Spomenka Kobe | Environmental and Sustainable Materials | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Spomenka Kobe | Environmental and Sustainable Materials | Distinguished Scientist Award

The Jožef Stefan Institute | Slovenia

Prof. Dr. Spomenka Kobe is a distinguished materials scientist and one of Europe’s leading experts in nanostructured materials, magnetic materials, and sustainable alloy design. Her pioneering research has advanced the scientific understanding and technological innovation in rare-earth magnet technology, nanostructured thin films, and magnetic materials recycling. She played a pivotal role in establishing rare-earth magnet research in Slovenia, leading major national and European research programs on critical raw materials and sustainable magnet production. Her Scopus-indexed research portfolio includes 169 publications, which have collectively received 2,350 citations from 1,949 documents, reflecting an h-index of 22. Her work spans critical areas of magnetism, solid-state physics, thin-film engineering, and microstructural analysis, significantly influencing global research directions in advanced materials science. Prof. Dr. Spomenka Kobe’s scientific leadership is exemplified through her coordination of the FP7 European Project ROMEO (Replacement and Original Magnet Engineering Option) and the International Associated Laboratory PACS2 (Push-Pull AlloyS and Complex Compounds) in collaboration with CNRS, France. She has also been a principal investigator on numerous EU and national R&D projects and an active contributor to international academic and industrial innovation networks. Her applied research achievements include seven patents (four European patents), three innovations, and multiple technology transfers to industrial production, showcasing her ability to translate advanced materials research into practical applications. She has authored several book chapters, delivered numerous invited lectures, and contributed to major international conferences on magnetic and nanostructured materials.

Profiles: Scopus | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

• Schieren, L., Semsari Parapari, S., Tomše, T., Žužek, K., Šturm, S., Kobe, S., & Burkhardt, C. (2025). Evaluating citric acid as a selective leaching agent to extract Nd₂Fe₁₄B matrix phase from end-of-life magnets. Journal of Rare Earths, 43(7). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jre.2025.04.020

• Grau, L., Moreno López, R., Kubelka, P., Burkhardt, F., Tomše, T., Kobe, S., & Burkhardt, C. (2024). Effects of thermal demagnetization in air on the microstructure and organic contamination of NdFeB magnets. Materials, 17(22), 5528. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17225528

• Tomše, T., Burkhardt, F., Krasniqi, L., Ivekovič, A., Kocjan, A., Kobe, S., Podmiljšak, B., Burkhardt, C., Šturm, S., & Žužek Rožman, K. (2024, September). An alternative sintering strategy for anisotropic Nd–Fe–B magnet based on recycled content. International Materials Science and Engineering Congress (MSE 2024).

• Grau, L., Fleissner, P., Kobe, S., & Burkhardt, C. (2024). Processability and separability of commercial anti-corrosion coatings produced by in situ hydrogen-processing of magnetic scrap (HPMS) recycling of NdFeB. Materials, 17(11), 2487. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112487

• Tomše, T., Podmiljšak, B., Scherf, L. M., Kessler, R., Kobe, S., Kocjan, A., Šturm, S., & Žužek Rožman, K. (2024). Unravelling the intricacies of micro-nonuniform heating in field-assisted sintering of multiphase metallic microstructures. Journal of Materials Processing Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmatprotec.2024.118405

Vladimir Lukin | Environmental Science | Best Paper Award

Prof. Vladimir Lukin | Environmental Science | Best Paper Award

VE Zuev Institute of Atmospheric Optics RAS | Russia

Prof. Vladimir Lukin is a globally recognized physicist and atmospheric optics researcher whose work has profoundly influenced the study of optical wave propagation and adaptive optics. Based at the Institute of Atmospheric Optics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Tomsk, he has devoted his career to advancing the understanding of stochastic processes in optical systems and the behavior of electromagnetic waves in turbulent media. Alongside his role as a senior scientist, he has also served as a professor at Tomsk State University, where he continues to mentor graduate students and doctoral researchers. His scholarly contributions span theoretical modeling, experimental verification, and the development of new optical instruments, positioning him as a leading authority in atmospheric physics and optical engineering.

Professional Profile

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Education

Prof. Vladimir Lukin pursued his academic training in physics at Tomsk State University, where he obtained his degree with a specialization in theoretical and applied optics. He later advanced his studies to earn the Candidate of Sciences qualification in physics and mathematics, followed by the Doctor of Sciences degree at the Institute of Atmospheric Optics. His rigorous education laid the foundation for groundbreaking work in wave propagation theory, atmospheric turbulence, and adaptive optics. The combination of a strong theoretical background and practical experimental training allowed him to bridge academic knowledge with applied research, which became the hallmark of his career.

Experience

Prof. Vladimir Lukin has spent his professional life at the Institute of Atmospheric Optics, beginning as a junior researcher and rising to senior positions of leadership, including serving as head of a major laboratory and director of the Wave Propagation Division. His research management role enabled him to lead significant investigations into optical wave fluctuations, turbulence modeling, and the development of adaptive systems. Parallel to his research career, he has been actively engaged in teaching as a professor at Tomsk State University, where he has designed and delivered advanced courses in opto-electronic systems and adaptive optics applications. He has supervised numerous graduate and doctoral researchers, many of whom have become established scientists in optics and radiophysics. In addition to his academic and institutional contributions, he has served as guest editor for international journals and proceedings and has delivered invited lectures and seminars at leading institutions and scientific conferences worldwide.

Research Interests

Prof. Vladimir Lukin’s principal research interests revolve around optical wave propagation through random and inhomogeneous media, the statistical theory of phase fluctuations, and the foundations of atmospheric adaptive optics. He has pioneered theoretical models describing the behavior of optical waves under strong turbulence conditions, including the emergence of speckle fields and phase dislocations. His investigations into the reconstruction of wavefronts have provided essential methodologies for improving resolution in astronomical and defense applications. He has also contributed to the development of laser guide star techniques, creating theoretical frameworks and experimental validations that have since become a cornerstone of adaptive optics. His ongoing work emphasizes the study of atmospheric turbulence spectra, design of optical wave photometers, and novel methods for describing and mitigating phase distortions in complex optical systems.

Awards

Prof. Vladimir Lukin has been honored with numerous national and international awards recognizing his scientific excellence and contributions to atmospheric optics. He has received medals for his service to science and his country, as well as prestigious international recognitions such as the Galileo Galilei Medal. His outstanding academic and research achievements have also been acknowledged with distinctions from European scientific and industrial organizations. In addition to these honors, he has been elected as a Fellow of both SPIE and the Optical Society of America, a testament to his leadership and influence within the global optics community. These accolades collectively highlight his pioneering role in advancing adaptive optics, optical turbulence studies, and applied physics.

Publications

Title : Atmospheric Adaptive Optics
Journal: SPIE Optical Engineering Press
Published on: 1995
Citation: 181

Title : Atmospheric Adaptive Optics
Journal: Nauka, Novosibirsk
Published on: 1986
Citation: 132

Title : Optical Wave Phase Fluctuations
Journal: Applied Optics
Published on: 1981
Citation: 119

Title : Beam Spreading of Vortex Beams Propagating in Turbulent Atmosphere
Journal: Applied Optics 
Published on: 2012
Citation: 109

Title : Adaptive Formation of Beams and Images in the Atmosphere
Journal: Novosibirsk: Publishing House of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published on: 1999
Citation: 104

Title : Adaptive Beaming and Imaging in the Turbulent Atmosphere
Journal: SPIE Press
Published on: 2002
Citation: 95

Title : Optical Correlation Algorithm for Reconstructing Phase Skeleton of Complex Optical Fields for Solving the Phase Problem
Journal: Optics Express 
Published on: 2014
Citation: 85

Title : Thermal Distortions of Focused Laser Beams in the Atmosphere
Journal: Applied Optics
Published on: 1985
Citation: 79

Conclusion

The contributions of Prof. Vladimir Lukin to atmospheric optics and adaptive systems are of exceptional originality, significance, and lasting influence. His nominated work on laser reference beacons represents a foundational breakthrough that has transformed adaptive optics by enabling precise correction of atmospheric turbulence, a development that has become indispensable for astronomy, space science, and defense technologies. Beyond this paper, his broader body of research has consistently advanced the frontiers of optical science through pioneering theoretical insights, innovative experimental methods, and the training of future leaders in physics and engineering. Recognized internationally with prestigious honors and fellowships, Prof. Vladimir Lukin exemplifies the highest standards of scientific achievement. His work not only fulfills but elevates the goals of the Best Paper Award, embodying a legacy of scholarship and innovation that continues to shape modern optics worldwide.

Dalia Abd El-khalek | Environmental | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dalia Abd El-khalek | Environmental | Women Researcher Award

Professor | National institute of oceanography | Egypt

Professor Dalia Elsayed Abd El-Khalek is a seasoned marine chemist at the National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Egypt. With an academic career spanning over two decades, she has held leadership positions such as Director and Vice-Chairman of El-Max Research Station. Her expertise lies in green chemistry, scale and corrosion inhibition, desalination technologies, and environmental monitoring. She has collaborated extensively with academia and industry, produced impactful research, and is a dedicated reviewer for several high-ranked, Scopus-indexed journals.

Professional profile👤

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Experience and Academic Credentials:
    Prof. Dalia holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and has more than 15 years of progressive academic and research experience, currently serving as Professor of Marine Chemistry at the National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Egypt.

  • Innovative Research in Applied Environmental Chemistry:
    Her work integrates green chemistry, corrosion and scale inhibition, and desalination—crucial for sustainable water systems and marine environmental health. This interdisciplinary focus aligns strongly with global sustainability goals.

  • Intellectual Property Contributions:
    She holds two granted patents and one under review—reflecting originality and impact in applied research. Her inventions target industrial-scale problems, especially for desalination and corrosion management, which are of high relevance.

  • Research Output and Editorial Work:
    With 27 Scopus-indexed publications, consistent reviewing for Q1/Q2 journals, and active collaborations, Prof. Dalia demonstrates solid engagement with the global scientific community.

  • Leadership and Mentorship:
    As the former director and vice-chair of El-Max research station, and as a supervisor of multiple postgraduate theses, she has significantly contributed to research training and institutional development.

🎓 Education

Prof. Dalia earned all her degrees in Chemistry from Alexandria University, Egypt:
📘 Ph.D. in Chemistry (2008)
📘 M.Sc. in Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (2003)
📘 B.Sc. in Science (1999)

🧪 Experience

Prof. Dalia’s professional journey includes:
👩‍🔬 Researcher at NIOF (2009–2015)
👩‍🏫 Associate Professor (2015–2023)
🎓 Promoted to Professor of Marine Chemistry in 2023.
She has also served as Head and Vice-Chairman of El-Max Research Station, managing environmental and applied marine research projects. Her expertise includes membrane technology, eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors, and heavy metal remediation. ⚗️🌍

🔬 Research Interests On Environmental

Her research focuses on:
🌱 Green chemistry applications for water treatment
💧 Desalination technologies, especially RO membrane enhancements
🧫 Corrosion and scale inhibition using environmentally friendly compounds
📊 Environmental monitoring, including water quality and pollutant analysis
🔗 Nexus projects integrating sustainability in industrial water reuse

🏆 Awards & Patents

Prof. Dalia is nominated for the Women Research Award 🏅 for her pioneering contributions to sustainable chemistry. She holds:
📄 Two granted patents:

  1. Reverse Osmosis Membrane Resisting Biofouling and Inorganic Scaling (2024)

  2. Control of Scale Formation Using Eco-friendly Materials (2022)
    📑 One patent under process:

  • “A package of natural extract and biosurfactant as antiscalant in water systems” (2023)
    She has also received institutional support for national projects in desalination and nanomaterials.

📚 Publications

1. A natural extract as scale and corrosion inhibitor for steel surface in brine solution
Authors: AM Abdel-Gaber, BA Abd-El-Nabey, E Khamis, DE Abd-El-Khalek
Year: 2011
Citations: 217

2. Investigation of fig leaf extract as a novel environmentally friendly antiscalent for CaCO₃ calcareous deposits
Authors: AM Abdel-Gaber, BA Abd-El-Nabey, E Khamis, DE Abd-El-Khalek
Year: 2008
Citations: 126

3. Evaluation of sodium hexametaphosphate as scale and corrosion inhibitor in cooling water using electrochemical techniques
Authors: DE Abd-El-Khalek, BA Abd-El-Nabey
Year: 2013
Citations: 109

4. The inhibition of crystal growth of gypsum and barite scales in industrial water systems using green antiscalant
Authors: DE Abd-El-Khalek, BA Abd-El-Nabey, MA Abdel-Kawi, S Ebrahim, …
Year: 2019
Citations: 39

5. Investigation of a novel environmentally friendly inhibitor for calcium carbonate scaling in cooling water
Authors: DE Abd-El-Khalek, BA Abd-El-Nabey, MA Abdel-Kawi, SR Ramadan
Year: 2016
Citations: 36

6. Plant extracts as corrosion and scale inhibitors: A review
Authors: BA Abd-El-Nabey, DE Abd-El-Khalek, S El-Housseiny, ME Mohamed
Year: 2020
Citations: 31

7. Evaluation of nicotiana leaves extract as corrosion inhibitor for steel in acidic and neutral chloride solutions
Authors: DE Abd-El-Khalek, BA Abd-El-Nabey, AM Abdel-Gaber
Year: 2012
Citations: 29

8. Water-soluble sulfonated polyaniline as multifunctional scaling inhibitor for crystallization control in industrial applications
Authors: DE Abd-El-Khalek, HHAM Hassan, SR Ramadan
Year: 2021
Citations: 27

9. New application of brown sea algae as an alternative to phosphorous-containing antiscalant
Authors: E Khamis, DE Abd-El-Khalek, MA Abdel-Kawi, JM Anwar
Year: 2022
Citations: 26

10. Studies of some heavy metals in water and sediment in El-Max fish farm, Egypt
Authors: GM El Zokm, SE El-Gohary, DE Abd-El-Khalek
Year: 2012
Citations: 21

🧾 Conclusion

Professor Dalia’s work embodies the mission of environmental protection through innovation. 🌍💡 Her research on eco-friendly inhibitors and membrane technologies contributes directly to sustainable industrial practices. With international collaborations, patents, and numerous publications, she continues to inspire scientific excellence and gender equity in STEM. Her nomination for the Women Research Award recognizes a career devoted to impactful research, mentorship, and industrial collaboration.