Yunchao Li | Biochar utilization | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yunchao Li | Biochar utilization | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yunchao Li | Biochar utilization-Teacher at Jiliang University, China

Dr. Yunchao Li is an esteemed Associate Professor at the College of Energy, Environment, and Safety Engineering at China Jiliang University. His pioneering research in biomass pyrolysis and the high-value utilization of biochar has significantly contributed to sustainable energy development. Recognized among the top 2% of scientists worldwide by Stanford University, Dr. Li has gained national and international acclaim for his innovative contributions to renewable energy technologies. His extensive research experience, numerous publications, and patents reflect his dedication to advancing the field of thermal engineering and carbon-negative technologies.

Profile:

Scopus

Education:

Dr. Li pursued his higher education at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Thermal Engineering. This rigorous program, integrating master’s and doctoral studies, equipped him with a deep understanding of thermal energy conversion, biochar applications, and carbon sequestration. Prior to his Ph.D., he earned a Bachelor of Science in Thermal Energy and Power Engineering from the same institution. His strong academic foundation has enabled him to make significant advancements in energy sustainability and engineering applications.

Experience:

With a career spanning academic research and industry practice, Dr. Li has held key positions that have enriched his expertise in energy and environmental engineering. As an Associate Professor at China Jiliang University since 2021, he has been instrumental in leading pioneering research projects. Prior to this, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Zhejiang University, focusing on biochar-based materials for sustainable energy storage. His experience as an engineer at Huadian Electric Power Research Institute further strengthened his applied research skills in energy technology and industrial applications. His multifaceted experience underscores his ability to bridge academia and industry for practical energy solutions.

Research Interests:

Dr. Li’s research revolves around biomass pyrolysis and the high-value utilization of biochar. He focuses on developing advanced carbon materials for energy storage, CO2 capture, and supercapacitor applications. His work integrates molecular simulations, experimental studies, and material characterization to enhance biochar functionality. Additionally, his research explores innovative strategies for sustainable waste management, aiming to transform biomass into valuable resources for clean energy applications. His contributions play a crucial role in developing carbon-negative technologies, addressing climate change, and improving energy efficiency.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Li has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to research and innovation. He has been featured in Stanford University’s “Top 2% Scientists” list for 2023 and 2024, highlighting his global impact. His excellence in engineering research has been recognized through prestigious awards, including the Second Class Prize of the Chinese Society of Engineering Thermophysics for his work on biomass pyrolysis for hydrogen-rich gas production. Additionally, he was selected for the first “258 Training Program” at China Jiliang University and recognized as a high-level talent in Hangzhou. These honors underscore his leadership and influence in the field of energy engineering.

Publications:

📚 Dr. Li has published over 40 papers in leading scientific journals. Selected notable publications include:

  1. Ao Song, Yunchao Li, et al. (2024). Recent progress in carbon-based composite materials for sodium-ion batteries. Green Energy & Environment. 🔬
  2. Hongxian Li, Minghui Tang, Yunchao Li, et al. (2024). Molecular simulation for heteroatom-doped biochar in CO2 capture. Chemical Engineering Journal. 🌍
  3. Yunchao Li, Yangkai Sun, Hanming Li, et al. (2023). High nitrogen-oxygen doped porous carbon for supercapacitors. Energy. ⚡
  4. Yan Ding, Yunchao Li, et al. (2021). In-situ nitrogen-doped carbon via pyrolysis of bean pulp for supercapacitors. Energy. 🔥
  5. Yunchao Li, Bo Xing, Yan Ding, et al. (2020). Critical review of biochar production via selective pyrolysis. Bioresource Technology. 🌱

Cited by articles available upon request.

Conclusion:

Dr. Yunchao Li’s remarkable contributions to biomass pyrolysis and carbon-negative technologies make him an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research output, significant academic impact, and recognition through prestigious awards highlight his dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions. His expertise bridges theoretical research and practical applications, positioning him as a leading figure in the field of energy engineering. With a continued focus on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Li is set to make even greater strides in the realm of sustainable energy and environmental engineering.

Nelson Martins | Circularity | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Nelson Martins | Circularity | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Nelson Martins | Circularity – Technical at Apicer – Portuguese Ceramic Industry Association, Portugal

Nelson Correia Martins is an accomplished process engineer, industrial leader, and researcher with a distinguished career in manufacturing optimization, lean management, and data-driven production processes. With over two decades of experience in engineering and production management, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing industrial efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation across multiple sectors, including ceramics, chemicals, and advanced manufacturing. His expertise lies in integrating process innovation, industrial automation, and sustainability-driven strategies to optimize production workflows and resource utilization.

His extensive background in process engineering, coupled with his research contributions in DataOps frameworks and secondary raw material tracking, demonstrates his commitment to advancing industry 4.0 solutions and environmental sustainability. His professional journey has been marked by leadership in production management, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration, ensuring operational excellence and quality enhancement. A forward-thinking professional, Nelson continues to drive research and innovation in industrial digitalization and lean manufacturing, reinforcing his standing as a leading figure in the field.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Nelson Martins holds a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Aveiro, where he specialized in process optimization and industrial automation. He further pursued postgraduate studies in Lean Management from Comunidade Lean Thinking, equipping him with advanced methodologies in continuous improvement, Six Sigma, and operational excellence. His academic journey includes an Erasmus program at Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain, where he gained international exposure to advanced chemical processes and industrial research methodologies. Recognized for his exceptional academic achievements, he was awarded the Eng. António Pascoal Prize for being the best engineering student at the University of Aveiro.

Experience

With a career spanning across multiple leadership roles in engineering and production management, Nelson Martins has made transformational contributions to the industries he has served. He has led large-scale manufacturing operations, optimized industrial workflows, and implemented data-driven strategies to improve efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.

In his role as Director of Production at NG- Oficina de Porcelanas, he successfully enhanced productivity, quality control, and process efficiency, ensuring optimal resource utilization. As a Process Engineer at The Navigator Company, he played a crucial role in standardizing tissue paper rewinding processes, demonstrating his ability to drive technical excellence and process improvement. His tenure at Sanitana (Roca Group), Mesa Ceramics, and Riastone (Vista Alegre Group) saw him spearheading lean manufacturing initiatives, KPI tracking, and Toyota Kata methodologies, reinforcing his expertise in continuous improvement and industrial analytics.

Additionally, his research-driven role at Bresfor (Finsa Group) involved innovation in materials science, chemical engineering, and quality control, while his experience at Hovione (Lisbon & New Jersey, USA) provided him with hands-on exposure to GMP manufacturing, nanotechnology, and experimental design. Currently, he is engaged as a Process Engineer at APICER (Coimbra), contributing to research in digitalization, circular economy, and industrial decarbonization, further solidifying his commitment to sustainable industrial practices.

Research Interests

Nelson Martins’ research focuses on industrial process optimization, digital transformation, and sustainability-driven manufacturing. His work delves into DataOps frameworks, secondary raw material tracking, and lean production methodologies, aiming to enhance manufacturing efficiency and environmental impact reduction. His interdisciplinary expertise in chemical engineering, materials science, and industrial analytics enables him to develop innovative solutions in production automation, circular economy, and smart manufacturing. His ongoing research contributes to bridging the gap between industry and academia, driving advancements in resource-efficient production systems and sustainable industrial practices.

Awards

Nelson Martins’ dedication to excellence in engineering and research has been recognized with several prestigious accolades. He was honored with the Eng. António Pascoal Prize, awarded to the best engineering student at the University of Aveiro, reflecting his outstanding academic and research capabilities. His contributions to process engineering, industrial digitalization, and lean management have positioned him as a leader in manufacturing innovation, reinforcing his impact in the field.

Publications 📚

Tracking Secondary Raw Material Operational Framework—DataOps Case Study (2025) – Ceramics Journal 🔬
DOI: 10.3390/ceramics8010012 | Cited by: 12
Tracking Secondary Raw Material Operational Framework – DataOps Case Study (2024) – Preprint 📊
DOI: 10.20944/preprints202412.2007.v1 | Cited by: 8

Conclusion

Nelson Correia Martins exemplifies research excellence, industrial leadership, and innovative thinking in process engineering and industrial sustainability. His strong academic foundation, extensive experience, and impactful research contributions make him a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work in DataOps frameworks, lean manufacturing, and sustainable industrial processes showcases his commitment to advancing cutting-edge solutions for modern manufacturing challenges.

While his publication record is growing, expanding his academic research collaborations and high-impact journal contributions would further solidify his stature as a leading researcher. With his visionary leadership, commitment to innovation, and industry-driven research, Nelson Martins is well-positioned to continue making groundbreaking contributions to industrial engineering and sustainable manufacturing.

Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Researcher | Laboratory of Applied Ecology of the University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is an esteemed agronomist and forester specializing in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. With a PhD in Climate Change and Biodiversity, he has an extensive career focused on the impact of climate change on ecosystems and their relationship with human communities. Avakoudjo has contributed to several international research projects and consultancies, and his expertise spans across agroforestry, non-timber forest products, and dendrochronology, among others. He is dedicated to integrating climate adaptation strategies into national biodiversity policies and advancing sustainable resource management in West Africa.

Profile

Orcid

Education:

Avakoudjo holds a PhD in Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Agriculture from the University Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire (2020). He earned his MSc in Forestry with a focus on Natural Resources Management from the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin (2015). His academic journey began with a degree in Agronomy, specializing in Natural Resources Management and Planning from the same institution in 2013. He also holds a Baccalaureate D in Mathematics and Natural Sciences from the Office of Baccalaureate in Benin (2016).

Experience: Avakoudjo has gained extensive professional experience, including his current role as a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Applied Ecology at the University of Abomey-Calavi. Here, he leads research projects, trains students, and collaborates with local communities. Previously, as a Postdoctoral Researcher, he implemented a project on the climate influence on plant growth. He has also held roles as a consultant for organizations like the African Forest Forum, where he contributed to the development of agroforestry systems and land management strategies. His leadership has extended to environmental volunteering and advisory roles in various NGOs.

Research Interests:

Avakoudjo’s primary research interests include the effects of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services, especially in West Africa. His work examines the role of climate-induced biodiversity loss, adaptation strategies, and ecosystem resilience. He is particularly focused on the conservation and valorization of non-timber forest products and sustainable agroforestry practices. His expertise also extends to tropical dendrochronology, quantitative ethnobotany, and biodiversity informatics, all aimed at developing solutions for sustainable natural resource management in tropical regions.

Awards: Throughout his career, Avakoudjo has received recognition for his contributions to environmental science and climate change adaptation. Notable accolades include his involvement in the African Tree-Ring Network and his role in advancing the understanding of climate-growth relationships in tropical trees. His research on the impact of climate change on indigenous species like Strychnos spinosa has been acknowledged for its scientific rigor and its practical implications for biodiversity conservation in West Africa.

Publications:

Avakoudjo has authored several influential peer-reviewed publications, including:

  1. Degila J., et al. (2023). “Digital Agriculture Policies and Strategies for Innovations in the Agri-Food Systems—Cases of Five West African Countries.” Sustainability, 15(12), 9192.
  2. Degila J., et al. (2023). “A Survey on Digital Agriculture in Five West African Countries.” Agriculture, 13(5), 1067.
  3. Kochoni B. I., et al. (2023). “Contribution of mangroves ecosystems to coastal communities’ resilience towards climate change.” GeoJournal.
  4. Coulibaly A., et al. (2022). “Impact of climate change on the distribution of Bombax costatum Pellegr.” Trees, Forests and People, 100359.
  5. Atindehou M. M. L., et al. (2022). “Old Sacred Trees as Memories of the Cultural Landscapes of Southern Benin.” Land, 11(4), 478.
  6. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Effects of climate and protection status on growth and fruit yield of Strychnos spinosa Lam.” Trees, 1-13.
  7. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Wood anatomy and vessel characteristics of spiny monkey orange (Strychnos spinosa).” Dendrochronologia, 72:125941.

These works are widely cited for their contributions to climate change adaptation strategies and biodiversity conservation, particularly in tropical ecosystems.

Conclusion:

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is a leading expert in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture with a rich academic and professional background. His research continues to shape the understanding of climate-induced biodiversity changes and their impact on ecosystems and human communities in West Africa. Avakoudjo’s commitment to practical solutions for sustainable land management, agroforestry, and the conservation of natural resources reflects his dedication to fostering resilient ecosystems and promoting environmental stewardship. His ongoing contributions to the scientific community and local communities make him a valuable asset in the global effort to address climate change and biodiversity loss.

Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr. Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research | South Africa

Dr. Basanda Xhantilomzi Nondlazi is a dedicated climate change researcher with over 18 years of experience in ecological research, remote sensing, and biodiversity conservation. He has specialized expertise in understanding the impacts of climate change on freshwater ecosystems and savanna environments, blending advanced technological approaches with traditional ecological methods. His work has contributed to policymaking, environmental management, and academic development, positioning him as a leader in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Dr. Nondlazi holds a Ph.D. in Ecological Remote Sensing from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2022), where his thesis focused on spatial relationships between plant functional types and hydrological gradients in freshwater ecosystems. He also earned an MSc in Ecology from the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in the effects of tree densification on grassland understory, and a BSc Honors in Botany with a focus on altitudinal gradients. His academic journey is complemented by a National Diploma in Animal Health and Production, which provided a strong foundation in veterinary sciences and pasture management.

Experience
Dr. Nondlazi has held various research and leadership roles, including his current position as a Climate Response Planning Specialist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). His career spans roles as a postdoctoral researcher in climate adaptation and precision agriculture and as a research associate in wetland ecological remote sensing. He has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of depressional wetlands and savanna ecosystems in response to climate variability, providing actionable insights for environmental legislation and sustainable management.

Research Interest
Dr. Nondlazi’s research interests center on ecological remote sensing, climate change adaptation, and sustainable environmental management. He is passionate about using cutting-edge tools like UAVs, machine learning, and geographic information systems to address pressing ecological challenges. His work on wetland conservation, bush encroachment mitigation, and biodiversity protection demonstrates his commitment to creating resilient ecosystems in the face of global climate change.

Awards
Dr. Nondlazi received the Golden Key Excellence Award during his MSc studies, recognizing his outstanding academic and research contributions. His innovative approaches to ecological challenges have garnered respect and recognition from peers and institutions, reflecting his dedication to excellence in climate change research.

Publications

  1. “Spatial Variability of Edaphic Factors in Depressional Wetlands: A Remote Sensing Approach” (2023, Journal of Wetland Ecology), cited by 15 articles.
  2. “Impacts of Tree Densification on Grassland Understory” (2021, African Journal of Ecology), cited by 23 articles.
  3. “Altitudinal Gradients and Grass-Specific Leaf Area” (2019, Plant Ecology and Diversity), cited by 12 articles.
  4. “Advances in Remote Sensing for Wetland Monitoring” (2022, Remote Sensing in Ecology), cited by 18 articles.
  5. “Bush Encroachment: Quantitative and Trait-Based Approaches” (2020, Ecological Applications), cited by 21 articles.
  6. “Wetland Buffer Zones and Climate Resilience” (2023, Journal of Environmental Management), cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion
Dr. Nondlazi exemplifies the integration of research, policy, and technology in addressing climate change challenges. His work not only advances academic understanding but also offers practical solutions for sustainable environmental management. As a leader in his field, he continues to inspire collaborations and innovations that support global climate resilience efforts.

Likonge Makai | Micro-hybrid renewable energy | Women Researcher Award

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Ms . Likonge Makai | Micro-hybrid renewable energy | Women Researcher Award 

Manager Energy , Tshwane University of Technology , Zambia

Likonge Brenda Mulenga Makai is a dedicated Zambian engineer specializing in power systems and renewable energy technologies. With over two decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to the energy sector, particularly in rural electrification and energy management. She is a recognized leader, serving as the Manager of Energy at Konkola Mineral Resources Limited and has been actively involved in various engineering initiatives across Zambia and internationally.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Academic and Professional Achievements: Likonge Brenda Mulenga has a solid academic background with a Master’s in Energy Systems and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Engineering, focusing on power systems and renewable energy. Her work on developing cost-effective micro-hybrid power plants for rural areas is highly relevant to global energy challenges, especially in developing regions.
  2. Publications and Presentations: She has published several papers in international conferences, such as the Power Africa Conference and IEEE AFRICON. These publications highlight her active engagement in the research community and her contributions to addressing energy issues in Africa, particularly in Zambia.
  3. Leadership Roles and Recognition: Likonge has held significant leadership roles, including being the Board Chairperson for the Rural Electrification Authority and receiving the PUSH Woman in Engineering Award. These roles demonstrate her influence and leadership in the field of energy systems and her commitment to advancing women’s roles in engineering.
  4. Community and Mentorship Involvement: Her involvement in mentoring undergraduate students and her participation in various community-oriented organizations, such as the Girls Brigade and Zambia National STEM Foundation, show her dedication to empowering the next generation of engineers, particularly women.
  5. Technical Expertise and Industry Experience: With over two decades of experience in the energy sector, working on projects that enhance power reliability and energy efficiency, Likonge brings a wealth of practical knowledge that bridges the gap between academia and industry.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader International Collaboration: While Likonge has significant experience and recognition in Africa, expanding her collaboration with international research teams outside the continent could enhance her global research impact.
  2. Publication in High-Impact Journals: Although she has presented at conferences, increasing her publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals would further solidify her research credentials and visibility within the global scientific community.
  3. Funding and Grant Acquisition: Securing more competitive research grants, especially from international bodies, would not only support her ongoing research but also demonstrate her ability to attract funding for significant projects.

Education

Likonge earned her Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) from Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa (2019-2023), where she developed cost-effective micro-hybrid power plant schemes for rural areas. She holds a Master’s in Planning and Operations of Energy Systems from Kathmandu University, Nepal (2014), with a focus on renewable technologies, and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Copperbelt University, Zambia (2005), specializing in Electrical Power Systems.

Experience

Likonge has a rich history of working in Zambia’s mining sector. Since 2022, she has served as the Manager of Energy at Konkola Mineral Resources Limited. Previously, she held roles such as Head of Electrical and Instrumentation at Nchanga Concentrator and Tailing Dams (2018-2021), and Project Support Office Coordinator at Konkola Copper Mines Plc (2008-2017). Her experience includes energy management, electrical maintenance, and leading strategic projects in the mining industry.

Research Interests

Likonge’s research interests lie in the development of sustainable and renewable energy solutions, particularly for rural communities. Her work focuses on optimizing micro-hybrid power plants, renewable energy technologies, and energy management systems that aim to reduce energy costs and improve reliability in off-grid areas.

Awards

Likonge’s achievements are numerous, including receiving the PUSH Woman in Engineering Award (2018) and being appointed Board Chairperson for the Rural Electrification Authority (2021). She was also recognized for her contributions to the IEEE Smart Village initiative and her leadership in various energy-saving projects.

Publications

Likonge has several publications in prestigious journals and conferences:

  • “A Review of Load Assessment and Load Prioritization for Micro-Hybrid Power Plants in Rural Communities” (2022, Power Africa Conference) – Cited by Article
  • “Modeling of a Cost-Effective Implementations and Utilization Scheme for Micro-Hybrid Plants in Rural Areas: A Case of Mayukwayukwa” (2020, Power Africa Conference) – Cited by Article
  • “Biomass-Solar PV Micro-Hybrid in Zambia” (2019, UNESCO 6th African Engineering Week) – Cited by Article
  • “Energy Solution of Zambia from Micro Hybrid Biomass – Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plants” (2017, IEEE AFRICON) – Cited by Article
  • “Biogas – An Alternative Household Cooking Technique for Zambia” (2013, Global Humanitarian Technology Conference) – Cited by Article

Conclusion

Likonge Brenda Mulenga is a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her extensive experience, leadership in the energy sector, commitment to community service, and dedication to advancing renewable energy solutions in Zambia position her as a role model for women in engineering. While there are opportunities for her to expand her influence through broader international collaboration and high-impact publications, her current achievements make her highly deserving of recognition through this award.

Nooshin Bigdeli | Energy systems | Best Researcher Award

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Prof.Dr.Nooshin Bigdeli | Energy systems | Best Researcher Award

Dean of Faculty of Engineering | Imam Khomeini International University | Iran

Nooshin Bigdeli, born on March 21, 1977, in Iran, is a distinguished professor at Imam Khomeini International University in Qazvin, Iran. She earned her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Control, from Sharif University of Technology in Tehran in 2007. Her academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to Control Theory, Nonlinear Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, and Energy System Management and Behavioral Analysis.

Profile

scholar

Education 📚

Nooshin Bigdeli received her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Control from Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, in 2007.

Experience 💼

Since obtaining her Ph.D., Dr. Bigdeli has been a faculty member in the Control Engineering Department at Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.

Research Interest 🧠

Her research interests span Control Theory, Nonlinear Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, and the Management and Behavioral Analysis of Energy Systems. She has made significant contributions to Model Predictive Control (MPC) and Nonlinear Systems.

Award 🏆

Dr. Bigdeli has been recognized as the Outstanding National Professor of Iran in 2024 and was named the Influential Lady of Qazvin Province in 2023. She has also been acknowledged as a top researcher globally in various rankings, including by Stanford University and Elsevier.

Publications 📄

Nooshin Bigdeli has published numerous articles in reputable journals. One notable publication is:

  • Optimal management of hybrid PV/fuel cell/battery power system: A comparison of optimal hybrid approaches
    Published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews in 2015.
    Cited 175 times.