Rafael Rebelo | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Rafael Rebelo | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Coimbra | Portugal

Rafael C. Rebelo is a Biomedical Engineer and Chemical Engineering PhD researcher recognized for his contributions to cellulose-based materials and sustainable polymer engineering, with an estimated h-index of 0, more than 1 scientific documents, and over 0 citations across journals, patents, and conference contributions. He holds an Integrated Master’s in Biomedical Engineering and is currently pursuing a PhD focused on developing innovative cellulose-based hydrogels for agriculture and environmental applications. Rafael has gained extensive research experience as a Research Fellow in multiple industry-linked projects, contributing to biodegradable polymers, sustainable packaging, polymer degradation, and advanced cellulose composites. His work spans controlled polymerization, hydrogel engineering, green materials processing, and biocompatible systems for healthcare, including efforts in 3D printing and personal care technologies. He has co-authored several high-impact publications and contributed to an international patent on poly(lactic acid)–polyester formulations. Rafael has participated in numerous international conferences through oral presentations and posters, reflecting his active engagement in scientific dissemination. His research interests lie in cellulose chemistry, biodegradable materials, environmental technology, polymer composites, and bio-based engineering solutions. Committed to sustainability and innovation, Rafael aims to advance eco-friendly materials for agriculture, healthcare, and industrial applications, fostering global collaboration and impactful scientific progress.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Rebelo, R. C., Fonseca, A. C., Coelho, J. F. J., et al. (2025). A sustainable synthesis of cellulose hydrogels for agriculture with repurpose of solvent as fertilizer. Carbohydrate Polymers, 368, 124156.

Silva, R., Medeiros, M., Paula, C. T. B., et al. (2025). Light-mediated 3D-printed wound dressings based on natural polymers with improved adhesion and antioxidant properties. Polymers, 17(8), 1114.

Simões, B., Rebelo, R. C., Ledesma, S., et al. (2025). Development of polyampholyte cellulose-based hydrogels for diapers with improved biocompatibility. Gels, 11, 282.

Silva, R., Rebelo, R. C., Paula, C. T. B., et al. (2025). All-cellulose resin for 3D printing hydrogels via digital light processing (DLP). International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 306, 141389.

Moreira, R., Pereira, V. A., Rebelo, R. C., et al. (2025). A new and easy-to-implement green packaging option with recycled paperboard and PBAT film. Polymer, 311, 127480.

David Owolabi | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. David Owolabi | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Morgan State University | United States

Mr. David Olusogo Owolabi is a researcher and educator specializing in sustainable infrastructure and resilient engineering. He holds a PhD (in progress) and an MSc in Sustainable Infrastructure and Resilient Engineering from Morgan State University, and a BSc in Architecture from Caleb University. In his role as a Graduate Research & Teaching Assistant at Morgan State, he supports undergraduate lab instruction in CAD and structural analysis (SAP2000) while conducting experimental research in self-healing bacterial concrete, fiber integration, and MICP-based crack remediation. Earlier, as an Architectural Designer at Kreativity Projects (Lagos) and an intern at Ab.dt Partnership (Ibadan), he developed design concepts, 3D visualizations, working drawings, and integrated sustainable design principles. His research interests span microbial self-healing concrete, bio-based infrastructure resilience, green building practices, and material durability. His published works include comparative analyses of autogenous vs microbial calcite precipitation in concrete and studies on crack healing performance via microbial carriers. He has also contributed to interdisciplinary studies on air quality in engineering labs and noise mitigation in buildings. He is a certified professional in Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD, has earned certifications in machine learning and socially just coding, and is committed to applying data-driven, sustainable innovation in civil infrastructure.

Profile : Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Ahmad, I., Shokouhian, M., Owolabi, D., Jenkins, M., & McLemore, G. L. (2025). Assessment of biogenic healing capability, mechanical properties, and freeze–thaw durability of bacterial-based concrete using Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus sphaericus, and Bacillus megaterium. Buildings, 15(6), 943.

Ahmad, I., Shokouhian, M., Jenkins, M., McLemore, G. L., & Owolabi, D. O. (2025). Crack healing performance of microbial self-healing concrete using different carriers. In Structures Congress 2025 (pp. 362–372). American Society of Civil Engineers.

Owolabi, D. O., Shokouhian, M., Ahmad, I., Jenkins, M., & McLemore, G. L. (2025). Comparative analysis of autogenous and microbial-based calcite precipitation in concrete: State-of-the-art review. Buildings, 15(18), 3289.

Dunmoye, A. C., Owolabi, O. A., Banjo, A. V., Abiri, T. I., Dunmoye, I. D., & Owolabi, D. O. (2025). Noise mitigation strategies for vertical sound transmission in buildings with wooden floor. INTER-NOISE and NOISE-CON Congress and Conference Proceedings, 271(1), 1009–1018.

Balogun, G. Y., Owolabi, D. O., Ige, M. O., Abiri, T., Abiodun, P. O., & Owolabi, O. A. (2025). Assessing air quality at HBCU engineering laboratories to enhance student safety and learning. 2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition. American Society for Engineering Education.