Iliana Ivanova | Experimental Design | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Iliana Ivanova | Experimental Design | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Iliana Ivanova | Experimental Design | Research Excellence Award | Faculty of Biology at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski | Bulgaria

Prof. Dr. Iliana Ivanova is an internationally respected microbiologist and nanobiotechnology researcher with a distinguished academic and scientific career centered on antimicrobial nanomaterials, green synthesis of nanoparticles, bacterial physiology, ecotoxicology, and water quality assessment. She holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and advanced postgraduate training in biochemistry and microbiology from Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski, where she currently serves as Professor in the Faculty of Biology, Department of General and Industrial Microbiology. Her professional experience spans decades of progressive academic leadership, including roles as associate professor and professor, with sustained excellence in teaching, research supervision, and project leadership. Prof. Dr. Iliana Ivanova has actively participated in and led numerous nationally and internationally funded research projects, including competitive programs supported by the Bulgarian National Science Fund and Sofia University, addressing topics such as multifunctional nanoceramics, antimicrobial graphene composites, green nanoparticle synthesis, and environmental toxicity assessment. Her research interests focus on the development of metal and metal-oxide nanomaterials with antibacterial, antibiofilm, and cytotoxic properties, integration of microbiological assays with materials science, and the evaluation of ecological safety using microbial and aquatic test systems.

 

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Citations
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🟦 Citations    🟥 Documents    🟩 h-index


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Featured Publications

Structure, Ecotoxicity, Redox and Bactericidal Activity of Cu-Containing Nanocrystalline Ferrites – Molecules, 2025 

The Antimicrobial Effect and ROS Redox Activity of Nb₂O₅-Containing Powders Obtained by the Sol–Gel Method – Gels, 2025 

Antimicrobial, Oxidant, Cytotoxic, and Eco-Safety Properties of Sol–Gel-Prepared Silica–Copper Nanocomposite Materials – Pharmaceuticals, 2025 

Optical, Photocatalytic, and Antibacterial Properties of Sol-Gel Derived Fe-Doped SrTiO₃ Powders – Water, 2025 

Vahid Hassani | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vahid Hassani | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vahid Hassani | Experimental Design | Research Fellow | University of Southampton | United Kingdom

Dr. Vahid Hassani is a distinguished Mechanical Design Engineer and accomplished researcher, recognized for his expertise in the design and optimisation of electromechanical systems, robotics, and applied artificial intelligence in engineering design. With extensive experience in both academia and industry, he has successfully led multidisciplinary projects focused on advancing energy-efficient mechanical systems and automation solutions. His professional journey reflects a commitment to innovation, problem-solving, and the translation of complex theoretical concepts into practical, industry-ready applications. Through his work, Dr. Vahid Hassani continues to contribute to the development of next-generation engineering solutions that address critical challenges in manufacturing, transport, and sustainable energy systems.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Vahid Hassani earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in the dynamic modelling of piezoelectric actuators and precision mechanisms. His doctoral research focused on developing mathematical models to improve hysteresis characterization and enhance control accuracy in structural dynamics applications. He holds a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, where he worked on designing and modelling advanced control systems using internal moving masses and dynamic neural network algorithms. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aircraft Mechanical Engineering, equipping him with a strong foundation in mechanical systems and aeronautical maintenance, which laid the groundwork for his future research in mechanical system design and robotics.

Experience

Dr. Vahid Hassani has held senior research and innovation positions at leading global institutions, where he has made significant contributions to projects in compressor technology, rail vehicle energy harvesting, and predictive maintenance systems. His work includes the development of FPGA-based monitoring systems, CFD-driven performance optimisation, and additive manufacturing solutions for complex mechanical assemblies. He has collaborated with industry partners to deliver practical solutions such as 3D-printed nodal joints, ultrasonic sensor mounts, and AI-enabled delay prediction models for freight systems. Beyond research, he has taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses in mathematics, mechatronics, additive manufacturing, and control theory, playing a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Research Interest

Dr. Vahid Hassani’s research interests span mechanical system design, design optimisation, robotics, and the integration of artificial intelligence for engineering applications. He is particularly focused on developing computational models and simulation tools that improve system reliability, energy efficiency, and manufacturing performance. His work in additive manufacturing and computational mechanics addresses challenges in creating lightweight, high-strength structures, while his projects in robotics and automation explore intelligent solutions for precision manufacturing. His research approach is inherently interdisciplinary, combining elements of mechanical engineering, control systems, and data-driven AI methodologies to solve real-world engineering problems.

Award

Dr. Vahid Hassani has been recognized with several awards for his contributions to research and innovation. He was a recipient of a prestigious research scholarship that supported his doctoral studies, highlighting the originality and impact of his work. He has also been awarded for his contributions to composite product development in international competitions, showcasing his ability to combine creativity and technical expertise to deliver innovative solutions. These recognitions underscore his dedication to pushing the boundaries of mechanical engineering and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.

Selected Publications

“Some of his notable publications include: “Design Optimisation of Additive Manufactured Pressure Regulators” (Published 2020, 52 Citations)”.

“Computational Modelling of Piezoelectric Actuators for Precision Control Applications” (Published 2019, 61 Citations).

“AI-Driven Predictive Maintenance for Rail Vehicle Systems” (Published 2021, 38 Citations).

“Multi-Agent Robotic Systems for Manufacturing Automation” (Published 2018, 44 Citations).

Conclusion

Dr. Vahid Hassani stands out as a leading researcher and engineer whose work bridges the gap between theoretical modelling and practical implementation. His significant contributions to mechanical system design, robotics, and applied AI have resulted in solutions that improve performance, sustainability, and reliability in critical engineering systems. His dedication to mentorship, collaboration, and continuous innovation positions him as a valuable contributor to the global engineering community. Dr. Vahid Hassani future research potential, combined with his leadership in interdisciplinary projects, makes him a highly deserving nominee for recognition in the field of engineering research and innovation.

 

 

Luwen Yu | Experimental Design | Women Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu | Experimental Design | Women Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu | Experimental Design | Assistant Professor | The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology | China 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of computational media, color science, and human–computer interaction. She serves as an Assistant Professor at the Computational Media and Arts (CMA) department of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) and is also a cross-campus faculty affiliate at HKUST in Hong Kong. Dr. Yu is widely recognized for her pioneering work that integrates design, psychology, and technology, offering new insights into how color perception and visual communication influence user cognition, decision-making, and behavior. Her career reflects a balance between research excellence, teaching commitment, and international collaboration, making her a leading figure in advancing the interdisciplinary connection between design science and computational media.

Professional Profile 

Education

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu holds a Ph.D. from the University of Leeds, School of Design, where her doctoral research explored the effect of color on consumer purchase behavior under the guidance of distinguished supervisors. Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in the Department of Industrial Design, focusing on the intersection of design principles, human factors, and user experience. Her education has provided her with a strong foundation in design research methodology, experimental analysis, and applied color science, equipping her to approach research questions with methodological rigor and creativity.

Experience

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu’s professional journey includes significant academic and research positions that have strengthened her interdisciplinary expertise. Before joining HKUST, she worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Leeds, where she collaborated with leading researchers in design cognition, visual perception, and human–computer interaction. Currently, as an Assistant Professor, she leads research projects that integrate eye-tracking, fNIRS data analysis, and computational approaches to study visual communication and decision-making processes. She has actively participated in organizing workshops, mentoring students, and supervising graduate research projects, thereby contributing to the growth of the next generation of scholars in the field.

Research Interest

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu’s research interests focus on color science, cognitive psychology, and user interaction in digital environments. She explores how color and visual attributes affect human perception, attention, and decision-making, applying her findings to areas such as consumer behavior, interactive media, and immersive technologies. Her studies employ a range of advanced techniques, including multimodal data analytics, virtual reality simulations, and behavioral experiments, to uncover meaningful patterns in visual cognition. She is also deeply interested in bridging design research with computational modeling, enhancing the usability and emotional impact of interactive systems and media interfaces.

Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu has been recognized for her significant contributions to color science and computational media research through her selection for various academic honors, grants, and invited talks at international conferences. Her collaborative projects with global research teams demonstrate her dedication to advancing knowledge across borders, and her efforts in mentoring students and promoting diversity in science have further distinguished her as a leader in her field.

Selected Publication

Some of her notable publications include How Background Colour Shapes Digital Text-Information Processing: A fNIRS-Eye-Tracking Study (2025, 12 Citations).

Tailored Information Display: Effects of Background Colour and Line Spacing on Visual Search Across Different Character Types (2025, 9 Citations).

Decoding Color Perception: An Eye-Tracking Perspective (2025, 8 Citations), and Colour Associations and Consumer Product-Colour Purchase Decisions (2021, 45 Citations).

Conclusion

Assist. Prof. Dr. Luwen Yu stands out as an innovative and dedicated scholar whose work bridges design, cognitive science, and computational media. Her interdisciplinary approach has advanced the understanding of how visual stimuli impact human cognition and decision-making, leading to practical applications in user interface design, marketing strategies, and immersive learning environments. Through her strong research portfolio, active international collaborations, and commitment to mentoring young researchers, she has made a lasting contribution to her field. Her future research aims to expand into large-scale collaborative studies, develop novel computational tools for design evaluation, and continue influencing the direction of research in color science and human–computer interaction. For these reasons, she is an excellent candidate for this award, embodying both research excellence and leadership potential.

 

 

Pandiyarajan Thangaraj | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

Pandiyarajan Thangaraj | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Pandiyarajan Thangaraj, Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing Kurnool, India

Based on Assist. Prof. Dr. Pandiyarajan Thangaraj’s impressive academic background, research achievements, and professional contributions, he is indeed a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award.

Publication profile

orcid

Academic Excellence

Dr. Pandiyarajan holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the prestigious National Institute of Technology, Trichy, and has a strong educational foundation in applied physics. His Ph.D. thesis focused on advanced nanostructures, reflecting his expertise in this field. With top scores in his academic pursuits, his consistent excellence showcases his dedication to learning and research.

Extensive Research Contributions

Dr. Pandiyarajan’s research spans a range of significant topics such as semiconductor nanomaterials, thin-film fabrication, and their applications in solar cells and environmental technologies. He has worked on prestigious projects, including graphene quantum dot-based hydrogen fuel production and solar cell enhancement, showcasing innovation in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. His work has resulted in numerous high-impact publications, cementing his reputation in the scientific community.

Global Collaborations

He has post-doctoral research experience in prestigious international institutions such as the University of Concepcion, Chile, and has been a visiting researcher in Mexico and Sweden. These collaborations demonstrate his active participation in global research networks, advancing knowledge through interdisciplinary efforts.

Honors and Editorial Roles

Dr. Pandiyarajan’s numerous honors, including international travel awards and editorial responsibilities, such as being a Topic Editor for Frontiers in Materials, highlight his recognized leadership in the field. His work as a reviewer for numerous high-profile journals further underscores his academic influence and expertise.

Research Grants and Leadership

His successful acquisition of multiple research grants, including a SERB-SRG project and a DRDO project, showcases his ability to secure competitive funding and lead groundbreaking research. His ongoing work in quantum dot sensitized photocathodes for hydrogen fuel production highlights his forward-thinking contributions to sustainable energy.

conclusion

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pandiyarajan Thangaraj’s academic rigor, extensive research output, international collaboration, and leadership in material science research make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also offer practical solutions to global challenges.

publication top notes

Optimizing CuBi2O4 Solar Cells with PCBM Electron Transport Layer: A Comprehensive Simulation Study Achieving 32.16% Efficiency

Ajad Shrestha | Experimental Design | Innovative Research Award

Ajad Shrestha | Experimental Design | Innovative Research Award

Mr Ajad Shrestha, Global Engineering Associates, P., Ltd. Nepal

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

Ajad Shrestha holds a Master’s degree in Civil and Hydraulics Engineering from Tongji University (2021–2024) and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Institute of Engineering, Thapathali Campus (2015–2019). His educational background has provided him with a solid foundation in structural engineering, which is critical for innovative research in this field.

Research Projects

Ajad has contributed to multiple significant research projects, such as studying the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in 3D printable mortar, investigating the flexural and shear performance of HS-ECC beams, and exploring autogenous shrinkage mitigation in high-strength engineered cementitious composites (HS-ECC). His ability to manage complex variables and deliver measurable results, like reducing shrinkage by 40%, showcases his technical expertise and problem-solving skills.

Work Experience

Ajad has substantial research experience as a Research Student at Tongji University, focusing on HS-ECC material and structural applications. He also worked as a Civil Engineer and Research Assistant at Global Engineering Associates, gaining hands-on experience in FEM analysis, bridge damage research, and structural calculations. This combination of academic and professional experience makes him a strong candidate for the Innovative Research Award.

Publications

Ajad’s contributions to scholarly publications are extensive, including papers on high-performance concrete, machine learning models, and advanced structural analysis. His research on the mechanical properties of cementitious composites and UHPC highlights his commitment to developing innovative, real-world solutions.

Research focus

The research focus of this individual is on advanced materials in civil engineering, particularly engineered cementitious composites and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). Their work explores the mechanical and shrinkage properties of these materials, emphasizing the use of iron sand to develop high-strength cementitious composites. Additionally, they employ hybrid machine learning models to predict the mechanical properties of UHPC, validated through experiments. This interdisciplinary approach integrates material science, construction technology, and AI-driven predictive modeling to enhance the performance and sustainability of modern construction materials. 🏗️🔬💡

Awards and Scholarships

Ajad has earned the Departmental Scholarship from Tongji University, a recognition based on his academic performance and research contributions. This accolade, along with his proven track record in research, reflects his dedication and potential for future innovation.

Conclusion

Based on Ajad Shrestha’s extensive research in structural engineering, innovative use of materials like recycled PET and HS-ECC, and his solid academic background, he appears to be a highly suitable candidate for the Innovative Research Award. His demonstrated ability to solve complex problems, combined with a focus on real-world applications, makes him a promising innovator in the field of civil engineering.

Publication top notes

Development of high-strength engineered cementitious composites using iron sand: Mechanical and shrinkage properties

Hybrid machine learning model to predict the mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) with experimental validation

 

nahidb shahabadi | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

nahidb shahabadi | Experimental Design | Best Researcher Award

Prof nahid shahabadi, razi university, Iran

Dr nahid shahabadi earned his B.S. in Chemistry from Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran (1989), and his M.S. (1994) and Ph.D. (1999) in Inorganic Chemistry from Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran. He has served as a Lab Instructor, Teaching Assistant, Assistant Professor, Head of Chemistry Dept., Head of Graduate Office, Associate Professor, and Professor. He was named the Outstanding Chemist of Iran (2019) and ranked among the top two percent of highly cited researchers worldwide (2022, 2023). He has guided 19 Ph.D. students, published 158 papers, and taught various advanced chemistry courses. 🧪📚🌍

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

With a robust academic background in chemistry, the individual earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, in 1989 🧪. They advanced their expertise by obtaining an M.S. in Inorganic Chemistry from Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran, in 1994 🧬. Their academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the same institution in 1999 🎓. This comprehensive education has laid a solid foundation for a distinguished career in the field of inorganic chemistry, showcasing their dedication and profound understanding of the discipline 🌟.

Experience

🔬👨‍🔬 Dr nahid shahabadi has held various pivotal roles in academia, including Lab Instructor, Teaching Assistant, Assistant Professor, Head of Chemistry Department, Head of Graduate Office, and Associate Professor. With a specialization in Inorganic Chemistry, he served as Head of the Inorganic Chemistry Department and achieved Professorship. Recognized as an Outstanding Chemist of the country in 2019, he consistently ranks among the top-cited scientists globally, listed in the top two percent in 2022 and 2023. His career spans decades of impactful research and leadership, shaping the field of Chemistry. 🌍📚

Research focus

Dr. N Shahabadi’s research focuses on the interactions between various chemical compounds and biomolecules, particularly DNA and proteins. Utilizing multi-spectroscopic techniques and molecular modeling, Dr. Shahabadi investigates the binding mechanisms of metal complexes, food additives, and pharmaceuticals with DNA and proteins such as bovine and human serum albumin. These studies are essential for understanding the biochemical behavior of these compounds, contributing to advancements in medicinal chemistry and pharmacology. 🧬🔬📚💊

Publication top notes

DNA binding and DNA cleavage studies of a water soluble cobalt (II) complex containing dinitrogen Schiff base ligand: The effect of metal on the mode of binding

Multispectroscopic studies on the interaction of 2-tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a food additive, with bovine serum albumin

Study on the interaction of food colourant quinoline yellow with bovine serum albumin by spectroscopic techniques

Binding studies of a new copper (II) complex containing mixed aliphatic and aromatic dinitrogen ligands with bovine serum albumin using different instrumental methods

DNA interaction studies of a platinum (II) complex, PtCl2 (NN)(NN= 4, 7-dimethyl-1, 10-phenanthroline), using different instrumental methods

Multi-spectroscopic and molecular modeling studies on the interaction of antihypertensive drug; methyldopa with calf thymus DNA

Spectroscopic studies on the interaction of calf thymus DNA with the drug levetiracetam

Multispectroscopic DNA-binding studies of a tris-chelate nickel (II) complex containing 4, 7-diphenyl 1, 10-phenanthroline ligands

Study on the interaction of the epilepsy drug, zonisamide with human serum albumin (HSA) by spectroscopic and molecular docking techniques

Study on the interaction of the drug mesalamine with calf thymus DNA using molecular docking and spectroscopic techniques