Liang Xiao | Low-Carbon | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Liang Xiao | Low-Carbon | Research Excellence Award

Zhaoqing University | China

Assist. Prof. Dr. Liang Xiao is an Associate Professor at Zhaoqing University whose research advances the scientific understanding of soil carbon sequestration and soil fertility improvement through innovative, sustainable approaches grounded in soil science and environmental biogeochemistry. His work has contributed significantly to the development of new carbon-smart agricultural strategies, highlighted by the pioneering creation of an in-field, in situ oxy-exposure carbonization technology capable of producing biochar through a self-limited oxygen and water-quenched high-temperature pyrolysis mechanism. This breakthrough offers a practical pathway for farmers to produce low-cost biochar while enhancing soil quality and long-term carbon storage. Assist. Prof. Dr. Liang Xiao has also elucidated the sources and accumulation patterns of soil organic carbon in pond-field systems, providing new insight into carbon cycling in flooded agricultural landscapes. His research extends into plant-soil-microbe interactions, revealing the mechanistic role of microbial exopolysaccharides in mediating flood tolerance in maize seedlings, thereby bridging soil fertility management and crop resilience. His scholarly contributions span multiple high-quality journals, covering topics such as waterlogged carbon dynamics, biochar engineering, soil aggregation processes, nutrient-use efficiency, salinity mitigation, and the life-cycle environmental impacts of aquaculture systems. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and active participation in scientific societies, he promotes soil science literacy and supports evidence-based environmental stewardship. His research continues to shape emerging strategies for climate-resilient agriculture, regenerative soil management, and sustainable resource utilization.

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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 bachelorโ€™s degree at Gazi University. She then advanced to a masterโ€™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. Sรผleyman 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 DaฤŸฤฑtฤฑm A.ลž. 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: DAฤžITIM ลžEBEKESฤฐ GERฤฐLฤฐM KONFฤฐGรœRASYONUNUN KARIลžIK TAMSAYI LฤฐNEER PROGRAMLAMA ALGORฤฐTMASI ฤฐLE ENERJฤฐ MALฤฐYETฤฐ Yร–NรœNDEN ARAลžTIRILMASI
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.

Monica Alvarez Manso | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso | Energy | Best Researcher Award

University Of Leon | Spain

Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso is a dynamic researcher and professional in the field of energy and sustainability, with significant expertise in hydrogen technologies, bioenergy, and advanced energy systems. Currently pursuing her PhD at the University of Leรณn, she combines academic research with leadership in large-scale industrial and technological projects. Serving as Vice-Dean of the Official College of Technical Mining Engineers and Mining and Energy Graduates, she is actively engaged in innovation and sustainable development. Her career reflects a strong integration of scientific knowledge, engineering practice, and international project management in renewable energy and environmental protection.

Professional Profile

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Education

Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso holds a strong academic foundation that bridges technical expertise with environmental sustainability. She earned her degree as a Technical Mining Engineer from the School of Technical Mining Engineering at Leรณn, further strengthening her engineering knowledge. She completed a Masterโ€™s in Occupational Risk Prevention from UNED, which broadened her scope in industrial safety and operational management. Currently, she is a PhD candidate at the University of Leรณn, focusing her doctoral research on energy engineering and hydrogen technologies. Her academic journey combines technical mining sciences, environmental protection, and renewable energy, preparing her to lead impactful research and innovation.

Experience

Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso has an extensive professional background leading technological and infrastructure projects in renewable energy, water management, and industrial sustainability. She has directed and coordinated projects in green hydrogen and bioenergy, managing the full cycle from design to implementation of hydrogen plants and biomethane upgrading systems. Her international project portfolio includes work in Chile, Angola, Poland, and the Netherlands, addressing large-scale power plants, substations, solar systems, and sustainable water solutions. She has also implemented CO2 reduction measures for industries like Airbus. In her institutional role, she contributes leadership as Vice-Dean, shaping policies and innovation in the mining and energy sectors.

Research Interests

Her research interests span across green hydrogen technologies, bioenergy, advanced energy systems, and sustainable resource management. She focuses on electrolysis processes, hydrogen storage, and transport innovations within the Power-to-Gas framework. In bioenergy, she explores biogas production, biomethane upgrading, and digestate valorization aligned with circular economy strategies. She also investigates smart grids, energy storage systems, and industrial energy efficiency measures. Her work extends to renewable integration of solar, biogas, and hydrogen into industrial and electrical systems. Moreover, she explores climate change mitigation by developing methods for CO2 emission reduction, contributing to sustainable energy transitions and resilient infrastructure.

Awards

Throughout her career, Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso has been recognized for her contributions to technological innovation and energy sustainability. She has registered intellectual property, including the Hydrogreensim simulator for hydrogen plant water purification systems and the Virtual Art Projection invention, highlighting her capacity to bridge creativity with applied engineering. Her leadership as Vice-Dean at the Official College of Technical Mining Engineers and Mining and Energy Graduates reflects her recognition in academic and professional communities. Additionally, her involvement in high-impact European programs such as Horizon, Life, and Prima demonstrates her excellence in securing and managing competitive research projects.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Classification Framework for Hydrological Resources for Sustainable Hydrogen Production with a Predictive Algorithm for Optimization
Year: 2025

Title: Feasibility study of a combined electric power plant with a thermolysis process
Year: 2002

Conclusion

Ms. Monica Alvarez Manso is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her blend of technical innovation, leadership, and practical project expertise across hydrogen, bioenergy, and sustainable resource management makes her an outstanding researcher. With continued emphasis on academic publications and collaborative research, she is poised to become a leading figure in advancing sustainable energy and climate change mitigation at both national and international levels.

Benjamin Tawiah | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Benjamin Tawiah | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer, The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

Dr. Benjamin Tawiah is a seasoned Senior Lecturer in Textiles and Fashion at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. With over four years of university-level teaching experience and a robust background in textile innovation, he is known for integrating dynamic pedagogy and research excellence. Dr. Tawiah is passionate about mentoring the next generation of textile scholars, blending creativity and technical skills to elevate education and research in fashion technology. His career is rooted in sustainability, energy efficiency, and advanced material applications, making him a thought leader in the global textile industry. ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ‘•๐Ÿ“š

Profile

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๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Tawiah earned his Ph.D. in Textiles and Clothing Technology from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2019, focusing on eco-friendly flame retardants. He holds a Master of Engineering in Textile Engineering from Jiangnan University, China (2016), and a Bachelorโ€™s degree in Industrial Art (Fashion and Textiles) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana (2010). His academic journey also includes a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Information Systems from GIMPA, Ghana, and a Post-Secondary Teacher Certificate from SDA College of Education. ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿงช

๐Ÿ’ผ Experience

Dr. Tawiah is currently serving as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, leading innovative research in sustainable polymers and energy-efficient materials. He has held previous roles including Senior Lecturer at KNUST in Ghana, where he supervised MPhil and PhD students and taught courses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His past roles also include a Research Associate at the City University of Hong Kong, and a high school teacher under Ghana Education Service. His rich experience bridges education, research, and material innovation. ๐Ÿซ๐Ÿงต๐Ÿ”ฌ

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Interests

Dr. Tawiahโ€™s research spans sustainable textiles, flame-retardant materials, energy storage systems, and smart fiber technologies. He focuses on bio-based materials, polymer composites, and multifunctional textiles for fire safety and energy efficiency. His work also explores advanced colorants and dyeing processes, reflecting a strong commitment to ecological sustainability and smart fashion innovation. His cross-disciplinary research bridges chemistry, material science, and fashion technology. ๐Ÿงชโ™ป๏ธ๐Ÿงต

๐Ÿ… Awards

Dr. Tawiah has received multiple accolades, including the โ€œMost Cited Senior Memberโ€ award (2022โ€“2023) from the Faculty of Art at KNUST, and the โ€œSecond Runner-Up: Most Promising Seniorโ€ in the College of Art and Built Environment (2024). He was also a two-time recipient of the Jiangnan University President Scholarship for Best International Student during his Master’s program. His awards celebrate both academic excellence and research impact. ๐Ÿฅ‡๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ“˜

๐Ÿ“š Publications

“Recent Advances in Zinc Anodes for High-Performance Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries”
Authors: H. Jia, Z. Wang, B. Tawiah, Y. Wang, C.Y. Chan, B. Fei, F. Pan
Journal: Nano Energy
Year: 2020
Citations: 612
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Interface Decoration of Exfoliated MXene Ultra-Thin Nanosheets for Fire and Smoke Suppressions of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomer”
Authors: B. Yu, B. Tawiah, L.Q. Wang, A.C.Y. Yuen, Z.C. Zhang, L.L. Shen, B. Lin, B. Fei
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Year: 2019
Citations: 391
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Manufacturing, Mechanical and Flame Retardant Properties of Poly (Lactic Acid) Biocomposites Based on Calcium Magnesium Phytate and Carbon Nanotubes”
Authors: W. Yang, B. Tawiah, C. Yu, Y.F. Qian, L.L. Wang, A.C.Y. Yuen, S.E. Zhu, E.Z. Hu
Journal: Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
Year: 2018
Citations: 173
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Functionalization of MXene Nanosheets for Polystyrene Towards High Thermal Stability and Flame Retardant Properties”
Authors: J.Y. Si, B. Tawiah, W.L. Sun, B. Lin, C. Wang, A.C.Y. Yuen, B. Yu, A. Li, W. Yang
Journal: Polymers
Year: 2019
Citations: 136
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Highly Efficient Flame Retardant and Smoke Suppression Mechanism of Boron Modified Graphene Oxide/Poly (Lactic Acid) Nanocomposites”
Authors: B. Tawiah, B. Yu, R.K.K. Yuen, Y. Hu, R. Wei, J.H. Xin, B. Fei
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2019
Citations: 128
Link to article๎ˆ†

“DOPO-Decorated Two-Dimensional MXene Nanosheets for Flame-Retardant, Ultraviolet-Protective, and Reinforced Polylactide Composites”
Authors: Y. Zhou, Y. Lin, B. Tawiah, J. Sun, R.K.K. Yuen, B. Fei
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
Year: 2021
Citations: 111
Link to article๎ˆ†

“A Facile and Sustainable Approach for Simultaneously Flame Retarded, UV Protective and Reinforced Poly (Lactic Acid) Composites Using Fully Bio-Based Complexing Couples”
Authors: Y. Zhou, B. Tawiah, N. Noor, Z. Zhang, J. Sun, R.K.K. Yuen, B. Fei
Journal: Composites Part B: Engineering
Year: 2021
Citations: 107
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Advances in Flame Retardant Poly(Lactic Acid)”
Authors: B. Tawiah, B. Yu, B. Fei
Journal: Polymers
Year: 2018
Citations: 102
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Microporous Boron Based Intumescent Macrocycle Flame Retardant for Poly (Lactic Acid) with Excellent UV Protection”
Authors: B. Tawiah, Y. Zhou, R.K.K. Yuen, J. Sun, B. Fei
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2020
Citations: 83
Link to article๎ˆ†

“Advances in the Development of Antimicrobial Agents for Textiles: The Quest for Natural Products”
Authors: B. Tawiah, W. Badoe, S. Fu
Journal: Fibres & Textiles in Eastern Europe
Year: 2016
Citations: Not specified

Conclusion

Based on his robust teaching experience, substantial research contributions, mentorship abilities, and notable publications in renowned journals, Benjamin Tawiah is well-suited for the Best Researcher Award. His work continues to impact both academia and industry, and with further interdisciplinary collaborations, his influence in the field could grow even more.

 

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

๐ŸŒ 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. ๐ŸŽ“โœจ

Publication Profile

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Education

๐Ÿ“˜ 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. ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ”ฌ

Experience

๐Ÿ”ฌ 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. ๐ŸŒฑ๐Ÿ’ก

Research Interests

๐Ÿ’ก Dr. Chiyanzuโ€™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. ๐ŸŒพโšก

Awards

๐Ÿ† 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. ๐ŸŒŸ

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).