Oscar Alfredo Jaramillo Salgado | Renewable Energy | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Dr. Oscar Alfredo Jaramillo Salgado | Renewable Energy | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Researcher | National Autonomous University of Mexico | Mexico

Dr. Oscar Alfredo Jaramillo Salgado is a leading renewable energy researcher whose work has significantly advanced concentrated solar power, small and urban wind systems, applied thermodynamics, and integrated renewable-energy solutions in Mexico and globally. As a principal investigator at UNAM’s Renewable Energy Institute, he has achieved the highest national research distinctions and contributed extensively to national and international scientific collaborations, including key initiatives within the International Energy Agency. His prolific research output includes more than 130 publications across solar and wind energy, supported by strong scientific impact reflected in 2,009 citations by 1,752 documents, 58 documents indexed, and an h-index of 24, demonstrating the depth and reach of his contributions. He has authored influential books, book chapters, and multiple patents, showing a strong commitment to innovation in renewable-energy technologies, with achievements spanning experimental development and analytical modeling. His pioneering contributions include establishing specialized research groups and laboratories in wind energy and medium concentrating solar systems, strengthening Mexico’s research capacity and technological leadership in sustainable energy. He has also played a major role in academic development through extensive teaching, supervision of graduate-level research, and curriculum design, fostering highly qualified professionals in engineering and energy sciences. His areas of expertise encompass the design, optimization, and exergy-based evaluation of renewable systems, along with hybrid and integrated energy solutions aimed at enhancing efficiency, scalability, and environmental performance. Through sustained scholarly output, leadership in collaborative programs, and strategic contributions to solar and wind energy research, Dr. Oscar Alfredo Jaramillo Salgado continues to shape the advancement of renewable technologies and support the transition toward sustainable energy systems.

Featured Publications

Hee Kyung Park | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Hee Kyung Park | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Post-master’s Researcher | Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology | South Korea

Ms. Hee Kyung Park is a Master’s Degree Researcher at the Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, whose work focuses on the quantitative risk assessment and safety management of next-generation clean energy systems. Her research emphasizes decarbonized fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, exploring their combustion behavior, explosion risks, and fire dynamics through both experimental and computational methods. She has conducted extensive studies involving cone calorimetry, toxicity testing, and fire dynamics simulation to enhance safety protocols in energy infrastructure. Her recent publications in leading KCI and SCI(E) journals address crucial topics, including consequence analysis of hydrogen leakage accidents, ammonia fuel risk evaluation in combined cycle power plants, and semi-quantitative safety management frameworks using the Bow-tie method. Additionally, she has contributed to major national research projects developing hydrogen turbine combustor testing methods and retrofitting technologies for gas turbines co-firing hydrogen. Through her interdisciplinary approach integrating thermal engineering, safety systems, and computational risk analysis, Ms. Hee Kyung Park plays a key role in advancing safer, sustainable, and high-efficiency energy technologies that align with global carbon neutrality goals. Her expertise and scholarly output, reflected in 15 citations by 14 documents across 8 publications with an h-index of 3, continue to contribute significantly to the evolution of hydrogen and ammonia-based energy systems within industrial safety and environmental research domains.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Park, H. K. (2023, November). Consequence analysis on the leakage accident of hydrogen fuel in a combined cycle power plant: Based on the effect of regional environmental features. Journal of Hydrogen and New Energy.

Park, H. K. (2024, January). Experimental investigation on the measurement performance of high-speed ultrasonic wave thermometry in ambient- and high-temperature environments. Applied Thermal Engineering.

Park, H. K. (2024, April). Semi-quantitative risk assessment using Bow-tie method for the establishment of safety management system of hydrogen fuel storage facility in a combined cycle power plant. Journal of the Korean Society of Safety.

Park, H. K. (2024, April). Analysis of damage impact range according to the NG/NH3 mixing ratio when applying ammonia as fuel for a combined cycle power plant using an ALOHA program. Journal of the Korean Institute of Gas.

Park, H. K. (2024, March). Fire dynamics and evacuation simulation study on the library adapting BIPV based on the experimental data of a cone calorimeter. The Korean Institute of Fire Science & Engineering.

Leyla Akbulut | Energy | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

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. Süleyman 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 ŞEBEKESİ GERİLİM KONFİGÜRASYONUNUN KARIŞIK TAMSAYI LİNEER PROGRAMLAMA ALGORİTMASI İLE ENERJİ MALİYETİ YÖNÜNDEN 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.

Monica Alvarez Manso | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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 León, 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 León, further strengthening her engineering knowledge. She completed a Master’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 León, 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.

Oluwatayo Ojo | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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.

Maritza Chirinos Marroquín | Sustainability and environment | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín | Sustainability and environment | Best Researcher Award

MSc., Saint Paul Catholic University, Peru🌟

Dr. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín is a distinguished researcher and educator with a focus on sustainability, academic performance, and student well-being. Currently a RENACYT (Nivel VII) researcher at Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología e Innovación Tecnológica in Lima, Peru, she is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the ecological footprint, happiness, and sustainability in universities. With a profound commitment to improving student experiences, Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s work bridges the gap between academic success and environmental responsibility.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín holds the prestigious RENACYT (Nivel VII) qualification, awarded by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología e Innovación Tecnológica (CONCYTEC) in Peru, which she has held since September 2023. Her research explores sustainability in higher education, with an emphasis on enhancing the overall academic and ecological performance of students.

Experience 🧑‍🔬

With a deep commitment to academia and research, Dr. Chirinos Marroquín is currently engaged as an Investigadora RENACYT at CONCYTEC in Lima, Peru. Her academic career has seen her work on several projects aimed at improving sustainability in higher education institutions and fostering better student outcomes in academic performance and happiness.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s research interests are centered around sustainability, particularly its integration within universities. She investigates the relationships between ecological footprints, student happiness, and academic performance. Her work seeks to develop models for assessing and enhancing sustainability practices in higher education, focusing on the balance between environmental impact and student well-being.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s dedication to advancing sustainability in education has earned her recognition through the RENACYT (Nivel VII) qualification, which is a testament to her outstanding contributions to scientific research in the field of sustainability.

Publications 📚

Sustainability in Universities: The Triad of Ecological Footprint, Happiness, and Academic Performance Among Brazilian and International Students (Sustainability, 2025): 10.3390/su17030950

Characteristics of University Happiness Conditions and Academic Performance: A Case Study of a University in Arequipa, Peru (ICACIT, 2024): 10.1109/ICACIT62963.2024.10788632

A Quantitative Assessment Model for Students’ Sustainability: Evidence from a Peruvian University (International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, 2023): 10.1108/ijshe-07-2022-0234

Conclusion

Maritza Chirinos Marroquín is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to sustainability research, particularly within the realm of higher education. Her work is not only academically robust but also socially and globally relevant. By broadening her collaborative and outreach activities, she could further enhance the societal impact of her research. Overall, her dedication to advancing sustainability through education makes her an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award.

Idan Chiyanzu | Biogas production | Best Researcher Award

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. 🎓✨

Publication Profile

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Education

📘 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. 🎓🔬

Experience

🔬 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. 🌱💡

Research Interests

💡 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

🏆 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).