Zara Cherkezova-Zheleva | Mechanochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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.

 

 

 

 

Kowsar Bagherzadeh | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kowsar Bagherzadeh | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Iran University of Medical Sciences | Iran

A highly skilled Computational Chemist with over 15 years of experience, the individual specializes in molecular modeling and simulations. With expertise in advanced techniques such as Molecular Dynamics Simulations, Umbrella Sampling, and QM/MM Metadynamics, their work investigates complex chemical and biochemical systems. The focus is on molecular screening, design, and development, aiming to contribute to advancements in diagnostics, therapeutics, and detection technologies.

Profile

Scholar

Education: This professional holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Tehran (2009-2014) and an MS in Analytical Chemistry from the same institution (2006-2008). Additionally, they earned a Health MBA from Sharif University of Technology (2019-2020). Their foundational education includes a BS in Applied Chemistry from the Islamic Azad University of Tehran (2001-2005), as well as a BA in English Literature from the University of Tehran (2001-2005), demonstrating a diverse academic background.

Experience: With a well-established career, they currently serve as a Full-Time Research Assistant Professor and Executive Director at the Eye Research Center, Five Senses Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), since 2020. In the same year, they became a Part-Time Assistant Professor at the Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Research Center, IUMS. Previously, they held leadership roles, including Editor-in-Chief of the Iranian Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (2017-2020), and served in various administrative positions, such as in the Chancellery of International Affairs and Research and Technology at IUMS.

Research Interest: The individual’s research interests focus on computational techniques, including Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Metadynamics, to explore molecular interactions. They specialize in in silico design of biotherapeutics and structural bioinformatics, using advanced modeling to engineer molecules for therapeutics, diagnostics, and detection technologies. This research is vital for the development of novel drug designs, diagnostics, and sensor technologies, particularly in oncology, immunotherapy, and environmental monitoring.

Award: The professional’s accomplishments have been recognized by numerous awards, including being named a “Chosen Young Scientist” by Rassoul-e-Akram Hospital, IUMS (2020). They received the Best Topic Award at the National Students Congress on Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) and a Best Poster Award at the Discovery Chemistry International Congress in Barcelona (2014). Their recognition also extends to being honored as a Gifted Student at the University of Tehran (2008).

Publication: They have authored several significant publications. Key works include “Computational Engineering of Protein L to Achieve an Optimal Affinity Chromatography Resin for Purification of Antibody Fragments” (Analytical Chemistry, 2021), “Human IL-2Rɑ Subunit Binding Modulation of IL-2 Through a Decline in Electrostatic Interactions” (PloS One, 2022), and “Key Criteria for Engineering Mycotoxin Binding Aptamers via Computational Simulations” (Biotechnology Journal, 2022). Other notable papers include research on electrochemical sensors for tetracycline detection (Food Chemistry, 2023), and the destruction mechanisms of ozone over SARS-CoV-2 (Scientific Reports, 2021). These publications highlight their proficiency in computational chemistry and molecular simulations.

Conclusion: A proven leader in computational chemistry, this individual blends extensive research experience with academic teaching and project management. With advanced skills in molecular simulations and bioinformatics, they play a pivotal role in advancing research in diagnostics, therapeutics, and environmental science. Their work stands out for its depth, particularly in computational modeling and simulations applied to biotherapeutics. By continuing to expand their research and collaborations, they are poised to make significant contributions to future innovations in molecular science and technology.

Seyed Abolghasem Kahani | Inorganic Chemistry | Academic Luminary Achievement Award

Dr . Seyed Abolghasem Kahani | Inorganic Chemistry | Academic Luminary Achievement Award 

S. A. Kahani , University of Kashan , Iran.

Seyed Abolghasem Kahani is an esteemed Iranian chemist specializing in inorganic chemistry. He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Tehran, with a focus on the synthesis of new Silver(III) and Gold(III) complexes. Kahani has held various academic positions, currently serving as an Associate Professor at the University of Kashan. His research areas include high-oxidation-state metal complexes, thermochromism, smart materials, and mechanochemical reactions. Over the years, he has made significant contributions to the field, publishing numerous peer-reviewed papers and participating in conferences and workshops.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Seyed Abolghasem Kahani holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Tehran (2001). His dissertation focused on the synthesis of Silver(III) and Gold(III) complexes under the supervision of Prof. M. Abedini. Prior to this, he earned an M.Sc. in Inorganic Chemistry from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad (1991) under Prof. M. Yazdanbaksh, and a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Urmia University (1988).

Experience

Kahani has an extensive teaching and research career. He started as an Assistant Professor at the University of Kashan in 2011 and became an Associate Professor in 2015, a position he currently holds. His academic tenure has been marked by his focus on the synthesis of metal complexes, nanoparticles, and the exploration of smart materials. Kahani has supervised numerous graduate students and led several research projects.

Research Interests

Kahani’s research revolves around inorganic chemistry, with a particular emphasis on metal complexes in high oxidation states, thermochromic materials, and magnetic nanoparticles. He is also deeply interested in mechanochemical reactions, electrophotography, and the study of inorganic polymers. His work frequently explores the application of these materials in advanced technologies like solar cells and smart materials.

Awards

Though his curriculum vitae does not list specific awards, Kahani’s research contributions have garnered recognition in the academic community. His work has been cited in numerous peer-reviewed journals, reflecting his influence in the field of inorganic chemistry.

Publications

Kahani has authored several notable papers, including:

  • “Investigating the effect of polythiocyanogen on morphology and stability of the perovskite layer and its application in hole-transport material free perovskite solar cell”Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry, 2020 (Link)
  • “Synthesis of cobalt-based magnetic nanocrystals from cobalt(II) heterocyclic amine complexes”Research on Chemical Intermediates, 2017 (Link)
  • “Preparation of bimetallic Co–Ag and Co–Cu nanoparticles”Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 2016 (Link)
  • “Mechanochemical synthesis and characterization of a nickel(II) complex”RSC Advances, 2016 (Link)
  • “Preparation of nickel nanoparticles by intramolecular reaction of nickel(II) hydrazine complex”Inorganic Chemistry Research, 2016 (Link)

Conclusion

Seyed Abolghasem Kahani’s extensive work in inorganic chemistry, particularly in the fields of nanoparticle synthesis and smart materials, makes him a strong candidate for the Research for Academic Luminary Achievement Award. His academic leadership, broad research scope, and significant contributions to nanotechnology research highlight his qualifications. To further solidify his standing as an international academic luminary, he could benefit from increased global collaborations and continued expansion into multidisciplinary research applications.