Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo | Analytical Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo | Analytical Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Pos doctor at Federal University of the Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys | Brazil

Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo is a Brazilian researcher specializing in analytical and forensic chemistry, with an emphasis on electrochemical detection methods for drugs of abuse. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the Federal University of the Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM) under Prof. Dr. Wallans Torres Pio dos Santos. Her doctoral research focuses on developing portable, field-deployable methods for drug screening. In 2024, she undertook a Sandwich Ph.D. program at Manchester Metropolitan University with Prof. Craig Banks, further advancing her work in colorimetric and electrochemical sensors. With over 160 citations and an H-index of 9, Larissa has contributed significantly to high-impact journals in analytical chemistry. She combines her expertise in electrochemical sensing, device fabrication, and forensic toxicology to innovate rapid and cost-effective screening technologies. Her international collaborations and technical contributions highlight her growing influence in modern forensic science and public health monitoring.

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Education 

Larissa Melo’s academic journey demonstrates a progressive dedication to chemistry and engineering. She is currently a Ph.D. fellow (2021–2025) at UFVJM in Brazil, where her research involves the development of portable methods for forensic drug detection. In 2024, she participated in a Sandwich Ph.D. at Manchester Metropolitan University under Prof. Craig Banks. Prior to her doctorate, she earned a Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry (2019–2021) from UFVJM, where she developed a screening method for synthetic tryptamines. She also completed a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering (2018–2023) and another in Science and Technology (2014–2018) at UFVJM. Her foundational education includes a technical course in Electrical Technology (2010–2013) from the Federal Institute of Espírito Santo. This solid multidisciplinary background has equipped her with strong skills in analytical instrumentation, electrochemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering, all of which support her advanced research in forensic applications.

Professional Experience 

Larissa Melo brings strong academic and research experience, particularly in forensic electrochemistry. Her doctoral work (2021–2025) at UFVJM focuses on creating portable devices for the electrochemical detection of synthetic drugs. In 2024, she joined Manchester Metropolitan University under a Sandwich Ph.D. program, working with Prof. Craig Banks on hybrid sensor systems. During her Master’s (2019–2021), she developed a fast electrochemical method for tryptamine detection. She has co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications in top journals, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on drug screening innovations using screen-printed electrodes, colorimetric methods, and 3D-printed analytical tools. Larissa has also contributed to critical reviews and sensor fabrication methods. Her experience includes technical work with disposable electrodes, boron-doped diamond sensors, and voltammetry. Additionally, she’s actively involved in developing environmentally friendly, field-portable diagnostic tools. Larissa’s practical and collaborative work underscores her capability in applying chemistry to real-world forensic and public health challenges.

Awards and Honors 

While specific awards are not explicitly listed, Larissa Melo’s research impact and international engagements reflect significant academic recognition. She was competitively selected for a Sandwich Ph.D. fellowship at Manchester Metropolitan University (2024), a testament to her research excellence and international collaboration skills. Her publication record includes articles in top-tier journals such as Electrochimica Acta, Talanta, TrAC, and Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, often as the first or lead author. She has amassed over 165 citations and holds an H-index of 9, highlighting her work’s influence in analytical and forensic chemistry. Larissa’s interdisciplinary research on electrochemical and colorimetric methods for drug detection showcases her contribution to forensic science innovation. Her rapid rise as a productive early-career researcher, mentorship by globally recognized experts like Prof. Wallans dos Santos and Prof. Craig Banks, and verified academic credentials on the Lattes platform further confirm her growing stature in scientific communities.

Research Interests 

Larissa Melo’s research interests center around analytical chemistry, electrochemical sensing, and forensic science. Her work focuses on the development of rapid, portable, and cost-effective electrochemical and colorimetric detection methods for drugs of abuse. She is particularly interested in screen-printed electrodes, boron-doped diamond sensors, and 3D-printed electrochemical cells to detect substances such as synthetic cathinones, cannabinoids, tryptamines, amphetamines, and hallucinogens. Her interdisciplinary approach combines chemical engineering principles, material science, and electroanalysis to improve point-of-care diagnostics. Larissa also explores hybrid detection platforms combining colorimetric and electrochemical signals, enhancing sensitivity and specificity for field-based forensic analysis. She contributes to critical reviews and technical innovations in clinical toxicology, pharmaceutical analysis, and biosensors. Her goal is to make analytical methods more accessible, environmentally friendly, and applicable in real-time settings, such as customs, crime scenes, and emergency rooms.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Portable analytical methods for detecting synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists: a critical review

  2. A dual colorimetric-electrochemical platform based on bromocresol green for the selective detection of atropine

  3. Selective screening of synthetic cathinones, amphetamines, piperazines, and phenethylamines using voltammetry

  4. Electrochemistry of the synthetic tryptamine 5-MeO-MiPT at glassy carbon and screen-printed electrodes

  5. Novel colorimetric-electrochemical methods for selective identification and quantification of Scopolamine

  6. Use of a lab-made disposable screen-printed sensor with boron-doped diamond for N-ethylpentylone detection

  7. Combined colorimetric and electrochemical screening method for selective detection of MDMA

  8. Electrochemical methods for determination of acetaminophen in biological matrices: a critical review

  9. Selective screening of NBOHs, NBOMes, and LSD using a 3D-Printed electrochemical double cell

  10. Electrochemical detection of mephedrone using a graphene screen-printed electrode

  11. Electrochemical method for detecting synthetic cannabinoids in e-cigarette and biological samples

  12. Chemically deposited boron-doped diamond screen-printed electrodes for manganese detection

  13. Colorimetric-Electrochemical Combined Method for Detection of Drugs in Blotter Papers

  14. SMART 3D-printed electrochemical cell for on-site and forensic analysis

  15. Oxygen plasma-treated graphite sheet electrodes for methamphetamines

  16. Fast screening of MDEA using carbon screen-printed electrode and voltammetry

  17. Electrochemical detection of 1-benzylpiperazine on carbon screen-printed electrode

  18. Screening method for detection of 1-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazine in forensic samples

  19. Selective screening method for MDPT using carbon nanofiber screen-printed electrodes

  20. Detection of LSD in forensic samples using carbon nanotube screen-printed electrodes

  21. Detection of 2C-B using environmentally friendly screen-printed electrodes

  22. Professional biography of Dorothy Hodgkin – Contributions to Chemistry, Biology, and Biochemistry

Conclusion

Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo exemplifies the next generation of analytical chemists committed to real-world impact in forensic science. Her research bridges engineering and chemistry to develop innovative, portable, and sustainable methods for drug detection. With international experience, strong academic output, and cross-disciplinary skills, she is well-positioned for leadership in global forensic chemistry research.

 

Ms. NTUMBA LOBO | Physical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. NTUMBA LOBO | Physical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Ms. NTUMBA LOBO | Physical Chemistry | PhD student at NAGOYA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, Japan

Ntumba Lobo, a Congolese researcher, is a Ph.D. student and research assistant at Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan. She specializes in semiconductor materials, focusing on carrier recombination effects in perovskites. She holds a Master’s degree from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan, in hydrogen storage materials, and an M.Sc. in Nuclear Physics from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. With experience in international collaborations, she was an exchange researcher at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany. Ntumba has participated in several scientific conferences and published extensively in high-impact journals. She has also held teaching and research positions, including at the University of Kinshasa and the Centre Régional de Recherche Nucléaire de Kinshasa. Her work contributes significantly to materials science and renewable energy applications.

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Ntumba Lobo is an exceptional researcher with a strong multidisciplinary background in semiconductor materials, energy storage, and nuclear physics. Her Ph.D. research at Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan, focuses on metal halide perovskites, lithium tantalate, and carrier dynamics, contributing significantly to the development of advanced semiconductor materials. She has demonstrated excellence in research through multiple international collaborations, including an exchange program at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany. Her expertise in material characterization techniques such as Time-Resolved Photoluminescence (TRPL), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) has led to high-impact publications and conference presentations. Ntumba Lobo’s extensive research contributions, global collaborations, and expertise in semiconductor and energy materials make her a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Her work is not only innovative but also has a significant impact on the future of optoelectronic devices and sustainable energy solutions. Her dedication to scientific excellence, combined with her ability to work across disciplines, positions her as a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.

🎓Education:

Ntumba Lobo is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Science and Engineering at Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan, specializing in semiconductor materials (expected completion in September 2025). She was an exchange student at i-MEET, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany, in 2022, where she worked on single and polycrystal semiconductor materials. She obtained a Master’s degree in Science and Engineering from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan (2018-2020), focusing on energy storage materials. Before that, she completed an M.Sc. in Nuclear Physics from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia (2014-2016), with a dissertation on nuclear fusion reactions. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Honors) in Physics from the University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (2012), where she contributed to non-destructive characterization of reinforced concrete using ultrasound methods. Her diverse educational background in physics, material science, and engineering has equipped her with expertise in semiconductor research and energy materials.

🏢Work Experience:

Ntumba Lobo has extensive experience in research and teaching. Since 2020, she has been a Research Assistant at Nagoya Institute of Technology, working on semiconductor materials and device characterization. She has completed multiple internships, including at OSM Group Co., Ltd. (Japan, 2019) and For Delight Co. Ltd. (Japan, 2018), where she gained industry exposure. Her research career started with an internship at the Centre Régional de Recherche Nucléaire de Kinshasa (2016-2017) in nuclear physics. She also worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Kinshasa (2013-2014) and taught physics, scientific drawing, and technology at Liziba High School (2012-2013). Her hands-on expertise in material characterization techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and photoconductivity measurements, has contributed to multiple high-impact publications. Her professional experience spans academic, industrial, and research institutions, making her a well-rounded scientist in semiconductor and energy materials.

🏅Awards: 

Ntumba Lobo has been recognized for her contributions to material science and semiconductor research. She received funding for an exchange research program at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany (2022), where she worked on advanced semiconductor materials. Her research on energy storage materials during her Master’s at Shibaura Institute of Technology was highly appreciated. She has presented her work at prestigious conferences, including the 16th International Symposium on Metal-Hydrogen Systems (China, 2018) and the Solid-State Devices and Materials Conference (Japan, 2023). She also participated in specialized training programs such as the Summer School on Space Weather in Kinshasa (2011) and Advanced Python Programming and Geographic Information Systems training in Addis Ababa (2016). Her continuous engagement in international research collaborations and conferences showcases her commitment to scientific advancement.

🔬Research Focus:

Ntumba Lobo’s research focuses on semiconductor materials, particularly metal halide perovskites and their carrier dynamics. She investigates surface recombination, carrier lifetime, and trapping effects in single and polycrystalline materials using techniques like Microwave Photoconductivity Decay (µPCD) and Time-Resolved Photoluminescence (TRPL). Her work extends to lithium tantalate and its photoconductance properties. She has also contributed to the field of hydrogen storage materials, analyzing the effects of TiO₂, Nb₂O₅, and TiH₂ catalysts on magnesium hydride. Additionally, her expertise in nuclear physics has allowed her to explore neutron-induced reactions and fusion mechanisms. By integrating her knowledge in physics, materials science, and engineering, she aims to develop efficient, stable, and high-performance materials for energy storage and semiconductor applications. Her research is pivotal in advancing next-generation optoelectronic devices and sustainable energy solutions.

Publication Top Notes:

Stability investigation of the γ-MgH₂ phase synthesized by high-energy ball milling

Citations: 27

Stable quasi-solid-state zinc-ion battery based on the hydrated vanadium oxide cathode and polyacrylamide-organohydrogel electrolyte

Citations: 13

Trapping effects and surface/interface recombination of carrier recombination in single- or poly-crystalline metal halide perovskites

Citations: 9

Study of ²⁰Ne Induced Reaction in ⁵⁹Co: Incomplete and Complete Fusion

Citations: 3

Effect of TiO₂ + Nb₂O₅ + TiH₂ Catalysts on Hydrogen Storage Properties of Magnesium Hydride

Citations: 2

La Super Symétrie en Physique Quantique

Citations: 1

Mitigation of carrier trapping effects on carrier lifetime measurements with continuous-wave laser illumination for Pb-based metal halide perovskite materials

Transport and business improvement in the province of South-Ubangi (Democratic Republic of the Congo)

 

Dr. Minitha R | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Minitha R | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Minitha R ,Inorganic Chemistry, GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE, EZHUKONE, KOLLAM, KERALA, India

Dr. Minitha R. is an Associate Professor with over 14 years of teaching and 15 years of research experience in chemistry. She holds an M.Sc., M.Phil., NET, UGC-JRF, and Ph.D. Her expertise spans organic, coordination, supramolecular, and inorganic chemistry. She has served in key academic roles, including NSS Programme Officer and Chief Superintendent of Examinations. A dedicated researcher, Dr. Minitha has guided students and undertaken projects like developing a chemosensor for metal ion detection. She has organized multiple national seminars and actively participates in international conferences and workshops.

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Minitha R., an accomplished Associate Professor with 15 years of research experience, has significantly contributed to the field of Inorganic Chemistry, particularly in Coordination Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. With a strong publication record, she has authored several impactful research papers in highly reputed journals, covering diverse topics such as metal complexes, chemosensors, molecular structures, and spectroscopic studies. Dr. Minitha R. is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” given her proven research excellence, scholarly contributions, and leadership in the scientific community. Her extensive work in metal-based coordination complexes, chemosensors, and supramolecular chemistry, along with her active role in mentoring and academic leadership, makes her a highly deserving nominee.

🎓Education:

Dr. Minitha R. holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and has qualified for the NET and UGC-JRF. She completed her M.Sc. and M.Phil. in Chemistry, demonstrating academic excellence throughout. Her education provided her with a strong foundation in inorganic chemistry, particularly in complex synthesis, supramolecular interactions, and chemosensing applications. Her academic journey was driven by a passion for molecular recognition, ligand design, and structural chemistry. She has actively participated in seminars and workshops to enhance her knowledge and keep up with evolving research trends.

🏢Work Experience:

With 14 years of teaching and 15 years of research experience, Dr. Minitha R. has handled Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry courses. She has successfully guided research scholars, fostering innovations in supramolecular and coordination chemistry. Apart from teaching, she has played key roles as an NSS Programme Officer, Nature Club Coordinator, Chief Superintendent of Examinations, and Young Innovators Programme Facilitator. She has also organized national seminars and workshops on emerging trends in chemistry, enhancing academic collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Minitha R. has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to academia and research. She served as the NSS Programme Officer (2021-2022), demonstrating her commitment to student welfare and community service. As the Nature Club Coordinator (2019-2020), she played a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness. Her leadership extended to being the Chief Superintendent of Examinations (2020-2021), ensuring smooth academic assessments. Additionally, she facilitated the Young Innovators Programme (2019), fostering creativity and scientific curiosity among students. Her research endeavors were supported by a KSCSTE-funded M.Sc. student project, where she developed a chemosensor for metal ion detection. These roles reflect her dedication to education, research, and institutional development.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Minitha R. specializes in Inorganic Chemistry, with a keen interest in Organic Chemistry, Coordination Chemistry, and Supramolecular Chemistry. Her research explores the synthesis and characterization of novel metal complexes, particularly those with biological and chemosensory applications. She has contributed significantly to the development of pyrazolylhydrazone-based metal complexes, dioxo molybdenum(VI) compounds, and benzothiazolium salts. Her work also extends to fluorescent hydrazones and ruthenium(II) complexes, emphasizing their structural and functional properties. Additionally, her studies on five-coordinate Zn(II) complexes highlight their potential in nonlinear optical applications. Through her research, she aims to bridge the gap between fundamental chemistry and real-world applications, particularly in materials science, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry.

Publication Top Notes:

Formation of dicyano ruthenium(II) complex mediated by triethylamine via deprotonation of hydrazonochroman-2,4-dione
Synthesis, spectroscopic and biological studies of metal complexes of an ONO donor pyrazolylhydrazone – Crystal structure of ligand and Co(II) complex
Studies of some dioxo molybdenum(VI) complexes of a polydentate ligand
One pot synthesis of 1–(3–methyl–4H–benzo[1,4]thiazin–2–yl)-ethanone and its antimicrobial properties
 Synthesis, spectral, and magnetic studies of benzothiazolium tetrachlorocuprate salts: crystal structure and semiconducting behavior of bis[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)benzothiazolium] tetrachlorocuprate(II)
Fluorescent coumarin-based hydrazone: Synthesis, crystal structure, and spectroscopic studies
FT-IR, FT-Raman and computational study of 1H-2,2-dimethyl-3H-phenothiazin-4[10H]-one
Synthesis, crystal structure, spectral analysis, and NLO studies of five-coordinate Zn(II) complexes of hydrazochromandione
 Chemosensing study of 1,4-Benzothiazine generated from acetylacetone