Mahesh Kumar Sah | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah | Material Science | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah | Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology | India

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah is a dedicated mechanical engineering professional with robust expertise in nano-finishing, surface engineering, composite materials, coating technology, image analysis, and design of experiments. With a Ph.D. from SRM Institute of Science and Technology, he brings a strong blend of academic, research, and industrial-oriented experience. His technical proficiency spans AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MATLAB, Origin, Minitab, and MS Office, enabling him to execute high-precision research and engineering tasks effectively. Dr. Sah has over six years of academic experience as an Assistant Professor at Siddartha Institute of Science and Technology, AP, where he handled a wide range of subjects including Engineering Mechanics, CAD/CAM, Robotics, Thermal Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, and Metrology. He also supervised laboratories, coordinated academic programs, and managed responsibilities related to seminars, projects, NBA/NAAC documentation, and student administration. Currently, he serves as a Project Associate-II at NIT Jalandhar, contributing to advanced mechanical engineering research. His research contributions include multiple SCI-indexed publications in reputable journals such as Materials and Manufacturing Processes, Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly, and Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance. His work primarily focuses on CNC abrasive finishing, reflective polishing, nano-finishing processes, and optical characterization of materials. He has also authored book chapters and reviewed research manuscripts for leading journals. Dr. Sah is the co-inventor of a filed patent titled “A System for Mirror-Like Reflective Surface Finishing on Metallic Cylindrical Workpiece” and has presented his research at several national and international conferences. He has completed NPTEL and FDP courses in surface engineering, machine learning, sustainability, nanotechnology, and entrepreneurship. Recognized with the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Research Award, Dr. Sah is a motivated researcher and educator committed to advancing mechanical engineering, fostering innovation, and contributing meaningfully to academia and industry.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). Nanofinishing of aluminum sheet using CNC fixed abrasive lapping. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11665-025-10886-3

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). A novel CNC abrasive finishing process of aluminium pipe for industrial applications. Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1080/00084433.2025.2582355

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). Experimental study of the surface finishing of CNC magnetic abrasive finishing based on ANN. Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1080/00084433.2024.2415726

Sah, M. K., & Vijaya, A. (2024). Optimizing highly reflective CNC abrasive polishing on aluminum sheets. Materials and Manufacturing Processes. https://doi.org/10.1080/10426914.2024.2304867

Sah, M. K., & Vijaya, A. (2023). Experimental studies on reflective finishing of aluminum sheet by CNC abrasive lapping. Materials and Manufacturing Processes. https://doi.org/10.1080/10426914.2023.2244034

Shohei Katsuya | Research Excellence | Excellence in Research

Mr. Shohei Katsuya | Research Excellence | Excellence in Research

Mr. Shohei Katsuya | Advanced Technology Laboratories, OSAKA GAS Co., Ltd. | Japan

Shohei Katsuya is a dedicated Researcher at the Advanced Technology Laboratories of OSAKA GAS Co., Ltd., where he specializes in cutting-edge metabolic and nutritional research. He holds a Master of Agriculture degree from Kyoto University, completed in March 2021, and has since been actively involved in advanced investigations centered on the physiological functions and health impacts of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Since joining Osaka Gas in April 2021, Katsuya has contributed significantly to a series of clinical and biochemical studies exploring the therapeutic potential of BHB, a key ketone body known for its roles in metabolism, energy utilization, and physiological regulation. His research focuses on understanding the metabolic pathways and physiological effects of BHB in humans, with applications ranging from obesity reduction to improved sleep quality and metabolic health. He has authored five peer-reviewed publications between 2023 and 2025 in reputable journals including Obesities, Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, and Nutrition. These works include randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of D-BHB on body fat reduction, sleep quality enhancement, and its safety profile in humans and animal models. Additionally, he contributed to a collaborative study demonstrating BHB’s protective effects on diabetic renal and muscular pathologies.Katsuya’s publications have collectively received 18 citations and earned an h-index of 2 according to Scopus, reflecting the emerging impact of his work within the nutritional and biochemical sciences. His ongoing projects continue to deepen scientific understanding of BHB as a functional metabolite with potential applications in health optimization, disease prevention, and metabolic regulation. Through his work, Shohei Katsuya is advancing evidence-based insights that contribute to both academic knowledge and practical applications in human health research.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Kawamura, J., Goto, T., Takara, T., & Tsubota, J. (2025). Effect of D-β-hydroxybutyric acid on body fat in Japanese adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Obesities, 5(4), 82. https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities5040082

Aisyah, R., Katsuya, S., Miyata, K., Chen, Z., Horii, M., Kudo, A., Kumrungsee, T., Tsubota, J., & Yanaka, N. (2025). β-Hydroxybutyrate attenuates diabetic renal and muscular pathologies in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. Nutrition, Article 112792. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2025.112792

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Kawamura, Y., Kawamura, J., & Tsubota, J. (2025). Effect of d-β-hydroxybutyrate on sleep quality in healthy participants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 89(5), 769–775. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbaf017

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Sugimoto, M., Nishimura, T., & Tsubota, J. (2024). Determination of the safety of Halomonas sp. KM-1-derived d-β-hydroxybutyric acid and its fermentation-derived impurities in mice and Japanese adults. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 88(9), 1073–1080. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbae088

Ip, C.-H., Higuchi, H., Wu, C.-Y., Okuda, T., Katsuya, S., Ogawa, J., & Ando, A. (2024). Production of docosahexaenoic acid by a novel isolated Aurantiochytrium sp. 6-2 using fermented defatted soybean as a nitrogen source for sustainable fish feed development. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 88(5), 872–881. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbae035

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Goto, T., & Tsubota, J. (2023). Daily intake of D-β-hydroxybutyric acid (D-BHB) reduces body fat in Japanese adult participants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 69(2), 121–128. https://doi.org/10.3177/jnsv.69.121

Antonella Frassanito | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Antonella Frassanito | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Antonella Frassanito | Sapienza University of Rome | Italy 

Dr. Antonella Frassanito is an accomplished Italian pediatrician and pediatric pulmonologist with extensive clinical, academic, and research experience spanning nearly two decades. Born in Cosenza, she earned her Medical Degree with honors from Sapienza University of Rome, followed by specialization in Pediatrics, summa cum laude) and advanced master’s degrees in Pediatric Pneumology and Healthcare Management. She also holds certifications in pediatric emergency, life support, pediatric ultrasound, and European pediatric life support. Dr. Frassanito has built a robust clinical career across major Italian healthcare institutions, including Umberto I General Hospital, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, and San Camillo de Lellis Hospital. she has served as a Medical Manager at the Pediatric Emergency and Short Observation Unit of the Maternal-Infant and Urologic Sciences Department in Rome. She has been a practicing pediatrician in nursery settings and actively substitutes for pediatricians. In academia, she has taught in the Pediatric Emergency Master’s Program and the Nursing Science Course at Sapienza University. Her research focuses on bronchiolitis, respiratory infections, bronchoscopy, pertussis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and pediatric respiratory function. She has contributed to numerous national and international studies, including multicenter projects funded by SIMRI and Sapienza University. Dr. Frassanito is a member of the Italian Society of Pediatrics, SIMRI, and the European Respiratory Society. She serves on editorial boards and is a peer reviewer for international journals. She has presented extensively at major conferences, chaired sessions at ERS congresses, and delivered invited lectures on bronchiolitis, pneumonia, respiratory microbiota, and pediatric emergency topics. Her work has earned multiple SIMRI awards and scholarships recognizing excellence in pediatric respiratory research. Through her clinical leadership, scientific contributions, and educational roles, Dr. Frassanito continues to play a significant role in advancing pediatric respiratory medicine in Italy and beyond.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Congenital Tracheal Stenosis: Two Case Reports and Literature Review Matera, L., Nenna, R., Frassanito, A., Conti, M. G., Petrarca, L., Mancino, E., Di Mattia, G., La Regina, D. P., Iovine, E., Virgili, F., Spatuzzo, M., & Midulla, F. (2024). Congenital tracheal stenosis: Two case reports and literature review. Current RespiratoryMedicineReviews,20(4),351354.
https://doi.org/10.2174/011573398X282374240227040922

A Single Center Observational Study on Clinical Manifestations and Associated Factors of Pediatric Long COVID Mancino, E., Nenna, R., Matera, L., La Regina, D. P., Petrarca, L., Iovine, E., Di Mattia, G., Frassanito, A., Conti, M. G., Bonci, E., Spatuzzo, M., Ialongo, S., Zicari, A. M., Spalice, A., & Midulla, F., on behalf of the Long Covid Research Group. (2023). A single center observational study on clinical manifestations and associated factors of pediatric Long COVID. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(18), 6799. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186799

An Italian Multicenter Study on the Epidemiology of Respiratory Syncytial Virus During SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in Hospitalized Children Nenna, R., Matera, L., Licari, A., Manti, S., Di Bella, G., Pierangeli, A., Palamara, A. T., Nosetti, L., Leonardi, S., Marseglia, G. L., & Midulla, F., for the ICHRIS Group. (2022). An Italian multicenter study on the epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in hospitalized children. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 10, 930281. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2022.930281

Nathir | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Nathir | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Nathir | Jordan University of Science & Technology | Jordan

Prof. Nathir Ahmad Faisal Al-Rawashdeh (نذير احمد فيصل الرواشده) is an accomplished Professor of Physical Chemistry whose career spans more than three decades across leading institutions in the UAE, Jordan, and the United States. He currently serves as the Director of the Center for Excellence in Education & Learning and Acting Director of the Admissions and Registration Department at the University of Al Dhaid, UAE. Known for his interdisciplinary approach and strong commitment to educational innovation, Prof. Al-Rawashdeh integrates research excellence with institutional leadership to advance academic quality and scientific progress. Prof. Al-Rawashdeh’s research portfolio reflects a deep engagement with applied chemistry, particularly in areas that intersect with national priorities such as environmental sustainability, nanotechnology, materials science, energy, and water treatment. His work in self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), corrosion inhibition, graphene-based nanomaterials, photocatalysis, ruthenium complexes for solar energy conversion, and supramolecular inclusion complexes has made significant contributions to the fields of surface science, environmental chemistry, and molecular spectroscopy. His collaborative projects on eco-friendly wastewater treatment technologies further demonstrate his capacity to translate scientific theory into impactful real-world solutions. Throughout his career, Prof. Al-Rawashdeh has maintained a strong presence in international academia. His doctoral work at Georgetown University (USA) under Prof. Colby A. Foss, Jr. laid the foundation for advanced research on electromagnetic enhancement in surface-enhanced infrared spectroscopy, a theme that continues to influence his scientific trajectory. His Fulbright Fellowship at the University of Cincinnati further broadened his global research exposure and strengthened his international collaborations. With over 120 scientific publications, numerous high-impact journal papers, and continuous contributions across multidisciplinary domains, he is recognized as a leading researcher in physical and applied chemistry. In addition to his research accomplishments, Prof. Al-Rawashdeh has held several senior academic and administrative roles, including Dean of Academic Operations across multiple campuses of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), Dean of Academic Support Services, Head of Chemistry Departments, Vice Dean, and multiple student affairs leadership positions. His leadership has been instrumental in curriculum enhancement, accreditation processes, quality assurance, academic operations management, and strategic program development. His ability to handle complex academic responsibilities demonstrates strong organizational, managerial, and visionary capabilities.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Al Bawab, A., Afaneh, R., Abu-Dalo, M. A., Odeh, F., Al Kuisi, M., & Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F. (2025). Lime and nano-limestone composite-based pretreatment and adsorption strategies for olive mill wastewater treatment: Toward efficient and sustainable solutions. Journal of Composites Science, Published 2025-11-09. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9110618

Saleh, A. M., Albiss, B. A., Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F., & Alsharaeh, E. H. (2024). An ammonia gas sensor based on reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite hydrogels. ChemistrySelect, Published 2024-06-18. https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202401500

Azzam, W., Subaihi, A., Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F., & Al-Nawaiseh, A. (2024). Imaging of terphenyldithiol molecules in highly orientated and ordered aromatic dithiol SAMs on Au(111). The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, Published 2024-03-07. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.4c00102

Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F., Allabadi, O., & Aljarrah, M. T. (2020). Photocatalytic activity of graphene oxide/zinc oxide nanocomposites with embedded metal nanoparticles for the degradation of organic dyes. ACS Omega, Published 2020-11-03. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.0c03608

Abu-Dalo, M., Jaradat, A., Albiss, B. A., & Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F. (2019). Green synthesis of TiO₂ nanoparticles/pristine pomegranate peel extract nanocomposite and its antimicrobial activity for water disinfection. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, Published 2019-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2019.103370

Abu-Dalo, M. A., Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F., Al-Mheidat, I. R., & Nassory, N. S. (2016). Preparation and evaluation of new uranyl imprinted polymer electrode sensor for uranyl ion based on uranyl–carboxybenzotriazole complex in PVC matrix membrane. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, Published 2016-05. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.snb.2015.12.076

Longfei Yue | AI Advancements | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Longfei Yue | AI Advancements | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Longfei Yue | NUE | China

Longfei Yue is an influential researcher in the fields of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), reinforcement learning, multi-agent systems, and intelligent autonomous control. His work focuses on advancing next-generation autonomous flight technologies, with major contributions to cooperative decision-making, swarm intelligence, guidance laws, and mission-planning strategies for aerial and aerospace systems. He has produced an extensive body of work, reflected through a strong publication record and impactful citation metrics. His research outputs include dozens of journal articles and conference papers, spanning high-quality platforms such as international aeronautical and aerospace journals, IEEE publications, machine learning proceedings, and multidisciplinary scientific journals. His citation 300, H-index 11, and 286 publication data highlight the growing influence and visibility of his contributions in the global research community. Yue’s research emphasizes cutting-edge reinforcement learning approaches such as hierarchical learning, multi-agent reinforcement learning, soft actor-critic frameworks, and constrained learning techniques. These methods are applied to challenging aerospace scenarios including exoatmospheric evasion, missile guidance, cooperative multi-target tracking, aerial confrontation strategies, dual-UAV reconnaissance, and intelligent route planning for UAV swarms. His studies integrate autonomy, control theory, optimization, and machine learning to develop efficient, safe, and robust decision-making mechanisms for complex flight environments. His work also extends to the development of unsupervised learning techniques for grouping aerial swarms and dynamic policy learning for combat maneuvering. Many of his publications have received substantial citations, demonstrating wide academic and practical relevance. Beyond UAVs, Yue has collaborated on interdisciplinary studies in applied sciences, psychology, medical engineering, and data-driven modeling, further broadening his research impact. Overall, Longfei Yue’s research significantly advances autonomous aerial systems, cooperative robotics, and intelligent control engineering. His contributions play a pivotal role in shaping the future of UAV autonomy, multi-agent intelligence, and high-level aerospace decision-making technologies.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Collaborative energy-saving path planning of unmanned surface vehicle cluster based on multi-head attention mechanism and multi-agent deep reinforcement learning. (2025). Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence.

 CAP planning method based on elliptic fitting of optimal detection routes. (2025). Beijing Hangkong Hangtian Daxue Xuebao (Journal of Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics).

Exoatmospheric evasion guidance law with total energy limit via constrained reinforcement learning. (2024). International Journal of Aeronautical and Space Sciences.

Fahad Sabei | Nanotechnology Innovations | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fahad Sabei | Nanotechnology Innovations | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fahad Sabei | Jazan universe | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Fahad Y. Sabei is a distinguished academic and researcher serving as an Associate Professor at the College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. With advanced training in pharmaceutical sciences from renowned institutions in the United States and Saudi Arabia, he has built a strong interdisciplinary background spanning molecular biology, drug formulation, and nanotechnology-focused cancer therapeutics. Dr. Sabei’s expertise centers on the design and development of polymeric nanoparticles for both imaging and targeted treatment applications. His work integrates cutting-edge molecular techniques with innovative drug-delivery systems, contributing to advancements in cancer diagnosis and therapy. He is proficient in a wide spectrum of laboratory and research methodologies, including PCR, qPCR, RNA extraction, cell culture, and animal cancer models, complemented by experience with imaging tools such as ultrasound, photoacoustic systems, and Pearl imaging platforms. His technical capabilities are supported by strong data analysis and visualization skills using software such as GraphPad Prism and ChemBioDraw. At Jazan University, Dr. Sabei plays a key role in academic development, student mentoring, and research supervision. He has been an active contributor to institutional committees, including academic affairs, performance indicators, quality initiatives, community service, SPLE committee activities, and ward committee responsibilities. His leadership extends beyond teaching, encompassing student support, program enhancement, and strengthening research culture within the college. Dr. Sabei has participated in prominent scientific conferences and professional forums across the Middle East and the United States, presenting research in pharmaceutical sciences, nanomedicine, and drug-delivery innovations. His work has also been supported by multiple stages of institutional research funding, reflecting the significance and impact of his contributions. With a commitment to scientific innovation, health advancement, and community engagement, Dr. Fahad Y. Sabei continues to influence the future of pharmaceutical sciences and contribute meaningfully to the progression of medical research in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Bakkari, M. A., Ghoal, G., Sabei, F. Y., Safhi, A. Y., & Moni, S. S. (2025). Exploring Interleukin-6 inhibitor antibodies in combatting SARS-CoV-2 and its mutated variants: Challenges and future directions. Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics. https://doi.org/10.1177/0976500X251316939

Fatima, I., Safhi, A. Y., Alsalhi, A., Hanbashi, A., Jali, A., Alsabei, H. M., Alshabrmi, F. M., & Sabei, F. Y. (2025). Identification and validation of key covalent inhibitors targeting lung cancer proteins through integrated in silico analysis. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152973

Madkhali, O. A., Moni, S. S., Almoshari, Y., Sabei, F. Y., & Safhi, A. Y. (2025). Dual role of CXCL10 in cancer progression: Implications for immunotherapy and targeted treatment. Cancer Biology & Therapy. https://doi.org/10.1080/15384047.2025.2538962

Akhtar, S., Shafeeq, S., Siddique, A. B., Sabei, F. Y., Safhi, A. Y., Ullah, S., Abbas, A., Hanbashi, A., Alshahi, H., Jali, A. M., et al. (2025). Facile synthesis of bimetallic Ag-Fe core–shell nanoparticles for the selective and efficient dehydrogenation of formic acid. Journal of Power Sources. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.236919

Zoghebi, K., Sabei, F. Y., & Safhi, A. Y. (2024). Exploring the anti-cancer properties of Carissa carandas as a multi-targeted approach against breast cancer. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics. https://doi.org/10.1080/07391102.2024.2437548

Shakir, R., Hanif, S., Salawi, A., Arshad, R., Sarfraz, R. M., Irfan, M., Raza, S. A., Barkat, K., Sabei, F. Y., Almoshari, Y., et al. (2024). Correction: Shakir et al. Exorbitant drug loading of metformin and sitagliptin in mucoadhesive buccal tablet: In vitro and in vivo characterization in healthy volunteers (2022). Pharmaceuticals. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050556

Shreedhar Sahoo | Emerging Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Shreedhar Sahoo | Emerging Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Shreedhar Sahoo | Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur | India

Shreedhar Sahoo is a Prime Minister’s Research Fellow (PMRF) and Ph.D. candidate in Mechanical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, specializing in rail–wheel interaction, traction, and slip dynamics. His doctoral research focuses on the investigation of traction and slip at the rail–wheel contact using wheel tread temperature monitoring, contributing to improved safety, efficiency, and predictive maintenance in railway systems. He holds a Dual Degree (B.Tech + M.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur with an excellent CGPA of 9.26/10. His academic foundation spans advanced mechanical engineering, railway vehicle dynamics, finite element methods, vibration analysis, thermodynamics, and applied mathematics. His M.Tech project involved the active control of functionally graded shells using piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composites, while his B.Tech project explored personality trait prediction from Twitter data using SVM, achieving an accuracy of 80.1%. Shreedhar has completed two technical internships at Transenigma, Kolkata, where he worked on automation in motion graphics and 3D human-prototype modeling using Adobe and Autodesk Maya platforms. He has also obtained OCA Java certification with a 91% score and participated in specialized workshops, including SIMPACK training on railway vehicle dynamics. His research work has led to publications in reputed journals such as the Journal of Rail and Rapid Transit and Tribology International. He has presented at major conferences, including the 4th International Conference on Friction-based Processes, where he won the 2nd prize for oral presentation in 2025. He is also a co-inventor of a provisional patent on room-temperature deposition of nanoparticle-based coatings. Alongside technical expertise, he has served as a student coordinator for courses on text analytics and modeling tools. Overall, Shreedhar Sahoo’s academic excellence, research contributions, and interdisciplinary skills highlight his strong potential as a researcher and innovation-driven engineer in rail transport and tribology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Sahoo, S., Kushan, D. S., Ronith, G. S. P. J., & Racherla, V. (2026). Nano-scale friction modifier coatings: Application methodology, friction characteristics, and surrogate models. Tribology International, Article 111429. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.triboint.2025.111429

Lian-Wang Guo | Innovation Impact | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lian-Wang Guo | Innovation Impact | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lian-Wang Guo | University of Virginia | United States

The Guo Lab at the University of Virginia investigates the fundamental and translational biology of vascular wall remodeling and retinal degeneration, with a central focus on how epigenetic mechanisms drive pathological cell-state transitions. Specifically, the group studies the roles of histone-code “readers” and “writers” in orchestrating chromatin dynamics that contribute to disease progression. By dissecting how these epigenetic regulators influence cellular phenotypes, the lab seeks to identify novel therapeutic targets capable of preventing or reversing harmful remodeling processes. A major emphasis of the lab’s work is bridging mechanistic discoveries with translational innovation. Their research pipeline spans from uncovering basic molecular dysfunctions to engineering practical therapeutic interventions. For instance, the Guo Lab investigates the epigenetic underpinnings of vascular wall thickening and stenosis following surgical procedures such as vein grafting and angioplasty. These studies illuminate how chromatin dysregulation contributes to post-surgical complications and guides the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. In parallel, the lab collaborates with surgeons and bioengineers to design precision delivery systems for chromatin-modulating “epi-drugs.” One pioneering approach involves the creation of bio-adhesive nanoparticles engineered to be “painted” directly onto vein grafts, aiming to preserve long-term graft patency. Another strategy focuses on combating restenosis after angioplasty by developing injectable biomembrane-camouflaged carriers capable of homing in on vascular lesions. These cutting-edge delivery systems enhance therapeutic specificity and minimize off-target effects, accelerating the translation of epigenetic therapies into clinically viable solutions. The lab’s innovative research direction has resulted in multiple approved and pending patents, demonstrating its impact at both scientific and translational fronts. Ultimately, the Guo Lab strives to solve critical medical challenges by targeting dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms and ensuring a seamless continuum from mechanistic discovery to therapeutic application.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Klionsky, D. J., Abdel-Aziz, A. K., Abdelfatah, S., Abdellatif, M., Abdoli, A., Abel, S., … (2021). Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy (4th edition). Autophagy, 17(1), 1–382.

Kumar, A., D’Souza, S. S., Moskvin, O. V., Toh, H., Wang, B., Zhang, J., Swanson, S., … (2017). Specification and diversification of pericytes and smooth muscle cells from mesenchymoangioblasts. Cell Reports, 19(9), 1902–1916.

Yu, Q., Wang, B., Chen, Z., Urabe, G., Glover, M. S., Shi, X., Guo, L.-W., Kent, K. C., & Li, L. (2017). Electron-transfer/higher-energy collision dissociation (EThcD)-enabled intact glycopeptide/glycoproteome characterization. Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry, 28(9), 1751–1764.

Borck, P. C., Guo, L.-W., & Plutzky, J. (2020). BET epigenetic reader proteins in cardiovascular transcriptional programs. Circulation Research, 126(9), 1190–1208.

Goel, S. A., Guo, L.-W., Liu, B., & Kent, K. C. (2012). Mechanisms of post-intervention arterial remodelling. Cardiovascular Research, 96(3), 363–371.

Zent, J., & Guo, L.-W. (2018). Signaling mechanisms of myofibroblastic activation: Outside-in and inside-out. Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry, 49(3), 848–868.

DiRenzo, D. M., Chaudhary, M. A., Shi, X., Franco, S. R., Zent, J., Wang, K., Guo, L.-W., … (2016). A crosstalk between TGF-β/Smad3 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Cellular Signalling, 28(5), 498–505.

Getahun Ayele Tessema | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Getahun Ayele Tessema | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Getahun Ayele Tessema | Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR) | India

Getahun Ayele Tessema is an emerging researcher and PhD Candidate at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR), specializing in energy efficiency and sustainable built environments. He holds a B.Tech and Master’s degree with distinction and previously served as a Lecturer at Adama Science and Technology University, where he earned the Best Teacher Award for his academic excellence. Currently supported by the prestigious ICCR Africa PhD Scholarship from the Government of India, he continues to advance impactful research in the Built Environment Lab at IIT Roorkee. His academic and professional journey reflects consistent excellence, with active engagement in research, teaching, and community-oriented scientific contributions. He has completed or is working on five research projects, published two journal papers, and maintains a growing citation record accessible through Google Scholar. His collaborative work spans international and institutional partnerships, and he holds memberships in two professional organizations aligned with his research areas. Getahun’s research focuses on energy-efficient buildings, energy modelling, energy-use behaviour, and energy analysis. His contributions offer significant insights into the determinants of household energy-saving behaviour in Ethiopian urban settings. By integrating personal norms with the Theory of Planned Behaviour, he has developed a comprehensive framework that helps understand and influence energy-conscious behaviour. This work supports the development of national energy conservation strategies and provides a scientific basis for formulating building energy codes—an urgent need for sustainable urban growth in Ethiopia. His findings aim to guide policymakers, enhance occupant awareness, and contribute to cleaner energy access through practical, community-responsive solutions. Through his multidisciplinary research, academic leadership, and commitment to sustainable development, Getahun exemplifies innovation, scholarly excellence, and societal impact. His work aligns strongly with the vision of promoting energy-efficient built environments and positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Tessema, G. A., Chani, P. S., & Rajasekar, E. (2025). Analysis of residential electricity consumption in Ethiopian condominiums: Leveraging cluster analysis for targeted electrification interventions. In 2025 IEEE 13th International Conference on Smart Energy Grid Engineering (SEGE). IEEE.

Tessema, G. A., Chani, P. S., & Rajasekar, E. (2025). Modelling energy-saving behaviour in Ethiopian urban households: Integrating personal norms and demographic moderators to the theory of planned behaviour. Energy and Buildings, , 116709.

Noboru Konda | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Noboru Konda | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Noboru Konda | Ryukoku University | Japan

Prof. Noboru Konda is a distinguished materials science expert whose career spans academia, advanced engineering, and applied industrial research. Trained at Kyoto University and later awarded a doctorate from Osaka University, he established a strong foundation in metallurgical engineering early in his career. His professional journey began in the steel industry, where he contributed to the structural assessment and performance evaluation of thick steel plates. This experience deepened his understanding of material behavior under demanding conditions and guided his ongoing commitment to developing stronger and more reliable materials. Prof. Konda has made significant contributions to the study of fatigue crack growth, particularly in base materials and welded joints. His work explores how materials behave in both normal and corrosive environments, and he has successfully identified structural characteristics that enhance durability and resistance to failure. His research approach combines experimental investigations with advanced evaluation techniques, offering valuable insights for industries that rely on the long-term stability of metals and other structural components. At Ryukoku University, Prof. Konda continues to expand his research by investigating the strength, soundness, and degradation mechanisms of a broad range of materials, including metals, resin composites, wood, and rubber. His interdisciplinary focus addresses real-world challenges encountered in manufacturing, infrastructure, and product development. Beyond research, he actively mentors students, engages in collaborative projects, and contributes to the academic community through publications, expert reviews, and knowledge-sharing activities. His academic and industrial background allows him to bridge scientific innovation with practical application. With a career dedicated to understanding and improving material performance, Prof. Konda remains committed to advancing safe, efficient, and reliable engineering solutions. His work continues to support scientific progress, industrial development, and the broader field of materials engineering.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Konda, N., & Kayamori, Y. (2025). Fatigue properties of welded structural steels initiated from long-term corroded surfaces. Solid State Phenomena, Trans Tech Publications

Konda, N., Mori, M., Shindoh, Y., & Kitamura, T. (2025). Fatigue strength evaluation of linear friction welded joints for S55C steel plates. Welding International. Taylor & Francis.