Prince Ukaogo | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Prince Ukaogo | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Abia State University | Nigeria

Dr. Prince Ukaogo is a distinguished Nigerian analytical and environmental chemist at Abia State University, Uturu, whose research focuses on sustainable strategies for pollution assessment, industrial waste management, and environmental remediation. His scientific investigations encompass trace metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and radionuclides in soils, food crops, and aquatic systems, providing essential insights into human health and ecological safety. He has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Science of the Total Environment, Environmental Pollution, Waste Management, PLOS ONE, and Emerging Contaminants, contributing substantially to global knowledge on dioxin emission modeling, solid waste incineration, and radiological risk evaluation. With 18 publications, 829 citations, and an h-index of 11 (Scopus Author ID: 57223434758), Dr. Prince Ukaogo has established himself as a leading voice in environmental and analytical chemistry. His collaborative research with scientists across Africa, Europe, and Asia integrates computational modeling with experimental analyses to enhance pollution control strategies and risk assessment frameworks. His interdisciplinary work on corrosion inhibition, eco-toxicological profiling, and environmental monitoring continues to shape innovative approaches for sustainable industrial and environmental practices.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Ukaogo, P. O., Igwe, O. U., Nwankwo, O. C., Friday, C., Oko, E. H., & Ezenwafor, O. F. (2025, December). Analysis and human health evaluation of trace metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Ocimum basilicum and Vernonia amygdalina cultivated close to industrial markets in Owerri, Imo State. Waste Management Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wmb.2025.100241

  2. Ukaogo, P. O., Aljerf, L., Nwaru, E. C., Imrana, I., Tang, J., Ajong, A. B., Emole, P. O., Siddhant, O., & Ukaogo, C. T. (2024, April). Evaluation and risk assessment of heavy metals in King tuber mushroom in the context of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Kuwait Journal of Science. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.kjs.2024.100193

  3. Xia, H., Tang, J., Aljerf, L., Wang, T., Gao, B., Xu, Q., Wang, Q., & Ukaogo, P. (2023). Assessment of PCDD/Fs formation and emission characteristics at a municipal solid waste incinerator for one year. Science of the Total Environment. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163705

  4. Xia, H., Tang, J., Aljerf, L., Cui, C., Gao, B., & Ukaogo, P. O. (2023). Dioxin emission modeling using feature selection and simplified DFR with residual error fitting for the grate-based MSWI process. Waste Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wasman.2023.05.056

  5. Obike, A. I., Udorji, F. I., Ekerenam, O. O., Emori, W., Onyeije, U. C., Onyedinma, U. P., Okonkwo, P. C., & Ikeuba, A. I. (2024). Efficacy of Fleurya aestuans on mild steel protection in acidic systems: Combined gravimetry, gasometry, and electrochemical evaluations. Journal of Bio- and Tribo-Corrosion. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40735-024-00843-3

Valery Zakharov | Chemical Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

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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

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCID

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.

 

Garland Kgosi More | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Garland Kgosi More | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of South Africa | South Africa

Dr. Garland Kgosi More is a distinguished South African researcher and academic affiliated with the University of South Africa (UNISA). With a robust background in phytochemistry, metabolomics, and medicinal plant sciences, his work primarily focuses on exploring natural compounds for antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory applications. Dr. More has significantly contributed to the scientific community through his extensive research and publications in reputable journals.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Robust Academic Background:

    • PhD in Agriculture (with a focus on antiviral compounds and metabolomics).

    • MSc in Medicinal Plant Sciences with Distinction.

  • Multidisciplinary Research Excellence:

    • Expertise in virology, phytochemistry, metabolomics, nanotechnology, and antioxidant/antimicrobial research.

    • Strong contribution to infectious disease control (HIV, RVF virus, HSV-1, etc.), aligning well with public health and sustainability goals.

  • Strong Publication Record:

    • Published in high-impact international journals like Scientific Reports, Virology Journal, Viruses, Heliyon, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, and Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences.

    • Articles reflect original contributions, multidisciplinary integration, and translational potential (e.g., drug discovery, nanofertilizers).

  • Research Supervision and Mentorship:

    • Supervised numerous MSc, PhD, and Honours students.

    • Several successful MSc completions, and many ongoing advanced-level projects.

    • Involvement in proposal and development stages shows active pipeline growth.

🎓 Education

Dr. More’s academic journey commenced at the University of Pretoria, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Natural/Biological Sciences in 2006, majoring in Botany and Zoology. He further pursued a BSc Honours in Botany in 2007, focusing on the antimicrobial activity of medicinal plants against oral microorganisms. In 2013, he achieved a Master of Science in Medicinal Plant Sciences with distinction, researching antimicrobial constituents of Artemisia afra against periodontal pathogens. Culminating his academic pursuits, Dr. More obtained a PhD in Agriculture from UNISA in 2021, with a dissertation titled “In vitro anti-Rift Valley Fever Virus and identification of active antiviral compounds from medicinal plants through 1H-NMR metabolomics.”​

đź’Ľ Experience

Dr. More’s professional career is marked by progressive roles in academia and research. He began as a Laboratory Technician at the University of Pretoria (2008–2014), where he managed laboratory operations and facilitated undergraduate practicals. In 2014, he joined UNISA as a Laboratory Technologist, advancing to Senior Lecturer in April 2023, and subsequently to Chief Laboratory Technologist in August 2023. In these roles, he has been instrumental in teaching, research supervision, laboratory management, and ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety standards.​

🔬 Research Interests On Phytochemistry

Dr. More’s research interests are deeply rooted in the exploration of medicinal plants for therapeutic purposes. He specializes in phytochemistry and metabolomics, focusing on identifying bioactive compounds with antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. His work often involves advanced analytical techniques to elucidate the mechanisms of action of these natural products, aiming to contribute to the development of novel treatments for various diseases.​

🏆 Awards

While specific awards are not listed, Dr. More’s academic excellence is evident from his MSc degree obtained with distinction. His professional growth and appointments to senior academic positions at UNISA also reflect recognition of his contributions to the field.​

đź“š Publications

Dr. More has an impressive portfolio of publications. Here are some notable works:

1. Title: Antimicrobial activity of medicinal plants against oral microorganisms
Authors: G More, TE Tshikalange, N Lall, F Botha, JJM Meyer
Year: 2008
Cited by: 244

2. Title: In-vitro analysis of free radical scavenging activities and suppression of LPS-induced ROS production in macrophage cells by Solanum sisymbriifolium extracts
Authors: GK More, RT Makola
Year: 2020
Cited by: 122

3. Title: Antimicrobial Constituents of Artemisia afra Jacq. ex Willd. against Periodontal Pathogens
Authors: G More, N Lall, A Hussein, TE Tshikalange
Year: 2012
Cited by: 83

4. Title: Novel silver-platinum bimetallic nanoalloy synthesized from Vernonia mespilifolia extract: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities
Authors: JO Unuofin, AO Oladipo, TAM Msagati, SL Lebelo, S Meddows-Taylor, …
Year: 2020
Cited by: 64

5. Title: Antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties of biosynthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) using Athrixia phylicoides DC
Authors: AG Kaningini, T Motlhalamme, GK More, KC Mohale, M Maaza
Year: 2023
Cited by: 52

6. Title: Alkaloids from aerial parts of Annona senegalensis against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: N Lall, N Kishore, D Bodiba, G More, E Tshikalange, H Kikuchi, Y Oshima
Year: 2017
Cited by: 41

7. Title: A review of the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacological relevance of the South African weed Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. (Solanaceae)
Author: GK More
Year: 2019
Cited by: 29

8. Title: Synthesis of furocoumarin–stilbene hybrids as potential multifunctional drugs against multiple biochemical targets associated with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: EN Agbo, S Gildenhuys, YS Choong, MJ Mphahlele, GK More
Year: 2020
Cited by: 24

9. Title: Metabolomic profile of medicinal plants with anti-RVFV activity
Authors: GK More, J Vervoort, PA Steenkamp, G Prinsloo
Year: 2022
Cited by: 20

10. Title: In vitro evaluation of anti-Rift Valley Fever Virus, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of South African medicinal plant extracts
Authors: GK More, RT Makola, G Prinsloo
Year: 2021
Cited by: 19

đź“ť Conclusion

Dr. Garland Kgosi More exemplifies dedication to scientific research and education. His extensive work in medicinal plant sciences and commitment to academic excellence have made significant impacts in his field. Through his roles at UNISA and his numerous publications, Dr. More continues to contribute valuable knowledge and mentorship in the realm of phytochemistry and metabolomics.