James Levine | Innovation Impact | Pioneer Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. James Levine | Innovation Impact | Pioneer Excellence Award

Fondation Ipsen | France

Dr. James A. Levine’s research focuses on human metabolism, obesity, physical activity, and health innovation, with his seminal discovery of non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) redefining the biological and behavioral drivers of energy balance and sedentary behavior. His work integrates clinical medicine, translational research, digital health, and systems design to address chronic and rare diseases. Through extensive publications, patents, and global collaborations, he has translated scientific insights into scalable interventions influencing clinical guidelines, public health policy, workplace design, and long-term health outcomes worldwide.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

20000
10000
  1000
    100
       0

Citations
13,887

Documents
215

h-index
68

Citations

Documents

h-index


View Scopus Profile      View Orcid Profile

Featured Publications

Mohamed Amen | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Mohamed Amen | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Adelaide University (University of South Australia, formerly) | Australia

Dr. Mohamed Amen is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Adelaide University, specialising in the development and translation of nanoscale sensor technologies for biomedical applications. With a strong foundation in biomedical and biomaterial engineering, his work focuses on the design of solid-state field-effect transistors for high-sensitivity biosignal monitoring and point-of-care diagnostics. His research aims to bridge advanced nanotechnology with clinical applications, addressing critical healthcare challenges such as heart failure, traumatic brain injury, preeclampsia, and epilepsy. Dr. Amen has made significant contributions to the field of wearable and implantable diagnostic devices, leveraging microfabrication and nanotechnology platforms to create novel biosensors capable of real-time monitoring of physiological signals. His research combines engineering expertise with translational potential, exemplified by the development of rapid finger-prick tests and wearable ECG systems that are moving toward clinical evaluation and patent protection. His work has attracted industry collaboration, including engagement with leading healthcare technology partners, underscoring the practical impact of his innovations. To date, he has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals and has contributed to several consultancy and industrial projects. His research is highly cited, reflecting its global relevance and scientific influence. He is also an active member of professional societies, including the Australian Materials Research Society and the Australia and New Zealand Nano & Microfluidic Society, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the scientific community. Dr. Amen’s work exemplifies research excellence through its combination of cutting-edge innovation, translational application, and community impact. His ongoing projects aim to revolutionize point-of-care diagnostics and wearable biosensing, with the ultimate goal of improving early disease detection, patient outcomes, and global healthcare delivery. His dedication to advancing biomedical nanotechnology positions him as a leading researcher in the integration of solid-state nanosensors into practical clinical tools.

Citation Metrics (Google Scholar)

400
300
200
100
0

Citations
296

h-index
11

i10index
11

Citations

h-index

i10index



View Google Scholar Profile

Featured Publications

Hamideh Elmizadeh | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh | Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST) | Iran

Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh is an accomplished analytical chemist specializing in the design, synthesis, and application of advanced nanomaterials, particularly quantum dots and fluorescent nanosensors for biomedical, forensic, and environmental applications. Her expertise spans optical bio-nanosensors, chemometrics, drug-delivery systems, and the development of high-performance analytical platforms using cutting-edge experimental design and molecular spectroscopy techniques. She is highly skilled in software tools such as Design-Expert, Origin, ChemDraw, and Microsoft Office, complementing her strong background in experimental optimization and nanosensor fabrication. Dr. Elmizadeh has served in academic and research positions across leading Iranian institutions, contributing to higher education as a visiting professor and advancing interdisciplinary research as an assistant professor in analytical chemistry. She has also been actively involved in forensic analytical science through her role at a legal medicine research center, where she developed innovative fluorescent probes for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of drugs and biomolecules in complex biological matrices. Her scientific contributions include numerous publications in high-impact journals, covering quantum dot synthesis, apta-nanobiosensors, hydrogel-based materials, environmental pollutant detection, chitosan-based drug carriers, and chemometric modeling. She has authored specialized conference presentations and co-developed several national patents related to photocatalysis, nanomaterial-based sensors, and targeted drug-delivery systems. Her work has resulted in successful research projects leading to impactful publications, patented technologies, and advanced nanosensor prototypes. Dr. Elmizadeh is also the author of a book on chemical and optical nanosensors and maintains active profiles on major scientific platforms, including ResearchGate, LinkedIn, ORCID, and Scopus. She has participated in numerous specialized workshops on nanotechnology, biosensing, flow cytometry, commercialization, standard development, emotional intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Recognized for scientific excellence, leadership, and innovation, Dr. Elmizadeh is a member of national scientific organizations and serves as editor-in-chief of a nanochemistry journal. Her work reflects a strong commitment to advancing analytical chemistry through research, teaching, and technological innovation.

Profile; Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn

Featured Publications:

Khanmohammadi, M., Elmizadeh, H., & Ghasemi, K. (2015). Investigation of size and morphology of chitosan nanoparticles used in drug delivery system employing chemometric technique. Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 14(3), 665–672.

Elmizadeh, H., Khanmohammadi, M., Ghasemi, K., Hassanzadeh, G., & others. (2013). Preparation and optimization of chitosan nanoparticles and magnetic chitosan nanoparticles as delivery systems using Box–Behnken statistical design. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 80, 141–146.

Elmizadeh, H., Faridbod, F., Soleimani, M., Ganjali, M. R., & Bardajee, G. R. (2020). Fluorescent apta-nanobiosensors for fast and sensitive detection of digoxin in biological fluids using rGQDs: Comparison of two approaches for immobilization of aptamer. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 302, 127133.

Elmizadeh, H., Soleimani, M., Faridbod, F., & Bardajee, G. R. (2017). Ligand-capped CdTe quantum dots as a fluorescent nanosensor for detection of copper ions in environmental water sample. Journal of Fluorescence, 27(6), 2323–2333.

Bardajee, G. R., Zamani, M., Mahmoodian, H., Elmizadeh, H., Yari, H., & others. (2021). Capability of novel fluorescence DNA-conjugated CdTe/ZnS quantum dots nanoprobe for COVID-19 sensing. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 269, 120702.

M. Mottakin | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. M. Mottakin | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr M. Mottakin | Gopalganj Science and Technology University, Bangladesh | Bangladesh

Dr. Mottakin is an accomplished Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Gopalganj Science and Technology University, Bangladesh, with a strong focus on advancing research and education in chemical sciences. His career is driven by a commitment to innovation and knowledge creation, aiming to develop practical solutions that address both national and global challenges. He holds a PhD in Solar Energy from the National University of Malaysia, building on a solid academic foundation with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Technology from the University of Rajshahi. Throughout his academic journey, he has consistently excelled, earning top positions in his department and demonstrating exceptional scholarly performance. Dr. Mottakin has contributed extensively to high-impact research in areas including solar energy, electrocatalysis, energy storage, and environmentally sustainable chemical processes. He has authored numerous publications in internationally recognized journals, covering topics such as perovskite solar cells, water splitting electrocatalysts, and eco-friendly energy materials. His research combines experimental and numerical approaches, emphasizing both innovation and practical applicability. In addition to his research, Dr. Mottakin actively participates in national and international conferences, sharing his expertise and fostering collaborations. He has received multiple awards and scholarships in recognition of his academic excellence and research contributions. He is fluent in both English and Bangla and demonstrates a strong ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. Dr. Mottakin’s professional philosophy centers on integrating teaching, research, and community engagement, mentoring the next generation of scientists while contributing to sustainable technological advancements. With a proven track record in research, teaching, and international collaboration, Dr. Mottakin continues to drive innovation in applied chemistry and chemical engineering, aiming to create impactful solutions that benefit society and the scientific community.

Profile: Orcid | Scopus

Featured Publications

Patwary, M. A., Shafin, A. A., Alam, M. M., Singh Durjoy, R. K., Ludin, N. A., Su’ait, M. S., Akhtaruzzaman, M., & Mottakin, M. (2025). Optoelectronic properties and device simulation of ZnS polymorphs as buffer layers for CZTSSe solar cells. RSC Advances. https://doi.org/10.1039/D5RA07195J

Sultana, S., Sonia, Z. A., Mahmud, M., Mottakin, M., Haider, J. B., Ahmed, S., & Hossen, M. M. (2024). An investigation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin co-extraction from water hyacinth. Advanced Journal of Chemistry, Section A. https://doi.org/10.48309/ajca.2024.412642.1402

Mottakin, M., Su’Ait, M. S., Chelvanathan, P., Islam, M. A., Shahiduzzaman, M., Ibrahim, M. A., Muhammad, G., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Correlation between defect properties and the performance of eco-friendly CsSnI₃-based perovskite solar cells. Semiconductor Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6641/ad208b

Mottakin, M., Su’ait, M. S., Selvanathan, V., Chelvanathan, P., Ibrahim, M. A., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Effect of sulfidation on ethaline-assisted electrodeposited iron sulfide-based electrocatalyst for efficient saline water splitting. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.06.181

Mottakin, M., Selvanathan, V., Su’ait, M. S., Razali, S. A., Islam, M. A., Ibrahim, M. A., Muhammad, G., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Enhancing pseudocapacitive energy storage system performance with electrodeposited CuSₓ and CoSₓ biphasic transitional metal sulfide (TMS) based nanostructured electrode on nickel foam. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 186, 111795. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpcs.2023.111795

Mottakin, M., Su’ait, M. S., Chelvanathan, P., Ibrahim, M. A., Ludin, N. A., Abdullah, H., Almohamadi, H., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Facile electrodeposited sandwich-like CuSₓ/MnSₓ electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution in seawater splitting. Journal of Solid State Chemistry, 339, 124913. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2024.124913

Gabriele Sirtori | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Gabriele Sirtori | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Gabriele Sirtori | ISAE Supaero | France

Gabriele Sirtori is an aerospace engineer and researcher specializing in sustainable aviation, hydrogen-powered aircraft design, and environmentally optimized flight operations. With advanced academic training culminating in a research doctorate in aerospace engineering from Politecnico di Milano, his work focuses on the integration of emerging propulsion technologies, environmental impact assessment, and the future evolution of air transport systems. His doctoral research explored hydrogen-powered aviation with an emphasis on aircraft design innovation and operational scenario development, earning top academic recognition. He also holds a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering with a thesis dedicated to evaluating the environmental benefits of hybrid propulsion for regional aircraft. International academic exposure includes studies at ENAC in Toulouse and an early exchange program in the United States, strengthening his multicultural competence and broadening his understanding of global aviation ecosystems. Gabriele currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at ISAE Supaero in Toulouse, contributing to studies on air traffic management inefficiencies and assessing mitigation strategies to reduce climate impacts through optimized flight operations. His experience also includes leadership and community engagement through active roles in Rotaract, where he served as vice president and contributed to social and service-oriented initiatives. He has authored numerous scientific publications spanning hydrogen propulsion, hybrid-electric aircraft concepts, environmental benefits of advanced technologies, and infrastructure requirements for future sustainable fleets. His work appears in peer-reviewed journals, major international conferences, and multidisciplinary aerospace research platforms. Gabriele’s technical competencies include advanced programming in MATLAB and Python, strong proficiency in word processing and scientific documentation tools, and solid analytical abilities in data handling and modeling. He is fluent in English and French, with additional proficiency in Spanish, enabling effective collaboration in international research environments. Driven by a commitment to sustainable aviation, he aims to contribute to the transition toward cleaner, more efficient air transport through rigorous research, innovative design methodologies, and future-oriented technological analysis.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Aigner, B., Garcia Garriga, A., Sirtori, G., Riboldi, C. E. D., Trainelli, L., Mariani, C., … (2022). Overview and preliminary results of the scalability investigation of hybrid electric concepts for next-generation aircraft (SIENA) project. In 12th EASN Conference.

Trainelli, L., Riboldi, C. E. D., & Sirtori, G. (2024). Methodologies for the preliminary sizing of hydrogen-powered aircraft and supporting airport infrastructures. ICAS Proceedings, 1–12.

Aigner, B., Wehrle, E., Struiwig, W., Sirtori, G., Riboldi, C., & Trainelli, L. (2023). Consideration of technology scalability in the design of electric propulsion system architectures. In Aerospace Europe Conference 2023—Joint 10th EUCASS–9th CEAS Conference (pp. 1–11).

Sirtori, G., Aigner, B., Wehrle, E., Riboldi, C. E. D., & Trainelli, L. (2025). Innovative aircraft propulsive configurations: Technology evaluation and operations in the SIENA project. Aerospace, 12(3), 240.

Sirtori, G., Trainelli, L., & Lahmam, Z. (2024). Hydrogen tankering: Tools for economic and environmental impact scenario studies. ICAS Proceedings, 1–13.

Sirtori, G., & Trainelli, L. (2025). Transient in operations: From jet-fuel to hydrogen-powered aircraft. In Towards Sustainable Aviation Summit (TSAS 2025) (pp. 1–8).

Sirtori, G., Trainelli, L., & Riboldi, C. E. D. (2024). Prediction of environmental benefits introducing hybrid-electric propulsion on regional aircraft. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2716(1), 012015.

Xingwang Bian | Scientific Breakthroughs | Research Excellence Award

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

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.

Ouafaa Morjani | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Ouafaa Morjani | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Ouafaa Morjani | Hassan II University of Casablanca | Morocco

Dr. Ouafaa Morjani is a dedicated researcher in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Bioinformatics, holding a Ph.D. from Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco. Affiliated with the Faculty of Sciences and Technics of Mohammedia, her work is rooted in the Laboratory of Virology, Oncology, Biosciences, Environment, and New Energies. Her research primarily focuses on thoracic oncology, particularly Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), where she integrates molecular profiling, genetic variants, biomarkers, and advanced diagnostic technologies to improve early detection and precision medicine. Dr. Morjani has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications addressing clinical, anatomical, and molecular dimensions of lung cancer. Her work includes exploring GWAS-derived genetic variants in NSCLC, investigating interleukin-based blood biomarkers, analyzing metastasis patterns, and assessing the impact of smoking on lung cancer mechanisms. She has also presented extensively at prestigious international conferences in Morocco, France, and Saudi Arabia, contributing to discussions on NGS applications, ROS1 rearrangement detection, and molecular pathology. Her scientific expertise is strengthened by advanced training in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) at renowned institutions in France, along with hands-on experience in sequencing platforms such as Ion Torrent and Illumina. She is proficient in NGS library preparation, nucleic acid extraction, and bioinformatics analysis involving FastQ, BAM, and SAM files. Her competencies extend to R programming, statistical analysis, and functional genomics. She has participated in major workshops, including the African BioGenome Project Fellowship, enhancing her mastery of genome assembly, annotation, and biodiversity genomics. Dr. Morjani has additional experience in molecular diagnostics, including RT-qPCR detection of foodborne viruses and breast cancer biomarker analysis through IHC and FISH. She is also actively involved in teaching, mentoring, quality assurance, COVID-19 testing, and regulatory compliance. A member of multiple national and international scientific societies, she is recognized for her adaptability, teamwork, communication skills, and strong commitment to advancing cancer genomics and molecular oncology.

Profile: Google Scholar | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Morjani, O., Benkirane, N., Errihani, H., Elfahime, E. M., & Lakhiari, H. (2024). Molecular analysis of genetic mutations in non-small cell lung cancer in Morocco. Pan African Medical Journal, 47(1).

Morjani, O., Benlhachemi, S., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E., & Lakhiari, H. (n.d.). Epidemiological, clinical, anatomopathological and molecular profiles of lung cancer in patients at the oncology center of the Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital in Rabat. [Journal information incomplete].

Morjani, O., Yang, Y.-W., Lahlil, R., Lakhiari, H., & Alaoui, H. (2025). Hematological biomarkers for early detection of lung cancer: Evaluating the diagnostic potential of circulating interleukin levels. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(22), 11014.

Morjani, O., Mounaji, N., Ghaouti, M., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E., & Lakhiari, H. (2024). Next generation sequencing and genomic mapping: Towards precision molecular diagnosis of lung cancer in Morocco. Pan African Medical Journal, 49, 75.

Morjani, O., Karimoune, M. A. S., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E. M., & Lakhiari, H. (2023). Comparative study of molecular techniques for detecting ROS1 rearrangement in non-small cell lung cancer: Implications for diagnostic precision. Journal of Molecular Diagnostics, 26(6), S5–S6.

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.