Arunachalasivamani Ponnusamy – Food Science Award – Best Researcher Award

Arunachalasivamani Ponnusamy - Food Science Award - Best Researcher Award

Prince Of Songkla University - Thailand

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Arunachalasivamani Ponnusamy's academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in Fisheries Science, laying the foundation for his expertise in seafood science. He furthered his education with a master's degree in Fish Processing Technology, honing his skills in food technology and processing. His pursuit of knowledge led him to embark on a Doctorate in Food Science and Technology at Prince of Songkla University in Thailand, where he demonstrated his capacity as a quick learner with exceptional technical skills and a keen interest in scientific learning and problem-solving.

Professional Endeavors

Currently affiliated with the International Center of Excellence in Seafood Science and Innovation at Prince of Songkla University, Arunachalasivamani Ponnusamy is engaged in cutting-edge research in the field of food science. His research endeavors focus on exploring innovative uses of agro-wastes and seafood wastes to develop carbon dots with diverse applications. Additionally, he is involved in the development of multifunctional films for active and intelligent food packaging, integrating materials such as chitosan-gelatin nanofibers, carbon dots, and anthocyanins from Clitoria ternatea. Furthermore, his work extends to the formation of functional nanofibrous electrospun blisters containing EGCG for packaging shrimp oil capsules, showcasing his interdisciplinary approach and dedication to advancing food packaging technology.

Contributions and Research Focus On Food Science Award

Ponnusamy's research focuses on harnessing natural resources to develop sustainable and innovative solutions in food science and technology. By utilizing agro-wastes and seafood wastes to produce carbon dots and incorporating them into various food packaging materials, he addresses critical issues such as food safety, preservation, and sustainability. His work not only explores the properties and applications of novel materials but also considers their potential toxicity and antimicrobial properties, ensuring their suitability for food-related applications.

Accolades and Recognition In Food Science Award

While specific accolades and recognition are not mentioned, Ponnusamy's involvement in cutting-edge research at an internationally recognized institution like Prince of Songkla University signifies his standing in the scientific community. His research contributions in the field of seafood science and food technology likely garner recognition from peers and colleagues, underscoring his dedication and expertise in his field. Celebrating Arunachalasivamani Ponnusamy's groundbreaking achievements with the prestigious Food Science Award, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the field's advancement and innovation.

Impact and Influence

Ponnusamy's research has the potential to make a significant impact on the food industry by introducing sustainable and innovative solutions for food packaging and preservation. By developing materials from agro-wastes and seafood wastes, he not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to enhancing food safety and shelf-life. His work may influence industry practices and regulations, promoting the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials and sustainable production processes.

Legacy and Future Contributions For Food Science Award

As Ponnusamy continues his research endeavors, his legacy in the field of food science and technology is expected to grow. His innovative approaches to utilizing natural resources and developing sustainable packaging materials have the potential to revolutionize the food industry. Furthermore, his interdisciplinary research bridges the gap between food science, materials science, and environmental sustainability, paving the way for future advancements in food packaging technology. Through his dedication to scientific inquiry and problem-solving, Ponnusamy is poised to leave a lasting impact on the field and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food system.

Notable Publications

Chitosan silver nanoparticle inspired seaweed (Gracilaria crassa) biodegradable films for seafood packaging  2021

Bilayer Polylactic Acid and Chitosan/Gelatin Film Containing Epigallocatechin Gallate Prepared through Solvent Casting and Electrospinning: Properties, Bioactivities and Release Kinetics

Ultrasound treated fish myofibrillar protein: Physicochemical properties and its stabilizing effect on shrimp oil-in-water emulsion 2023

Dr. Alaka Samal – catalysis Award – Best Researcher

Dr. Alaka Samal - catalysis Award - Best Researcher Award

Utkal University - India

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Alaka Samal embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, securing an 8th rank in B.Sc. Chemistry from Sambalpur University. This early success laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in the field. She furthered her education by obtaining an M.Sc. in Chemistry from the National Institute of Technology, a prestigious institution that sharpened her research and analytical skills. These formative years were crucial in developing her keen interest in chemical sciences, specifically in the realm of nanomaterials and their applications.

Professional Endeavors

Upon completing her master's, Dr. Samal transitioned into academia as an Assistant Professor at the Templecity Institute of Technology and Engineering. This role not only allowed her to impart knowledge but also to engage in scholarly activities, honing her research capabilities. Her academic career took a significant leap forward with her pursuit of a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences from the Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, India, specializing in graphene-based nanomaterials. Her doctoral research concentrated on the synthesis of metal phosphate-based graphene composites, aiming at applications like dye degradation and hydrogen generation.

Contributions and Research Focus On catalysis Award

Dr. Samal's professional journey is marked by her extensive research in heterogeneous catalysis and photocatalytic applications. She has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, focusing on wastewater treatment and hydrogen generation from waste plastics through photoreforming. Her expertise in designing catalysts and developing solar reactors for industrial applications showcases her commitment to leveraging chemical sciences for ecological benefits. Dr. Samal's proficiency in various analytical instruments has further augmented her research output, enabling comprehensive studies and groundbreaking findings in her field.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Samal's research excellence has been recognized and celebrated through several accolades. She was awarded the prestigious UGC-Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellowship, acknowledging her potential and contributions to chemical science research. Additionally, she secured a CSIR-Senior Research Fellowship, highlighting her capabilities and promise as a researcher. Her prowess was also showcased when she won a Metrohm Poster Presentation competition, further evidencing her skill in effectively communicating complex research findings.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Samal's work extends beyond academia into practical environmental solutions, particularly in addressing challenges related to water pollution and renewable energy. By focusing on the synthesis of nanomaterials for environmental applications, she has contributed significantly to the field of sustainable technology. Her research on photocatalytic applications for dye degradation and hydrogen generation presents viable solutions to pressing environmental issues, setting a benchmark for future studies in the domain.

Legacy and Future Contributions For catalysis Award

Dr. Samal's legacy in the field of chemical sciences, especially within the context of environmental sustainability, is characterized by her innovative approach to using nanotechnology for ecological benefits. As she continues her research at Utkal University, her focus on hydrogen generation from waste plastics through photoreforming is poised to make substantial contributions to renewable energy sources. Her multidisciplinary background and ongoing endeavors not only underscore her commitment to addressing environmental challenges but also predict a lasting impact on advancing sustainable solutions.

Dr. Alaka Samal represents a dynamic force in the realm of chemical sciences, with her early academic pursuits setting the stage for a distinguished career filled with professional achievements, impactful research, and a dedication to environmental sustainability. Her work not only earns her accolades and recognition but also leaves a legacy of innovation and influence that will inspire future contributions to the field.

Notable Publications

Dr. Bo Zhang – atom catalysis – Best Scholar Award

Dr. Bo Zhang - atom catalysis - Best Scholar Award

Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences - China

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Bo Zhang's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Applied Chemistry from Shenyang Normal University, China, in 2007. He continued his studies with a Master's degree in Analytical Catalysis from Liaoning University, China, and pursued a Ph.D. in Molecular Catalysis from the Technical University of Munich, completing it in 2013. Zhang's early academic pursuits laid the foundation for his future research in catalysis and biomass conversion.

Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Zhang joined the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he progressed from a Postdoctoral Researcher to Assistant Professor and later to Associate Professor. Throughout his career at DICP, Zhang has demonstrated his expertise in heterogeneous catalysis and biomass conversion, contributing significantly to the field through his research endeavors.

Atom catalysis involves utilizing individual atoms or clusters as catalysts to drive chemical reactions with high precision and efficiency. By harnessing the unique properties of specific atoms, atom catalysis enables the development of highly selective and sustainable catalytic processes. This approach offers significant advantages in terms of reaction control, atom economy, and resource utilization, leading to the synthesis of valuable chemicals and fuels with minimal waste generation

Contributions and Research Focus On atom catalysis 

Bo Zhang's research primarily focuses on the catalytic conversion of biomass, depolymerization of lignin, and heterogeneous catalysis. His work aims to develop efficient and sustainable catalytic processes for the conversion of biomass into valuable chemicals and fuels, addressing the pressing need for renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources. Zhang's innovative approaches have led to advancements in catalyst design and biomass valorization techniques.

Atom catalysis plays a crucial role in various fields, including organic synthesis, environmental remediation, and energy conversion, offering promising avenues for advancing green and sustainable chemistry practices.

Accolades and Recognition

Zhang's contributions to catalysis and biomass conversion have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the Dalian Young Talents and Dalian Techstar awards in China in 2019. Additionally, his research publications have garnered significant attention, with a total of 40 scientific publications and 1531 citations as of January 2024. Zhang's impact in the field is further underscored by his h-index of 19, as listed by the Web of Science.

Impact and Influence

Bo Zhang's research has had a profound impact on the field of catalysis and biomass conversion, contributing to the development of sustainable energy solutions and environmentally friendly processes. His work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but has also provided practical solutions to global challenges related to energy and environmental sustainability. Zhang's influence extends beyond academia, as his research findings have the potential to drive innovation and shape future technologies.

Legacy and Future Contributions On atom catalysis

As Bo Zhang continues his academic and research endeavors, his legacy lies in his commitment to advancing catalysis and biomass conversion technologies. Through his innovative research approaches and collaborative efforts, Zhang aims to further enhance the efficiency and sustainability of biomass conversion processes, ultimately contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly energy landscape. His future contributions are poised to inspire further advancements in the field and pave the way for a greener future.

Notable Publications