Sher Afghan Khan | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan | Energy | Best Researcher Award 

Professor at IIUM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, particularly known for his contributions to gas dynamics and high-speed aerodynamics. He has dedicated over four decades to teaching and research, making significant advancements in the understanding of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics. Currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at a prominent university in Malaysia, he has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape and inspiring future generations of engineers.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Khan holds an impressive academic background, having completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) in 2001. His doctoral thesis, titled “Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows,” addressed complex challenges in gas dynamics and set the stage for his subsequent research endeavors. Prior to his Ph.D., he obtained a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering (Aerodynamics) from IITK in 1984, and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc. (Engg.)) from Aligarh Muslim University in 1982. This strong educational foundation has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of mechanical and aerospace principles.

Experience

Dr. Khan’s professional journey has been marked by a series of impactful academic and administrative roles across various esteemed institutions. He has served as a Professor and Dean of Research at Bearys Institute of Technology in India, Principal at Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology, and has held numerous key positions at Aligarh Muslim University. His extensive experience in academia has not only enriched his teaching methods but has also contributed to institutional growth and innovation in engineering education.

Research Interests

Dr. Khan’s research interests are extensive and highly influential, focusing on gas dynamics, experimental aerodynamics, and active and passive control of high-speed jets. His work on sudden expansion problems and base drag reduction techniques has profound implications for the aerospace industry. Dr. Khan actively supervises both Ph.D. and Master’s students, promoting research excellence and the development of innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.

Awards

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Khan has garnered numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to science and engineering. He has been recognized as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide in his field by Stanford University for several consecutive years (2020-2023), based on comprehensive data analysis from Elsevier Data Repository. Additionally, Dr. Khan is a life member of several professional organizations, including the Indian Society of Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Power and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (India), further showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Publications

Dr. Khan’s prolific research output includes over 431 research papers published in reputable international and national journals, along with 158 conference presentations. His notable publications include:

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2002). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows from Over Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 19(1-2), 119-126. Cited by: 50

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2003). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 20(2), 63-81. Cited by: 45

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2004). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 21(4), 233-253. Cited by: 30

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Active Control of Base Pressure in Supersonic Regime. Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 87, 1-8. Cited by: 25

Khan, S. A., & Baig, M. A. A. (2011). Control of Base Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 28(1), 59-69. Cited by: 20

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2005). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles – Part II. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 22(3), 163-183. Cited by: 18

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Nozzle Expansion Level Effect on a Suddenly Expanded Flow. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 23(4), 233-258. Cited by: 22

Khan, S. A., & Crasta, A. (2010). Oscillating Supersonic Delta Wing with Curved Leading Edges. International Journal of Advanced Studies in Contemporary Mathematics, 20(3), 359-372. Cited by: 15

Khan, S. A., Baig, M. A. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2012). Active Control of Base Pressure in Suddenly Expanded Flow for Area Ratio 4.84. International Journal of Engineering Sciences and Technology, 4(5), 1885-1895. Cited by: 14

Rehman, S., & Khan, S. A. (2008). Control of Base Pressure with Micro Jets Part-I. International Journal of Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, 80(2), 158-164. Cited by: 17

Conclusion:

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan’s extensive contributions to gas dynamics, aerodynamics, and related fields, along with his strong publication record, make him a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on interdisciplinary research and expanded global collaborations, his future work has the potential to break new ground in aerospace engineering. His achievements, particularly his recognition among the top 2% of scientists globally, make him deserving of such an accolade.

 

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

Posted on by Academic achievements

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.

Gengxin Zhang  – Sustainable Energy Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Gengxin Zhang  - Sustainable Energy Engineering - Best Researcher Award

University of Birmingham - United Kingdom

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Gengxin ZHANG's academic journey commenced with a strong foundation in Mechanical Engineering. His dedication to the field led him to pursue a Bachelor's degree at Henan University of Science and Technology in China. The rigor of his undergraduate studies laid the groundwork for his subsequent academic endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Following his Bachelor's degree, Dr. ZHANG ventured into the realm of industry, gaining practical insights and experience. Notably, he served as a Technical Consultant in the Powertrain Design Department at Sijiate Special Vehicle Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Here, he was responsible for the design and troubleshooting of hydraulic circuits, showcasing his versatility in addressing real-world engineering challenges. His journey continued at AVIC Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd., where he held the position of Design Engineer in the New Energy Vehicle Division. In this role, he contributed to the design of quick-charging connectors and battery powertrain connectors, demonstrating a commitment to advancements in green and sustainable technologies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. ZHANG's passion for research and academic pursuits led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Hiroshima University in Japan. Under the guidance of Prof. Keiya NISHIDA, his research focused on three key areas:

  1. Optical Diagnostics for Spray and Combustion: Dr. ZHANG specialized in the development of optical diagnostic techniques for analyzing spray and combustion processes. His work aimed to enhance combustion efficiency and control emissions through advanced optical methodologies.
  2. Clean Combustion and Pollutant Emission Control: His research delved into pioneering clean combustion technologies, with a primary focus on mitigating pollutant emissions. Dr. ZHANG's contributions in this area align with global efforts towards environmentally conscious and sustainable energy solutions.
  3. CFD Modeling and Simulation: Dr. ZHANG's expertise extended to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), where he utilized advanced modeling and simulation techniques. This proficiency allowed him to optimize mechanical systems, contributing to the efficiency and performance of various applications.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Gengxin ZHANG's exceptional contributions to the field of Mechanical Engineering have garnered recognition. His journey has been marked by accolades such as the opportunity to join the University of Birmingham as a Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering, a testament to his academic prowess and research acumen.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. ZHANG's work extends beyond academic realms. His research in optical diagnostics, clean combustion, and CFD modeling has far-reaching implications for the field and industries at large. By addressing critical issues in energy efficiency and emissions control, Dr. ZHANG's influence resonates with the broader goals of creating sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Gengxin ZHANG continues his journey at the University of Birmingham, his legacy is taking shape. His past experiences in both academia and industry reflect a holistic approach to research and development. Driven by a passion for innovation, he is poised to leave a lasting imprint on the realms of combustion engineering and advanced diagnostics. His commitment to advancing mechanical engineering's frontiers positions him as a key contributor to the field's ongoing evolution and progress.

Future Endeavors

Looking ahead, Dr. ZHANG's future endeavors hold the promise of continued excellence. His multifaceted background, blending academic rigor with real-world industry experience, positions him to address the complex challenges facing mechanical engineering. Whether through cutting-edge research, impactful publications, or collaborative initiatives, Dr. ZHANG's trajectory suggests a future marked by sustained contributions and advancements in his chosen field.

Notable Publications

Effect of wall-impingement distance on fuel adhesion characteristics of split injection spray under cross-flow condition 2024

Similarity and normalization study of fuel spray and combustion under ultra-high injection pressure and micro-hole diameter conditions–spray characteristics 2024

The effect of split injection on fuel adhesion characteristics under static flow and cross-flow field conditions 2023