Ameneh Amani | Chemistry and Materials Science | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Ameneh Amani | Chemistry and Materials Science | Women Researcher Award

Bu-Ali Sina University | Iran

Dr. Ameneh Amani, an accomplished Iranian analytical chemist at Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamadan, Iran, specializes in electrochemistry, electrosynthesis, and electroanalysis, with a strong emphasis on green electrochemical methods, ionic liquids, and electrochemical oxidation mechanisms. Her research explores the electrosynthesis of organic compounds, electropolymerization, and electrochemical characterization of medicinal plant extracts for assessing antioxidant and biological activity. Dr. Ameneh Amani has authored and co-authored 36 peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in Scopus, accumulating 453 citations across 345 citing documents, and maintaining an h-index of 12. Her publications appear in prestigious journals such as Electrochimica Acta, Journal of Organic Chemistry, Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Scientific Reports, New Journal of Chemistry, Tetrahedron, and Journal of the Iranian Chemical Society. Her notable works include pioneering research on phosphonium-based ionic liquids in chemical processes, symmetric and highly conjugated benzofuran synthesis, and thermodynamic and kinetic investigations of aminophenol oxidation. Through these studies, she has advanced innovative, sustainable, and mechanism-driven electrochemical methodologies. Dr. Ameneh Amani’s contributions extend beyond research publications. She has presented extensively at national and international chemistry conferences, including the Iranian Seminars of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Congresses, and Biennial Electrochemistry Conferences, earning recognition for her insights into electrochemical oxidation mechanisms and herb–drug interaction studies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Khazalpour, S., Yarie, M., Kianpour, E., Amani, A., Asadabadi, S., Seyf, J. Y., et al. (2020). Applications of phosphonium-based ionic liquids in chemical processes. Journal of the Iranian Chemical Society, 17(8), 1775–1917. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13738-020-01874-3

  2. Nematollahi, D., Amani, A., & Tammari, E. (2007). Electrosynthesis of symmetric and highly conjugated benzofuran via a unique ECECCC electrochemical mechanism: Evidence for predominance of electrochemical oxidation versus chemical oxidation. The Journal of Organic Chemistry, 72(10), 3646–3651. https://doi.org/10.1021/jo070161r

  3. Beiginejad, H., Amani, A., Nematollahi, D., & Khazalpour, S. (2015). Thermodynamic study of the electrochemical oxidation of some aminophenol derivatives: Experimental and theoretical investigation. Electrochimica Acta, 154, 235–243. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.electacta.2014.12.014

  4. Sabounchei, S. J., Shahriary, P., Salehzadeh, S., Gholiee, Y., Nematollahi, D., et al. (2015). Pd(II) and Pd(IV) complexes with 5-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl) hydantoin: Synthesis, physicochemical, theoretical, and pharmacological investigation. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 135, 1088–1096. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2014.07.048

  5. Nematollahi, D., & Amani, A. (2011). Electrochemical synthesis of the new substituted phenylpiperazines. Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, 651(1), 72–79. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jelechem.2010.11.029

 

Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

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Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

Central Forensic Science Laboratory | India

Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana is a highly accomplished forensic biologist and Scientist-B at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory, Hyderabad, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, India, with over a decade of expertise in DNA analysis, serology, and forensic molecular biology. He earned his Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi/Central Drug Research Institute, where he conducted pioneering work on methyltransferases of Wolbachia endosymbionts and anti-filarial drug development, followed by postdoctoral training at the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion-IIT) focusing on tRNA methyltransferases and ribonucleases. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana’s professional journey spans roles from Scientific Assistant to Assistant Director (Biology) at the State Forensic Science Laboratory, Jharkhand, and now leadership of the DNA/Biology Division at CFSL Hyderabad, where he manages NABL-accredited laboratories, oversees quality compliance, and supervises forensic sample analysis. He has reported over 750 cases, attended more than 35 crime scenes, and mentored numerous scientific assistants and law enforcement personnel in forensic protocols. His research integrates molecular biology, DNA methylation, and advanced forensic genetics, including strategies for extracting DNA from challenging samples, contributing to both theoretical knowledge and practical forensic applications. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana has published 12 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, accumulating 208 citations with an h-index of 8, as indexed in Scopus, in journals including Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (2013), Frontiers in Genetics (2016), and Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences (2018). Recognized with prestigious awards including the DST-SERB International Travel Award, CSIR fellowships, and national competitive selections, Dr. Rana exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing forensic biology.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Current drug targets for helminthic diseases. Parasitology Research, 112(5), 1819–1831.

Rana, A. K., & Ankri, S. (2016). Reviving the RNA world: An insight into the appearance of RNA methyltransferases. Frontiers in Genetics, 7, 99.

Rana, A. K., & Kumar, N. (2023). Current wildlife crime (Indian scenario): Major challenges and prevention approaches. Biodiversity and Conservation, 32(5), 1473–1491.

Rana, A. K. (2018). Crime investigation through DNA methylation analysis: Methods and applications in forensics. Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 8(7), 38.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2011). Cloning, expression, purification and kinetics of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase of filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Acta Tropica, 119(2–3), 151–159.

Kumar, N., Yadav, V. K., & Rana, A. K. (2017). Wildlife forensic: Current techniques and their limitations. Journal of Forensic Science & Criminology, 5(4), 402.

Singh, P. K., Kushwaha, S., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2014). Cofactor independent phosphoglycerate mutase of Brugia malayi induces a mixed Th1/Th2 type immune response and inhibits larval development in the host. BioMed Research International, 2014, 590281.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Immunization of Mastomys coucha with Brugia malayi recombinant trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase results in significant protection against homologous challenge infection. PLoS ONE, 8(8), e72585.

Joerg Florian Friedrich | Chemistry | Lifetime achievement Award

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Prof. Dr. Joerg Florian Friedrich | Chemistry | Lifetime achievement Award

Technical University Berlin | Germany

Prof. Dr. Joerg Florian Friedrich is a renowned chemist born in 1948 in Erkner near Berlin. With a remarkable academic and research career spanning over five decades, he has made significant contributions to the fields of plasma chemistry, polymer composites, and surface analysis. His career includes key leadership roles in major German research institutions, and he continues to inspire as a lecturer even after his retirement.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Experience: With over three decades of active engagement in teaching and research, Dr. Singh has demonstrated sustained contributions to the field of Environmental Microbiology.

  • Academic Contributions: She has a rich publication record in reputed national and international journals, showcasing the quality and impact of her research work.

  • Specialized Expertise: Her focus on environmental microbiology, a critical and evolving area of biological sciences, places her at the forefront of research related to sustainable development, environmental health, and microbial applications.

  • Mentorship and Teaching Excellence: Dr. Singh has played a pivotal role in guiding postgraduate and doctoral students, thereby shaping future generations of scientists.

  • Recognition and Involvement: Participation in conferences, collaborations, and institutional contributions add to her reputation as a leader in her domain.

🎓 Education

Prof. Friedrich began his academic journey in 1967, studying chemistry at Humboldt University Berlin. He received his Diploma in Physical Chemistry in 1972 and soon joined the German Academy of Sciences in Berlin. He earned his Dr. rer. nat. in 1974/1975 and later his Dr. sc. nat. in 1981/1982, both from the Academy of Sciences of the GDR, Berlin. His habilitation and venia legendi (teaching license) were awarded in 1991 at TH Merseburg, marking his formal recognition as an independent university teacher.

💼 Experience

Prof. Friedrich’s career reflects deep expertise and leadership in materials science. He began as Deputy Chief of the Department of Polymer Composites in 1975. He later led the Plasma Chemistry Division at the Institute of Applied Chemistry (ACA), Berlin (1991–1994). From 1995, he headed the Polymer Structure and Analysis Division and, later in 2006, the Polymer Surfaces Division at BAM (Federal Institute of Materials Research and Testing). By 1996, he was appointed Director and Professor at BAM. In 2007, he joined the Technical University of Berlin as a Professor in Material Sciences and Polymer Analysis, serving until his emeritus status in 2013, after which he remained active as a lecturer until 2024.

🔬 Research Interest On Chemistry

Prof. Friedrich’s research bridges chemistry, materials science, and engineering. He is particularly known for his pioneering work in plasma chemistry, polymer surface modification, polymer composites, and materials analysis. His contributions have not only advanced theoretical understanding but also facilitated innovations in industrial applications. His multi-disciplinary approach continues to influence new generations of researchers and practitioners in materials science.

🏅 Awards

Over the years, Prof. Friedrich has received numerous honors and held esteemed positions in academia and research. His nomination for the Award Nomination Application Form dated May 29, 2012, reflects his standing as a respected figure in the international scientific community. His ongoing academic involvement post-retirement further underlines his lifelong commitment to science and mentorship. 🏆📜

📚 Publications

Prof. Friedrich is the author of around 375 publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, patents, books, and book chapters. His work is widely cited and has influenced many aspects of polymer and materials research. 🔗 Here’s a selected publication with details:

1. Mechanisms of Plasma Polymerization – Reviewed From a Chemical Point of View-II: Plasma Polymers With Classic Structure

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2025

2. Plasma-Deposited Polymer Layers as Adhesion Promoters

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

3. Competition in Adhesion between Polysort and Monosort Functionalized Polyolefin Surfaces Coated with Vacuum-Evaporated Aluminium

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

4. Structure of plasma deposited acrylic acid-allyl alcohol copolymers

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, H. Omar, P. Szymoniak, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 2

5. Significance of interfacial redox reactions and formation of metal-organic complexes for the adhesion of metals on pristine and plasma-treated polymers

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich, W.E.S. Unger, A. Lippitz, S. Weidner, G. Kühn

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 12

6. Structure of plasma-deposited copolymer films prepared from acrylic acid and styrene: Part III sulfonation and electrochemical properties

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M.A. Kolmangadi, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2022

  • Citations: 7

7. Nonthermal plasmas for materials processing: Polymer surface modification and plasma polymerization

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich, J. Meichsner

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

8. Modified polyvinyl chloride membrane grafted with an ultra-thin polystyrene film: Structure and electrochemical properties

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M.A.A.R. Abu-Saied, N.N. Morgan, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 11

9. One-step plasma deposited thin SiOxCy films for corrosion resistance of low carbon steel

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M. ElSabbagh, M.A. Bedair, S.M. El-Bahy, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 14

10. Degradation of organic dye using plasma discharge: Optimization, pH and energy

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, A.H. El-Zomrawy, A.M. Saeed, H.A.H. Shehata, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2020

  • Citations: 30

🔚 Conclusion

Prof. Friedrich stands as a towering figure in the field of materials science, with profound contributions to polymer chemistry and surface engineering. His work has not only shaped research paradigms but also enhanced technological capabilities in surface treatment and material interfaces. His dedication to both research and education makes him a deserving candidate for any high-level academic or scientific award.