Dr. Yuntian Xiao | Coordination Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuntian Xiao | Coordination Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuntian Xiao , Tianjin University , China

Yuntian Xiao is a Ph.D. candidate at Tianjin University’s School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, specializing in chemical engineering with a focus on crystallization technology. Guided by Professor Qiuxiang Yin, Xiao’s research emphasizes sustainable pesticide delivery, environmental chemistry, and molecular simulation. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University of Science and Technology, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering at Tianjin University. He has contributed significantly to the fields of cocrystal engineering and agrochemical sustainability, earning numerous accolades such as the National Scholarship and the Tianjin University Major Awards. Xiao has published extensively in top journals like Chem. Eng. J. and Green Chem., showcasing innovations in crystallization and molecular assembly. Proficient in advanced lab techniques and computational tools, Xiao actively engages in research that bridges science and industry, aiming to develop eco-friendly solutions in agriculture and beyond.

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Yuntian Xiao demonstrates exceptional qualifications that align with the criteria for the “Best Researcher Awards.” As a Ph.D. candidate specializing in chemical engineering at Tianjin University, Xiao has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental chemistry through cocrystal engineering and molecular simulation. With 15 high-impact publications in prestigious journals such as Chem. Eng. J. and ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, Xiao has advanced innovations in agrochemical delivery systems and crystallization processes. His interdisciplinary research addresses global challenges like environmental sustainability and efficient pesticide usage. Based on his impactful research contributions, proven academic excellence, and innovative approaches to addressing critical environmental issues, Yuntian Xiao is a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Awards.” His dedication to sustainability and interdisciplinary problem-solving exemplifies the qualities expected of a leading researcher, making him a deserving nominee.

🎓Education:

Yuntian Xiao is pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Tianjin University’s School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, where he specializes in crystallization technology under the guidance of Professor Qiuxiang Yin. His doctoral research focuses on sustainable agrochemical solutions through cocrystal engineering. Xiao earned his Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, working at the National Engineering Research Center of Industry Crystallization Technology under Professor Chuang Xie . During his Master’s program, he deepened his understanding of crystallization processes and molecular simulations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Tianjin University of Science and Technology, where he excelled academically, achieving a GPA of 3.92. His comprehensive curriculum covered subjects like Chemical Thermodynamics, Reaction Engineering, and Phase Diagrams, building a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles. Xiao’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for advancing sustainable chemical engineering solutions.

🏢Work Experience:

Yuntian Xiao has diverse research experience in crystallization technology and sustainable chemical engineering solutions. His doctoral research includes developing cocrystal engineering strategies for agrochemical delivery, focusing on herbicides with sustained release, reduced leaching, and enhanced efficiency. He has employed molecular simulations to understand these processes at a mechanistic level. Xiao has also contributed to interdisciplinary projects, including the melt crystallization of buty nediol, reactive crystallization of sodium bicarbonate, and cooling crystallization of creatine phosphate sodium. His main responsibilities involved optimizing experimental methods, modeling processes, and analyzing factors influencing industrial crystallization outcomes. Proficient in techniques like PXRD, TGA/DSC, SEM, Raman, and HPLC, Xiao also has advanced computational skills, including MATLAB and Materials Studio. His expertise combines experimental techniques with computational modeling, allowing him to bridge fundamental research with industrial applications. Xiao’s contributions highlight his ability to address real-world challenges in chemical engineering effectively.

🏅Awards: 

Yuntian Xiao has received numerous awards recognizing his academic excellence and research achievements. As a Ph.D. student, he earned the Ph.D. Student Major Award (2021–2022) from Tianjin University for his innovative research in chemical engineering. During his Master’s program, he consistently achieved the Master Student Major Awards (2018–2021) and a Minor Award (2019–2020) for exceptional academic performance and contributions to crystallization research. His undergraduate achievements include the National Scholarship (2017–2018), a prestigious honor awarded for outstanding academic performance and extracurricular involvement. Additionally, Xiao received the Student Major Awards (2015–2018) from Tianjin University of Science and Technology and the Merit Student Award (2015–2016) from Hebei University of Technology. These accolades reflect Xiao’s dedication to excellence and his impactful contributions to chemical engineering research, solidifying his reputation as a top-performing researcher and scholar.

🔬Research Focus:

Yuntian Xiao’s research focuses on sustainable chemical engineering solutions, particularly through cocrystal engineering. His work addresses global challenges in agriculture and environmental chemistry by designing eco-friendly agrochemical delivery systems. By developing novel cocrystals, Xiao aims to achieve sustained-release pesticides and herbicides with reduced environmental leaching and enhanced efficacy. His expertise extends to mechanochemistry and molecular simulations, employing advanced computational tools to predict and optimize crystallization mechanisms. Xiao has also explored solid-state chemistry to enhance the lifecycle efficiency of agrochemicals. His interdisciplinary projects include studies on the crystallization of buty nediol, sodium bicarbonate, and creatine phosphate sodium, demonstrating his ability to translate research into industrial applications. Xiao’s research integrates experimental techniques like PXRD, Raman spectroscopy, and HPLC with computational modeling, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of crystallization processes. His innovative work in sustainable chemical engineering highlights his commitment to addressing pressing environmental and agricultural challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Title: Cocrystals of propylthiouracil and nutraceuticals toward sustained-release: Design, structure analysis, and solid-state characterization
Authors: Y Xiao, L Zhou, H Hao, Y Bao, Q Yin, C Xie
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 47
Year: 2021

2. Title: New salts and cocrystals of pymetrozine with improvements on solubility and humidity stability: Experimental and theoretical study
Authors: D Wu, J Li, Y Xiao, X Ji, C Li, B Zhang, B Hou, L Zhou, C Xie, J Gong, …
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 46
Year: 2021

3. Title: Mechanochemical synthesis of cocrystal: From mechanism to application
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, X Hu, K Chen, L Qi, P Cui, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 29
Year: 2023

4. Title: Cocrystal engineering strategy for sustained release and leaching reduction of herbicides: a case study of metamitron
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, L Zhou, Q Yin, J Yang
Journal: Green Chemistry
Citations: 24
Year: 2022

5. Title: Pursuing Green and Efficient Agriculture from Molecular Assembly: A Review of Solid-State Forms on Agrochemicals
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, P Cui, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Citations: 21
Year: 2023

6. Title: Analysis of solid-liquid equilibrium behavior of highly water-soluble beet herbicide metamitron in thirteen pure solvents using experiments and molecular simulations
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, C Zhao, L Qi, Y Bao, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Journal of Molecular Liquids
Citations: 18
Year: 2022

7. Title: Structure analysis and insight into hydrogen bond and van der Waals interactions of etoricoxib cocrystals and cocrystal solvate
Authors: Y Wang, L Wang, F Zhang, N Wang, Y Gao, Y Xiao, Z Wang, Y Bao
Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
Citations: 16
Year: 2022

8. Title: Comparison Study of KBH4 Spherical Agglomerates Prepared in Different Antisolvents: Mechanisms and Properties
Authors: Z Zhang, L Wang, P Zhao, Y Xiao, H Hao, Y Bao
Journal: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
Citations: 13
Year: 2021

9. Title: Intermolecular interactions and solubility behavior of multicomponent crystal forms of 2,4-D: Design, structure analysis, and solid-state characterization
Authors: L Fang, Y Xiao, C Zhang, Z Gao, S Wu, J Gong, S Rohani
Journal: CrystEngComm
Citations: 13
Year: 2021

10. Title: Enhancing adsorption capacity and herbicidal efficacy of 2,4-D through supramolecular self-assembly: insights from cocrystal engineering to solution chemistry
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, P Cui, X Luo, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Citations: 12
Year: 2023

 

 

 

 

 

Ms. Nontobeko Simelane | Green Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nontobeko Simelane | Green Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nontobeko Simelane |University of KwaZulu Natal | South Africa

Nontobeko Precious Simelane is a driven PhD candidate in Chemistry at the University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, with a strong background in Materials Science. Known for her dedication to academic excellence, she has experience mentoring students and working as a laboratory demonstrator. She completed her MSc in Industrial Physics with distinction and holds a BSc in Chemistry and an Honours degree in Chemical Technology, specializing in polymer material science. Nontobeko is particularly skilled in polymer synthesis and has contributed to impactful projects and reviews in biopolymer composites. Her work emphasizes sustainable material solutions, bridging scientific research and real-world applications. With multiple publications and conference presentations, she actively contributes to research on environmentally friendly materials, transparent wood, and pollutant-removing biopolymer composites.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Given her academic distinction, impactful research, and dedication to sustainable development, Nontobeko Precious Simelane is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses environmental challenges, embodying a balance of innovation and responsibility essential for a leading researcher in today’s world.

🎓Education:

Nontobeko’s educational journey in science began with a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Pretoria in 2016, providing a strong foundation in analytical and applied chemistry. She then completed an Honours degree in Chemical Technology with a specialization in polymer material science in 2018, where she honed her skills in polymer synthesis and applications. Her MSc in Industrial Physics at Tshwane University of Technology, completed in 2022 with distinction, emphasized practical applications of physics in material sciences. Currently, Nontobeko is pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at the University of KwaZulu Natal, focusing on the development of engineered transparent wood for sustainable construction materials. This educational trajectory has equipped her with comprehensive knowledge in chemistry, materials science, and industrial applications, forming a solid background for her current research in sustainable materials.

🏢Work Experience:

Nontobeko has accumulated valuable experience in academia and research through roles such as Laboratory Demonstrator and Postgraduate Teaching Assistant. As a Laboratory Demonstrator at the University of KwaZulu Natal, she supervises first-year students, ensuring lab safety and understanding of core chemistry concepts. At Tshwane University of Technology, she served as a Postgraduate Teaching Assistant, conducting physics practicals for first-year students and providing insightful feedback to support their learning. Her research experience includes a Polymer Technology Internship at the National Research Foundation, where she synthesized and analyzed polymer composites, reporting on their thermal stability and mentoring two undergraduates. This combination of hands-on research and teaching experience has made Nontobeko skilled in mentoring, experimental design, and effective communication of complex scientific concepts.

🏅Awards:

Nontobeko’s academic and research excellence has been recognized with several awards. She graduated Cum Laude with her MSc in Industrial Physics from Tshwane University of Technology, reflecting her commitment to excellence with an average of 83%. As a top 15% performer in her faculty, she was inducted into the Golden Key International Honour Society, an acknowledgment of her dedication and hard work. Her research contributions have been showcased at notable events like the Postgraduate Research and Innovation Symposium at the University of KwaZulu Natal and the South African Institute of Physics conference, where she presented her work on biopolymer composites and sustainable wood materials. These honors underscore her commitment to impactful research in sustainable materials and her role as a promising young scientist in the field.

🔬Research Focus:

Nontobeko’s research centers on sustainable materials, with a focus on developing environmentally friendly solutions for industry and everyday use. Her PhD research investigates engineered transparent wood as a sustainable alternative to conventional glass in construction, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Additionally, her work in biopolymer composites addresses the urgent need for eco-friendly materials capable of removing toxic organic pollutants from pharmaceutical effluents. This research aligns with her commitment to green chemistry, focusing on biodegradable, renewable materials that mitigate pollution and reduce waste. Nontobeko’s work contributes to advancing sustainable technologies, combining her expertise in polymer science with a mission to address environmental challenges through innovative chemistry.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Engineered transparent wood with cellulose matrix for glass applications: A review
    • Citations: 1
  • Biopolymer composites for removal of toxic organic compounds in pharmaceutical effluents – a review
    • Citations: 15

 

 

Elaheh Yaghoubi | Reaction Mechanisms | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Elaheh Yaghoubi | Reaction Mechanisms | Women Researcher Award

Doctorate at Karabuk University, Turkey

Elaheh Yaghoubi is a Ph.D. candidate in Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Karabuk University, Turkey, where she has achieved a perfect GPA of 4.0. Her research centers on power system analysis, microgrids, and renewable energy, showcasing her commitment to advancing smart grid technologies. With a robust background in electrical engineering, Elaheh combines academic excellence with practical experience in quality control and web development.

Author Metrics

Google Scholar Profile

Elaheh has several publications under review, showcasing her contributions to the fields of power systems and control strategies. Her works have been recognized for their innovation, particularly in model predictive control and the application of machine learning in smart grids, highlighting her emerging impact in the research community.

  • Citations: Elaheh has accumulated a total of 77 citations, with 75 citations since 2019, indicating a strong and growing influence in her field.
  • h-index: Her h-index is 6, reflecting that she has six publications that have each been cited at least six times, showcasing her impactful contributions to research.
  • i10-index: Elaheh holds an i10-index of 4, meaning she has at least four publications with ten or more citations each, highlighting her ability to produce significant and recognized research outputs.

Education

Elaheh’s academic journey is marked by exceptional achievements: she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Karabuk University (2021-present) with a focus on optimal power control, following her M.Sc. from Islamic Azad University (2016-2018) and a B.Sc. from Aryan Institute of Science and Technology (2012-2014), both with a GPA of 4.0. Her strong educational foundation supports her research ambitions in advanced electrical engineering topics.

Research Focus

Her research primarily explores power system stability, microgrid management, and renewable energy integration. Elaheh is particularly interested in model predictive control (MPC) and the application of artificial intelligence techniques, such as machine learning and deep learning, to enhance the efficiency and reliability of smart grids.

Professional Journey

Elaheh’s professional experience includes roles as a Principal Researcher in the PEDAR Group and as a Senior Manager in multiple electronics companies. She has also contributed as a website designer, where she combined her engineering background with web development skills. This diverse experience reflects her capability to integrate technical expertise with managerial responsibilities.

Honors & Awards

She has received the Best Researcher Award, underscoring her dedication to excellence in her research endeavors. This recognition highlights her contributions to innovative solutions in electrical engineering, particularly in the context of microgrids and smart grids.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Elaheh has several publications in reputable journals, focusing on real-time operations in microgrids, model predictive control, and power system risk analysis. Her work aims to push the boundaries of traditional methods, integrating advanced technologies to address contemporary challenges in electrical engineering.

1. A systematic review and meta-analysis of machine learning, deep learning, and ensemble learning approaches in predicting EV charging behavior

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Khamees, D. Razmi, T. Lu
  • Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This publication presents a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of various machine learning techniques applied to predict electric vehicle (EV) charging behavior. By synthesizing existing studies, it provides insights into the effectiveness and reliability of different algorithms, serving as a valuable resource for future research in EV infrastructure and smart grid integration.

2. A systematic review and meta-analysis of artificial neural network, machine learning, deep learning, and ensemble learning approaches in the field of geotechnical engineering

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Khamees, AH Vakili
  • Journal: Neural Computing and Applications
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This paper explores the application of advanced computational methods in geotechnical engineering. By evaluating the performance of neural networks and other machine learning techniques, it highlights their potential to improve predictive accuracy in engineering applications, thus contributing to enhanced design and safety standards.

3. Controlling and tracking the maximum active power point in a photovoltaic system connected to the grid using the fuzzy neural controller

  • Authors: Z. Yusupov, E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi
  • Conference: 14th International Conference on Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Publication Year: 2023
  • Summary: This conference paper discusses a fuzzy neural controller designed to optimize the power output of photovoltaic systems. By effectively managing the maximum power point tracking (MPPT), this research contributes to the efficiency of solar energy systems, which is crucial for integrating renewable sources into the grid.

4. Modeling and Control of Decentralized Microgrid Based on Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicle Charging Station

  • Authors: Z. Yusupov, N. Almagrahi, E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Habbal, D. Kodirov
  • Conference: World Conference on Intelligent System for Industrial Automation
  • Publication Year: 2022
  • Summary: This paper presents a model for decentralized microgrids that incorporates renewable energy sources and EV charging stations. The research emphasizes control strategies that enhance the reliability and sustainability of microgrid operations, aligning with the growing need for green energy solutions.

5. Real-time techno-economical operation of preserving microgrids via optimal NLMPC considering uncertainties

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, Z. Yusupov, J. Rahebi
  • Journal: Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This study focuses on a novel non-linear model predictive control (NLMPC) approach for the real-time management of microgrids. By considering uncertainties, it aims to optimize techno-economic performance, thus enhancing the operational resilience and economic viability of microgrid systems.

Research Timeline

Elaheh’s research timeline includes her current Ph.D. work from 2021 onwards, with key publications submitted and under review throughout 2024. This timeline indicates her active engagement in research and continuous contributions to the field, aiming to establish a strong foundation for future innovations.

Conclusion

Dr. Elaheh Yaghoubi’s achievements as a Ph.D. candidate at Karabuk University exemplify her dedication to advancing the field of electrical engineering, particularly in power systems and renewable energy. Her innovative research, marked by significant contributions and a strong academic background, has earned her recognition as the Best Researcher. While there are areas for improvement, such as expanding her publication reach and enhancing collaboration efforts, her trajectory suggests a promising future in research. As she continues to push the boundaries of smart grid technologies, Elaheh is poised to make lasting impacts in her field and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.