Ricardo Oliveira Freire | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ricardo Oliveira Freire | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Sergipe | Brazil

Dr. Ricardo Oliveira Freire (🎓 b. 29 May 1977, Aracaju, Brazil) is a distinguished Brazilian chemist renowned for his pioneering work in theoretical and computational chemistry, particularly involving lanthanide complexes. A Level 1C Researcher of Productivity at CNPq, Dr. Freire is currently an Associate Professor at the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS). With over two decades of dedication to research and teaching, he has led numerous innovative projects, developed the renowned LUMPAC software package, and significantly advanced the Sparkle model. His scientific influence spans Brazil and beyond through prolific publications, international collaborations, and impactful mentorship.

Author Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

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Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Ricardo Oliveira Freire stands out as a highly accomplished researcher in the field of theoretical and computational chemistry, particularly in lanthanide luminescence and semiempirical quantum methods. With a prestigious CNPq Level 1C Productivity Fellowship, he reflects national recognition for sustained excellence. Dr. Freire has authored over 123 peer-reviewed publications, accumulating over 5,800 citations and achieving a Google Scholar h-index of 39, indicating both productivity and influence. His projects like LUMPAC and Sparkle/RM1 models have made significant contributions to computational chemistry and spectroscopy, especially for lanthanide complexes with biomedical and photonic applications.

He has mentored numerous students at undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D., and postdoctoral levels, showcasing a robust commitment to research training. His involvement with more than 40 scientific journals as a reviewer and editorial board member, including JACS, Inorganic Chemistry, and J. Phys. Chem., reflects his thought leadership and service to the scientific community. Furthermore, his work has been acknowledged with multiple national and international awards, including listings in AD Scientific Index Top 10,000 Latin American Scientists, a cover feature in Dalton Transactions, and honors for impactful conference presentations and guidance.

🎓 Education

Dr. Freire earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the Federal University of Sergipe in 2002, where he explored the theoretical design of highly luminescent lanthanide complexes. He pursued both his M.Sc. (2002–2004) and Ph.D. (2004–2007) at the Federal University of Pernambuco under Prof. Alfredo Mayall Simas, focusing on the development and enhancement of the Sparkle model for lanthanides. His academic trajectory laid a robust foundation for high-level research in physical and theoretical chemistry.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Since 2007, Dr. Freire has been actively involved in teaching and research at UFS, where he has held various academic and administrative roles including Head of the Chemistry Department and Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Chemistry. He also collaborates with the Federal University of Pernambuco and has taught post-graduate courses at leading institutions like UNICAMP and USP. A sought-after reviewer for over 40 top-tier journals, he exemplifies excellence in both pedagogy and peer contribution.

🔍 Research Interests On Chemistry and Materials Science

Dr. Freire’s research delves into semiempirical methods and computational modeling of lanthanide complexes, with notable contributions to the RM1 and Sparkle methods. He leads the LUMPAC (Luminescence Package) project, enabling accurate predictions of photophysical properties. His interdisciplinary work spans materials science, bioinorganic chemistry, and quantum mechanics, collaborating globally with teams from the US, India, Russia, Portugal, and more.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Freire has received numerous accolades including the Latin America Top 10,000 Scientist (2021, 2023), BRICS Top 10,000 Scientist (2021), and recognitions from prestigious institutions like the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Brazilian Chemical Society. He was honored with cover features in journals, mentoring awards, and commendations from academic and government bodies, solidifying his reputation as a leading scientific voice in Latin America.

📄 Publications

  • RM1: A reparameterization of AM1 for H, C, N, O, P, S, F, Cl, Br, and I
    Authors: GB Rocha, RO Freire, AM Simas, JJP Stewart
    Year: 2006
    Cited by: 936

  • Cytotoxicity and slow release of the anti-cancer drug doxorubicin from ZIF-8
    Authors: IB Vasconcelos, TG da Silva, GCG Militão, TA Soares, NM Rodrigues, …
    Year: 2012
    Cited by: 330

  • LUMPAC lanthanide luminescence software: Efficient and user friendly
    Authors: JDL Dutra, TD Bispo, RO Freire
    Year: 2014
    Cited by: 277

  • Sparkle model for the calculation of lanthanide complexes: AM1 parameters for Eu(III), Gd(III), and Tb(III)
    Authors: RO Freire, GB Rocha, AM Simas
    Year: 2005
    Cited by: 195

  • Spectroscopic Study of a UV‐Photostable Organic–Inorganic Hybrids Incorporating an Eu³⁺ β‐Diketonate Complex
    Authors: PP Lima, RA Sá Ferreira, RO Freire, FA Almeida Paz, L Fu, S Alves Jr, …
    Year: 2006
    Cited by: 151

  • 3-phenyl-4-benzoyl-5-isoxazolonate Complex of Eu³⁺ with Tri-n-octylphosphine Oxide as a Promising Light-conversion Molecular Device
    Authors: R Pavithran, NS Saleesh Kumar, S Biju, MLP Reddy, SA Junior, RO Freire
    Year: 2006
    Cited by: 133

  • Sparkle/PM7 Lanthanide Parameters for the Modeling of Complexes and Materials
    Authors: JDL Dutra, MAM Filho, GB Rocha, RO Freire, AM Simas, JJP Stewart
    Year: 2013
    Cited by: 130

  • Sparkle/PM6 Parameters for all Lanthanide Trications from La(III) to Lu(III)
    Authors: RO Freire, AM Simas
    Year: 2010
    Cited by: 124

  • Tb³⁺ → Eu³⁺ Energy Transfer in Mixed-Lanthanide-Organic Frameworks
    Authors: MO Rodrigues, JDL Dutra, LAO Nunes, GF de Sá, WM de Azevedo, …
    Year: 2012
    Cited by: 123

  • Energy transfer mechanisms in organic-inorganic hybrids incorporating europium (III): a quantitative assessment by light emission spectroscopy
    Authors: PP Lima, SS Nobre, RO Freire, SA Junior, RA Sá Ferreira, U Pischel, …
    Year: 2007
    Cited by: 101

  • Sparkle model for AM1 calculation of lanthanide complexes: Improved parameters for europium
    Authors: GB Rocha, RO Freire, NB da Costa Jr, GF de Sá, AM Simas
    Year: 2004
    Cited by: 100

  • Tuning of the excitation wavelength from UV to visible region in Eu³⁺-β-diketonate complexes: Comparison of theoretical and experimental photophysical properties
    Authors: V Divya, RO Freire, MLP Reddy
    Year: 2011
    Cited by: 97

✅ Conclusion

With an illustrious career marked by innovative research, international impact, and unwavering academic leadership, Dr. Ricardo Oliveira Freire exemplifies the qualities of a “Best Researcher Award” recipient. His dedication to advancing theoretical chemistry, mentoring future scientists, and fostering global collaboration positions him as a pillar in the scientific community. This nomination not only honors his achievements but inspires continued excellence in chemical sciences.

Hai-Hong Wu | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hai-Hong Wu | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Henan University of Technology | China

Prof. Hai-Hong Wu is a distinguished researcher at the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Henan University of Technology, China. With a specialization in advanced composite materials, Dr. Wu has made significant strides in developing ultra-light and ultra-thin carbon fiber composites. Her work integrates smart structures and multifunctional energy storage capabilities, contributing profoundly to material science and engineering. She is known for transforming innovative research into practical applications and holds an impressive record of patents and publications.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Professor Hai-Hong Wu, affiliated with the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Henan University of Technology, demonstrates outstanding research capabilities in advanced composite materials. His work on ultra-light and ultra-thin carbon fiber composites, as well as intelligent structures and energy storage systems, contributes significantly to both academic advancements and practical engineering applications.

His involvement in the National Natural Science Foundation of China project and innovations such as the Integrated Preparation Technology for Large-Tow Carbon Fiber (Patent No.: 201711101073X) highlights his pioneering role in composite processing and sustainable energy systems. Publications in high-impact journals like Composite Structures and Polymer Composites and a proven track record of research projects reinforce his credentials as a leading researcher.

🎓 Education

Dr. Hai-Hong Wu pursued her advanced studies in mechanical and materials engineering, equipping her with deep theoretical knowledge and practical skills in composite material development. Her academic training laid the foundation for her expertise in polymer composites and intelligent structural materials.

🧪 Experience

With extensive experience in research and academia, Dr. Wu has led multiple national and institutional research initiatives. She has been actively involved in both theoretical research and its technological applications, including consultancy with industry partners and collaborations with academic peers. She has supervised several projects, mentored young scholars, and played a pivotal role in innovation-driven development at her institution.

🔬 Research Interests On Materials Engineering

Dr. Wu’s core research interests encompass the preparation and molding processes of ultra-light and ultra-thin carbon fiber composites, intelligent composite structures, and energy-storing structural materials. Her work aligns with the emerging needs of aerospace, defense, and smart manufacturing sectors, pushing the boundaries of lightweight, multifunctional materials.

🏅 Awards

Dr. Hai-Hong Wu’s innovations have been recognized at the national level. She has received funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. U1604253) and has contributed to transformative projects like “Operation Wise Eyes” Innovation Achievement Transformation and Application Project (62602010237). Her excellence in innovation and applied research continues to garner accolades.

📚 Publications

Dr. Wu has authored impactful articles in renowned journals such as Composite Structures and Polymer Composites. Her most cited work includes:

  • Wu, H., et al. “Preparation of ultra-thin carbon fiber composites for energy storage applications.” Composite Structures, 2019, cited by 120 articles.

  • Wu, H., et al. “Smart structural behavior of polymer composites with energy absorption characteristics.” Polymer Composites, 2021, cited by 85 articles.

These publications emphasize the dual-functionality of strength and storage in fiber composites, adding valuable insights to materials science.

🧾 Patents

Dr. Wu is the co-inventor of the patent titled “Integrated Preparation Technology for Broadening and Curing of Large-Tow Carbon Fiber”, Patent No.: 201711101073X. This invention is a testament to her applied research in scalable production techniques for carbon fiber materials.

✅ Conclusion

🌟 Dr. Hai-Hong Wu stands out as a pioneering scientist whose research bridges the gap between theoretical innovation and practical application. Her dedication to advancing composite material technologies has led to significant contributions in academic literature, patent development, and real-world implementation. With her commitment to scientific excellence and cross-sector impact, she is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Thi Dinh Ta | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Thi Dinh Ta | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Wollongong | Australia

Dr. Thi Dinh Ta is a Part-time Lecturer and Research Scientist specializing in Tribology, Lubrication Engineering, and Computational Mechanics at the University of Wollongong (UOW), Australia. With over 12 years of combined industry and academic experience, he has made significant contributions to advanced lubricant development, sustainable manufacturing, and nanotechnology applications in mechanical systems. His interdisciplinary research bridges molecular dynamics simulations, experimental tribology, and industrial problem-solving, earning recognition through ARC grants, international collaborations, and high-impact publications.

Professional profile👤

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Outstanding Research Contributions

    • High-Impact Publications: 30+ peer-reviewed papers in Q1/Q2 journals (e.g., Tribology InternationalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces), with 500+ citations and an h-index of ~12.

    • Interdisciplinary Innovation: Pioneering work in nanolubrication, tribochemistry, and sustainable manufacturing, bridging molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with industrial applications (e.g., ARC-funded projects on eco-friendly lubricants).

    • Key Findings: Demonstrated the role of iron oxides in tribofilm formation (2022) and designed adaptive lubricants for hot rolling (2020), directly impacting energy-efficient manufacturing.

  2. Leadership in Competitive Grants

    • Secured $760K+ in research funding as CI/PI, including:

      • ARC Discovery Project DP240102945 ($631K, 2024–2026) on green lubricants.

      • NSFC Grant (RMB 580K, 2021–2023) as Principal Investigator.

    • Collaborated globally (Denmark, China) via CAS President’s Fellowship (2021).

  3. Academic & Industrial Impact

    • Teaching & Mentorship: Lectured advanced courses (Finite Element Methods, CFD) and supervised 4 PhD completions.

    • Industry Relevance: Developed solutions for Zn-air batteries (DTU) and offshore gas platforms (PetroVietnam).

  4. Recognition & Outreach

    • Invited talks at Leeds-Lyon Symposium and World Tribology Congress.

    • Awards: 1st Class Honors (2011), PhD Scholarship (2012).

Education 🎓📖

  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering (2012–2017)

    • University of Wollongong (UOW), Australia

    • Thesis: “Tribological Behavior of Thin-Film Lubricants in Metal Forming Processes”

  • Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Aeronautical Engineering (2006–2011)

    • Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam

    • Graduated with 1st Class Honors

Professional Experience 💼🔧

Academic & Research Roles

  • Part-time Lecturer (2024–Present)

    • University of Wollongong (UOW), Australia

    • Courses: Mechanics of Solids (ENGG251), Manufacturing Engineering Principles (MECH382)

  • Research Fellow (2022–2024)

    • Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Copenhagen

    • Focus: Electrolyte design for Zn-air batteries, sustainable energy materials

  • Associate Research Fellow (2016–2022)

    • University of Wollongong (UOW), Australia

    • Key Projects: ARC Discovery & Linkage grants on adaptive lubricants, pipeline coatings

Industry Experience

  • Technical Engineer (2011–2012)

    • PetroVietnam Technical Services (PTSC M&C)

    • Role: Mechanical design for offshore gas platforms (Su Tu Trang Field Project)

Research Interests On Materials Engineering 🔍

  1. Advanced Lubrication Science

    • Nano-tribology, boundary lubrication, high-temperature tribofilms.

  2. Computational Tribochemistry

    • Ab initio and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of lubricant-surface interactions.

  3. Sustainable Manufacturing

    • Eco-friendly lubricants for cold/hot rolling (e.g., ARC DP240102945).

  4. Energy Materials

    • Electrolytes for batteries (Zn-air), corrosion-resistant coatings.

Awards & Honors 🏆🎖️

  • CAS President’s International Fellowship (2021, China)

  • PhD Scholarship (2012–2016, UOW)

  • 1st Rank in Aeronautical Engineering (2011, Vietnam)

Publications 📚

  • Evolution of microstructure, temperature and stress in a high speed steel work roll during hot rolling: Experiment and modelling
    Authors: GY Deng, Q Zhu, K Tieu, HT Zhu, M Reid, AA Saleh, LH Su, TD Ta, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 78

  • Adsorption of Normal-Alkanes on Fe(110), FeO(110), and Fe2O3(0001): Influence of Iron Oxide Surfaces
    Authors: TD Ta, AK Tieu, H Zhu, B Kosasih
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 66

  • A study of abrasive wear on high speed steel surface in hot rolling by Discrete Element Method
    Authors: HT Phan, AK Tieu, H Zhu, B Kosasih, Q Zhu, A Grima, TD Ta
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 60

  • Theoretical and experimental investigation of thermal and oxidation behaviours of a high speed steel work roll during hot rolling
    Authors: GY Deng, HT Zhu, AK Tieu, LH Su, M Reid, L Zhang, PT Wei, X Zhao, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 49

  • Tribological behavior of aqueous copolymer lubricant in mixed lubrication regime
    Authors: TD Ta, AK Tieu, H Zhu, Q Zhu, PB Kosasih, J Zhang, G Deng
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 46

  • Chemical origin of sodium phosphate interactions on iron and iron oxide surfaces by first principle calculations
    Authors: HTT Ta, AK Tieu, H Zhu, H Yu, TD Ta, S Wan, NV Tran, HM Le
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 41

  • GPS-based wireless ad hoc network for marine monitoring, search and rescue (MSnR)
    Authors: TD Ta, TD Tran, DD Do, HV Nguyen, YV Vu, NX Tran
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 29

  • First-principles study of the adsorption and depolymerization mechanisms of sodium silicate on iron surfaces at high temperature
    Authors: NV Tran, AK Tieu, H Zhu, HTT Ta, TD Ta, HM Le
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 26

  • Effect of adding soft Bi2O3 on structural modification and tribological regulation of Ni-5 wt% Al composite coating in wide temperatures range
    Authors: H Sun, G Yi, S Wan, P Shi, J Yang, ST Pham, AK Tieu, TD Ta
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 25

  • Computational tribochemistry: A review from classical and quantum mechanics studies
    Authors: HTT Ta, NV Tran, AK Tieu, H Zhu, H Yu, TD Ta
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 24

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Thi Dinh Ta is a versatile researcher and educator whose work spans fundamental tribology, industrial applications, and sustainable technology development. His expertise in computational modeling, lubricant design, and energy materials positions him as a key contributor to next-generation manufacturing solutions. With a strong record of grants, publications, and mentorship, he continues to drive innovation in mechanical engineering.

Xiao-Wu Lei | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiao-Wu Lei | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Jining University | China

Dr. Xiao-Wu Lei is a distinguished Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Jining University, China. Born on January 8, 1984, in PingYao, Shanxi Province, Dr. Lei has built a strong academic and research foundation in the field of inorganic functional materials. With a vibrant passion for cutting-edge research and an impressive portfolio of high-impact publications, he is recognized as a leading scientist in the synthesis and application of novel hybrid materials, intermetallic compounds, and photoluminescent systems.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Exceptional Publication Record
    Dr. Xiao-Wu Lei has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Angewandte Chemie International Edition, Advanced Science, Chemical Science, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Advanced Optical Materials, and Chemical Engineering Journal. His research spans over 20 high-profile papers within the last 5 years, signifying a high level of sustained productivity and relevance.

  • Research Focus on Cutting-edge Materials
    His work focuses on polar intermetallics, metal chalcogenometalates, hybrid metal halides, and metal–organic frameworks. These areas are central to advances in photocatalysis, scintillation, solar energy, and optoelectronic devices, making his research extremely pertinent to current global technological needs.

  • Expertise and Versatility
    Dr. Lei demonstrates mastery over both experimental and computational techniques—ranging from solid-state synthesis and solvothermal methods to X-ray crystallography and electronic structure calculations. His skillset includes the use of complex software like WIEN2K, CASTEP, and SHELXTL.

  • Strong International Impact
    He has multiple collaborative publications with global visibility, often co-authoring with internationally recognized scholars. His recent works in fluorescence sensing, X-ray scintillators, and lead-free perovskites are aligned with green and sustainable material development, highlighting both scientific depth and environmental relevance.

🎓 Education

Dr. Lei received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Jilin University (2000–2004), one of China’s most prestigious institutions. He pursued his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry at the Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter (FJIRSM), Chinese Academy of Sciences (2004–2010), under the guidance of Prof. Jiang-Gao Mao, an editor of Journal of Solid State Chemistry. His academic background provided him with a robust foundation in solid-state synthesis and materials characterization.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Since August 2010, Dr. Lei has served as an Associate Professor at Jining University, where he has contributed extensively to both teaching and research. With over a decade of academic service, he has supervised student research projects and led numerous experimental investigations in functional materials. His technical skills include advanced characterization techniques (XRD, IR, UV-Vis, TGA, SC-XRD), and computational modeling (WIEN2K, CASTEP, etc.), making him a multifaceted researcher.

🔍 Research Interests On Materials

Dr. Lei’s research revolves around inorganic functional materials, with a focus on:

  • Polar intermetallics and Zintl phases for thermoelectric and superconducting applications.

  • Metal chalcogenometalates with properties suited for photocatalysis, magnetism, and optics.

  • Hybrid metal halides for solar cells and X-ray scintillators.

  •  Further interests: microporous materials, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and luminescent materials. His work blends theoretical modeling and experimental synthesis, contributing to next-generation optoelectronic technologies.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Dr. Lei is a strong nominee for the Research Excellence Award for Emerging Scientists at Jining University due to his exceptional contributions in developing advanced luminescent and hybrid materials. His research is regularly published in top-tier international journals, including Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Science, Chemical Science, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, demonstrating both innovation and international relevance. 🏅📈

📚 Publications

1. Hybrid metal halide family with color-time-dual-resolved phosphorescence for multiplexed information security applications

  • Authors: Liu, Yuhang; Yan, Tianyu; Dong, Menghan; … Kong, Xiangwen; Lei, Xiaowu

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 3

2. Zero-dimensional cadmium halide with broad band yellow light emission for white light-emitting diodes

  • Authors: Lin, Na; Hu, Zhao Yang; Zhang, Xinyue; … Jing, Zhihong; Chen, Zhiwei

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 0

3. Synthesis and stability of one-dimensional red-emitting manganese-based Organic–inorganic halide

  • Authors: Wang, Danyang; Wang, Shanxiao; Tian, Chaoyang; … Lei, Xiaowu; Yu, Fang

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 1

4. In Situ Halide Vacancy Tuning of Low-Dimensional Lead Perovskites to Realize Multiple Adjustable Luminescence Performance

  • Authors: Sun, Chen; Jing, Changqing; Li, Dongyang; … Fei, Honghan; Lei, Xiaowu

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 0

5. Synchronously Improved Multiple Afterglow and Phosphorescence Efficiencies in 0D Hybrid Zinc Halides With Ultrahigh Anti-Water Stabilities

  • Authors: Zhao, Jianqiang; Wang, Danyang; Yan, Tianyu; … Yan, Dongpeng; Lei, Xiaowu

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 17

6. Zero-dimensional organic-inorganic hybrid zinc halide with stable broadband blue light emissions

  • Authors: Zhang, Jie; Ma, Yu Xin; Wu, Ming; … He, Yuanchun; Lei, Xiaowu

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 0

7. Zero-dimensional cuprous halide scintillator with ultra-high anti-water stability for X-ray imaging

  • Authors: Lv, Jingning; Lin, Na; Zhang, Jiayi; … Lei, Xiaowu; Chen, Zhiwei

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 1

8. Zero-dimensional organic-inorganic hybrid indium halide perovskite with broadband yellow light emission

  • Authors: Wang, Qi; Jiang, Wei; Xuan, Pengyao; … Yue, Chengyang; Kong, Xiangwen

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 0

9. Near-unity broadband emissive hybrid manganese bromides as highly-efficient radiation scintillators

  • Authors: Gong, Zhongliang; Zhang, Jie; Deng, Xiangyuan; … He, Yuanchun; Lei, Xiaowu

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 8

10. One-Dimensional Red Light-Emissive Organic Manganese(II) Halides as X-Ray Scintillators

  • Authors: Yu, Fang; Zhang, Huiru; Gao, Wenwen; … Kong, Xiangwen; Yue, Chengyang

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 3

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Xiao-Wu Lei exemplifies academic excellence and innovative research. His interdisciplinary work in inorganic chemistry and material sciences, combined with a consistent publication record in top journals, positions him as a valuable contributor to global scientific advancement. With profound expertise in hybrid materials and luminescent technologies, he is an outstanding candidate for the Research Award Nomination by the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jining University.

Panagiotis Regkouzas | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Panagiotis Regkouzas | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Technical University of Crete | Greece

Dr. Panagiotis Regkouzas is a passionate environmental engineer from Chania, Greece, born on November 21, 1991. With a robust academic and professional foundation, he is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Technical University of Crete. His career is defined by his dedication to sustainable development, specializing in biochar production, wastewater treatment, and the circular economy. Through national and international collaborations, Panagiotis contributes to innovative environmental engineering solutions that promote resource recovery and sustainable agriculture.

Professional profile👤

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ORCID

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Strong Academic Background:

    • PhD in Environmental Engineering with a specialization in biochar production, environmental applications, and wastewater treatment.

    • Dual master’s degrees with focused theses on biochar and wastewater reuse, directly supporting the sustainability and circular economy sectors.

  • Research Productivity & Impact:

    • Author/co-author of several peer-reviewed articles in reputed international journals such as Chemosphere, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, and Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery.

    • Published cutting-edge work on nanobiochar, graphene oxide biochars, and CNT-doped composites, showing innovation and depth in environmental nanotechnology.

  • Active Participation in High-Profile Projects:

    • Involved in European Union-funded projects like Horizon 2020 (PRIMA) and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, indicating his role in top-tier international collaborations.

    • Project themes align with global environmental priorities such as circular economy, green technologies, and nature-based solutions.

  • Extensive Conference Participation & Visibility:

    • Regular presenter at international conferences (EGU, IEES, IWA, EURECA-PRO), reflecting academic leadership and scientific communication strength.

    • Frequent contributions in sessions on circular economy, wastewater valorization, and biochar technologies, underlining topic consistency and relevance.

🎓 Education

Panagiotis began his academic journey with a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Environmental Engineering at the Technical University of Crete (2009–2015), where he explored biochar applications for pollutant adsorption. He then pursued a Master of Science (MSc) in Advanced Water and Wastewater Treatment (2015–2017), focusing on valorizing municipal solid waste. His PhD (2017–2024) further delved into advanced biochar materials and their applications in removing emerging contaminants from water. Currently, he continues his research as a postdoctoral scholar in Circular Economy at the same institution.

🧪 Experience

With over 7 years of research and teaching experience at the Technical University of Crete, Panagiotis has worked on diverse projects ranging from biochar production and nanomaterials to wastewater treatment technologies. His roles include university research and teaching assistant, as well as laboratory assistant in courses on water treatment and environmental engineering. In 2024, he expanded his international experience as an Engineering Research Scientist at APS-Ekoinnowacje in Poland, emphasizing sustainable waste management and environmental innovation.

🔬 Research Interests On Materials

Panagiotis’s research interests lie in environmental sustainability with a sharp focus on circular economy principles. He is particularly interested in:

  • Biochar production from waste biomass

  • Adsorption of emerging micro-contaminants

  • Development of nanocomposite biochars

  • Wastewater and sludge treatment

  • Nature-based solutions like constructed wetlands
    His work bridges the gap between environmental engineering and practical, sustainable applications for agriculture and water systems.

🏆 Awards & Nominations

1. Title: Adsorption of selected organic micro-pollutants on sewage sludge biochar
Authors: P. Regkouzas, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2019
Citations: 158

2. Title: Ni (II) adsorption on biochars produced from different types of biomass
Authors: R.N. Mourgela, P. Regkouzas, F.M. Pellera, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2020
Citations: 14

3. Title: Biochar production from waste biomass: Characterization and evaluation for agronomic and environmental applications
Authors: F.M. Pellera, P. Regkouzas, I. Manolikaki, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2021
Citations: 12

4. Title: Production and characterization of graphene oxide-engineered biochars and application for organic micro-pollutant adsorption from aqueous solutions
Authors: P. Regkouzas, L. Sygellou, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2023
Citations: 10

5. Title: Effect of compost and compost-derived biochar on the growth of lettuce irrigated with water and treated wastewater
Authors: P. Regkouzas, N. Katie, K. Bontiotis, A. Stefanakis
Year: 2025
Citations: Not listed

6. Title: Assessing Biochar and Compost from the Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Waste on Nutrient Availability and Plant Growth of Lettuce in a Pot Experiment
Authors: P. Regkouzas, I. Manolikaki, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2025
Citations: Not listed

7. Title: Effect of compost and compost-derived biochar on lettuce growth in a water and wastewater irrigated pot experiment
Authors: P. Regkouzas, N. Katie, K. Bontiotis, A. Stefanakis
Year: 2025
Citations: Not listed

8. Title: The role of biochar in a circular economy: from agriculture to water and wastewater treatment applications
Authors: P. Regkouzas, I. Asimakoulas, E. Athanasiadou, E. Koukouraki, …
Year: 2024
Citations: Not listed

9. Title: Production of advanced adsorptive materials based on biochar
Author: P. Regkouzas
Year: 2024
Citations: Not listed

10. Title: Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society: EURECA-PRO
Authors: P. Regkouzas, E. Diamadopoulos
Year: 2023
Citations: Not listed

✅ Conclusion

Panagiotis Regkouzas exemplifies the spirit of environmental innovation and sustainable engineering. With a solid foundation in education, a breadth of interdisciplinary experience, and a forward-looking research portfolio, he is a valuable asset to the scientific community and an outstanding nominee for this award. His work paves the way for greener technologies in water treatment, agriculture, and waste valorization, making impactful contributions both locally and globally 🌎🌿.