Iqtidar Ahmad | photocatalytic water splitting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad | photocatalytic water splitting | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral fellow, Shenzhen University, China.

Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad is a Pakistani physicist specializing in material physics and chemistry, currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, China. He completed his Ph.D. in 2022 at Kunming University of Science and Technology, China. Dr. Ahmad has held teaching positions in Pakistan, including at Government Degree College, Lohor, and Army Public School and College, Mansehra. His research focuses on low-dimensional materials, van der Waals heterostructures, and their applications in optoelectronics, spintronics, and photocatalysis. He has co-authored several publications in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the field of material science.

Profile

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Education 

Dr. Ahmad’s academic journey began with a Diploma of Associate Engineering (D.A.E.) in Electronics from Gandahara College of Technology, Chakdara, Pakistan, in 2009. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Physics at Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan, graduating in 2013 with a CGPA of 3.42/4. Continuing his studies, he completed a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Physics at the same institution in 2016, achieving a CGPA of 3.92/4. Dr. Ahmad further advanced his expertise by earning a Ph.D. in Material Physics and Chemistry from Kunming University of Science and Technology, China, in December 2022. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his research in material science and physics.

Experience 

Dr. Ahmad has a diverse professional background combining academia and research. He currently serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, China, since 2023. Prior to this, he held teaching positions in Pakistan, including Lecturer roles at Government Degree College, Lohor (2016–2017), Army Public School and College, Mansehra (2015–2016), and Suffa Model School (2013–2014). His research experience encompasses computational studies on two-dimensional materials and their applications in energy-related fields. Dr. Ahmad’s work has led to several publications in peer-reviewed journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in material science.

Research Focus 

Dr. Ahmad’s research primarily focuses on the theoretical investigation of low-dimensional materials and their heterostructures, utilizing first-principles calculations to explore their electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties. His work aims to design materials with enhanced performance for applications in optoelectronics, spintronics, and photocatalysis. He employs advanced computational techniques, including density functional theory (DFT), to study phase transitions, strain engineering, and the effects of doping and adsorption on material properties. Dr. Ahmad’s research contributes to the development of materials with tailored properties for energy-related applications, such as water splitting and energy storage. His expertise in computational material science positions him at the forefront of research in this domain.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Title: Two-dimensional SiH/In₂XY (X, Y = S, Se) van der Waals heterostructures for efficient water splitting photocatalysis: A DFT approach

    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

    • Date: April 18, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2025.04.289

    • Summary: This study investigates the photocatalytic properties of SiH/In₂XY heterostructures for water splitting applications, utilizing density functional theory to analyze their efficiency.

  2. Title: Theoretical insights into Sb₂Te₃/Te van der Waals heterostructures for achieving very high figure of merit and conversion efficiency

    • Journal: International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

    • Date: March 1, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheatmasstransfer.2024.126479

    • Summary: This paper explores the thermoelectric properties of Sb₂Te₃/Te heterostructures, aiming to enhance their efficiency for energy conversion applications.

  3. Title: The van der Waals heterostructures of blue phosphorene with GaN/GeC for high-performance thermoelectric applications

    • Journal: APL Materials

    • Date: January 1, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1063/5.0243511

    • Summary: This research examines the potential of blue phosphorene/GaN/GeC heterostructures for thermoelectric applications, focusing on their performance and efficiency.

  4. Title: Enhanced spintronic and electronic properties in MTe₂-GdCl₂ (M=Mo, W) heterojunctions

    • Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces

    • Date: December 2024

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.surfin.2024.105364

    • Summary: This paper investigates the spintronic and electronic

  5. Title: Enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity in SiPGaS/arsenene-based van der Waals heterostructures

    • Journal: iScience

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108025

    • Summary: Demonstrates enhanced visible-light absorption and charge separation efficiency in SiPGaS/arsenene heterostructures, making them promising candidates for photocatalytic water splitting.

  6. Title: High thermoelectric performance of two-dimensional SiPGaS/As heterostructures

    • Journal: Nanoscale

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00316g

    • Summary: Investigates thermoelectric efficiency improvements through phonon suppression and high Seebeck coefficients in SiPGaS/As heterostructures.

  7. Title: Nickel selenide nano-cubes anchored on cadmium selenide nanoparticles for hybrid energy storage

    • Journal: Journal of Energy Storage

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2023.107065

    • Summary: First-ever design of NiSe nanocubes on CdSe for hybrid supercapacitor applications showing high capacitance and stability.

  8. Title: Versatile characteristics of Ars/SGaInS van der Waals heterostructures

    • Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1039/d2cp04832a

    • Summary: Analyzes multifunctional characteristics for applications in optoelectronics and photovoltaics.

  9. Title: Two-dimensional Janus SGaInSe/PtSe₂ heterostructures for water splitting

    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

    • Date: 2022

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2022.06.188

    • Summary: Examines potential for solar-driven water splitting, emphasizing electron-hole separation efficiency.

  10. Title: Electronic, mechanical, and photocatalytic properties of Janus XGaInY monolayers

    • Journal: RSC Advances

    • Date: 2021

    • DOI: 10.1039/d1ra02324a

    • Summary: Explores tunable bandgaps and mechanical stability of Janus monolayers for photocatalysis.

Conclusion

Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad is a highly qualified, technically capable, and productive researcher in the field of computational materials science. His work demonstrates depth, novelty, and interdisciplinary relevance, making him a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award, especially at the early to mid-career level.

Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, University of Bonab, Iran

Dr. Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir is a Professor at the University of Bonab, Iran, specializing in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. She earned her Ph.D. in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology-Nanochemistry from the University of Kashan in 2015. Dr. Zinatloo-Ajabshir has a strong background in nanotechnology, focusing on the development of advanced nanomaterials for diverse applications such as environmental remediation, photocatalysis, and hydrogen storage. Her innovative research on eco-friendly synthesis techniques, particularly using natural extracts for producing nanostructures, has made her a prominent figure in her field. She has authored numerous scientific papers, books, and conference proceedings, contributing to the advancement of nanoscience. Dr. Zinatloo-Ajabshir is also actively involved in peer reviewing for several international journals and is a member of the editorial boards of prestigious journals.

Profile

Education

Dr. Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir obtained her M.Sc. degree in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology-Nanochemistry from the University of Tehran in 2010. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology-Nanochemistry at the University of Kashan, Iran, which she completed in 2015. During her doctoral studies, she focused on advanced materials and their applications in nanotechnology. After obtaining her Ph.D., Dr. Zinatloo-Ajabshir worked as a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Professor Masoud Salavati-Niasari, further deepening her expertise in nanomaterials and their applications. In 2017, she became a faculty member at the University of Bonab, where she has been contributing to both research and teaching. Her educational background laid the foundation for her current role as a leading researcher in nanotechnology, specifically in the synthesis and characterization of ceramic nanomaterials.

Experience

Dr. Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir has extensive experience in the field of nanoscience, with a career spanning academic research, teaching, and mentoring. After earning her Ph.D. in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology from the University of Kashan, she worked as a postdoctoral researcher under Professor Masoud Salavati-Niasari, gaining valuable insights into nanostructures and their applications. In 2017, she joined the University of Bonab as a faculty member, where she teaches courses related to nanoscience and nanotechnology while also supervising graduate students. Dr. Zinatloo-Ajabshir has been involved in groundbreaking research on green synthesis methods for nanomaterials, particularly in photocatalysis, hydrogen storage, and environmental remediation. Her work has resulted in numerous publications in high-impact journals, contributing to her recognition as an expert in the field. Additionally, she is an active reviewer for several scientific journals and serves on the editorial boards of prestigious publications.

Research Focus

Dr. Sahar Zinatloo-Ajabshir’s research focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials, particularly in the areas of environmental remediation, photocatalysis, and energy storage. Her expertise lies in the green synthesis of nanomaterials using natural extracts, a method that aligns with the principles of sustainable chemistry. She has worked extensively on developing nanostructures like Nd₂Sn₂O₇-SnO₂ and their application in photocatalytic degradation, aiming to address environmental contamination and pollution. Dr. Zinatloo-Ajabshir’s research also explores the potential of nanomaterials for hydrogen storage, making significant contributions to energy technologies. Furthermore, her work on drug delivery systems and nanocomposites demonstrates her broad interest in applying nanoscience across various disciplines. Overall, her research is driven by the desire to develop environmentally friendly, cost-effective solutions to global challenges.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Eco-friendly synthesis of Nd₂Sn₂O₇-based nanostructure materials using grape juice as green fuel as photocatalyst for the degradation of erythrosine 🍇🧪
  2. Preparation of magnetically retrievable CoFe₂O₄@SiO₂@Dy₂Ce₂O₇ nanocomposites as novel photocatalyst for highly efficient degradation of organic contaminants 🧲💧
  3. Facile route to synthesize zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) nanostructures: structural, optical and photocatalytic studies 🏗️🔬
  4. Nd₂Sn₂O₇ nanostructures: green synthesis and characterization using date palm extract, a potential electrochemical hydrogen storage material 🌴🔋
  5. Green synthesis of dysprosium stannate nanoparticles using Ficus carica extract as photocatalyst for the degradation of organic pollutants under visible irradiation 🍃💡
  6. Nd₂O₃-SiO₂ nanocomposites: a simple sonochemical preparation, characterization and photocatalytic activity 🧪🔬
  7. Nanocrystalline Pr₆O₁₁: synthesis, characterization, optical and photocatalytic properties 🧑‍🔬🔍
  8. Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of toxic contaminants using Dy₂O₃-SiO₂ ceramic nanostructured materials fabricated by a new, simple and rapid sonochemical approach 🌟💨
  9. Facile fabrication of Dy₂Sn₂O₇-SnO₂ nanocomposites as an effective photocatalyst for degradation and removal of organic contaminants 🧑‍🔬💥
  10. Enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic performance for degradation of organic contaminants using PbWO₄ nanostructure fabricated by a new, simple and green sonochemical approach 🌞💧

 

 

Ju Won Lim | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ju Won Lim | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ju Won Lim, Georgia Institute of Technology, United States

Ju Won Lim is a Post Doctoral Fellow at the Carbon-Neutral Energy Solutions Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology. He earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan, where he researched radiative thermal transport and thermodynamics for energy utilization. Ju also holds an M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Korea University. His work has been recognized with numerous scholarships and awards, including the prestigious Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship. Ju’s expertise spans nanodevice fabrication, optoelectronic materials, and advanced computational simulations.

Publication Profile

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Education

Ju Won Lim received his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan (Sep. 2018 – May 2024), under the guidance of Prof. Pramod Reddy. His thesis focused on exploring radiative thermal transport and hydrogen thermodynamics for energy applications. Prior to his Ph.D., Ju earned his M.S. in the same field from the University of Michigan (Sep. 2018 – Dec. 2021). He also holds an M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Korea University (Mar. 2013 – Feb. 2015), where he researched ITO-free transparent electrodes for organic photovoltaic cells. Ju completed his B.S. in Electrical Engineering at Korea University (Mar. 2009 – Feb. 2013), achieving highest honors.

Experience

Ju Won Lim is a Post Doctoral Fellow at Georgia Tech’s Carbon-Neutral Energy Solutions Laboratory (Jun. 2024 – Present), working under Prof. Shannon Yee. He previously served as a Graduate Student Research Assistant in the Nanoscale Transport Laboratory at the University of Michigan (Sep. 2018 – May 2024). Ju’s earlier roles include Research Scientist at the Polymer Nanohybrid Materials Laboratory, Institute of Nano-Bio Technology (Jun. 2015 – Aug. 2018), and Student Researcher at the Center for Electronic Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (Mar. 2013 – May 2015). His work spans materials characterization, device fabrication, and advanced simulation techniques.

Awards and Honors

Ju Won Lim has been recognized with several prestigious awards and scholarships. He received the Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship ($50k) from the University of Michigan (2023-2024), and the Kwanjeong Scholarship from the Kwanjeong Educational Foundation ($25k annually for five years, 2018-2023). Other accolades include the OTEFE Scholarship (2021), the Frederick N. Rhines Fellowship (2018), and multiple honors from Korea University, such as the Brain Korea 21 Scholarship (2013-2015). His academic excellence was further acknowledged with various presentation awards at international conferences, including the Best Presentation Award at the Midwest Regional Conference (2023).

Research Focus

Ju Won Lim’s research focuses on the intersection of materials science and energy solutions. His Ph.D. work at the University of Michigan involved developing calorimetric systems to study radiative thermal transport and hydrogen thermodynamics, aimed at enhancing energy utilization. At Korea University, his research included the development of ITO-free transparent electrodes for organic photovoltaic cells. His postdoctoral work at Georgia Tech’s Carbon-Neutral Energy Solutions Laboratory continues to explore advanced materials and nanoscale transport phenomena, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and innovative nanodevice fabrication.

Publication Top Notes

“Plasmonic Periodic Nanodot Arrays for Organic Photovoltaic Cells with >10% Efficiency via Laser Interference Lithography” 🌐🔬

“Transparent high-performance SiNX/SiOXNY barrier films for organic photovoltaic cells with high durability” 🛡️🔋

“Enhanced Light Scattering and Trapping Effect of Ag Nanowire Mesh Electrode for High Efficient Flexible Organic Solar cells” 🌐🔬

Comprehensive Study on the Controlled Plasmon-Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Hybrid Au/ZnO Systems Mediated by Thermoresponsive Polymer Linkers