Rinal Prasad | Renewable Energy Management | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Rinal Prasad | Renewable Energy Management | Best Researcher Award

Teacher | University of Fiji | New Zealand

Mr. Rinal Prasad is a dedicated mathematics and physics educator with extensive experience in teaching and academic leadership across several secondary schools. Currently serving as a mathematics teacher at Thames High School, he has previously led departments in mathematics, physics, and science, demonstrating strong leadership and curriculum development skills. Mr. Rinal Prasad holds a Master’s in Renewable Energy Management and a Postgraduate qualification in Education, complementing his Bachelor of Science with a double major in mathematics and physics. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for excellence in teaching and sustainability initiatives, leading projects that earned national and regional awards, including solar energy and biogas implementations at educational institutions. He is skilled in communication, problem-solving, and educational technology, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, Mathematica, LabVIEW, and Lynx. Mr. Rinal Prasad is committed to mentoring students, fostering team collaboration, and achieving academic excellence under challenging conditions. Beyond the classroom, he engages in community service, volunteering for disaster relief efforts and fundraising initiatives, reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility. Passionate about sports, music, and socializing, he balances professional dedication with personal interests, embodying a holistic approach to education and life. His commitment to innovation, sustainability, and student success marks him as a transformative figure in education.

Profile: OrcidΒ 

Featured Publications

Prasad, R. R. (2025, September 28). Decarbonising island kitchens: Assessing the small-scale flexible balloon digester’s clean cooking potential in Fiji.

Leyla Akbulut | Energy | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

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Ms. Leyla Akbulut | Energy | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Ms. Leyla Akbulut | Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University | Turkey

Ms. Leyla Akbulut is a dedicated lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Energy at Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University. With a strong background in electrical-electronics engineering, she has contributed to both academia and industry through teaching, research, and leadership roles. Her expertise lies in renewable energy systems, electrical distribution networks, and energy efficiency optimization. She has coordinated and participated in several national projects focusing on solar energy and power systems, while also holding administrative responsibility in energy management. Her career reflects a balance of research excellence, academic service, and impactful real-world applications in energy transformation.

Professional Profile

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Education

Ms. Leyla Akbulut pursued her academic journey in electrical and electronics engineering, beginning with a bachelor’s degree at Gazi University. She then advanced to a master’s program at the same university, completing a thesis on optimization in electrical distribution networks. Her academic excellence continued with doctoral studies at Isparta University of Applied Sciences, specializing in electrical-electronics engineering. Her thesis, supervised by Dr. SΓΌleyman Sungur Tezcan, focused on optimization strategies for distribution systems, aligning with her deep interest in power systems and renewable energy integration. This strong educational foundation has shaped her into a versatile academic and researcher.

Experience

Ms. Leyla Akbulut has a diverse professional background spanning academia, industry, and project management. She began her career as an electrical site engineer and project manager before moving into roles as a GIS engineer and R&D specialist at Meram Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş. Later, she represented the company in national R&D groups and contributed to innovative projects in energy distribution. Since joining Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, she has been actively engaged as a lecturer and researcher, coordinating energy efficiency initiatives and solar power installations. Her administrative role as head of the Energy Management Unit further highlights her leadership.

Research Interests

Her research interests focus on renewable energy integration, power system optimization, and energy efficiency through advanced algorithms and modeling techniques. She has investigated distribution network analysis, solar energy systems, and the application of metaheuristic algorithms for demand-side management. Her interdisciplinary approach combines engineering design, optimization, and environmental sustainability, bridging academia and practical energy solutions. She is particularly interested in energy performance contracting as a mechanism for enhancing efficiency and sustainability in large-scale projects. By contributing to both national and international research collaborations, she continues to advance the fields of energy economics, grid optimization, and smart power systems.

Awards

Throughout her career, Ms. Leyla Akbulut has earned recognition for her innovative contributions to energy efficiency and renewable technologies. She received the Productivity-Enhancing Project Award from the Ministry of Science, Industry and Technology, which acknowledged her impactful work in optimizing energy systems. Additionally, she was honored by the European Commission in Denmark with the European Enterprise Promotion Award, highlighting her leadership in sustainable energy applications. These awards not only reflect her technical excellence but also her ability to implement projects with real-world benefits. Her accolades position her among the leading figures advancing renewable energy solutions in academia and beyond.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Economic Efficiency of Renewable Energy Investments in Photovoltaic Projects: A Regression Analysis
Cited by: 1
Year: 2025

Title: Review of Metaheuristic Algorithms for Energy Efficiency, Demand Side Management and Cost Estimation
Cited by: 1
Year: 2025

Title: Analysis of electrical distribution network voltage configuration with mixed integer linear programming algorithm and genetic algorithm in terms of energy cost
Cited by: 1
Year: 2020

Title: DAĞITIM ŞEBEKESΔ° GERΔ°LΔ°M KONFΔ°GÜRASYONUNUN KARIŞIK TAMSAYI LΔ°NEER PROGRAMLAMA ALGORΔ°TMASI Δ°LE ENERJΔ° MALΔ°YETΔ° YΓ–NÜNDEN ARAŞTIRILMASI
Cited by: 1
Year: 2019

Title: Solar-Powered Biomass Revalorization for Pet Food and Compost: A Campus-Scale Eco-Circular System Based on Energy Performance Contracting
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Overall, Ms. Leyla Akbulut is a strong candidate for the Research for Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award. Her career demonstrates a balance of academic research, industry engagement, and project leadership, with clear evidence of innovation in renewable energy systems and energy efficiency. Her awards, administrative leadership, and applied research projects highlight her impact on both scientific advancement and practical implementation. With continued growth in international collaboration and academic visibility, she has the potential to emerge as a leading figure driving innovative solutions for sustainable energy transitions.

Vladimir Zinoviev | Energy Transformation | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev | Energy Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev | University of National and World Economy | Bulgaria

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev is an Associate Professor at the University of National and World Economy (UNWE), Sofia, Bulgaria, specializing in energy economics, sustainable development, and digital energy systems. He serves as Director of the University Scientific Research Center for Energy Business and Infrastructure and leads innovative projects shaping the future of energy transitions in Southeast Europe. With a strong record of teaching, research, and consultancy, he combines academic expertise with practical industry engagement. His work focuses on renewable energy, smart grids, AI applications in power systems, and e-mobility, positioning him as a key contributor to energy innovation worldwide.

Professional Profile

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Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev holds a PhD in Economics and Management of the Energy Sector from the University of National and World Economy, Sofia. He earned a Master’s degree in International Economic Relations from the same institution, reflecting his strong academic foundation in both economics and energy studies. Additionally, he received recognition for his research on the sustainable development of Southeast Europe with a focus on energy sector transformation. His education combines economics, engineering, and international relations, giving him a multidisciplinary approach that enriches his contributions to energy research, digitalization, and policy frameworks in Bulgaria and abroad.

Experience

With extensive academic and professional experience, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev directs the University Scientific Research Center for Energy Business and Infrastructure at UNWE. He has managed national and international projects, including EU Horizon-funded research on just transitions and PV-based e-mobility development. Alongside academia, he is Managing Director of Smart Consulting Group, providing strategic energy consultancy across Europe. He has also taught and lectured at leading institutions, including Kyoto University in Japan and the Polytechnic University of Marche in Italy. His expertise spans renewable integration, energy market formation, smart grids, digital power, and large-scale policy-driven energy projects.

Research Interests

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev research interests focus on renewable energy integration, power market transformation, digital energy solutions, and e-mobility. He actively explores the role of artificial intelligence and smart grid innovations in advancing sustainable energy systems. His studies highlight the dynamics of energy markets in Eastern Europe, the potential of vehicle-to-grid technologies, and the synergies between green energy, storage, and mobility. With more than fifty scholarly works, his contributions provide insights into energy transition challenges and opportunities. His research vision integrates economic analysis, technological innovation, and sustainability to support the global shift toward clean and efficient energy systems.

Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev has received multiple awards and recognitions reflecting his academic excellence and international contributions. He was nominated for the Prize for High Scientific Achievements by the Union of Scientists in Bulgaria and honored by the Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy, for his academic collaborations. Additionally, he received recognition from the Austrian Federal Chamber of Commerce and Industry for strengthening bilateral cooperation between Austria and Bulgaria. He is also a member of the ENGAGE.EU Think Tank and has directed more than ninety successful energy projects in renewable systems, digital grids, and sustainable energy transitions.

Top Noted Publications

Title: High Penetration of Renewable Energy Sources and Power Market Formation for Countries in Energy Transition: Assessment via Price Analysis and Energy Forecasting
Year: 2023
Cited by: 20

Title: Economic Alternatives for the Transport and Energy Sector in the Crisis with Energy Supplies
Year: 2022
Cited by: 16

Title: Natural Gas and the Dynamics of the Energy Market – Eastern Europe
Year: 2024
Cited by: 12

Title: Implementation of Open-Source Solutions in the Energy Sector and in the Area of Renewable Energy
Year: 2023
Cited by: 12

Title: Open Source and Industry 4.0 Influence on the Transport and Energy Sector
Year: 2023
Cited by: 11

Conclusion

Considering his extensive academic achievements, leadership in international research projects, and impactful contributions to the fields of renewable energy, digital transformation, and sustainable energy transitions, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev is highly suitable for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His ability to merge academic rigor with applied industry solutions, alongside his role in shaping future energy policies, makes him a strong candidate. With continued focus on global research collaborations and impactful scholarly dissemination, his contributions will remain central to advancing innovative solutions in the energy sector.

Oluwatayo Ojo | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Cranfield University | United Kingdom

Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo is a researcher at Cranfield University with expertise in mechanical engineering, gas turbine engineering, and energy systems. His academic journey blends engineering fundamentals with advanced computational research, enabling him to work across thermo-fluid dynamics, compressor design, and techno-economic assessments. He has a keen interest in contributing toward global decarbonisation goals by developing innovative solutions that integrate engineering efficiency with sustainability. With experience in data analysis, model development, and multidisciplinary projects, Ojo combines theoretical and applied knowledge, positioning himself as a promising researcher committed to advancing energy efficiency, operational reliability, and sustainable engineering practices.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo has cultivated a strong academic background in engineering, complemented by advanced studies that emphasize both theoretical knowledge and applied research. His education covers mechanical engineering fundamentals, energy systems, and gas turbine technologies, equipping him with the skills required for multidisciplinary exploration. He gained expertise in thermo-fluid systems, lifecycle assessment, and compressor station optimisation. Through his academic journey, he has learned to integrate computational methods with experimental approaches, which has enhanced his ability to perform techno-economic and environmental assessments. This educational foundation has prepared him to address pressing engineering challenges while working toward sustainable energy transitions globally.

Experience

Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo has developed rich experience through academic and industrial research, focusing on computational and experimental investigations in energy systems. His expertise includes compressor station design, gas turbine optimisation, thermo-fluid analysis, and lifecycle cost modeling. He has collaborated with leading experts, including Pericles Pilidis and Uyioghosa Igie, contributing to impactful research in natural gas pipeline transportation and gas turbine performance. His experience extends to data-driven model development, programming, and scenario analysis, supporting decision-making in engineering projects. By combining technical skills with project management responsibilities, Ojo has strengthened his reputation as a dedicated researcher bridging theoretical models with real-world applications.

Research Interests

Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo research interests span mechanical and energy engineering, with a focus on gas turbines, compressor systems, and techno-economic optimization. He is passionate about lifecycle assessment, environmental risk analysis, and the integration of engineering efficiency with sustainable energy transitions. His computational work explores thermo-fluid dynamics, performance modelling, and operational reliability, particularly in the context of natural gas pipelines and turbine-driven systems. He aims to contribute to global decarbonisation by developing innovative models that guide energy planning and investment. His interest lies at the intersection of engineering performance, environmental impact, and long-term sustainability for energy infrastructures worldwide.

Awards

Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo has been recognised for his contributions to mechanical and energy research through professional memberships and academic achievements. His nomination for the Best Researcher Award highlights his impactful work on compressor station availability and techno-economic optimisation in natural gas pipeline projects. By integrating availability, reliability, and environmental considerations into economic modelling, his research provides valuable insights for risk management and sustainability. His contributions are further recognised through memberships in prestigious professional societies such as ASME, ASHRAE, Institution of Power Engineers, and the Nigerian Society of Engineers. These affiliations reflect his standing as a distinguished and innovative researcher.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Numerical study of the properties of high energy gas flow through a microturbine in 3D cascade
Year: 2014
Cited by: 2

Title: Techno-Economic Optimisation of Gas Compressor Station Location As a Decision Variable
Year: 2024
Cited by: 1

Title: Introduction of social benefits to the tera–gas turbines and pipelines
Year: 2023
Cited by: 1

Title: Impact of Compressor Station Availability on the Techno-Economics of Natural Gas Pipeline Transportation
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Based on his academic achievements, research impact, and contributions to energy engineering and sustainability, Dr. Oluwatayo Ojo is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work demonstrates a clear blend of technical innovation, computational modelling, and real-world application, making significant contributions to both engineering practice and environmental sustainability. With his strong foundation and ongoing dedication, he has the potential to advance further into a leading figure in mechanical and energy research. Recognising him with this award would not only celebrate his accomplishments but also encourage his continued pursuit of impactful, globally relevant research.

Major Mabuza | Carbon Capture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Major Mabuza | Carbon Capture | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Major Melusi Mabuza πŸ‡ΏπŸ‡¦ is a dynamic Professional Engineering Technologist (Pr Tech Eng – ECSA), academic leader, and dedicated researcher currently serving as Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering Technology at the University of Johannesburg πŸ›οΈ. He is known for his proactive mentorship, innovative thinking, and commitment to student excellence 🌟. With years of experience in academia and industry, he fosters collaboration, creativity, and technical brilliance in every sphere of his work βš™οΈπŸ“˜.

Profile

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πŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Mabuza holds a DEng in Chemical Engineering (2021), MTech in Chemical Engineering (2014), and BTech in Chemical Engineering (Cum Laude, 2010), all from Tshwane University of Technology πŸŽ“. He also earned a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering (2009) and completed matric in science (2005) πŸ§ͺ. Recently, he pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (2024) and Emerging Leadership training (2023) at the University of Johannesburg πŸ‘¨β€πŸ«.

🩺 Experience

Dr. Mabuza has held numerous academic positions, including Senior Lecturer roles at Vaal University of Technology and the University of Johannesburg, where he now leads his department πŸ§‘β€πŸ«. He also served in various industrial roles at MINTEK πŸ”¬. His journey includes impactful leadership positions, such as acting HOD, chairing ECSA committees, and serving on compliance and teaching boards across institutions πŸ› οΈπŸ“ˆ.

πŸ”¬ Research Interest

Dr. Mabuza’s research is centered on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) 🌍, materials science, and advanced materials. His work focuses on improving the performance of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for carbon dioxide sequestration and flue gas treatment πŸ§ͺ🧱. He has secured notable research grants, including Thuthuka Post-PhD funding and international engagement programs for scholarly advancement 🌐.

πŸ† Awards

He is a recipient of the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship πŸ•ŠοΈ (2012) and a Future Professors Programme Fellow (2023–2024) 🌟. His academic excellence was recognized through the NRF Innovation Scholarship, CO2CRC Summer School attendance, and multiple best presenter awards during his postgraduate journey πŸ₯‡.

πŸ“š Publications

Adsorption Equilibria… (2025) – Energies, Cited by: 2

In-depth analysis of coal… (2024) – IJOGCT, Cited by: 1

Application of voltammetry… (2024) – Electrochemistry Communications, Cited by: 0

Physicochemical Properties of MOFs… (2024) – Proceedings, Cited by: 0

Municipal Solid Waste Biogas… (2024) – Proceedings, Cited by: 0

Zinc MOF for Methane Capture… (2024) – Proceedings, Cited by: 0

Textural Structural Properties of Coals… (2023) – Carbon Capture Science & Technology, Cited by: 3

Modelling COβ‚‚ and Flue Gas Sorption… (2022) – International Journal of Coal Science & Technology, Cited by: 4

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Major Melusi Mabuza is a highly qualified and impactful researcher with a demonstrated commitment to scientific advancement, leadership in academia, and a strong publication track record. His work in carbon capture and MOFs is both timely and of high relevance to sustainability and environmental technologies. With continued growth in international engagement and innovation, he is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Idan Chiyanzu | Biogas production | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Idan Chiyanzu | Biogas production | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher, Agricultural Research Council, South Africa

🌍 Dr. Idan Chiyanzu is a seasoned researcher and academic specializing in Renewable Energy and Bioprocess Engineering. With over a decade of experience in academia and industry, he has made significant contributions to the fields of bio-energy, anaerobic digestion, and sustainable agro-industrial applications. Currently, he serves as a Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), South Africa, where he leads innovative projects focused on renewable energy and infrastructure. Dr. Chiyanzu is an accomplished author with a strong publication record, an H-index of 7, and over 446 citations on Scopus. πŸŽ“βœ¨

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Education

πŸ“˜ Dr. Chiyanzu holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (2009) from the University of Cape Town, specializing in Bioprocess Engineering and Industrial Microbiology. His groundbreaking doctoral research explored the biocatalytic applications of thermostable nitrile hydratase. He also earned an M.Sc. in Chemistry (2004) with a focus on antiparasitic protease inhibitors, and a B.Sc. in Chemistry with Education (2000) from the University of Zambia. πŸŽ“πŸ”¬

Experience

πŸ”¬ Dr. Chiyanzu has extensive experience in research and academia, having held various roles, including Postdoctoral Fellow, Assistant Lecturer, and Acting Research Team Manager. Currently, as a Senior Researcher at ARC, he supervises teams working on renewable energy and agroprocessing technologies. His career spans institutions such as the University of Cape Town, North-West University, and Stellenbosch University, where he taught bioprocess engineering and mentored emerging scientists. πŸŒ±πŸ’‘

Research Interests

πŸ’‘ Dr. Chiyanzu’s research focuses on renewable energy technologies, biogas production, and bioenergy process optimization. He is passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture through energy efficiency and innovative biotechnological solutions. His interests also include metabolic pathway reconstruction in microbial systems for bioethanol and bioethylene production. 🌾⚑

Awards

πŸ† Dr. Chiyanzu has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the NRF Scarce-Skills Grant for postdoctoral research at North-West University and the NRF Indigenous Knowledge System Grant for his work at the Agricultural Research Council. These accolades highlight his contributions to renewable energy and bioprocess engineering. 🌟

Publications

Sihlangu E, Luseba D, Regnier T, Magama P, Chiyanzu I, Nephawe KA (2024). “Investigating Methane, Carbon Dioxide, Ammonia, and Hydrogen Sulphide Content in Agricultural Waste during Biogas Production.” Sustainability, 16(12):5145. DOI: 10.3390/su16125145.

Magama P, Chiyanzu I, Mulopo J (2022). “A systematic review of sustainable fruit and vegetable waste recycling alternatives and possibilities for anaerobic biorefinery.” Bioresource Technology Reports, Volume 18, 101031. DOI: 10.1016/j.biteb.2022.101031.

Magama P, Chiyanzu I, Mulopo J (2022). “A parametric experimental validation of a biorefinery concept based on anaerobic digestion of fruit and vegetable waste.” Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining, 16(4): 972-985. DOI: 10.1002/bbb.2324.

Manyako KE, Chiyanzu I, Mulopo J, Abdulsalam J (2022). “Pilot-Scale Evaluation of Concentrating Solar Thermal Technology for Essential Oil Extraction and Comparison with Conventional Heating Sources for Use in Agro-Based Industrial Applications.” ACS Omega, 7(24): 20477-20485. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c02485.

Chiyanzu I (2021). “The reconstruction of metabolic pathways in selected bacterial and yeast strains for the production of bio-ethylene from crude gly.” (Incomplete citation).