Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva | Mechanochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva | Mechanochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva | Mechanochemistry – Research Group leader at Institute of Catalysis Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria

Dr. Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva is a prominent Bulgarian scientist with over three decades of research experience in the field of inorganic chemistry and materials science. She has dedicated her career to the synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced materials for environmental and catalytic purposes. Working primarily at the Institute of Catalysis, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, she has become well-regarded in both national and international scientific communities. Her contributions span a wide range of disciplines including mechanochemistry, photocatalysis, nanomaterials, and sustainable technologies, positioning her as a key figure in green and circular chemistry initiatives.

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Education:

Dr. Cherkezova-Zheleva holds a robust academic background in chemistry, with advanced training in inorganic, solid-state, and physical chemistry. She received her higher education in Bulgaria, where she developed a strong foundation in crystallography, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction techniques. Over time, she refined her skills in the design and analysis of functional materials, integrating theoretical and practical methodologies into her educational journey. Her academic path provided her with a multidisciplinary skill set that supports her ongoing contributions to materials research and environmental technology.

Experience:

Since 1993, Dr. Cherkezova-Zheleva has been affiliated with the Institute of Catalysis at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. She has served as a senior researcher and key investigator in numerous collaborative scientific projects, both domestic and European. Her experience includes the development of catalytic systems for environmental remediation, nanomaterials for water and air purification, and studies on ancient metallurgy. In her role, she has actively mentored younger scientists and contributed to the expansion of analytical capabilities within her institution, particularly in spectroscopy and materials characterization.

Research Interest:

Dr. Cherkezova-Zheleva’s research interests lie at the intersection of chemistry, environmental science, and materials engineering. She is particularly focused on green synthesis methods, the recycling of rare earth and precious metals, the use of biogenic materials for catalytic applications, and the structural investigation of metal-containing compounds. Her interest in sustainable technologies has led her to work extensively on converting industrial and electronic waste into valuable secondary raw materials, supporting the global shift toward circular economy practices.

Awards:

Although Dr. Cherkezova-Zheleva has not yet received major international research awards, she has earned widespread academic recognition through high-impact publications, collaborations with top-tier European research teams, and citations of her work in key areas such as catalysis, nanotechnology, and sustainable chemistry. She has also been actively involved in peer review activities and conference participation, strengthening her professional reputation and establishing her as a reliable and innovative voice in her field.

Selected Publications:

  1. 🔁 “Green and Sustainable Rare Earth Element Recycling and Reuse from End-of-Life Permanent Magnets” – Metals, 2024: Cited by 12 articles, this study advances recovery methods for critical materials.
  2. 🧲 “Experimental and DFT Study of Monensinate and Salinomycinate Complexes Containing {Fe₃(µ₃–O)}⁷⁺ Core” – Molecules, 2024: A hybrid experimental-computational work cited in 9 recent papers.
  3. ⚗️ “Synthesis, Spectral Characterization, and Structural Modelling of Di- and Trinuclear Iron(III) Monensinates” – Inorganics, 2024: Recognized for its structural insights, with 6 citations to date.
  4. 🌱 “Direct Reuse of Spent Nd–Fe–B Permanent Magnets” – Materials, 2025: This highly relevant recycling study is already cited by 8 articles.
  5. 🚗 “Platinum Group Metals: Green Recovery from Spent Auto-Catalysts” – Crystals, 2023: A major review cited in over 20 academic studies and industrial reports.
  6. 🏺 “Ancient Metallurgical Iron Slags—Chemical, Powder X-ray Diffraction and Mössbauer Spectroscopic Study” – Crystals, 2023: Cited by 5 articles, bridging archaeology and materials science.
  7. 🧱 “Synthesis of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymers: Effect of Calcite Addition” – Minerals, 2020: This sustainable construction material study is cited in 17 publications.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher. Her deep expertise, long-term commitment to sustainable materials, and ability to lead interdisciplinary projects make her an ideal nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Through her impactful publications, collaborative achievements, and scientific leadership, she continues to push the boundaries of green chemistry and catalysis, making valuable contributions to both scientific advancement and environmental preservation.

 

 

 

 

Liangbin Huang | Synthesis | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Liangbin Huang | Synthesis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Liangbin Huang | Synthesis – South China University of Technology, China

Prof. Liangbin Huang is a distinguished scientist in the field of catalysis and organic synthesis, currently serving as a professor at South China University of Technology. His research primarily focuses on the green and efficient synthesis of functional molecules, including drug compounds and optoelectronic materials. Additionally, he explores catalytic conversion and the value-added utilization of biomass, aiming to contribute to sustainable chemical processes. With a strong academic background and numerous accolades, Prof. Huang has established himself as a leading researcher in his domain.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Education

Prof. Huang earned his Ph.D. from South China University of Technology in 2013, where he conducted extensive research on transition metal-catalyzed oxidative functionalization of alkenes under the supervision of Prof. Huanfeng Jiang. Prior to this, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Engineering from Beijing University of Chemical Technology in 2008. His academic journey laid a strong foundation for his future contributions to catalysis and organic chemistry, equipping him with the skills and knowledge to advance chemical synthesis methodologies.

Experience

Prof. Huang has a rich and diverse professional background, including multiple prestigious postdoctoral positions. From 2013 to 2016, he was a postdoctoral researcher at Technische Universität Kaiserslautern in Germany, supported by the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship, where he worked under Prof. Lukas J. Gooßen on catalytic reactions involving carboxylic acids. He then moved to the United States, joining the University of Rochester and later the University of Wisconsin-Madison as a postdoctoral researcher under Prof. Daniel J. Weix, specializing in reductive cross-coupling and bimetallic catalysis. In 2018, he began his independent career as a professor at South China University of Technology, where he continues to make groundbreaking contributions to organic synthesis and catalysis.

Research Interests

Prof. Huang’s research is centered on innovative catalytic methodologies for the synthesis of valuable molecules. His primary focus areas include the green and efficient synthesis of drug molecules and optoelectronic materials, as well as the catalytic conversion of biomass into high-value chemicals. His work leverages transition metal catalysis, C–H activation, and novel reaction mechanisms to achieve efficient and sustainable chemical transformations. Through his research, he aims to develop environmentally friendly processes that enhance the synthesis of complex organic molecules with high selectivity and yield.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Huang has received several prestigious awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to organic chemistry. In 2019, he was honored with the First Prize of the Natural Science Award of the Ministry of Education as the second recipient. He was also selected for the “Thousand Talents Plan” Youth Project in 2018, recognizing his exceptional research capabilities. In 2014, he was awarded a research fellowship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and received the Guangdong Province Outstanding Doctoral Thesis award. Additionally, in 2011, he was granted the “Academic Scholarship Award for Excellent Doctoral Students” by the Ministry of Education.

Selected Publications

  1. Pd-Catalyzed Coupling of Aryl Chloride, Isocyanides, and Thiocarboxylate to Synthesize Thioamides (2025) – Org. Lett. 📖
  2. Ruthenium-Catalyzed Meta-Alkylation of (Hetero)aromatic Acids with Pyridinium Salts (2025) – ACS Catal. 🔬
  3. Nickel-Catalyzed C-O Bond Cleavage of Silylenol Ether for Divergent Synthesis of Aryl Alkenes (2025) – Org. Chem. Front. ⚛️
  4. Quasi-Homogeneous Photocatalysis in Ultrastiff Microporous Polymer Aerogels (2024) – J. Am. Chem. Soc. 🌟
  5. Ligand-Enabled Ruthenium-Catalyzed Meta-C−H Alkylation of (Hetero)Aromatic Carboxylic Acids (2024) – Nature Communications 🏅
  6. Cobalt-Catalyzed Cross-Electrophile Coupling of Alkynyl Sulfides with Unactivated Chlorosilanes (2024) – Nature Communications ⚗️
  7. Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Alkenes by Rhodium-Catalyzed Regioselective Cyano Transfer (2024) – Org. Lett. 📑

Conclusion

Prof. Liangbin Huang is an accomplished chemist whose work has significantly impacted the field of organic synthesis and catalysis. With a strong educational background, extensive research experience, and a deep commitment to advancing sustainable chemistry, he continues to lead groundbreaking studies in green and efficient chemical processes. His numerous awards and high-impact publications underscore his influence and contributions to modern organic chemistry. As a professor at South China University of Technology, he remains at the forefront of innovative research, inspiring future generations of scientists in the field of catalysis and synthetic chemistry.

Dr. Amar Nath Velidandi | Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Amar Nath Velidandi | Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Chaitanya Deemed to be University - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Amar Nath Velidandi embarked on his academic journey with a keen interest in chemistry, culminating in his pursuit of a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. His undergraduate studies at CKM Arts and Science College, Warangal, laid the groundwork for his academic excellence. Subsequently, he pursued a Master's degree in Chemistry at the prestigious National Institute of Technology, Warangal, where he graduated with distinction, showcasing his dedication and aptitude for the subject.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Velidandi's professional journey has been characterized by a commitment to research and academic excellence. His doctoral research, conducted under the guidance of Prof. P.V. Srilakshmi at the Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, focused on the design, synthesis, and biological activity of novel heterocyclic-based lipids and dihydropyrazole derivatives. This research not only showcased his expertise in organic chemistry but also demonstrated his ability to innovate and contribute to the field.

Contributions and Research Focus On Chemistry Award

Dr. Velidandi's research focus lies at the intersection of organic chemistry and biology. His work on novel heterocyclic-based lipids and dihydropyrazole derivatives holds promise for the development of new pharmaceutical compounds with potential applications in drug discovery and development. By exploring the synthesis and biological activity of these compounds, he contributes to the advancement of knowledge in medicinal chemistry and drug design. Dr. Amar Nath Velidandi's dedication to excellence in chemistry research has been recognized with the prestigious Chemistry Award. His pioneering work in organic chemistry research has led to significant pharmaceutical innovations, making him a standout in his field.

Dr. Velidandi's contributions have not only advanced the frontiers of knowledge but also have practical applications in drug discovery and development. His commitment to academic excellence and innovative research methodologies has positioned him as a leader in the field of chemistry. The Chemistry Award serves as a testament to Dr. Velidandi's exceptional achievements and his profound impact on the scientific community.

Accolades and Recognition In Chemistry Award

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Velidandi has earned recognition for his outstanding achievements. He qualified the prestigious Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) with a remarkable 92 percentile in 2006, showcasing his proficiency and understanding of chemical sciences. Furthermore, his success in the National Eligibility Test (NET) in 2015 further underscores his expertise in his field. Additionally, his exceptional performance in the N.I.T. Warangal PG entrance examination, where he secured the 21st rank, highlights his academic prowess and potential.

Impact and Influence 

Dr. Velidandi's research has the potential to make a significant impact in the field of pharmaceuticals and drug discovery. By exploring novel compounds with potential biological activity, he contributes to the development of new therapeutic agents that could address unmet medical needs. His work not only expands the frontiers of knowledge but also has practical applications that could benefit society by improving healthcare outcomes.

Legacy and Future Contributions For Chemistry Award

As Dr. Velidandi continues his academic and professional journey, his legacy is poised to grow further. His dedication to advancing knowledge in organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry positions him as a valuable contributor to the scientific community. Moving forward, his research is expected to yield further insights into the design and synthesis of biologically active compounds, paving the way for the development of new drugs and therapies. Through his ongoing contributions, Dr. Velidandi will leave a lasting impact on the field of chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences, shaping the future of scientific inquiry and innovation.

Notable Publications

Coumarin (Lipophobic), Thia/Oxa Diazole (Linker), Amino (Anchoring) Conjugated Scaffolds: Synthesis, In Silico, and In Vitro Cell Viability Studies 2023

Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Novel 2,3-Dihydroxyquinoxaline-5-сarboxamide Derivatives 2023

Tin Chloride Mediated Grinding Method for Preparation of 2,4-Disubstituted Benzodiazepine Scaffolds Their In Silico, and In Vitro Cell Viability Studies 2023