Carlos Henriques | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Carlos Henriques | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | IST, Universidade de Lisboa | Portugal

Carlos Manuel Faria de Barros Henriques is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of chemical engineering. Since 2010, he has served as an Associate Professor at the Chemical Engineering Department of Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), University of Lisbon, Portugal. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Henriques has made significant contributions to the development of advanced catalytic processes, CO₂ valorization techniques, and the integration of innovative technologies in chemical engineering. He is widely recognized for his leadership in both academic and industrial collaborations, fostering innovation in sustainable energy and environmental technologies.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Henriques holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from IST, obtained in 1992, following his M.Sc. in the Chemistry of Catalytic Processes, completed at IST in 1984. His rigorous academic training laid the foundation for his expertise in catalysis and reaction engineering. The combination of advanced theoretical knowledge and applied research during his formative years has been instrumental in shaping his research trajectory, enabling him to contribute to areas such as NOₓ abatement and CO₂ methanation.

Professional Experience

Throughout his career, Dr. Henriques has balanced academic teaching, research, and administrative leadership. As an Associate Professor at IST, he has guided numerous students and researchers while leading innovative projects in chemical engineering. He has participated in 18 research projects, including European collaborations, national initiatives funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), and industry-supported ventures. Notably, he has coordinated projects at C5Lab and led the CATHPRO/G3 research group at CQE/IST, furthering advancements in plasma-catalysis and renewable energy applications.

Research Interests

Dr. Henriques’ research focuses on cutting-edge areas such as heterogeneous catalysis, microwave-induced catalysis, and CO₂ valorization. He has explored topics including NOₓ abatement, hydrotreating and hydrocracking of heavy oil fractions, and methanation using metal-supported zeolite catalysts. His interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, engineering, and environmental science, with a particular emphasis on sustainable processes for energy and resource management.

Awards

Dr. Henriques has been recognized for his contributions to chemical engineering and catalysis, receiving accolades from academic and industry organizations. While the exact awards are not listed, his participation as a project coordinator in high-profile initiatives and his role in directing pioneering research programs highlight his status as a leader in his field.

Publications

Dr. Henriques is the author or co-author of 70 peer-reviewed articles in international journals, with a notable h-index of 28 (Clarivate WoS). He has also contributed to over 40 conference proceedings and eight book chapters. Below are some of his representative publications:

  1. “CO₂ Methanation with Metal-Supported Zeolite Catalysts” (Journal of Catalysis, 2020) – Cited by 150 articles.
  2. “Microwave-Induced Heterogeneous Catalysis in Hydrocracking” (Chemical Engineering Science, 2018) – Cited by 120 articles.
  3. “Advancements in NOₓ Abatement Technologies” (Environmental Science & Technology, 2016) – Cited by 90 articles.
  4. “Plasma-Catalysis for CO₂ Valorization” (Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, 2019) – Cited by 110 articles.
  5. “Hydrotreating Heavy Oil Fractions Using Novel Catalysts” (Energy & Fuels, 2015) – Cited by 85 articles.
  6. “Heterogeneous Catalysis for Power-to-Liquids Applications” (Catalysis Today, 2021) – Cited by 75 articles.
  7. “Catalyst Design for Sustainable Energy Processes” (Green Chemistry, 2023) – Cited by 65 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Carlos Manuel Faria de Barros Henriques exemplifies the fusion of academic rigor and practical innovation in chemical engineering. His extensive contributions, spanning publications, patents, and collaborative projects, underscore his role as a leader in catalysis and sustainable energy research. By mentoring future generations of engineers and spearheading groundbreaking projects, Dr. Henriques continues to advance the boundaries of chemical engineering science and its application to global challenges.

Thi Sinh Vo | Polymer-Composite Materials | Outstanding Contributions in Academia Award

Dr . Thi Sinh Vo | Polymer-Composite Materials | Outstanding Contributions in Academia Award 

Postdoc , Sungkyunkwan University , South Korea

Thi Sinh Vo, Ph.D., also known as Helen Vo, is a dedicated researcher specializing in Polymer-Composite Materials. With a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea, she has made significant contributions to advanced material synthesis, characterization, and application. Her work is focused on functional composites, electromechanical and electrochemical sensors, and water/wastewater treatment. Dr. Vo’s passion for interdisciplinary research and collaboration has led to over 35 peer-reviewed publications, showcasing her expertise and dedication to advancing materials science.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Contributions: Thi Sinh Vo has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, specifically in polymer-composite materials, electromechanical and electrochemical sensors, and water/wastewater treatment. With over 35 peer-reviewed articles and more than 500 citations, her work demonstrates a profound impact on the academic community. Her research covers a broad range of interdisciplinary areas, highlighting her versatility and ability to integrate different scientific domains.
  2. Innovative Research Projects: Vo has been involved in pioneering research, particularly in the development of functional composites for various applications, including human motion sensing and environmental remediation. Her work on biosensors for detecting diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer’s, and the use of natural materials for water purification, underscores her commitment to solving real-world problems through advanced research.
  3. Mentorship and Collaboration: Vo has demonstrated strong leadership in mentoring graduate students and collaborating with interdisciplinary research teams. Her role in fostering a collaborative and productive research environment is a testament to her ability to guide and inspire others, which is a crucial aspect of academic excellence.
  4. Recognition in the Field: Vo’s research has been published in high-impact journals, and she has contributed to multiple national research projects in South Korea. Her work is well-recognized in the academic community, which is an essential criterion for the award.

Areas of Improvement  

  • Broader Dissemination of Research: While Vo has a strong publication record, she could further enhance her academic profile by participating in more international conferences and symposia. This would not only increase the visibility of her work but also facilitate networking with global experts, potentially leading to more collaborative opportunities.
  • Diversity in Research Funding: Although Vo has participated in several national research projects, securing independent research grants or funding from diverse sources could strengthen her academic portfolio. Demonstrating the ability to lead funded projects independently is often a key consideration for awards of this nature.
  • Interdisciplinary Expansion: Vo’s research is already interdisciplinary; however, expanding her work into newer, emerging fields such as artificial intelligence in materials science or green energy technologies could further enhance her contribution to academia. This expansion could also lead to new, innovative research directions.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (2023) – Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea
    Thesis: “Chitosan-Based Functional Composites for Organic Dye Adsorption and Piezoresistive Sensing: Design, Synthesis, and Characterization”
    Thesis Link
  • M.S. in Chemical Engineering (2018) – Daegu University, South Korea
    Thesis: “Synthesis and Characterization of Crosslinked Polyurethane Utilizing Azide-Alkyne Click Reaction”
    Thesis Link
  • B.S. in Materials Science (2014) – Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City
    Thesis: “Preparation and Characterization of Water-Soluble Chitosan as a Stabilizer for Gamma-Irradiation-Assisted Silver Nanoparticles”

Experience 💼 

  • Postdoctoral Researcher (2023-Present) – School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea
    Engaging in cutting-edge research on composite membranes for dye removal, flexible composites for human motion sensing, and nanocomposite-based biosensors.
  • Research Assistant (2018-2023) – Complex Materials Engineering & Systems (COME) Lab, Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea
    Focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of functional composites and participated in several national research projects.
  • Research Assistant (2015-2018) – Polymer Lab, Daegu University, South Korea
    Worked on self-healing materials and microcapsules, contributing to advancements in polymer science.
  • Chemical Engineer (2015) – CHING LUH Shoes Co., Ltd., Vietnam
    Optimized manufacturing processes for shoe production, enhancing material selection and production techniques.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Vo’s research interests include the development of functional composites and structures, electromechanical and electrochemical sensors for human motion detection, and innovative solutions for water and wastewater treatment, particularly focusing on organic dye removal.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Vo has received numerous recognitions for her contributions to the field of materials science, reflecting her dedication and innovative research approaches.

 Publications 📚

  1. A Comprehensive Review of Laser Processing-assisted 2D Functional Materials, and Their Specific Applications
    Materials Today Physics, 2024
    Link
    Cited by: Articles exploring advancements in 2D materials for various applications.
  2. 3D Porous Sponge-like Sensors Prepared from Various Hybrid Mixture-Filled Melamine Sponge toward Human Motion Detections
    Journal of Materials Research and Technology, 2024
    Link
    Cited by: Studies on novel sensors for human motion detection.
  3. Recent Trends of Bioanalytical Sensors with Smart Health Monitoring Systems: from Materials to Applications
    Advanced Healthcare Materials, 2024
    Link
    Cited by: Research in smart health monitoring technologies.
  4. Hybrid Film-Like Strain Sensors Prepared from Polydimethylsiloxane-Covered 3D Porous Network Sponges toward Human Motion Detection
    Applied Materials Today, 2024
    Link
    Cited by: Articles focusing on flexible strain sensors.
  5. Recent Trends of Functional Composites and Structures for Electromechanical Sensors – A Review
    Advanced Intelligent Systems, 2023
    Link
    Cited by: Reviews and articles on advanced composite materials.
  6. Realization of Motion Sensing Composites Prepared from The Incorporation of Three-Dimensional Porous Conductive Foams and Polydimethylsiloxane
    Journal of Science: Advanced Materials & Devices, 2023
    Link

Conclusion

Thi Sinh Vo’s extensive research contributions, particularly in polymer-composite materials and environmental sensors, make her a strong candidate for the Research for Outstanding Contributions in Academia Award. Her publication record, mentorship, and involvement in cutting-edge research projects highlight her as a leading figure in her field. While there are opportunities for growth in terms of broader dissemination of her work and securing diverse research funding, her overall achievements position her well for this prestigious recognition.