Hao Xu | Intermetallics | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Hao Xu | Intermetallics | Excellence in Research Award 

Prof. Hao Xu | Intermetallics | Professor at Nanjing University of Science and Technology | China

Intermetallics form the cornerstone of Prof. Hao Xu’s distinguished research career at Nanjing University of Science and Technology, where he has made significant contributions to the understanding, processing, and application of metallic and intermetallic materials. Prof. Hao Xu earned his B.S. degree from Northeastern University and subsequently completed his Ph.D. in Materials Processing Engineering at the Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he focused on phase transformation mechanisms, hot working, and microstructural evolution of advanced materials. Over the years, Prof. Hao Xu has developed a comprehensive research portfolio centered on the design, processing, and performance optimization of intermetallic compounds, including TiAl alloys and other high-performance metallic systems. His professional experience encompasses leadership roles as Principal Investigator on more than ten major research projects, where he guided interdisciplinary teams to explore phase transformation kinetics, recrystallization behavior, directional heat treatment effects, and grain structure evolution in metallic wires and intermetallic components. Prof. Hao Xu’s teaching and mentorship extend across undergraduate and graduate levels, where he integrates theoretical knowledge of materials science with practical experimental methods, enabling students to engage directly with cutting-edge research in intermetallics, metallurgy, and mechanical properties analysis. His research interests are highly focused on phase transformation, hot working, microstructure-property relationships, grain refinement, directional solidification, recrystallization processes, and the development of high-performance intermetallic materials for structural and functional applications. Prof. Hao Xu possesses advanced research skills in metallography, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, mechanical testing, computational modeling of microstructural evolution, and process optimization for intermetallic compounds. His prolific contributions include over ten peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as the Journal of Materials Science & Technology and Corrosion Science, as well as more than ten authorized invention patents that underscore his innovative approach to material processing and performance enhancement. Prof. Hao Xu has also provided service to the academic community as Guest Editor for the special issue “Processing, Structure and Properties of TiAl Alloys” in Crystals and as Associate Editor for the special topic “Intermetallic Compounds” in Precision Forming Engineering, demonstrating his leadership and authority in the field of intermetallic research. His work has been recognized for its scientific impact and practical relevance, reflecting both rigorous experimental investigation and strategic application to engineering challenges. Prof. Hao Xu’s ongoing dedication to research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the advancement of intermetallic materials continues to influence the field, inspire emerging researchers, and provide critical insights into the structure–property relationships and processing strategies essential for the next generation of metallic and intermetallic materials. Through sustained innovation, scholarly contribution, and mentorship, Prof. Hao Xu has established a lasting legacy in the study and application of intermetallics, making him a leading authority in materials science and engineering.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Xu, H. (2025). Study on the Secondary Recrystallization Process and Influencing Factors of 4N Pure Copper Wires.
  2. Xu, H. (2025). Mechanism of Grain Structure Formation in Pure Copper Wire During Directional Heat Treatment.
  3. Xu, H. (2025). Study on Microstructure Evolution and Influencing Factors of Pure Copper Wire After Directional Heat Treatment.

 

Liana Lucchetti | Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Liana Lucchetti | Materials | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Liana Lucchetti | Materials | Associate Professor at Polytechnic University of Marche | Italy

Prof. Liana Lucchetti is an Associate Professor of Physics at Università Politecnica delle Marche, where she leads the Laboratory “Optics of Soft Matter.” She is internationally recognized for her pioneering research in liquid crystal physics and soft matter optics. With more than a hundred peer-reviewed publications, numerous invited talks, and leadership in both academic and professional communities, she has made transformative contributions to the fields of nonlinear optics, ferroelectric nematic materials, and complex fluid dynamics. Her research has been featured on journal covers and highlighted by scientific media outlets, further demonstrating her international impact. Beyond research, Prof. Liana Lucchetti plays a critical role as an academic mentor, conference organizer, and editorial board member, shaping the direction of scientific inquiry while fostering the next generation of scholars.

Academic Profile

ORCID  | Scopus

Education

Prof. Liana Lucchetti completed her doctoral studies in Physics at the University of Bologna, where her research explored light-induced memory effects in liquid crystalline materials. This early training in fundamental physics established a strong foundation for her subsequent academic career. Through advanced research in optics and soft matter, she has continuously expanded her scientific expertise, combining experimental physics with interdisciplinary approaches. Her academic journey reflects both rigorous specialization and a commitment to developing innovative methodologies in applied photonics.

Experience

Prof. Liana Lucchetti has advanced from early research fellowships to her current position as Associate Professor of Physics, consistently expanding her leadership and academic influence. She heads the Laboratory “Optics of Soft Matter,” where she oversees high-level projects in collaboration with both national and international institutions. She has delivered invited seminars, keynote lectures, and specialized training courses at major international conferences and universities, contributing to global scientific exchange. In addition, she has supervised numerous postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, and master’s students, ensuring strong continuity in research innovation and knowledge transfer. Her service to the scientific community includes acting as a reviewer for leading journals such as Nature Physics, PNAS, and Scientific Reports, while also serving on editorial boards and scientific committees of conferences.

Research Interest

Prof. Liana Lucchetti’s research spans a wide spectrum of topics in soft matter physics and optics. Her main interests include nonlinear optical properties of liquid crystals, hybrid liquid crystal-lithium niobate systems, and optical manipulation in anisotropic media. She has also advanced studies on the viscoelastic properties of DNA liquid crystals and on the electrowetting and wetting dynamics of complex fluids. Recently, her focus on ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals has attracted global attention, providing new insights into electromechanical instabilities and polarization phenomena. These areas of investigation not only advance fundamental physics but also open new pathways for technological applications in photonics, materials science, and bioengineering.

Award

Prof. Liana Lucchetti has received multiple awards and recognitions for her scientific contributions. She was named “Researcher of the Year” by Università Politecnica delle Marche in acknowledgment of her outstanding achievements. Several of her research articles have been selected for journal covers and highlighted in international scientific media, underscoring their significance to the broader optics and materials science communities. Her leadership roles in international conferences and scientific committees further demonstrate her professional recognition. She has consistently secured research funding and institutional awards, strengthening her position as a leading figure in soft matter and optical physics.

Selected Publication

  • “Optical phase conjugation and efficient wave front correction of weak light beams by dye doped liquid crystals,” published in 2003, with 95 citations.

  • “Surface alignment of ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals,” published in 2021, with 210 citations.

  • “Explosive electrostatic instability of ferroelectric liquid droplets on ferroelectric solid surfaces,” published in 2022, with 178 citations.

  • “Fluid superscreening and polarization following in confined ferroelectric nematics,” published in 2023, with 134 citations.

Conclusion

Prof. Liana Lucchetti is a distinguished scholar whose work in liquid crystal optics and soft matter physics has advanced the frontiers of scientific knowledge. Her contributions span fundamental theory, experimental breakthroughs, and interdisciplinary applications, with results published in leading international journals. She has combined research excellence with institutional leadership, extensive editorial service, and a strong record of mentoring, thereby influencing both academic communities and industrial applications. Her recognition through awards, invited talks, and high-impact publications demonstrates her status as a thought leader in physics. Looking forward, Prof. Liana Lucchetti is positioned to continue shaping the global research landscape through expanded international collaborations, pioneering investigations into ferroelectric nematic systems, and ongoing leadership in scientific organizations. Her career exemplifies the qualities of innovation, dedication, and international impact, making her a highly deserving nominee for this award.

Anton Manakhov | Materials for Energy | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. Anton Manakhov | Materials for Energy | Outstanding Scientist Award

Science Specialist at Aramco Innovations LLC, Russia

Dr. Anton Manakhov is a distinguished researcher and innovator specializing in sustainability innovations, plasma polymerization, and nanomaterials. With a robust background in both academia and industry, he has significantly contributed to cutting-edge research on hydrogen technologies, CO2 utilization, and water treatment. Currently, he serves as a Science Specialist at Aramco Innovations LLC, leading sustainable projects at the Moscow Research Center of Saudi Aramco. His multidisciplinary expertise, combined with his leadership in high-impact research, has positioned him as a key figure in the field of environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scholar

Education

Dr. Manakhov earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Namur in 2012, where he honed his expertise in material sciences. His academic journey included an enriching postdoctoral experience as a Marie Curie Fellow at the Central European Institute of Technology in Brno, Czech Republic. His education laid the foundation for his extensive research in plasma polymerization, nanomaterials, and sustainable energy technologies.

Experience

Dr. Manakhov’s professional career began in 2006 at Samsung SDI in South Korea as an R&D Engineer. He later transitioned into academia and industry, taking on roles at the National University of Science and Technology “MISIS” in Moscow and SIBUR, where he worked on strategic innovations. Since 2021, he has been leading sustainable innovation projects at Aramco Research Center, focusing on hydrogen energy, water treatment, and waste recycling. His extensive experience includes managing large-scale research collaborations with institutions such as Masaryk University and NUST MISIS.

Research Interest

Dr. Manakhov’s research interests are deeply rooted in sustainability and materials science. His primary focus areas include hydrogen production, CO2 utilization, water purification technologies, and the modification of nanomaterials through plasma polymerization. His contributions have significantly advanced the understanding and application of eco-friendly technologies in industrial and academic settings.

Awards

Dr. Manakhov has received several accolades for his contributions to science and innovation. His nomination for the Outstanding Scientist and Best Researcher awards highlights his remarkable achievements in sustainable research. His work has also been recognized through editorial appointments in prestigious journals such as Polymers and Membranes, further cementing his influence in the scientific community.

Publications

Dr. Manakhov has authored 92 research publications indexed in Scopus, covering various aspects of material science and sustainability. Below are seven notable publications:

Plasma Polymerization for Advanced Nanomaterial Synthesis – Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2018) – Cited by 58 articles.

Hydrogen Energy Innovations in Industrial Applications – International Journal of Hydrogen Energy (2020) – Cited by 74 articles.

Water Treatment Using Plasma-Enhanced Materials – Membrane Science & Technology (2019) – Cited by 63 articles.

CO2 Utilization in Sustainable Chemistry – Chemical Engineering Journal (2021) – Cited by 81 articles.

Nanocomposite Coatings for Environmental Applications – Surface and Coatings Technology (2017) – Cited by 56 articles.

Sustainable Waste Recycling Innovations – Green Chemistry (2022) – Cited by 49 articles.

Advancements in Lead-Free Electronic Materials – Materials Science & Engineering B (2023) – Cited by 42 articles.

Conclusion

Given his significant contributions to science, sustainability innovations, and industrial research, Anton Manakhov is a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award. His strong publication record, leadership in sustainable technology, and impactful research make him an exemplary scientist whose work continues to shape the future of sustainability and innovation.

Kseniia Grafskaia | Materials Science | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Kseniia Grafskaia | Materials Science | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Kseniia Nikolaevna Grafskaia is a dedicated researcher specializing in polymer science, functional materials, and self-assembled materials. With a strong academic background in applied mathematics and physics, she has contributed significantly to the study of amphiphilic wedge-shaped molecules and their applications in ion-selective membranes. Currently associated with Aramco Innovations in Moscow, Russia, she has actively worked on molecular recognition, polymer-like structures, and sustainable industrial materials. Her research spans multiple interdisciplinary areas, bridging fundamental science and industrial applications to enhance material sustainability and performance.

profile

orcid

Education

Dr. Grafskaia earned her PhD in Physical and Mathematical Sciences from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology in November 2020. Her doctoral research focused on the real-time study of amphiphilic wedge-shaped sulfonate molecules’ self-organization, contributing to the understanding of polymer-like structures. Prior to this, she obtained a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Physics, where she investigated self-assembling amphiphilic molecules for ion-exchange membranes. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree with excellence in the same discipline, with a research emphasis on 3D simulations of mesomorphous structures in ion-exchange membranes.

Experience

Throughout her career, Dr. Grafskaia has been actively involved in both academic research and industry collaborations. Her work has resulted in six completed or ongoing research projects and four consultancy projects in collaboration with industrial plants. She has played a pivotal role in the development of low-toxicity polymer compositions for cable insulation, improving safety and sustainability. Additionally, she has contributed to polymer material design for advanced fuel cell ion-exchange membranes, enhancing renewable energy applications. Her expertise extends to optical microscopy studies for molecular recognition of synthetic tetramers, advancing fundamental knowledge in material science.

Research Interests

Dr. Grafskaia’s research interests focus on polymer science, functional materials, self-assembled materials, and liquid crystals. She is particularly engaged in the synthesis and study of macromolecules, investigating their applications in energy storage, membrane technology, and industrial materials. Her work on amphiphilic molecules and polymer-like structures has provided crucial insights into material self-organization, contributing to advancements in both academic and industrial settings. She continues to explore new methods for enhancing material properties and sustainability.

Awards

Dr. Grafskaia has been nominated for the Women Research Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to materials science. Her innovations in polymer compositions and self-assembled materials have had a significant impact on sustainable industrial applications, earning her recognition in academic and professional circles.

Publications

Grafskaia K.N., Anokhin D.V. (2023). “Self-organization of amphiphilic wedge-shaped molecules in ion-selective membranes,” Journal of Applied Polymer Science, cited by 8 articles.

Grafskaia K.N. (2022). “Optical microscopy for studying molecular recognition of synthetic tetramers,” Materials Chemistry and Physics, cited by 6 articles.

Grafskaia K.N., Ivanov M.S. (2021). “Low-toxicity polymer compositions for cable insulation,” Industrial Polymer Journal, cited by 5 articles.

Grafskaia K.N. (2020). “Experimental chamber design for in-situ investigation of polymer structures,” Advanced Materials Research, cited by 4 articles.

Grafskaia K.N. (2019). “Wedge-shaped amphiphiles in fuel cell membranes,” Energy & Environmental Science, cited by 10 articles.

Grafskaia K.N., Petrov A.D. (2018). “Mesomorphous structure simulations in ion-exchange membranes,” Journal of Molecular Liquids, cited by 7 articles.

Grafskaia K.N. (2017). “Liquid crystalline behavior of functional polymers,” Soft Matter, cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Grafskaia Kseniia Nikolaevna’s exceptional academic background, groundbreaking research, and impactful industry collaborations make her a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her contributions to polymer science and functional materials have advanced both scientific understanding and practical applications, particularly in sustainability and industrial safety. With numerous publications, patents, and industry partnerships, she has demonstrated a commitment to innovation and excellence in research. As a woman in a highly technical field, her achievements serve as an inspiration for future generations of female scientists. Recognizing her with this award would not only honor her remarkable contributions but also encourage further advancements in scientific research led by women.

Radmila Jancic Heinemann | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Radmila Jancic Heinemann | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade | Serbia

Radmila Jančić Heinemann is a distinguished professor in Material Engineering at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade. Her expertise lies in composite materials and the application of image analysis in materials science research. Professor Jančić Heinemann has been an integral part of academic and research development, focusing on the correlation between material structure, processing, and properties for various applications, particularly in functional composite materials for both structural and medical uses.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Professor Jančić Heinemann’s academic journey began at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering in 1987. She continued her studies, earning a Master’s degree in Materials Science in 1995, with a thesis on producing glass tubes using centrifugal deposition and sol-gel technology. Her academic path culminated in a Ph.D. in Materials Science in 1999, where her doctoral research focused on the production of alumina ceramic fibers using centrifugal deposition.

Experience
Since December 2015, Professor Jančić Heinemann has held the position of full professor at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy. In this role, she teaches several courses in materials science for both undergraduate and graduate students, including chemical engineering and materials science programs. Her research expertise in composite materials has led her to develop curricula that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications in functional composite materials, particularly for structural and medical purposes. She also supervises doctoral students, guiding them through advanced studies in materials science, functional materials, and image analysis applications. Her previous academic experience includes positions from teaching assistant to associate professor between 1989 and 2015, where she worked on advancing education in composite materials.

Research Interests
Professor Jančić Heinemann’s research is centered on the development of composite materials with predetermined properties tailored for specific applications. She has focused particularly on understanding the interplay between material processing, structure, and properties. Her research interests cover a broad range of composite materials, including those used for structural and medical purposes. Additionally, her work utilizes image analysis to predict material behavior under various conditions. She is dedicated to creating composites that are not only functional but also optimized for enhanced performance in diverse fields such as mechanical and biomedical engineering.

Awards
Professor Jančić Heinemann has received recognition for her significant contributions to the field of materials science. While specific awards have not been detailed in the provided information, her long and impactful career, particularly her leadership in the development of advanced composite materials, reflects her academic excellence. Her research and teaching have earned her the respect of peers and students alike. As a full professor and thesis advisor for students from Serbia and Libya, she continues to influence the field through both education and research.

Publications
Professor Jančić Heinemann has authored and co-authored numerous publications, contributing significantly to materials science research. Among her most recent publications, the following stand out:

  1. Alazreg A., Vuksanović M. M., Egelja A., Mladenović I. O., Radovanović Ž., Petrović M., Marinković A., Jančić Heinemann R. (2023). “Mechanical properties of acrylate matrix reinforced with manganese-aluminum layered double hydroxide (MnAl-LDH).” Polymer Composites, 44(8), 27597. DOI: 10.1002/pc.27597.
  2. Marinković A. D., Vuksanović M. M., Karić N., Đokić V., Popović M., Jančić Heinemann R. (2021). “The effect of natural modifiers for starch hydrophobization on performance of composite based on ethylene acrylic acid copolymer.” Polymer Composites, 42(3), 1325-1337. DOI: 10.1002/pc.25903.
  3. Vuksanović M. M., Mladenović I. O., Tomić N. Z., Petrović M., Radojević V. J., Marinković A. D., Jančić Heinemann R. (2022). “Mechanical properties of biomass-derived silica nanoparticles reinforced PMMA composite material.” Science of Sintering, 54(2), 211-221. DOI: 10.2298/SOS2202211V.
  4. Obradović V., Vuksanović M., Tomić N. Z., Petrović M., Marinković A., Stojanović D., Radojević V., Jančić Heinemann R. (2022). “Impact properties of Kolon/PVB fabrics reinforced with rice-husk silica particles.” Materials Letters, 324, 132668. DOI: 10.1016/j.matlet.2022.132668.
  5. Vuksanović M. M., Egelja A., Barudžija T., Tomić N. Z., Petrović M., Marinković A., Radojević V., Jančić Heinemann R. (2021). “Inorganically modified particles FeAl-LDH@SiO2 as reinforcement in poly(methyl) methacrylate matrix composite.” Royal Society Open Science, 8(9), 210835. DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210835.

Her research has been widely cited and continues to have a significant impact on the fields of materials science, composites, and image analysis.

Conclusion
Professor Radmila Jančić Heinemann is a highly respected academic and researcher in the field of materials engineering. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing materials science through both education and research. Her work in composite materials, particularly with a focus on functional materials for structural and medical applications, has made her a leading figure in her field. With numerous publications to her name, a wealth of academic experience, and a dedication to her students and the research community, she continues to shape the future of material engineering.

Dr. Yuly Andrea Guarín González – Materials Science – Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Yuly Andrea Guarín González - Materials Science - Best Scholar Award

Universidad del Bío-Bío - Chile

Professional Profiles

Scopus

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits

Yuly Andrea Guarín González embarked on her academic journey by pursuing a degree in chemistry, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in research and innovation. Her early academic pursuits were marked by a keen interest in theoretical chemistry, particularly focusing on the formation of functional heterocycles. This foundational phase set the stage for her subsequent exploration of chemistry and materials science, culminating in her doctoral studies in engineering of sustainable materials and processes at the Universidad del Bío-Bío.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout her professional career, Guarín González has made significant strides in various industrial sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, and agroindustrial areas. Her expertise spans both theoretical and experimental domains, with notable contributions in the research and development of biomedically relevant materials. Her professional endeavors have been characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, bridging the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications in diverse industrial settings.

Contributions and Research Focus On Materials Science

At the core of Guarín González's contributions lies her research focus on biologically based materials for the synthesis of novel biocompatible and non-toxic functional materials. Her doctoral research has been instrumental in exploring the potential of chitosan as a biomaterial for chemodrug delivery systems. Through rigorous experimentation and analysis, she has elucidated the capabilities of chitosan in enhancing the efficacy and safety of drug delivery, paving the way for innovative therapeutic solutions.

Accolades and Recognition In Materials Science

Guarín González's scholarly achievements have garnered recognition within the scientific community, as evidenced by her publications in reputable journals indexed in the Web of Science (WOS). Her groundbreaking research on chitosan-based chemodrug delivery systems has been acknowledged for its relevance and potential impact on the field of biomedicine. Additionally, her recent work on multifunctional nano-in-microencapsulated systems for lung cancer treatment has received acclaim for its promising results and implications for improving chemotherapy outcomes.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Guarín González's research extends beyond academia, with implications for advancing healthcare and industrial innovation. By developing novel materials and drug delivery platforms, she has contributed to addressing specific needs and challenges in disease treatment and industrial applications. Her work exemplifies the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving scientific progress and translating research findings into tangible solutions with real-world impact.

Legacy and Future Contributions For Materials Science

As Guarín González's career continues to evolve, her legacy is poised to inspire future generations of researchers and innovators in the fields of chemistry, materials science, and biomedical engineering. Her pioneering work in biomaterials and drug delivery serves as a foundation for ongoing efforts to improve therapeutic interventions and industrial processes. Looking ahead, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and leveraging her expertise to address pressing societal challenges, thereby shaping the future landscape of materials science and biomedicine.

Yuly Andrea Guarín González's journey from early academic pursuits to her current standing as a distinguished researcher and innovator underscores the transformative power of interdisciplinary scholarship and the profound impact of scientific inquiry on society. Through her relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to advancing knowledge and technology, she exemplifies the spirit of innovation and discovery that fuels progress in the modern era.

Notable Publications

Multifunctional nano-in-microparticles for targeted lung cancer cells: Synthesis, characterization and efficacy assessment 2024