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.

Profile

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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

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.