Qaisar Alam | Physics | Young Scientist Award

Dr Qaisar Alam | Physics | Young Scientist Award

Postdoc, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China

Dr. Qaisar Alam is a Pakistani physicist specializing in computational condensed matter physics. He has a strong academic foundation, earning a PhD from Hazara University. Currently, he is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, where he explores innovative energy solutions. Dr. Alam has contributed significantly to the field through his extensive publication record, focusing on low-dimensional materials and their applications in energy conversion and storage. His dedication to education as a lecturer has influenced many students, while his collaborative spirit fosters a productive research environment. His work aims to bridge theoretical studies with practical applications, positioning him as a leader in advancing sustainable technologies. 🌍🔬

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Strengths for the Award

Dr. Qaisar Alam exhibits a robust academic and research background, particularly in computational condensed matter physics and materials science. His extensive publications in reputable journals demonstrate his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. The focus on low-dimensional materials and photocatalytic processes aligns with current trends in energy conversion technologies, showcasing his relevance in modern scientific discourse. His experience in both teaching and research institutions, coupled with his proficiency in advanced computational tools, highlights his capability to mentor emerging scientists and contribute to academic excellence.

Areas for Improvement

While Dr. Alam’s publication record is impressive, further diversification of his research focus could enhance his portfolio. Exploring interdisciplinary collaborations could broaden the impact of his work. Additionally, increasing engagement in public science communication and outreach initiatives may enhance his visibility and contribute to promoting physics among younger audiences. Developing a more extensive network through international conferences could also lead to potential collaborative projects.

Education

Dr. Qaisar Alam holds an impressive academic background in physics. He completed his MPhil in March 2017 at Hazara University, where he began his focus on computational condensed matter physics. He then pursued a PhD from the same institution, concluding in March 2023, with a research proposal titled “Enhanced functionalities of low dimensional materials for applications to energy conversion and storage devices: a DFT-based study.” Currently, Dr. Alam is engaged in postdoctoral research, enhancing Z-scheme photocatalytic CO2 methanation mechanisms. His educational journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and modeling complex materials, utilizing advanced computational techniques such as Density Functional Theory (DFT) and many-body perturbation theory. Dr. Alam’s educational experiences have equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to explore innovative solutions in energy and materials science. 🎓📚

Experience  

Dr. Qaisar Alam has a solid teaching and research background in physics. He served as a Lecturer at Hazara University from March 2019 to March 2022, where he taught undergraduate and graduate courses, sharing his passion for computational physics. He then joined Abbottabad University of Science and Technology as a Lecturer from April 2022 to August 2023, continuing his commitment to education and mentorship. In December 2023, he transitioned to the School of Physics at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China as a postdoctoral researcher, where he currently enhances his research in photocatalysis. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Alam has participated in various workshops and conferences, furthering his knowledge and network within the scientific community. His roles have emphasized not only teaching but also fostering research collaboration, making significant contributions to the fields of physics and materials science. 👨‍🏫🔍

Research Focus 

Dr. Qaisar Alam’s research focuses on computational condensed matter physics, particularly in the realm of low-dimensional materials and their applications in energy conversion and storage. His PhD work centered on using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and many-body perturbation theory to explore the electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and magnetic properties of materials such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), Janus oxides, and MXenes. Currently, in his postdoctoral role, Dr. Alam investigates Z-scheme photocatalytic CO2 methanation processes, analyzing charge transport and surface catalytic reaction mechanisms. His work includes examining thermodynamic processes for CO2 photoreduction, contributing valuable insights into renewable energy technologies. Dr. Alam aims to bridge theoretical modeling with practical applications, seeking to develop materials that can effectively address energy-related challenges and advance sustainable technologies. His interdisciplinary approach positions him at the forefront of innovation in materials science and energy solutions. ⚛️🔋

Publication Top Notes

  1. First-principles study of the electronic structures and optical and photocatalytic performances of van der Waals heterostructures of SiS, P and SiC monolayers. 📄
  2. Stacking effects in van der Waals heterostructures of blueP and Janus XYO (X= Ti, Zr, Hf: Y= S, Se) monolayers. 📄
  3. MSSe-N2CO2 (M= Mo, W and N= Zr, Hf) van der Waals heterostructures; A first principles study. 📄
  4. First principle study of van der Waals heterostructure based on MS2 (M= Mo, W) and Janus CrSSe monolayers. 📄
  5. Hydrogen Production and Spin-orbit Interaction in Blue Phosphorene and Janus Transition Metal Dichalcogenides vdW Heterostructures: A first-principles study. 📄
  6. Structural, electronic, optical, thermoelectric and photocatalytic properties of SiS/MXenes van der Waals heterostructures. 📄
  7. Van der Waal heterostructure based on BY (Y As, P) and MX2 (M Mo, W; XS, Se) monolayers. 📄
  8. First principles study of electronic and optical properties and photocatalytic performance of GaN–SiS van der Waals heterostructure. 📄
  9. Tunable optoelectronic and photocatalytic properties of BAs-BSe van der Waals heterostructures by strain engineering. 📄
  10. First principles study of electronic properties and optoelectronic performance of type-II SiS/BSe heterostructure. 📄

Conclusion

Dr. Qaisar Alam is a strong candidate for the Young Scientist Award due to his innovative research, significant contributions to the field, and potential for future impact. His academic achievements, combined with a focus on practical applications in energy conversion, align well with the award’s criteria. With some enhancements in outreach and collaboration, he is poised to make even greater contributions to science and education.

 

 

Vinay Rastogi | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Vinay Rastogi | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, India

Dr. Vinay Rastogi is an Assistant Professor of Physics at Pimpri Chinchwad University, Pune, India, specializing in laser-driven shock compression and materials science. He completed his Ph.D. at Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, where he studied materials’ behavior under dynamic shock loading. Following his doctoral work, he served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Hopkins Extreme Materials Institute, Johns Hopkins University, where he furthered his research in high-power lasers and their applications. Dr. Rastogi is dedicated to mentoring students and advancing research in condensed matter physics, with numerous publications and presentations in his field.

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Strengths for the Award

  1. Robust Research Experience: Dr. Rastogi has extensive experience in dynamic compression and laser-matter interactions, demonstrated through multiple projects and collaborations with prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins University, SLAC, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
  2. Innovative Contributions: His work on developing advanced diagnostic tools and facilities, such as the Time Resolved Raman Spectroscopy and Thomson Parabola Spectrometer, showcases his commitment to innovation in research.
  3. Diverse Publication Record: Dr. Rastogi has a significant number of publications in reputable journals, indicating a strong research output and contribution to the field of physics, particularly in high-power laser applications and materials science.
  4. Teaching and Mentoring: His role as an Assistant Professor and his experience mentoring students highlight his dedication to education and the development of the next generation of researchers.
  5. Recognition and Grants: He has received notable fellowships and grants from esteemed bodies, reflecting recognition of his research capabilities and potential.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Public Engagement: While Dr. Rastogi has engaged in oral presentations at various conferences, increasing outreach through public lectures or community engagement could enhance visibility and impact.
  2. Broader Collaboration: Expanding his collaborative efforts beyond current institutions may lead to new interdisciplinary research opportunities and broaden his impact.
  3. Software Skills Enhancement: Developing advanced programming skills in Python or similar languages could enhance his research capabilities, particularly in data analysis and modeling.

Education

Dr. Rastogi earned his Ph.D. in Physics from Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) in 2018, focusing on dynamic shock loading. He holds an M.Sc. in Physics (Electronics specialization) from the University of Lucknow (2011) and a B.Sc. from the same institution (2009). His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in physics and engineering principles. During his Ph.D., he was supervised by Prof. M. N. Deo at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). His education is complemented by specialized training in advanced technologies, including lasers and plasma physics.

Experience

Dr. Rastogi has over four years of experience in dynamic compression experiments and laser-matter interactions. He is currently an Assistant Professor at Pimpri Chinchwad University, where he teaches condensed matter physics, high-power lasers, and spectroscopy. Previously, he worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Hopkins Extreme Materials Institute, focusing on high-power laser applications. His research includes the development of advanced diagnostic tools and methodologies for studying materials under extreme conditions. He has collaborated with prominent institutions, enhancing his expertise in high-pressure research and ultrafast diagnostics.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Rastogi has received several prestigious awards, including a Doctoral Research Fellowship from the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, and international travel grants from the Department of Science & Technology (DST-SERB ITS) and Strong Field Science. These accolades recognize his contributions to the field of physics and support his research endeavors. His work has been acknowledged in various conferences and publications, further establishing him as a promising researcher in dynamic compression and laser physics.

Research Focus

Dr. Rastogi’s research centers on the development of diagnostics for dynamic compression experiments and the study of laser-driven shock and ramp compression. His interests include time-resolved X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy of dynamically compressed materials and exploring laser-plasma interactions. His projects investigate phase transitions in solid-state materials and the development of advanced facilities for high-frequency experiments. By combining theoretical knowledge and practical applications, he aims to advance the understanding of material behavior under extreme conditions.

Publication Top Notes

  • Laser induced damage studies in borosilicate glass using nanosecond and sub nanosecond pulses 🌟
  • Raman spectroscopy of laser shocked polystyrene 📊
  • Time‐resolved Raman spectroscopy of polystyrene under laser driven shock compression 🔬
  • Development of in situ time-resolved Raman spectroscopy facility for dynamic shock loading in materials ⚙️
  • Time-resolved vibrational spectroscopy of polytetrafluoroethylene under laser-shock compression 🔍
  • Femtosecond diffraction studies of the sodium chloride phase diagram under laser shock compression 💡
  • Development of slurry targets for high repetition-rate XFEL experiments 🧪
  • In situ measurement of ions parameters of laser produced ion source using high resolution Thomson Parabola Spectrometer ⚡
  • Pump probe based Raman spectroscopic studies of PTFE under laser driven shock compression 🔭
  • Thomson parabola: a high resolution ion spectrometer 🛠️
  • In situ Raman spectroscopic studies of polyvinyl toluene under laser‐driven shock compression and comparison with hydrostatic experiments 💧

Conclusion

Dr. Vinay Rastogi possesses a well-rounded profile characterized by strong research accomplishments, a commitment to teaching, and a proactive approach to collaboration. His innovative projects and contributions to the field of physics make him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By addressing the suggested areas for improvement, he could further enhance his profile and impact in the research community.