Dora Zakarian | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dora Zakarian | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher at Institute for Problems in Materials Science, Ukraine

Dr. Dora Zakarian, a distinguished theorist in solid-state physics, has been contributing to material science since 1980 at the Institute for Problems in Materials Science (IPMS), Ukrainian National Academy of Science, Kyiv, Ukraine. With a doctorate in Physical and Mathematical Sciences, she is renowned for her innovative “a priori pseudopotential” method and groundbreaking studies on the mechanical properties of advanced materials.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Zakarian holds a Doctorate in Physical and Mathematical Sciences, specializing in solid-state physics. Her academic background is rooted in rigorous theoretical approaches, emphasizing quantum mechanics and material modeling.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Zakarian’s career spans over four decades at IPMS, where she has conducted theoretical studies of mechanical properties in diverse materials. She developed the “a priori pseudopotential” method, which has led to significant advancements in understanding materials like metals, carbides, borides, and eutectic composites. Her work has influenced fields such as nanotechnology and high-entropy alloys, resulting in dozens of foundational methodologies.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Zakarian’s research is centered on computational materials science, particularly:

  • Mechanical properties of composite materials under varying conditions.
  • Thermodynamic modeling of binary systems and eutectics.
  • Pioneering methods to account for size factors, anharmonic effects, and intercomponent interactions in composite materials.
  • Young’s modulus and other critical properties of advanced materials.

Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Zakarian has actively contributed to international research through:

  1. U.S. Navy Grant (2007-2009) – Simulation of ceramic composites in LaB₆-MeB₂ systems.
  2. U.S. Air Force Grant (2012-2014) – Modeling of boride ceramic composites.
  3. NATO Project Grant (2016-2023) – Development of shock-resistant boron-based ceramics, integrating production and testing.

Her groundbreaking contributions have been recognized globally, with applications in defense and aerospace industries.

Key Publications 📚

Dr. Zakarian has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles. Key works include:

Universal temperature dependence of Young’s modulus

  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 42

Calculation of composition in LaB6–TiB2 and LaB6–ZrB2 eutectics by means of pseudopotential method

  • Year: 2011
  • Citations: 23

Pseudopotential method for calculating the eutectic temperature and concentration of the components of the B4C–TiB2, TiB2–SiC, and B4C–SiC systems

  • Year: 2009
  • Citations: 19

Ab-initio calculation of the coefficients of thermal expansion for MeB2 (Me–Ti, Zr) and LaB6 borides and LaB6–MeB2 eutectic composites

  • Year: 2012
  • Citations: 11

Quasi-harmonic approximation model in the theory of pseudopotentials

  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 7

Расчет теоретической прочности алмазоподобных материалов, исходя из энергии взаимодействия атомных плоскостей

  • Year: 2006
  • Citations: 7

Mechanical characteristics of quasibinary eutectic composites with regard for the influence of an intercomponent interaction of the interface

  • Year: 2014
  • Citations: 5

Theoretical Strength of Borides and Quasibinary Boride Eutectics at High Temperatures

  • Year: 2015
  • Citations: 4

Наночастицы с алмазоподобной структурой и обратный закон Холла–Петча

  • Year: 2014
  • Citations: 3

Temperature dependence of the hardness of materials with a metallic, covalent-metallic bonds

  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 2

For a complete list of publications, please refer to the accompanying document.

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Dora Zakarian’s contributions to theoretical solid-state physics and materials science are pivotal in advancing our understanding of composite materials. Her innovations in computational methods and models have reshaped the study of mechanical and thermodynamic properties of advanced materials, making her a prominent figure in her field

Saloua El Euch Khay | Durable materials | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Saloua El Euch Khay | Durable materials | Women Researcher Award 

Professor at National Engineering School of Tunis, Tunisia.

Prof. Dr. Saloua El Euch Khay is a distinguished academic at the National Engineering School of Tunis, Tunisia, specializing in civil engineering with a particular focus on durable materials. Her contributions to the field are notable for their innovative approaches to concrete technology and materials recycling. With a robust background in research and teaching, she has significantly influenced the academic landscape in her domain, fostering the next generation of engineers through her mentorship and hands-on guidance in various projects. Her commitment to sustainability and engineering excellence has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.

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ORCID

Education

Prof. Dr. Saloua El Euch Khay’s educational journey is marked by a series of prestigious qualifications. In 2018, she achieved her Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches (HDR) in Civil Engineering, affirming her capacity to supervise doctoral research. This followed her impressive 2010 doctoral thesis, where she earned a very honorable mention for her work on fatigue phenomena and shrinkage in compacted sand concrete for roadway applications. Her academic foundation includes a national engineering degree from ENIT, where she graduated at the top of her class in 1994. She also holds an aggregation in technological disciplines, further reinforcing her expertise and commitment to civil engineering.

Experience

Prof. Dr. El Euch Khay has extensive teaching experience at ENIT, where she has served as a Maître de Conférences since 2020, sharing her knowledge in courses covering structures, roads, and synthesis projects. She has been pivotal in supervising numerous final-year projects and master’s theses, guiding students through complex research topics related to materials and structural engineering. Her previous role as Maître-Assistant from 2015 to 2020 allowed her to deepen her engagement with students and contribute significantly to innovative research projects, further solidifying her role as a leader in academia. Her prior experience as a technologist has also enriched her practical understanding of engineering applications, allowing her to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world practice.

Research Interest

Prof. Dr. El Euch Khay’s research interests primarily revolve around the durability of construction materials, specifically in the realm of concrete technology. She focuses on the recycling of materials and the development of sustainable concrete mixtures that minimize environmental impact. Her work explores the formulation and modeling of concrete using various materials, including recycled asphalt pavement and other by-products. This research not only addresses industry challenges but also contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable construction practices. Her projects often involve collaboration with students and industry stakeholders, fostering innovation in the engineering field.

Awards

Prof. Dr. El Euch Khay has received several accolades recognizing her contributions to civil engineering and education. Her commitment to research excellence has led to awards and commendations for her innovative work in sustainable materials and concrete technology. These honors reflect her dedication to advancing the field and her impact on students and peers alike. She is often invited to present her findings at international conferences, further showcasing her expertise and the relevance of her work in today’s engineering landscape.

Publications

Prof. Dr. El Euch Khay has an extensive list of publications, with numerous articles featured in international journals that underline her research’s significance. Key publications include:

S. El Euch Khay, A. Loulizi, Z. Zayen & G. Nammouchi. Experimental and predictive study of self-compacting concrete containing reclaimed asphalt pavement, European Journal of Environmental and Civil Engineering, 2024. DOI: 10.1080/19648189.2024.2357672 (Impact Factor: 2.2)

A. Bousleh & S. El Euch Khay. Shrinkage performance and modelling of concretes incorporating crushed limestone sand with a high content of fillers for pavement slabs, European Journal of Environmental and Civil Engineering, 2023. DOI: 10.1080/19648189.2023.2276128 (Impact Factor: 2.2)

H. Zbidi, S. El Euch Khay. New Selection Process for Retaining Walls Based on Life Cycle Assessment and Economic Concerns, International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa, 2023, Vol. 66, pp 29-44. DOI: 10.4028/p-OVz45X (Impact Factor: 0.9)

H. Zbidi, S. El Euch Khay. Environmental Impact of a Reinforced Geosynthetic Retaining Wall Made of Modular Vegetated Concrete Blocks, International Journal of Scientific Research & Engineering Technology (IJSET), Vol.19, pp. 33-41, 2023. Link

W. Ben Achour, S. El Euch Khay, K. Miled & J. Neji. Experimental study of the mechanical behaviour of brick waste concrete and analytical prediction of its elastic modulus as a three composite material, International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa, 2021. DOI: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/JERA.57.125 (Impact Factor: 0.9)

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Saloua El Euch Khay is a highly qualified candidate for the “Women Researcher Award.” Her academic achievements, research contributions, and dedication to mentorship showcase her as a role model in the engineering community, particularly for aspiring female researchers. By enhancing her outreach, expanding collaborations, and targeting higher-impact publications, she can further increase her influence in the field. Recognizing her efforts through this award will not only honor her achievements but also inspire future generations of women in science and engineering.