Vasily Kaichev | Heterogeneous | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vasily Kaichev | Heterogeneous | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vasily Kaichev | Heterogeneous | Head of Department at Boreskov Institute of Catalysis | Russia

Dr. Vasily Kaichev is a highly respected scientist whose expertise lies in heterogeneous catalysis, surface chemistry and operando spectroscopic methods. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics and Mathematics from the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry in Novosibirsk, followed by a D.Sc. in Chemistry from the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis, also in Novosibirsk. Professionally, Dr. Kaichev has progressed through research and leadership roles at the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis—first as a senior researcher, then head of the Laboratory of Spectral Methods, and most recently heading the Department of Catalysts Research. He has also undertaken international research visits, including a stay at the Fritz-Haber Institute in Germany. His research interest focuses on the in situ/operando investigation of catalytic reaction mechanisms, especially using techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), XANES/EXAFS, FTIR, PM-IRRAS and mass spectrometry. His research skills include advanced surface characterization, spectroscopic monitoring of catalysts under real reaction conditions, data analysis of dynamic catalytic systems and mechanistic modelling. Dr. Kaichev has been recognized for his scientific leadership and mentorship in catalysis research and has made major contributions to our understanding of catalyst behaviour under operando conditions. In conclusion, Dr. Vasily Kaichev stands as an exemplary figure in catalysis science—combining rigorous methodology, innovative experimental design and leadership in materials research—positioning him for continued impact in sustainable catalytic technologies.

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Featured Publications 

Kaichev, V. V., Vinokurov, Z. S., & Saraev, A. A. (2021). Self-sustained oscillations in oxidation of methane over palladium: the nature of “low-active” and “highly active” states. Catalysis Science & Technology, 11, 4392. 

Kaichev, V. V., Kremneva, A. M., Saraev, A. A., & others. (2020). Effect of Calcination Temperature on Activity of Fe₂O₃–Al₂O₃ Nanocomposite Catalysts in CO Oxidation. Catalysis Letters, 148, 3715. 

Kaichev, V. V., Selivanova, A. V., Tsapina, A. M., & others. (2019). Non-Classical Adsorption of Methanol on Palladium: The Competition Between Adsorption of Single Molecules and Clusters. The Journal of Physical Chemistry C. 

Litvintseva, K. A., Kaichev, V. V., Chesalov, Y. A., & others. (2024). Mechanistic Study of Selective Oxidation of Methanol over a Monolayer V₂O₅/TiO₂ Catalyst. The Journal of Physical Chemistry C. 

Kaichev, V. V., Saraev, A. A., Gladky, A. Y., & others. (2019). The Origin of the Size Effect in the Oxidation of CO on Supported Palladium Nanoparticles. Catalysis Letters. 

Kaichev, V. V., Kozlova, E. A., Kurenkova, A. Yu., & others. (2021). The Influence of Reaction Conditions on the Rate of Hydrogen Evolution in Aqueous Solutions of Glycerol over Pt/TiO₂ Photocatalysts. Journal of Catalysis.

Kaichev, V. V., Saraev, A. A., Matveev, A. V., & others. (2018). In situ NAP-XPS and Mass Spectrometry Study of the Oxidation of Propylene over Palladium. Applied Surface Science. 

 

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.