranian mechanical engineer specializing in applied mechanics and design. With a deep passion for research in condition monitoring, vibrations, and composite materials, she has made significant contributions to academia and industry. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Golpayegan University of Engineering, mentoring students and leading innovative research projects.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Research Contributions

    • Published multiple high-impact journal articles in reputable scientific journals such as Material Design & Processing Communications, Rapid Prototyping Journal, Journal of Vibration and Control, and Thin-Walled Structures.

    • Research spans critical areas such as condition monitoring using AI, mechanical properties of 3D-printed parts, vibration analysis, and composite materials, which are highly relevant in modern mechanical engineering advancements.

  • Academic Excellence & Recognitions

    • Awarded Distinguished Researcher (2023) at Golpayegan College of Engineering, indicating recognition from her peers.

    • Recipient of prestigious national awards and research grants, including the Dr. Tehrani Moghaddam Award and Dr. Kazemi Ashtiani Research Grant for Young Assistant Professors.

    • Ranked 1st among MSc students at Tarbiat Modarres University and 94th in the nationwide university entrance exam, demonstrating consistent academic excellence.

  • Strong Research Leadership & Mentorship

    • Supervises undergraduate and graduate students on innovative topics like AI-based vibration analysis and meta-biomaterials for implants.

    • Has held multiple lecturer and teaching assistant positions at universities like Sharif University of Technology and Golpayegan University of Engineering, showcasing her dedication to academic mentorship.

  • Diverse Technical Skills & Industry Collaboration

    • Proficiency in FEA software (ABAQUS, ANSYS), MATLAB, and SolidWorks enhances her experimental and computational research.

    • Work experience in rotor dynamics and design optimization at TAPCO Company shows industry impact beyond academia.

Education 🎓

Dr. Miandashti pursued her Ph.D. in Applied Mechanics and Design at Sharif University of Technology, focusing on stress gradient plasticity and size effects. She earned her Master’s degree from Tarbiat Modarres University, ranking first among 32 students, and completed her Bachelor’s degree at Sharif University of Technology. Her academic journey was marked by excellence, achieving high rankings in national entrance exams and exceptional GPAs throughout her studies.

Experience 📓

She has held multiple research and teaching positions, guiding students in advanced topics such as vibration analysis, plasticity, and composite mechanics. Dr. Miandashti also gained industrial experience as a Senior Engineer at TAPCO Company, working on rotor dynamics and optimization of rotary equipment. Additionally, she contributed to Iran’s energy sector by working on Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems at the Sharif Energy Research Institute.

Research Interests On Materials🔬

Her research spans various mechanical engineering domains, including:

  • AI-based condition monitoring

  • Vibration & instability analysis

  • Mechanical properties of 3D-printed parts

  • Composite materials and structural optimization

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Miandashti has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to research and academia:

  • Distinguished Researcher (2023) – Golpayegan University of Engineering

  • Dr. Tehrani Moghaddam Award (2017) – Iran’s National Elites Foundation

  • Dr. Kazemi Ashtiani Research Grant (2016) – Young Assistant Professors

  • Ranked 1st in M.Sc. Class (2009) – Tarbiat Modarres University

  • Top 100 in National University Exam (2003) – Among 400,000 students

Publications 📚

Dr. Miandashti has authored several influential research papers in prestigious journals:

  • Curvilinear fiber optimization tools for aeroelastic design of composite wings

    • Authors: H. Haddadpour, Z. Zamani

    • Year: 2012

    • Citations: 83

  • Curvilinear fiber optimization tools for design thin walled beams

    • Authors: Z. Zamani, H. Haddadpour, M.R. Ghazavi

    • Year: 2011

    • Citations: 45

  • Effect of source strength on dislocation pileups in the presence of stress gradients

    • Authors: Z. Zamani, S.S. Shishvan, A. Assempour

    • Year: 2015

    • Citations: 9

  • Stress gradient interpretation of boundary layers in passivated thin films

    • Authors: Z. Zamani, S.S. Shishvan, A. Assempour

    • Year: 2016

    • Citations: 5

  • Flutter analysis of a sandwich composite beam using the analytical method

    • Authors: M. Ashktorab, F.T. Behrooz, Z. Zamani

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 4

  • Second order stress gradient plasticity with an application to thin foil bending

    • Authors: A. Assempour, S.S. Shishvan, Z. Zamani

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 4

  • Coupled bending torsional vibrations of viscoelastic rotors with fractional damper

    • Authors: Z. Bayat, H. Haddadpour, Z. Zamani

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 3

  • Analysis of Dental Bridges under Thermomechanical Loading

    • Authors: F. Salehi, Z. Zamani, M. Rahaeifard

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 2

  • Static and dynamic analysis of composite thin walled beam with curvilinear fiber

    • Authors: Z. Zamani, H. Haddadpour

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 1

  • Tuning the Functionality and Topology of a Femur Implant by Metamaterials

    • Authors: Z. Zamani, A. Mehrabian, M. Karim

    • Year: 2025

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Zahra Zamani Miandashti is a leading researcher and educator in mechanical engineering. With a strong foundation in applied mechanics, composite materials, and AI-driven diagnostics, she continues to inspire the next generation of engineers. Her contributions to academia and industry have established her as a key figure in her field.

Wei Yang | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Wei Yang | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | China Three Gorges University | China

Dr. Wei Yang is an esteemed Associate Professor at China Three Gorges University, specializing in organic photoelectric functional materials, biomedical diagnosis and treatment, and X-ray scintillator imaging. With a prolific research career, he has contributed significantly to the field of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and functional luminescent materials. His dedication to scientific advancements is evident through his extensive publication record in top-tier journals.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

🔹 Outstanding Research Output: Dr. Wei Yang has published nearly 40 SCI papers in internationally recognized journals, including Angewandte Chemie International Edition, Nature Communications, Advanced Functional Materials, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Science China Chemistry.

🔹 Significant Contributions: His research spans organic photoelectric functional materials, biomedical diagnosis & treatment, X-ray scintillator imaging, and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs)—highly relevant and impactful areas in both scientific innovation and industrial applications.

🔹 Authorship & Impact: Many of his papers list him as the first author or corresponding author, reflecting his leadership in research.

🔹 Diverse Research Impact: His work covers fundamental material synthesis, optoelectronic applications, and biomedical imaging, showcasing multidisciplinary expertise.

🔹 Institutional Recognition: Holding the position of Associate Professor at China Three Gorges University, Dr. Yang has an established academic and research career.

Education 🎓

Dr. Wei Yang has a strong academic background in chemistry and materials science, which has fueled his research interests and professional growth. His educational journey has equipped him with the expertise to lead innovative research in organic optoelectronic materials.

Experience 🌍

  • 2024.7 – Present: Associate Professor, China Three Gorges University Dr. Yang has been contributing to scientific research and mentoring students in the field of advanced functional materials, fostering innovation in organic electronics and photonic technologies.

Research Interests On Materials🔍

  • Organic Photoelectric Functional Materials
  • Biomedical Diagnosis and Treatment
  • X-Ray Scintillator Imaging
  • Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) His research focuses on developing cutting-edge materials for next-generation display technologies, medical imaging, and optoelectronic applications.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Yang has received several recognitions for his contributions to organic electronic materials and luminescence applications. His research achievements continue to gain international recognition in the scientific community.

Publications 📚

  • Title: Dynamic reversible full-color piezochromic fluorogens featuring through-space charge-transfer thermally activated delayed fluorescence and their application as X-ray imaging scintillators
    Authors: Wei Yang, Chenlong Xie, Tianhao Chen, Xiaojun Yin, Qianqian Lin, Shaolong Gong*, Zewei Quan*, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Near-infrared multiple-resonance polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon as type I photosensitizer toward high-performance synergistic phototherapy
    Authors: Yulong Shi+, Wei Yang+, He Zhang, Cheng Zhong, Shaolong Gong, Changying Yang*
    Year: 2025

  • Title: An effective approach toward yellow-to-orange multi-resonance TADF emitters by integrating strong electron donor into B/N-based polycyclic architecture: High performance OLEDs with nearly 40% EQE
    Authors: Wei Yang, Jingsheng Miao, Fengping Hu, Yang Zou*, Cheng Zhong, Shaolong Gong, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Simple double hetero[5]helicenes realize highly efficient and narrowband circularly polarized organic light-emitting diodes
    Authors: Wei Yang+, Nengquan Li+, Jingsheng Miao, Lisi Zhan, Shaolong Gong, Zhongyan Huang, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Pyrazine-fused polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons towards efficient multiple-resonance narrowband deep-blue emission
    Authors: Yajie Wang, Wei Yang*, He Zhang, Nengquan Li, Shaolong Gong, Xiang Gao*, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Polycyclic phenazine-derived rigid donors construct thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters for highly efficient orange OLEDs with extremely low roll-off
    Authors: Wei Yang, Weimin Ning, Hsin Jungchi, Tengxiao Liu, Xiaojun Yin, Changqing Ye, Shaolong Gong, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Polymorphism-dependent thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials with diverse three-dimensional supramolecular frameworks
    Authors: Wei Yang, Yiyu Yang, Lisi Zhan, Kailu Zheng, Zhanxiang Chen, Xuan Zeng, Shaolong Gong, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2020

  • Title: AIE-active multicolor tunable luminogens: simultaneous mechanochromism and acidochromism with high contrast beyond 100 nm
    Authors: Wei Yang, Yiyu Yang, Yuntao Qiu, Xiaosong Cao, Zhongyan Huang, Shaolong Gong, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2020

  • Title: Deep-red thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters based on a phenanthroline-containing planar acceptor
    Authors: Wei Yang, Weiming Ning, Shaolong Gong, Chuluo Yang*
    Year: 2021

  • Title: AIE-active smart cyanostyrene luminogens: polymorphism-dependent multicolor mechanochromism
    Authors: Wei Yang+, Chunlin Liu+, Shuang Lu, Jinya Du, Qingyun Gao, Ronghua Zhang, Yi Liu, Changying Yang*
    Year: 2018

  • Title: Red-emitting benzo[e]indolium probes for HSA based on the TICT characteristics
    Authors: Wei Yang, Chunlin Liu, Shuang Lu, Shulin Cheng, Jinya Du, Qingyun Gao, Ping Shen, Huajun Luo, Yi Liu, Changying Yang*
    Year: 2017

Conclusion 🎯

Dr. Wei Yang is a leading researcher in organic electronic materials, making impactful contributions to optoelectronics and biomedical imaging. His commitment to innovation, extensive publication record, and academic leadership continue to shape the future of advanced functional materials. As an Associate Professor at China Three Gorges University, he remains dedicated to pioneering research and mentoring the next generation of scientists.