Assist. Prof. Dr. Emilia Paone | Industrial Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Emilia Paone | Industrial Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Emilia Paone , Industrial Chemistry , Assistant Professor at Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, Italy

Dr. Emilia Paone is a dynamic and forward-thinking Fixed-Term Researcher (RTD-B) at the Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, specializing in Industrial Chemistry (SSD: CHIM/07). Born on September 14, 1990, in Reggio Calabria, Italy, she has emerged as a leading young scientist in the field of heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable chemical transformations. Her research pivots on the valorization of waste biomass and plastic residues into high-value chemicals and fuels. With over 41 peer-reviewed international publications, an h-index of 21, and significant international collaborations, Dr. Paone has built a formidable academic presence. She has held multiple national scientific qualifications for associate professorship in both CHIM/04 and CHIM/07. Her global perspective is enriched by research periods in Spain and collaboration with industrial partners. An active voice in green chemistry and environmental sustainability, she is a rising star driving innovation in catalytic materials and waste valorization technologies.

Professional Profile :         

Orcid

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Emilia Paone exemplifies the core qualities sought in a “Young Scientist Award” recipient. With a Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Safety Engineering, she has consistently demonstrated scientific maturity, innovation, and dedication in the realm of green and sustainable chemistry. Her postdoctoral and fixed-term research roles, particularly under national initiatives such as DM 1062/2021 in thematic GREEN areas, highlight her alignment with sustainability and circular economy goals. She has published 41 peer-reviewed papers, authored 2 book chapters, and amassed over 2,000 citations with an h-index of 21, which is remarkable for a young researcher. Her work on heterogeneous catalysis, biomass valorization, and e-waste upcycling contributes meaningfully to global sustainability challenges. She has held international research roles, including ERASMUS+ staff mobility in Spain, showing global engagement and collaborative spirit. Moreover, she has achieved dual National Scientific Qualifications for Associate Professor roles, underscoring her excellence and leadership potential.Dr. Emilia Paone’s proven research excellence, international collaborations, impactful publications, and clear contribution to sustainable technologies make her a strong, deserving, and outstanding candidate for the “Young Scientist Award’. Her work not only meets but exceeds the typical expectations for this recognition, and she stands as a role model for early-career researchers in green and industrial chemistry.

🎓Education:

Dr. Paone earned her Bachelor’s (2009–2013) and Master’s Degrees (2013–2015) in Chemistry from the Università degli Studi di Messina. She then completed her Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Safety Engineering (2015–2018) at the Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, specializing in Science and Technology, Materials, and Energy. Her doctoral thesis was titled “Transfer Hydrogenolysis of Lignin and its Derived Aromatic Ethers Promoted by Heterogeneous Bimetallic Pd-Based Catalysts.” She has also completed a qualification exam in chemistry exercise in 2015. Emilia further enhanced her academic training with research internships in both Italy and Spain, including studies on chemical equilibria and potable water analysis. Notably, she has enriched her learning with international research mobility under Erasmus+, and visiting positions in Spain, gaining practical expertise in nanostructured materials, catalysis, and green technologies.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Paone currently serves as a Fixed-Term Researcher (RTD-B) at Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria (since March 2024), focusing on Industrial Chemistry. Previously, she held an RTD-A position (2022–2024) under Italy’s GREEN program (Action IV.6), collaborating with Capua 1880 s.r.l. on sustainable technologies. Earlier, as a postdoctoral researcher (2021), she worked on the environmental sustainability of materials recovered from lithium battery waste. From 2019 to 2021, she worked with the University of Florence and Reggio Calabria on nanostructured materials for detecting metal ions in solutions. During her Ph.D. and internships, she explored lignin valorization and heterogeneous catalysis. Internationally, she served as a Visiting Researcher and Professor at the University of Córdoba, Spain, and as a Ph.D. student researcher in the same institution. Her experience spans academia, industrial collaboration, and international teaching and research exchanges—showcasing both scientific excellence and applied innovation.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Emilia Paone has achieved significant recognition in the field of sustainable chemistry and heterogeneous catalysis through her impactful research and academic contributions. She holds two prestigious National Scientific Qualifications (Abilitazione Scientifica Nazionale) for the role of Associate Professor—one in Industrial Chemistry (CHIM/04 – 03/C2) awarded in 2023, and another in Principles of Chemistry for Applied Technologies (CHIM/07 – 03/B2) awarded in 2022. These qualifications are a testament to her high scientific standards and professional competence, as evaluated by national committees in Italy. Furthermore, her international engagement and excellence were highlighted when she was selected as a Visiting Researcher and Professor under the ERASMUS+ Staff Mobility program in 2023 at the Universidad de Córdoba, Spain. Her academic visibility is reinforced by her impressive bibliometric indicators, with over 2,000 citations and an h-index of 21, showcasing her growing influence in catalysis, green chemistry, and the valorization of waste to high-value products.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Paone’s research is at the cutting edge of green chemistry 🌱, with a core focus on heterogeneous catalysis for the valorization of waste and biomass into value-added products such as bioplastics, biofuels, and fine chemicals. Her work spans the transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin, reductive catalytic upgrading of plastic waste, and photocatalytic degradation of pollutants, contributing to sustainable circular economy models. She has developed MOF-derived, single-atom, and bimetallic Pd-based catalysts that efficiently convert industrial and e-waste streams. She actively collaborates on projects transforming orange peels, PET, polyolefins, and lithium battery residues into useful chemicals via eco-friendly methods. Her interdisciplinary approach combines catalyst design, nanomaterials, environmental remediation, and flow chemistry, with a strong emphasis on industrial scalability and green metrics. Dr. Paone’s research consistently addresses pressing climate and sustainability goals, establishing her as a key player in Europe’s scientific green transition.

Publication Top Notes:

Continuous flow production of γ-valerolactone from methyl-levulinate promoted by MOF-derived Al₂O₃–ZrO₂/C catalysts​

Waste-minimized access to diarylamines and triarylamines via Csp²–N coupling under batch and flow conditions

E-Waste Wars: The Catalyst Awakens​

Long-Term Preservation of Orange Peel Waste for the Production of Acids and Biogas

Direct Reuse of Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Reductive Upgrading of Biomass-Derived Furfural​

The reductive catalytic upcycling of polyolefin plastic waste​

Hydrothermal Carbonization as Sustainable Process for the Complete Upgrading of Orange Peel Waste into Value-Added Chemicals and Bio-Carbon Materials

A New Biorefinery Approach for the Full Valorisation of Anchovy Residues: Use of the Sludge Generated during the Extraction of Fish Oil as a Nitrogen Supplement in Anaerobic Digestion​

Electrospun Nanofibers and Electrochemical Techniques for the Detection of Heavy Metal Ions.​

Self Standing Mats of Blended Polyaniline Produced by Electrospinning

Integral valorization of orange peel waste through optimized ensiling: Lactic acid and bioethanol production

Sustainably Sourced Olive Polyphenols and Omega-3 Marine Lipids: A Synergy Fostering Public Health

 

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ji-Wei Ren | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren, Organic Chemistry, Taishan University , China 

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren is a Lecturer in the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Taishan University, China. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Central South University, where he developed expertise in visible light catalysis, organo catalysis, and green synthesis. Dr. Ren has previously served as a Research Associate at Ningbo University’s Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, engaging in interdisciplinary research on biomimetic reducing agents and chiral resolution. With a strong foundation in heterocyclic construction and peptide synthesis, his work integrates sustainable and biomimetic chemistry with modern synthetic methodologies. Dr. Ren has published multiple high-impact research articles in leading journals such as Org. Lett., J. Org. Chem., and Org. Chem. Front.. His research is characterized by innovation, precision, and relevance to both pharmaceutical and materials chemistry. He actively contributes to academic platforms like ORCID and collaborates with renowned scientists across China.

Professional Profile :         

Orcid

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his pioneering work in the field of organic synthesis, particularly in visible light catalysis, organocatalysis, and green chemistry. He has published over 11 peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals such as Organic Chemistry Frontiers, Journal of Organic Chemistry, Organic Letters, and Chemistry – A European Journal. Several of his works have been highlighted by Synfacts, showcasing their novelty and scientific impact. His innovative contributions include the development of racemization-free synthesis protocols, the application of biomimetic reducing agents, and the design of sustainable methodologies for heterocycle and peptide construction. He brings a fresh perspective to traditional synthetic methods by incorporating visible light and bio-inspired techniques, addressing both the efficiency and environmental responsibility in chemical synthesis. Dr. Ji-Wei Ren is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award”. His significant scientific output, innovation in research, recognition by the international community, and dedication to sustainable chemistry clearly distinguish him as a leading researcher in his field. His commitment to impactful and environmentally conscious science makes him not only an excellent candidate but also a role model for emerging researchers. This award would be a deserving recognition of his ongoing contributions to the scientific world.

🎓Education:

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren completed both his undergraduate and doctoral studies at Central South University. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Pharmaceutical Engineering in June 2013, where he gained foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical chemistry, drug design, and synthesis. Subsequently, he pursued a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering and Technology (2013–2019) at the same university. His Ph.D. research focused on innovative synthetic strategies using organo catalysis and visible-light-driven methodologies for the construction of functional molecules, especially in the development of peptide and heterocyclic compounds. Under the mentorship of distinguished faculty, he honed his skills in reaction design, stereoselective synthesis, and catalysis. His academic training also included a deep understanding of biomimetic reactions, green synthesis, and photochemical transformations. This robust educational background laid the groundwork for his interdisciplinary research efforts, enabling him to contribute significantly to the fields of sustainable and asymmetric synthesis.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren began his academic career as a Research Associate (2019–2022) at the Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, where he focused on peptide synthesis and the development of bio-inspired reducing agents. His role involved collaborative projects in pharmaceutical chemistry and catalysis, contributing to the advancement of efficient and eco-friendly synthetic methods. In August 2022, he joined Taishan University as a Lecturer in the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. At Taishan University, Dr. Ren continues his research in visible light catalysis and organocatalytic transformations, guiding students in advanced organic chemistry techniques and experimental methodologies. He has also contributed to curriculum development and interdisciplinary research programs. His teaching and research philosophy is rooted in innovation, sustainability, and student engagement. With over a decade of academic training and research, Dr. Ren combines a strong theoretical foundation with hands-on experience in both industrial and academic labs.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren has been consistently recognized for his impactful contributions to organic chemistry and green synthesis methodologies. His 2021 publication in Organic Letters was highlighted by Synfacts in 2022 for its innovative racemization-free synthesis approach, underlining the originality and practical importance of his work. Additionally, his earlier work in The Journal of Organic Chemistry (2017) was also spotlighted in Synfacts, reflecting his ongoing excellence in visible light-mediated and organocatalytic transformations. During his doctoral studies at Central South University, he was honored with multiple academic excellence awards for his outstanding research and scholarly dedication. His publications in top-tier journals like Organic Chemistry Frontiers, Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, and Chemistry – A European Journal have further established him as a rising expert in his field. These recognitions underscore both the scientific value and the practical applicability of his research in modern organic synthesis.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Ji-Wei Ren’s research is centered on the development of innovative, environmentally friendly methodologies in organic synthesis. His primary interests lie in visible light catalysis, where he designs photochemical processes to enable mild and selective transformations. He is also deeply involved in chiral resolution and organocatalysis, with a particular emphasis on enantioselective reactions that are crucial for pharmaceutical synthesis. A significant part of his work involves constructing complex heterocyclic compounds, often using biomimetic and green synthesis strategies to reduce environmental impact. Dr. Ren has pioneered the use of L-amino acid esters as biomimetic reducing agents and introduced new deoxygenation and amidation protocols that avoid racemization—critical for peptide and amide bond formation. His interdisciplinary approach blends traditional organic chemistry with sustainability, aiming to create scalable, efficient, and selective processes suitable for industrial application. His contributions significantly enhance both academic understanding and practical implementation in organic synthesis.

Publication Top Notes:

“A visible light-mediated deoxygenation protocol for the synthesis of dipeptides, amides and esters without racemization”​

“L-Amino acid ester as a biomimetic reducing agent for the reduction of unsaturated C=C bonds”

“Umpolung Strategy for the One-Pot Synthesis of Highly Steric Bispirooxindoles via the L-Amino Acid Ester-Promoted In Situ Reduction/Nucleophilic Addition/Cyclization Cascade Reaction”​

“A visible light-induced deoxygenative amidation protocol for the synthesis of dipeptides and amides”​

“An organocatalytic enantioselective ring-reorganization domino sequence of methyleneindolinones with 2-aminomalonates”​

“Straightforward Synthesis of 3-Selenocyanato-Substituted Chromones through Electrophilic Selenocyanation of Enaminones under Grinding Conditions”​

“Organocatalytic, Enantioselective, Polarity-Matched Ring-Reorganization Domino Sequence Based on the 3-Oxindole Scaffold”

“A One‐Pot Ring‐Opening/Ring‐Closure Sequence for the Synthesis of Polycyclic Spirooxindoles”​

“L-Pyroglutamic Sulphonamide as Hydrogen-Bonding Organocatalyst: Enantioselective Diels–Alder Cyclization to Construct Carbazolespirooxindoles”

“Acid-Relayed Organocatalytic exo-Diels-Alder Cycloaddition of Cyclic Enones with 2-Vinyl-1H-indoles”