Mohamed Noufal | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mohamed Noufal | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hampton University | United States

Prof. Mohamed Noufal, Ph.D., is a distinguished chemical engineer and academic leader, serving as Chair of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Director of the Quantum Materials Laboratory at Hampton University, Virginia, USA. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences and Engineering from The University of Texas at El Paso (2022), an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Ain Shams University, Egypt (2016), and a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Mansoura University, Egypt (2012). With over eight years of experience in research, teaching, and program development, Prof. Mohamed Noufal has established an internationally recognized portfolio in advanced electrocatalysis, semiconductor interfaces, 2D materials, green hydrogen technologies, and AI-assisted materials discovery. His professional journey includes faculty associate roles at Purdue Fort Wayne’s First Molecule Center, visiting professorships at the University of Pennsylvania and University of Virginia, and leadership of interdisciplinary initiatives in fullerenes and van der Waals heterostructures. He has secured competitive funding from NSF, NASA, DOE, and other agencies, and has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate researchers advancing in academic and professional roles. Prof. Mohamed Noufal’s recent publications include “Raman fingerprints of spin-phonon coupling and magnetic transition in an organic molecule intercalated Cr₂Ge₂Te₆”, “Unraveling the Cooperative Activity of Hydrophilicity, Conductivity, and Interfacial Active Sites in Alginate‐CNT‐CuO Self‐Standing Electrodes”, and “Cylindrical C96 Fullertubes: A Highly Active Metal‐Free O₂‐Reduction Electrocatalyst”, collectively cited 19 times across 7 Scopus-indexed documents with an h-index of 3. Recognized for his innovation in nanomaterials synthesis, biosensor development, and sustainable energy technologies, Prof. Mohamed Noufal has significantly advanced research, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration in chemical engineering.

Profile: Scopus | Staff Page

Featured Publications

Samanta, S., Iturriaga, H., Mai, T. T., Biacchi, A. J., Islam, R., Hight Walker, A. R., & Noufal, M. (2023). Raman fingerprints of spin-phonon coupling and magnetic transition in an organic molecule intercalated Cr₂Ge₂Te₆. arXiv preprint arXiv:2312.01270.

Noufal, M., et al. (2023). Unraveling the cooperative activity of hydrophilicity, conductivity, and interfacial active sites in alginate‐CNT‐CuO self‐standing electrodes with benchmark-close activity for alkaline water splitting. Advanced Sustainable Systems, 7(12), 2300283.

Bhunia, S., Peña-Duarte, A., Li, H., Li, H., Noufal, M., Saha, P., Addicoat, M. A., Sasaki, K., Strom, T. A., Yacamán, M. J., & Cabrera, C. R. (2023). [2,1,3]-Benzothiadiazole-spaced Co-porphyrin-based covalent organic frameworks for O₂ reduction. ACS Nano, 17(4), 3492–3505.

Noufal, M., et al. (2022). Cylindrical C₉₆ fullertubes: A highly active metal‐free O₂‐reduction electrocatalyst. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 61(21), e202116727.

Puente Santiago, A. R., Noufal, M., Moreno-Vicente, A., Ahsan, M. A., Cerón, M. R., Yao, Y.-R., Sreenivasan, S. T., Rodriguez-Fortea, A., Poblet, J. M., & Echegoyen, L. (2021). A new class of molecular electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution: Catalytic activity of M₃N@C₂ₙ (2n = 68, 78, and 80) fullerenes. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(16), 6037–6042.

Noufal, M., et al. (2021). Co–Cu bimetallic metal-organic framework catalyst outperforms the Pt/C benchmark for oxygen reduction. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(10), 4064–4073.

Noufal, M., et al. (2022). Metal-organic framework in fuel cell technology: Fundamentals and application. In Electrochemical applications of metal-organic frameworks (pp. 135–189). Elsevier.

Valery Zakharov | Chemical Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Valery Zakharov | Chemical Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Lomonosov Moscow State University | Russia

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov is a distinguished scientist whose career demonstrates a lifelong commitment to advancing the chemical sciences. His pioneering studies in coordination chemistry, spectroscopy, and photophysical processes have shaped the understanding of molecular structures and photoactive systems. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with leading researchers, delivered influential conference presentations, and authored numerous impactful publications. His research stands at the intersection of fundamental science and applied innovation, making him one of the most respected contributors to the global scientific community.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov pursued his higher education in chemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University, where he specialized in physical and inorganic chemistry. His graduate research was devoted to coordination compounds and their photophysical behavior in complex environments. During his doctoral training, he mastered advanced spectroscopic techniques and theoretical approaches, providing him with the expertise to investigate light-sensitive systems and molecular structures. The strong academic foundation he established at the university became the cornerstone of his later achievements in both theoretical and experimental chemistry.

Experience

In his professional career, Dr. Valeriy Zakharov has held teaching and research responsibilities at Lomonosov Moscow State University, where he consistently combined academic rigor with scientific creativity. His early work focused on electron microscopy of silver halide systems, exploring the mechanisms of latent image formation in photographic materials. He later expanded his research into optically detected magnetic resonance and low-temperature phosphorescence of coordination compounds, broadening the scope of spectroscopic studies. He has been actively involved in both national and international collaborations, ensuring that his findings reached a global audience and promoting cross-disciplinary scientific exchange.

Research Interests

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov’s research interests cover a wide spectrum of modern chemistry. He has dedicated much of his work to understanding the structural and photophysical properties of coordination compounds, with special attention to the triplet states of transition metal complexes. His investigations of silver halide systems provided new insights into photographic sensitivity, image formation, and the fundamental processes of photochemistry. He has also made significant contributions to optically detected magnetic resonance spectroscopy and its applications to metal complexes and rare-earth elements. In addition, his studies on surface-enhanced Raman scattering have advanced the understanding of molecular interactions on colloidal silver surfaces, creating new opportunities for nanomaterials research and applied spectroscopy.

Awards

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov has been widely recognized for his exceptional contributions to chemistry and spectroscopy. His innovative approaches to studying photoactive materials and the development of advanced spectroscopic techniques have earned him high regard in both academic and applied sciences. The nomination for the Excellence in Research Award in Scientific Research highlights his lasting influence, his role in advancing scientific knowledge, and his dedication to training and inspiring the next generation of chemists.

Publications

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov has authored numerous scholarly works that have advanced the fields of spectroscopy, coordination chemistry, and photophysics. His publications include influential articles in highly respected journals and collaborative studies with leading scientists. A few notable examples include:

  • Surface-enhanced raman scattering of 2, 2′-bipyridine adsorbed on colloidal silver and stabilized AgBr sols
    Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
    Published on: 1993
    Citation: 42

  • Surface tension of silver in different media
    Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
    Published on: 1993
    Citation: 29

  • Photoluminescent silicon nanocrystals stabilized by ionic liquid
    Journal of Nanoparticle Research
    Published on: 2011
    Citation: 24

  • Low-temperature phosphorescence and ODMR study of 2, 2′-bipyridine and Rh (bpy) 3+ 3
    Chemical Physics Letters
    Published on: 1987
    Citation: 23

  • The crystal and molecular structure of complex Gd (NO3)(phen) 2
    Russian Journal of Coordination Chemistry
    Published on: 1991
    Citation: 22

  • Stabilization of silicon nanoparticles by carbenes
    Russian Journal of Coordination Chemistry
    Published on: 2010
    Citation: 20

  • The isolated flat silicon nanocrystals (2D structures) stabilized with perfluorophenyl ligands
    Journal of Nanoparticle Research
    Published on: 2014
    Citation: 18

Conclusion

Dr. Valeriy Zakharov has dedicated his career to advancing the chemical sciences, producing research that is both pioneering and enduring in its influence. His work has provided clarity to complex spectroscopic phenomena, expanded the knowledge of photoactive coordination compounds, and opened new avenues in photochemistry and nanomaterials. His dedication to scientific excellence, collaborative spirit, and prolific contributions make him a highly deserving candidate for the Excellence in Research Award in Scientific Research at Lomonosov Moscow State University.

 

Xueen Fang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xueen Fang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Fudan University | China

Dr. Xueen Fang is a distinguished male professor at Fudan University and a doctoral supervisor. He is a jointly appointed professor under the Ministry of Education’s prestigious “Changjiang Scholars” program and recognized as a young top-notch talent under the national “Ten Thousand Talents Program.” Since joining Fudan University in 2014, Fang has been deeply involved in teaching, research, and fostering industry-academia collaborations, specializing in micro-nano clinical chemistry. His pioneering work in rapid nucleic acid testing has made significant contributions to public health and national security.

Professional profile👤

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Outstanding Academic and Professional Credentials
    Fang Xuen holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Biology from a prestigious university (Fudan University) and serves as a professor and doctoral supervisor. His joint appointment as a “Changjiang Scholar” and recognition as a top talent under the national “Ten Thousand Talents Program” highlight his academic excellence and national prominence.

  2. Pioneering Research Contributions
    He was among the earliest researchers globally to apply microfluidic confinement systems to point-of-care testing (POCT) molecular diagnostics. His leadership in developing rapid, on-site nucleic acid testing systems has direct and critical public health impact, especially in combating pandemics and zoonotic diseases.

  3. Significant Research Funding and Project Leadership
    Fang Xuen has successfully secured and led major national research projects funded by top agencies such as the Ministry of Science and Technology and the National Natural Science Foundation, underscoring his capability to manage high-impact, cutting-edge research.

  4. High-Impact Publications and Patents
    With over 60 publications in prestigious international journals, multiple cover stories, and over 1,500 citations, his scientific output is both prolific and influential. Furthermore, he has secured more than 60 invention patents (national and international), including award-winning innovations, demonstrating his prowess in translating research into practical technologies.

  5. Successful Technology Commercialization
    He has led the registration and approval of important diagnostic reagents and automated testing devices, with patented technology generating significant economic value (over 16 million yuan), bridging the gap between academia and industry.

  6. Professional Service and Leadership
    Serving on national committees and editorial/review boards of top journals indicates his respected status in the scientific community. His role in authoring chapters in key monographs also reflects his expertise and leadership in the field.

🎓 Education

Fang Xuen earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Biology from Fudan University in 2012. Following his doctoral studies, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology from 2012 to 2013, where he further refined his expertise in cutting-edge chemical and biological research.

💼 Experience

In March 2014, Fang joined the Department of Chemistry at Fudan University through a talent introduction program. He has led major national research projects, including key R&D programs funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the National Natural Science Foundation. Fang has served as a reviewer for leading journals and is an inventor on more than 60 national and international patents, including several that have been transformed into commercially valuable technologies.

🔬 Research Interest On Chemical Engineering

Fang’s research primarily focuses on micro-nano clinical chemistry, with a particular emphasis on microfluidic confinement systems for point-of-care testing (POCT) in molecular diagnostics. His work addresses the urgent need for rapid nucleic acid testing technologies to detect emerging pathogens, playing a critical role in combating infectious diseases such as African Swine Fever and COVID-19.

🏆 Awards

Fang Xuen’s innovative contributions have earned him numerous accolades including the Shanghai Youth Science and Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award, the Silver Award at the 48th Geneva Exhibition of Inventions, the Third Prize of the Shanghai Higher Education Students’ Invention and Creation, and multiple awards at the National Challenge Cup Entrepreneurship Competition.

📚 Publications

  • Rapid differential diagnosis of the B.1.617.2 (delta) variant of SARS-CoV-2 using an automated Cas12a–microfluidic system

    • Authors: Pintao Li, Jin Zhang, Qiuyuan Lin, Jilie Kong, Xueen Fang

    • Year: 2021

  • Wearable chem-biosensing devices: from basic research to commercial market

    • Authors: Bin Yang, Xingyu Jiang, Xueen Fang, Jilie Kong

    • Year: 2021

  • Loop-mediated isothermal amplification technique: principle, development and wide application in food safety

    • Authors: Tianzeng Huang, Linzhi Li, Xing Liu, Qi Chen, Xueen Fang, Jilie Kong, Mohamed S. Draz, Hongmei Cao

    • Year: 2020

  • Rapid and simultaneous analysis of twelve virulence factor genes by a microfluidic-CFPA chip for identifying diarrheagenic Escherichia coli

    • Authors: Bin Yang, Yiling Fan, Yang Li, Jun Yan, Xueen Fang, Jilie Kong

    • Year: 2020

  • A hybridization chain reaction coupled with gold nanoparticles for allergen gene detection in peanut, soybean and sesame DNAs

    • Authors: Dan Yuan, Xueen Fang, Yongxin Liu, Jilie Kong, Qin Chen

    • Year: 2019

  • A novel exonuclease-assisted isothermal nucleic acid amplification with ultrahigh specificity mediated by full-length Bst DNA polymerase

    • Authors: Xin Ye, Yang Li, Lijuan Wang, Xueen Fang, Jilie Kong

    • Year: 2018

🔚 Conclusion

Professor Fang Xuen stands at the forefront of micro-nano clinical chemistry, combining academic excellence with impactful innovations that have enhanced pathogen detection and public health responses globally. His commitment to interdisciplinary teaching and talent cultivation continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers at Fudan University and beyond.