Xingwang Bian | Scientific Breakthroughs | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Mr. Xingwang Bian | Scientific Breakthroughs | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Xingwang Bian | Beijing Vacuum Electronics Research Institute | China

Xingwang Bian is a senior-level researcher at the Beijing Vacuum Electronics Research Institute, working in the domain of vacuum electronics and high-frequency device engineering. He specializes in the research, design, and experimental development of traveling-wave tubes (TWTs) operating at millimeter-wave and terahertz (THz) frequencies — especially in the G-band. His work leverages advanced slow-wave structure designs, electron-beam systems, and optimized focusing/magnetics, aiming to push the power, bandwidth, and efficiency envelope for THz vacuum-electronic amplifiers.  Among his important contributions: he co-authored demonstration of a broadband continuous-wave G-band TWT providing multi-GHz bandwidth and tens of watts of output power — a promising step toward practical THz wireless communications and radar systems.  Bian has also been centrally involved in the development of pulsed G-band TWTs for radar applications, combining innovations in slow-wave structure (modified folded waveguide), high-current electron beams, and phase-velocity tapering to reach high output power levels (on the order of 100 W+ in pulsed operation) in a compact, vacuum-electronic device.  Through these efforts, Bian has helped advance what is arguably one of the leading THz-band vacuum-electronic technology pipelines from BVERI, contributing to both academic publications and applied-device development.  In sum: Bian is a specialized vacuum-electronics engineer/scientist whose expertise lies at the intersection of electromagnetic design, electron-beam physics, and high-frequency amplifier fabrication — with a clear emphasis on making high-power, wide-band, THz-band TWTs viable for radar, sensing, and communication applications.

Publication Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications 

Bian, X., Pan, P., Du, X., Feng, Y., Li, Y., Song, B., & Feng, J. (2025). Design and experiment of modified folded waveguide slow wave structure for 60-W G-band traveling wave tube. IEEE Microwave and Wireless Technology Letters.

Bian, X., Pan, P., Xian, S., Yang, D., Zhang, L., Cai, J., & Feng, J. (2025). A G-band pulsed wave traveling wave tube for THz radar. Preprints.

Zhu, M., Cai, Y., Zhang, L., Zhang, J., Hua, B., Ma, K., Ding, J., Bian, X., et al. (2025). Surpassing kilometer-scale terahertz wireless communication beyond 300 GHz enabled by hybrid photonic–electronic synergy. Research Square.

Bian, X., Pan, P., Du, X., Song, B., Zhang, L., Cai, J., & Feng, J. (2024). Demonstration of a high-efficiency and wide-band 30-W G-band continuous wave traveling wave tube. IEEE Electron Device Letters.

Feng, Y., Bian, X., Song, B., Li, Y., Pan, P., & Feng, J. (2022). A G-band broadband continuous wave traveling wave tube for wireless communications. Micromachines

Urszula Zielenkiewicz | Industry Collaboration | Outstanding Contribution Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Urszula Zielenkiewicz | Industry Collaboration | Outstanding Contribution Award

Dr. Urszula Zielenkiewicz | Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics PAS | Poland

Dr. Urszula Zielenkiewicz is an accomplished biologist and biochemist at the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics of the Polish Academy of Sciences, where she serves as an adjunct researcher and long-standing member of the scientific community. She holds a D.Sc. (Habilitation, 2015) in Biology from the University of Warsaw, a Ph.D. in Biochemistry (2001) from the same Institute, and an M.Sc. in Biology with a specialization in microbiology from the University of Warsaw (1980). Her early academic experience includes advanced training at the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Spain. Dr. Zielenkiewicz’s research career spans over three decades, beginning as a biologist in 1993 and evolving through roles as a research assistant and later adjunct scientist. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of bacterial toxin–antitoxin systems, mobile genetic elements, and microbial biodiversity. Since 2007, she has led the research group “Microorganisms Potentially Useful in Bioremediation,” conducting influential projects in metagenomics, environmental microbiology, and microbial communities inhabiting metal-polluted soils, agricultural ecosystems, hydrogen-producing bioreactors, and methanogenic sludge. She has authored 41 original research articles, three review papers, and two book chapters, achieving a cumulative impact factor exceeding 123 and over 1,000 citations, with an h-index of 17. Her publications span high-impact journals such as Journal of Evolutionary Biology, Scientific Reports, Genome Biology and Evolution, Frontiers in Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Her scholarly contributions also include pioneering insights into apoptosis evolution, soil microbial ecology, extremophilic biofilms, and protein–protein interaction inhibitors relevant to SARS-CoV-2. Widely recognized for her interdisciplinary expertise bridging molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and environmental biotechnology, Dr. Zielenkiewicz continues to shape contemporary understanding of microbial adaptation, metabolic diversity, and biotechnological applications of microorganisms.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Wolińska, A., Kuźniar, A., Zielenkiewicz, U., Izak, D., & Szafranek-Nakonieczna, A. (2017). Bacteroidetes as a sensitive biological indicator of agricultural soil usage revealed by a culture-independent approach. Applied Soil Ecology, 119, 128–137.

Sikora, A., Błaszczyk, M., Jurkowski, M., & Zielenkiewicz, U. (2013). Lactic acid bacteria in hydrogen-producing consortia: On purpose or by coincidence? In Lactic acid bacteria – R & D for food, health and livestock purposes (pp. 488–514).

Zielenkiewicz, U., & Cegłowski, P. (2001). Mechanisms of plasmid stable maintenance with special focus on plasmid addiction systems. Acta Biochimica Polonica, 48(4), 1003–1023.

Tomczyk-Żak, K., & Zielenkiewicz, U. (2016). Microbial diversity in caves. Geomicrobiology Journal, 33(1), 20–38.

Zielenkiewicz, U., & Cegłowski, P. (2005). The toxin–antitoxin system of the streptococcal plasmid pSM19035. Journal of Bacteriology, 187(17), 6094–6105.

Chojnacka, A., Szczęsny, P., Błaszczyk, M. K., Zielenkiewicz, U., Detman, A., & others. (2015). Noteworthy facts about a methane-producing microbial community processing acidic effluent from sugar beet molasses fermentation. PLoS ONE, 10(5), e0128008.

Rawdah Whba | Energy Sustainability | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Rawdah Whba | Energy Sustainability | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Rawdah Whba | Taiz University & Inonu University | Yemen

Dr. Rawdah Abduh Ghaleb Whba is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Taiz University, Yemen, and currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at İnönü University, Malatya, Türkiye. She specializes in energy storage and conversion, with a strong research focus on polymer electrolytes, electrode materials, and advanced electrochemical systems including solid-state lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and supercapacitors. Dr. Whba completed two bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry from Taiz University with first-class honours, earning two Presidential Awards of Yemen for academic excellence (2006, 2008). She received an English and computer diploma from NODS (2007) and joined Taiz University as a lecturer in 2009. She obtained her MSc (2017) and PhD (2022) in Chemistry from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) under prestigious scholarships from the Yemeni Government and the Islamic Development Bank. She later served as a research assistant at UKM before receiving the Türkiye Scholarships Postdoctoral Award (2023–2024), completing a fellowship at Istanbul Medeniyet University. Currently, Dr. Whba works on Na-ion full-cell development, specializing in high-performance cathode materials, pre-sodiation strategies, interfacial engineering, operando analysis, and DFT-supported materials optimization. Her broader expertise includes polymer synthesis, grafted polymers, thin-film membrane fabrication, organic/inorganic materials synthesis, electrochemical characterization, kinetic studies, and materials evaluation for next-generation rechargeable batteries. Dr. Whba has authored numerous Q1 and Q2 Web of Science journals, including publications in Journal of Power Sources, Electrochimica Acta, Ionics, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Langmuir, Advanced Sustainable Systems, Energy Technology, and International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. She has also published impactful review articles and collaborative works involving operando XAS, DFT studies, and biomass-derived electrode materials. She is an active scientific reviewer, contributing to Springer, Elsevier, ACS, Ionics, Carbon Letters, and multiple high-impact journals, reviewing more than 30 manuscripts, book chapters, and conference submissions. Dr. Whba has also provided academic service at Taiz University as Secretariat of the Department and Examination Committee Member and has represented academic staff in the University Syndicate since 2014. A dedicated educator, she has taught a wide range of undergraduate chemistry courses—General, Inorganic, Organic, Analytical, Physical, Biochemistry, and Pharmaceutical Analysis—at Taiz University and other institutions in Yemen. Dr. Whba is a member of several professional bodies including the American Chemical Society (ACS), the International Society of Electrochemistry (ISE), the Polymer Ionic Group (Malaysia), and the Taiz University Staff Syndicate. Her research continues to make significant contributions in polymer chemistry, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy materials, with ongoing work advancing the performance, stability, and scalability of sodium- and lithium-ion energy storage technologies.

Profile: Orcid | Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Dogan, E., Maiga, A., Whba, R., Harfouche, M., Ozturk, Z. R., Farhan, A., Altin, E., Duygulu, Ö., Ipek, S., Kartal, R., et al. (2026). Influence of iron doping on α-NaMnO₂ lattice symmetry: Insight from operando X-ray absorption, ex-situ structural analysis, and electrochemical performance using chestnut shell-derived hard carbon. Journal of Power Sources. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.238602

Ateş, M. N., Zengin, F., Whba, R., Tunaboylu, B., Aydemir, U., Peighambardoust, N. S., Karslıoğlu, N. G., Malkoç, H. C., Demiryürek, R., Güleryüz, Ö., et al. (2025). Mechanistic insights into cathode-driven capacity degradation of NMC111/graphite pouch cells under long-term cycling. Electrochimica Acta. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.electacta.2025.147611

Whba, R., Altın, S., Serin, S., Whba, F., Nakir, M. Y., & Sahinbay, S. (2025). Synergistic behavior of epoxidized natural rubber grafted di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate-based solid polymer electrolytes: Experimental and density functional theory (DFT) study. Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jiec.2025.11.038

Whba, R., Sahinbay, S., Whba, F., Nakir, M. Y., & Altin, S. (2025). Unlocking the potential of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR)-based polymer electrolytes: Key strategies, bibliometric insights, and future directions. Langmuir. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.5c00631

Dogan, E., Whba, R., Altin, E., Moeez, I., Chung, K. Y., Stoyanova, R., Koleva, V., Aktas, A., Altin, S., & Sahinbay, S. (2025). Optimized performance of Na₀.₆₇Mn₀.₅Fe₀.₅O₂@TiO₂ and presodiated hard carbon (Pre-SHC) full-cells using direct contact method. Journal of Power Sources. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.236327

Whba, R., Su’ait, M. S., Whba, F., & Ahmad, A. (2024). Research progress on polyacrylonitrile-based polymer electrolytes for electrochemical devices: Insight into electrochemical performance. Journal of Power Sources. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2024.234539

Wenjing Tang | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Wenjing Tang | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wenjing Tang | Huazhong University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Wenjing Tang is a distinguished researcher at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, specializing in the immunopathogenic mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and translational biomarker research. Her work focuses on understanding the role of immune regulation in cardiac disorders, particularly through experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) modeling and the evaluation of cardiac function. She possesses advanced expertise in B cell function regulation, AAV-mediated gene interference, Western Blot, flow cytometry, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection. Dr. Tang has made significant contributions to the field through the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Her research on GDF15 demonstrated its protective role in EAM by suppressing B cell function via modulation of autophagy and ROS, providing promising avenues for intervention in cardiovascular disease. She has published multiple first-author papers in high-impact SCI journals, reflecting her strong scientific rigor and innovation. Throughout her career, Dr. Tang has been involved in several research projects and holds multiple patents, demonstrating her commitment to translating scientific discoveries into practical applications. She has contributed to editorial work and collaborated with professional organizations, further enhancing the reach and impact of her research. Her areas of focus include immunology, cardiovascular pathophysiology, and biomarker development, highlighting a consistent record of advancing knowledge and clinical translation in her field. Dr. Tang’s work exemplifies a combination of technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and translational relevance. Her research has not only advanced understanding of immune-mediated cardiovascular mechanisms but has also provided potential strategies for novel therapeutic interventions. Through her dedication, innovative approach, and consistent contributions, Dr. Tang stands out as a leading researcher whose work continues to influence both the academic and clinical landscape.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Author(s). (2025). Fluorinated solvent coupled anions-derived hybrid interphase enabled highly reversible and cryogenic silicon anode. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. https://doi.org/

Farzaneh Barati | Biotechnology Awards | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Farzaneh Barati | Biotechnology Awards | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Farzaneh Barati | Alzahra University | Iran

Dr. Farzaneh Barati is a dedicated researcher in Microbial Biotechnology at Alzahra University, Tehran, where she is affiliated with the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences. She earned her PhD in Microbial Biotechnology after completing her BSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology–Biotechnology and MSc in Microbial Biotechnology, achieving top rankings and being admitted through a gifted-talent program. Her expertise spans microbial cloning, enzyme immobilization, green synthesis of nanoparticles, and the integration of bioinformatics into experimental design. She is also proficient in the design of experiments (DOE) and employs a broad range of bioinformatics and genetics software in her research. Dr. Barati has successfully completed several significant research projects, including cloning the phbC gene in Ralstonia eutropha to enhance polyhydroxybutyrate production, immobilization of microbial collagenase on metal nanoparticles using bioinformatic and experimental approaches, and isolation and molecular characterization of a native microbial species from soil contaminated with slaughterhouse waste, with GenBank accession documentation. Her work has resulted in multiple publications in internationally recognized journals indexed in Scopus and ISI, contributing to her scholarly impact. Her research is characterized by a focus on innovative biotechnological applications, combining molecular biology, enzyme engineering, and nanobiotechnology to address environmental and industrial challenges. Dr. Barati actively presents her findings at conferences and collaborates with fellow researchers, fostering knowledge exchange and advancing the field of microbial biotechnology. She is a full member of the Iranian Society of Microbial Science and Technology and maintains active academic profiles on Google Scholar and ResearchGate, reflecting her commitment to transparency and scholarly communication. Dr. Barati’s contributions highlight her dedication to advancing microbial biotechnology through innovative research, impactful publications, and practical applications, making her a distinguished candidate for the Research Excellence Award.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Barati, F., Hosseini, F., Vafaee, R., Sabouri, Z., Ghadam, P., Arab, S. S., Shadfar, N., & Piroozmand, F. (2024). In silico approaches to investigate enzyme immobilization: A comprehensive systematic review. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics. https://doi.org/10.1039/d3cp03989g

Majidi Ghahfarokhi, S., Hosseini, F., Ghadam, P., & Barati, F. (2024). Isolation and characterization of a collagenase-producing bacterium from the soil contaminated with slaughterhouse waste. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcab.2024.103407

Barati, F., Hosseini, F., Ghadam, P., & Arab, S. S. (2024). Optimizing CuO nanoparticle synthesis via walnut green husk extract utilizing response surface methodology. Journal of Molecular Structure. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2024.139077

Barati, F., Asgarani, E., Gharavi, S., & Soudi, M. R. (2021). Considerable increase in Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) production via phbC gene overexpression in Ralstonia eutropha PTCC 1615. BioImpacts. https://doi.org/10.34172/BI.2021.07

Barati, F., Hosseini, F., Habibi Moghadam, F., & Abbasi Dezfouli, S. (2021). Face mask as a tool to prevent the coronavirus disease 2019: The importance and challenges. International Journal of Health and Life Sciences. https://doi.org/10.5812/ijhls.109729

Barati, M., Javanmardi, F., Mousavi Jazayeri, S. M. H., Jabbari, M., Rahmani, J., Barati, F., Nickho, H., Davoodi, S. H., Roshanravan, N., & Mousavi Khaneghah, A. (2020). Techniques, perspectives, and challenges of bioactive peptide generation: A comprehensive systematic review. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.12578

María | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. María | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. María | University of Granada | Spain

María Vila Duplá is a multidisciplinary marine and aquatic scientist with expertise spanning microbial ecology, environmental monitoring, and ecosystem dynamics. Her academic foundation combines biology, marine science, and science communication, complemented by advanced training in imaging tools, bioinformatics, meta-omics, and plastic pollution assessment. This diverse educational background supports her integrated approach to studying aquatic ecosystems under global change. She has contributed to a range of research projects investigating phytoplankton dynamics, microbial consortia, ecosystem resilience, and the impacts of climate change and plastic pollution on freshwater and marine systems. Her work leverages experimental, observational, and computational methods, including field campaigns, mesocosm experiments, contaminant exposure assays, multivariate statistics, and predictive modeling. She is proficient in a wide array of laboratory techniques, from bacterial and algal culturing to flow cytometry, polymer analysis, and molecular biology workflows. In addition to research, María has extensive teaching experience at the undergraduate level in ecology, systems ecology, and environmental science, mentoring students through theses, capstone projects, and hands-on field and laboratory training. She also serves as a peer reviewer for high-impact journals and contributes as a journal specialist, highlighting her commitment to scientific rigor and dissemination. Her scientific contributions include high-quality publications in top-tier journals on topics such as microbial responses to environmental stressors, algal microbiome dynamics, and ecotoxicological effects of contaminants. She has actively presented her research at international conferences, showcasing her ability to communicate complex ecological processes to diverse audiences. María combines field expertise, laboratory proficiency, and computational skills with a strong commitment to mentorship, community engagement, and science communication. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, she integrates interdisciplinary knowledge to address pressing environmental challenges and advance understanding of aquatic ecosystem resilience, making her a dynamic researcher, educator, and advocate for sustainable aquatic management.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Vila Duplá, M., González-Olalla, J. M., Villar-Argaiz, M., Medina-Sánchez, J. M., & Carrillo, P. (2025). Fluctuating high temperature hinders long-term phytoplankton acclimation to Saharan dust. Journal of Environmental Sciences. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jes.2025.11.051

Cabrerizo, M. J., González-Olalla, J. M., Medina-Sánchez, J. M., Vila Duplá, M., & Carrillo, P. (2025). Warming fluctuations strengthen the photo-phagotrophic coupling in mixoplanktonic protists. Microbial Ecology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00248-025-02658-2

Vila Duplá, M. (2021). Dynamics of a macrophyte-driven coastal ecotone: Underlying factors and ecological implications. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 259, 107481. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecss.2021.107481

Chnar Aziz | Nanotechnology Innovations | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Chnar Aziz | Nanotechnology Innovations | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Chnar Aziz | Sulaimani Polytechnic University | Iraq

Dr. Chnar Hussein Aziz is a dedicated lecturer in the Communication Department at the Technical College of Engineering, Sulaimani Polytechnic University. With a multidisciplinary background in physics, nanoscience, and English language and literature, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and communication skills to academia. His research primarily focuses on nanoferrite particles, including their synthesis, characterization, and applications, as well as electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding nanocomposite materials, water pollution treatment, renewable energy, supercapacitors, antennas, and metamaterials. Dr. Aziz has authored multiple high-impact publications in international journals, addressing topics such as dysprosium-doped cobalt ferrites, Mg-substituted nanoferrites, and the influence of metamaterials on microstrip patch antennas. He has contributed significantly to advancing knowledge in nanomaterials and electromagnetic applications, reflecting a commitment to both fundamental research and practical innovations. Beyond research, he has extensive teaching experience in physics, electronics, electromagnetics, antennas, and web publishing, guiding students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He also actively participates in training programs and workshops, covering computational physics, molecular dynamics simulations, nanostructure modeling, advanced analytical instrumentation, and pedagogical methods. Dr. Aziz is engaged in academic leadership and service, having held departmental leadership positions and contributing as a reviewer for international journals. His involvement extends to professional organizations, where he plays an active role in promoting materials science and nanotechnology through membership in national and regional scientific associations. He combines his academic and research pursuits with community engagement, participating in initiatives ranging from community-based rehabilitation programs to agricultural monitoring projects. Proficient in English, Arabic, and Kurdish, and skilled in computational tools and analytical software, Dr. Aziz exemplifies a scholar committed to advancing science, technology, and education while fostering meaningful societal impact.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Aziz, C., & Azhdar, B. (2022). Synthesis of dysprosium doped cobalt ferrites nanoparticles by sol-gel auto-combustion method and influence of grinding techniques on structural, morphological, and magnetic properties. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, 542, 168577.

Aziz, C. H. (2016). Electromagnetic effect of rectangular spiral metamaterial on microstrip patch antenna performance. Journal of Modeling and Simulation of Antennas and Propagation, 2(1), 13–21.

Aziz, C. H., Abdul, N. A., Ali, R. A., Salih, A. M., Rasul, H. I., Raheem, S. M., & Yaqub, K. Q. (2025). From farm to fallout: Agriculture’s role in America’s environmental crisis. Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research, 25(6), 16–29.

Narayankar, C. U., Aziz, C. H., Koheil, H., Patil, R. H., Patil, S. B., Hosseini-Bandegharaei, A., Keshta, B. E., Ayyar, M., Patil, R. P., Gnanasekaran, L., Mohanavel, V., Santhamoorthy, M., & Santhoshkumar, S. (2025). Impact of Mg²⁺ ions substitution on structural, morphological and electrical impedance study of magnetic Ni₀.₆₋ₓMgₓCo₀.₄Fe₂O₄ (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) nanoferrites. Journal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism, 38(5), 208.

Aziz, C. (2025). Effects of grinding technique and Dy³⁺ doping on optical and impedance properties of cobalt ferrites synthesized by the sol-gel auto-combustion method. Ceramic International. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2025.11.305

Yun Liu | Material Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Ms. Yun Liu | Material Science | Research Excellence Award 

Ms. Yun Liu | Beihua University | China

Yun Liu is a materials researcher affiliated with Beihua University, specializing in wood protection, wood anatomy, and weather-resistant material modification. With a strong academic foundation supported by a Master’s degree in Materials and Chemical Engineering, Yun Liu has developed expertise in material characterization, performance testing, and advanced analytical techniques used to evaluate structural, chemical, and aesthetic changes in lignocellulosic materials. A key contribution of Yun Liu’s work is the innovative investigation into the dynamic weathering behavior of heat-treated wood. This research integrates continuous monitoring of visual and structural degradation with in-depth chemical analysis, offering a holistic framework for understanding the durability of modified wood materials. By correlating changes in color, gloss, and surface properties with transformations in lignin, extractives, and microstructural features, the study provides essential insights into how heat treatment influences early-stage weathering. Importantly, the findings reveal that heat treatment adjusts the degradation pathways of lignin, contributing to enhanced color stability rather than merely slowing chemical deterioration. This mechanistic understanding supports the development of targeted modification strategies for improving the long-term service life and aesthetic performance of outdoor wood products. Yun Liu has published as first author in the journal Polymers, where the study on dynamic weathering of heat-treated Chinese fir highlights the scientific and practical relevance of this research. This work establishes a foundation for future advancements in sustainable wood protection technologies and environmentally conscious material engineering. Committed to academic integrity and professional growth, Yun Liu maintains active research links through recognized scholarly platforms and contributes to the broader scientific community through collaboration and knowledge dissemination. With a focus on innovation, material durability, and eco-friendly wood modification, Yun Liu aims to advance high-impact research aligned with the standards of the Research Excellence Award category.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Liu, Y., Gao, C., Wang, Q., Hadili, B., Miao, Y., Cui, X., & Matsumura, J. (2025). Dynamic weathering behavior of heat-treated Chinese fir: Surface properties, chemical composition, and microstructure. Polymers, 17(23), 3143. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17233143

Rim Hachana | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Prof. Rim Hachana | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award 

Prof. Rim Hachana | ESDES Business School – Lyon Catholic University | France

Dr. Rim Hachana is an accomplished Associate Professor of Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and International Business at ESDES Lyon Business School, Catholic University of Lyon (France), and a Full Professor at the Mediterranean School of Business (Tunisia). With more than two decades of academic and research experience, she has held progressive roles across leading universities in France and Tunisia, including Paris Dauphine University, Tunis Business School, and Manouba University. Her scholarly expertise spans corporate governance, entrepreneurship, responsible management, innovation, emotional competencies, and AI–human interaction in management. She has built a robust interdisciplinary research trajectory, publishing extensively in internationally recognized journals classified by ABS, CNRS, FNEGE, and contributing thought-leadership pieces for outlets such as The Conversation.Dr. Hachana has supervised numerous PhD dissertations (including several international cotutelle programs), producing award-winning doctoral research on organizational resilience, territorial governance, entrepreneurial competencies, and emotional intelligence in management. A committed educator and academic leader, she teaches a diverse portfolio of courses including Strategic Management, Corporate Governance, Responsible Management, Research Methodology, International Management, and Entrepreneurship & Innovation. She has also directed major research laboratories (RIGUEUR) and led multiple scientific initiatives and research programs. Her academic journey includes a Doctorate in Management from Paris Dauphine University, multiple international qualifications, and dual recognitions of HDR (Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches) in both France and Tunisia. Across her career, Dr. Rim Hachana has established herself as an influential voice in strategic management, innovation, ethics, and socially responsible governance, consistently bridging research, education, and societal impact.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Hachana, R. (2025). Shadows and lights: Disabled workers’ use of digital technologies in the workplace. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-06-2024-0246

Hachana, R., Najar, T., & Ivanaj, S. (2025). Exploring the effect of institutional trust on the relationship between environmental consciousness and household recycling behavior. Environmental Management. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00267-024-02090-1

Hachana, R., & Gilormini, P. (2024). An alternative understanding of social entrepreneurs in terms of resonance and vulnerability: Based on Hartmut Rosa’s philosophy and sociology. Philosophy of Management. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40926-024-00247-w

Ben Zammel, I., & Hachana, R. (2023). Rethinking training transfer: A practice theory perspective. The Learning Organization. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-11-2021-0130

Hachana, R., Gharbi, S., & Chichti, F. (2021). De l’éthique du care et du travail émotionnel : Quelle réalité dans les EHPAD français installés en Tunisie ? Management & Avenir Santé, 7, 77–97. https://doi.org/10.3917/mavs.007.0077

Shivam Tripathi | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shivam Tripathi | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shivam Tripathi | Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur | India

Dr. Shivam Tripathi is a materials engineering researcher and faculty member specializing in atomistic simulations, machine learning–driven materials discovery, and the design of next-generation functional materials. With training from globally recognized institutions in materials science and computational engineering, he integrates advanced molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and data-driven modeling to address challenges in catalysis, shape memory alloys, energy storage, electronic materials, and space-relevant systems. His academic foundation combines rigorous theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on experience in computational methods, including large-scale molecular dynamics, enhanced sampling, and ab-initio simulations. During his postdoctoral research, he worked on dynamic mechanisms of ammonia synthesis on iron surfaces under operando conditions, unveiling fundamental insights into nitrogen adsorption, dissociation, and poisoning pathways using machine-learning-accelerated simulation frameworks. His doctoral research provided breakthroughs in understanding nanoscale precipitate effects on martensitic transformations, enabling guidelines for designing low-fatigue, ultra-fine-grain shape memory alloys and uncovering mechanisms governing superelasticity and phase transformation behavior. Dr. Tripathi’s research portfolio extends to designing tunable transformations in lightweight alloys, modeling environment-dependent atomic-level properties in complex-concentrated alloys, and unraveling phonon transport mechanisms in nanoscale copper hybrids for nanoelectronics. He has contributed to multiple high-impact publications across catalysis, materials physics, and computational materials science, and his work has been recognized through awards, research honors, and competitive travel grants. His technical expertise includes Python, C, VASP, LAMMPS, PLUMED, Quantum Espresso, TensorFlow, and advanced materials characterization methods. Beyond research, he has contributed significantly to academic service and outreach through leadership roles, mentoring, teaching computational and experimental materials science courses, and developing open-access scientific software tools used by the broader materials community. His contributions reflect a commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and advancing computational materials engineering.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Perego, S., Bonati, L., Tripathi, S., & Parrinello, M. (2024). How dynamics changes ammonia cracking on iron surfaces. ACS Catalysis, 14(19), 14652–14664.

Tripathi, S., Bonati, L., Perego, S., & Parrinello, M. (2024). How poisoning is avoided in a step of relevance to the Haber–Bosch catalysis. ACS Catalysis, 14, 4944–4950.

Tripathi, S., Vishnu, K. G., Titus, M. S., & Strachan, A. (2020). Tunability of martensitic transformation in Mg–Sc shape memory alloys: A DFT study. Acta Materialia, 189, 1–9.

Tripathi, S., Verma, V., Brown, T. W., & Kulkarni, K. N. (2017). Effect of small amount of manganese on the interdiffusivities in Fe–Al alloys. Journal of Phase Equilibria and Diffusion, 38(2), 135–142.

Tripathi, S., Vishnu, K. G., Titus, M. S., & Strachan, A. (2022). Uncovering the role of nanoscale precipitates on martensitic transformation and superelasticity. Acta Materialia, 229, 117790.

Farnell, M. S., McClure, Z. D., Tripathi, S., & Strachan, A. (2022). Modeling environment-dependent atomic-level properties in complex-concentrated alloys. The Journal of Chemical Physics, 156(11).