Prof. Mohammad Bakherad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 29/03/202504/04/2025 by sciencefather

Prof. Mohammad Bakherad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mohammad Bakherad | Organic Chemistry | Researcher at Shahrood University of Technology, Iran

Mohammad Bakherad, born in 1969 in Mashhad, Iran, is a distinguished Professor of Organic Chemistry at Shahrood University of Technology. He earned his B.Sc. in Chemistry from Isfahan University (1992) and completed his M.Sc. (1995) and Ph.D. (2002) at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad under the mentorship of Majid M. Heravi and Mohammad Rahimizadeh. With a prolific research career, he has published over 147 ISI-indexed papers, contributing significantly to organic synthesis, heterocyclic chemistry, catalysis, and green chemistry. His expertise in organometallic reagents and innovative synthetic methodologies has gained international recognition. He has mentored numerous students and led cutting-edge research projects. His commitment to academic excellence and scientific contributions continues to shape the field of organic chemistry in Iran and beyond.

Professional Profile :

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Mohammad Bakherad is a highly accomplished researcher in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in catalysis, heterocyclic chemistry, and green synthetic methodologies. His academic journey, from earning a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad to becoming a full Professor at Shahrood University of Technology, demonstrates his dedication to research and innovation. With over 147 ISI-cited papers, his contributions have significantly advanced the understanding and application of novel catalytic and environmentally friendly synthetic approaches. Dr. Mohammad Bakherad’s outstanding publication record, pioneering research in organic synthesis and catalysis, and commitment to sustainable chemistry make him an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His work has had a profound impact on the scientific community, shaping the future of organic chemistry. His innovative methodologies, leadership in academia, and dedication to mentorship and collaborative research make him highly deserving of this recognition.

🎓Education:

Mohammad Bakherad pursued his B.Sc. in Chemistry at Isfahan University, Iran, from 1988 to 1992. He then continued his academic journey at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, where he obtained his M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry (1993–1996) and later earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (1996–2002). His doctoral research was conducted under the supervision of esteemed professors Majid M. Heravi and Mohammad Rahimizadeh, focusing on advanced organic synthesis and heterocyclic chemistry. His academic background provided him with a strong foundation in organic methodologies, catalysis, and the development of novel heterocyclic compounds. Through rigorous training and research, he developed expertise in the synthesis of organic frameworks, organometallic reagents, and green chemistry applications. His educational journey laid the groundwork for a prolific career in organic synthesis, contributing significantly to the field with numerous publications and advancements in catalytic and environmentally friendly synthetic approaches.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Mohammad Bakherad has had an extensive academic career, beginning as an Assistant Professor of Organic Chemistry at Shahrood University of Technology in July 2003. His dedication and contributions to research and teaching led to his promotion to Associate Professor in January 2008. In February 2013, he achieved the rank of Professor, solidifying his position as a leading researcher in organic and heterocyclic chemistry. Throughout his career, he has mentored numerous students, guiding them in advanced research methodologies and fostering innovation in catalysis and organic synthesis. His teaching experience spans undergraduate and postgraduate levels, covering specialized topics such as organometallic chemistry, synthetic methodologies, and green chemistry. Additionally, he has been actively involved in collaborative research projects, contributing to cutting-edge developments in organic chemistry. His expertise has led to significant advancements in sustainable chemical processes and the development of novel heterocyclic frameworks.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Mohammad Bakherad has received numerous accolades in recognition of his outstanding contributions to organic chemistry. He has been honored for his pioneering work in catalysis, green synthetic methods, and heterocyclic chemistry. His research excellence has been acknowledged through multiple awards from national and international scientific organizations. He has been invited as a keynote speaker at prestigious conferences, highlighting his expertise in organic synthesis and catalytic methodologies. His scholarly achievements include being recognized for his high-impact publications in leading scientific journals. Furthermore, his commitment to mentorship and academic excellence has earned him appreciation from students and colleagues alike. As a distinguished researcher, he has also been part of various scientific committees, contributing to the advancement of chemistry education and research. His contributions continue to shape the field, fostering innovation and inspiring future generations of chemists.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Mohammad Bakherad’s research focuses on organic synthesis, particularly in heterocyclic chemistry, catalysis, and green synthetic methodologies. He has made significant contributions to the development of novel heterocyclic compounds and organometallic reagents, which play a crucial role in medicinal and materials chemistry. His work in catalytic processes has led to innovative and environmentally friendly approaches for synthesizing complex organic molecules. He has explored palladium-catalyzed reactions, Sonogashira coupling, and cyclocondensation techniques to design efficient synthetic routes. Additionally, his interest in sustainable chemistry has driven his research on recyclable catalysts and water-based reactions, reducing the environmental impact of chemical synthesis. His extensive studies on heteroannulation reactions have resulted in the creation of novel bioactive molecules with potential pharmaceutical applications. With over 147 ISI-cited papers, his research continues to influence advancements in organic and green chemistry, making a lasting impact on the scientific community.

Publication Top Notes:

Synthesis, QSAR modeling, and molecular docking studies of 1,2,3-triazole-pyrazole hybrids as significant anti-cancer and anti-microbial agents

Synthesis of new hybrid compounds of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidine/pyridine based on quinoxaline through palladium-catalyzed coupling reactions and heteroannulation

A comprehensive review: medicinal applications and diverse synthetic strategies of pyrimidine-based compounds leveraging Suzuki and Sonogashira reactions

Synthesis, and molecular docking studies of novel 1,2,3-triazoles-linked pyrazole carboxamides as significant anti-microbial and anti-cancer agents

Copper catalysts supported by dehydroacetic acid chitosan schiff base for CuAAC click reaction in water

Citations: 1

Furo, Pyrano, and Pyrido[2,3-d]Pyrimidines: A Comprehensive Review of Synthesis and Medicinal Applications

Citations: 5

Synthesis of new 1,2,3-triazole-linked pyrimidines by click reaction

Synthesis of new 4,5-disubstituted-6-methyl-2-(methylthio) pyrimidines via C-C coupling reactions

New Hybrid Compounds from Imidazole and 1,2,3-Triazole: Efficient Synthesis of Highly Substituted Imidazoles and Construction of Their Novel Hybrid Compounds by Copper-Catalyzed Click Reaction

Citations: 1

An Efficient Synthesis of New Pyrazole-Linked Oxazoles via Sonogashira Coupling Reaction

Citations: 2

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

Posted on 29/10/2024 by sciencefather

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

Kazuaki Iahihara | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award Nagoya University

Posted on 14/06/202414/06/2024 by sciencefather

Prof Dr Kazuaki Iahihara | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Graduate School of Engineering of Nagoya University, Japan

🎓 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara was born on April 26, 1963, in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. He completed his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate in Engineering at Nagoya University under the supervision of Professor Hisashi Yamamoto. 🌏 He was a visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1987, and a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University under Professor E. J. Corey from 1991 to 1992. Since 2002, he has been a full professor at Nagoya University’s Department of Biotechnology. 🏅 Prof. Ishihara’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including the JSPS Prize, the IBM Science Prize, and the Chemistry Leader Award 2023. His research focuses on developing catalytic organic reactions for green chemistry, with significant contributions in designing chiral Brønsted acid–Lewis acid combined catalysts, superacids, and hypervalent iodine catalysts. 🧪 He has published 289 original papers, 139 review articles, and holds 87 patents. Additionally, Prof. Ishihara is actively involved in editorial roles for several scientific journals, including the Asian Journal of Organic Chemistry.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar

Education

🎓 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara completed his entire higher education at Nagoya University in Japan. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree (1982-1986), followed by a Master of Engineering (1986-1988), and finally a Doctor of Engineering (1988-1991), all under the supervision of Professor Hisashi Yamamoto. 🌏 During his doctoral studies, he was a visiting scholar for three months in 1987 at the University of California, Berkeley, under Professor Clayton H. Heathcock. His doctoral thesis was titled “Studies on Stereoselective Reactions of Acetals.”

Professional Experience

🏢 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara began his professional career as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University under Professor E. J. Corey from 1991 to 1992. He then returned to Nagoya University, where he served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Chemistry (1992-1994) and later in the Department of Biotechnology (1994-1997). 🧪 He was promoted to Associate Professor at the Research Center of Waste and Emission Management (1997-2001) and subsequently in the Department of Biotechnology (2001-2002). Since 2002, he has held the position of Full Professor in the Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering at Nagoya University. Throughout his career, Prof. Ishihara has made significant contributions to the field of green chemistry and the design of innovative catalysts.

Research Interest

🔬 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara has dedicated his research to the advancement of catalytic organic reactions and processes with a strong emphasis on green chemistry. His work spans several key areas, including the design of chiral Brønsted acid–Lewis acid combined catalysts, superacids, and hypervalent iodine catalysts. 🧪 He has also focused on developing dehydrative condensation catalysts, artificial cyclases for synthesizing optically active polycyclic terpenoids, and recoverable and reusable catalysts. 🧬 Since 2009, his research has extended to supramolecular acid–base combined catalysts. Prof. Ishihara’s innovative contributions aim to create environmentally benign synthetic methods, enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of chemical processes.

Award and Honor

🏆 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara has received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his illustrious career. Early in his career, he was awarded the JSPS Fellowship for Japanese Junior Scientists (1988-1991) and the Yamada Science Foundation Fellowship for Studying Abroad (1991-1992). 🥇 His groundbreaking research earned him the 10th Inoue Research Award for Young Scientists (1994) and the 45th Young Chemist Award from the Chemical Society of Japan (1996). He has also been honored with the 21st Japan IBM Science Prize (2007), the 27th Inoue Prize for Science (2011), and the Chemistry Leader Award 2023. 📜 Other notable accolades include multiple Asian Core Program Lectureship Awards, the SSOCJ Daiichi-Sankyo Award for Medicinal Organic Chemistry (2012), the Yazaki Academic Award (2013), and the CSJ Award (2017). 🌟 Prof. Ishihara’s commitment to green chemistry and innovative catalyst design has cemented his reputation as a leading figure in his field, earning him fellowships and awards from esteemed organizations worldwide.

Research Skills

🧑‍🔬 🧬 Prof. Dr. Kazuaki Ishihara is renowned for his exceptional research skills in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in developing innovative catalytic processes. He excels in the design and synthesis of chiral Brønsted acid–Lewis acid combined catalysts, superacids, and hypervalent iodine catalysts. 🧪 His expertise extends to creating dehydrative condensation catalysts and artificial cyclases for the synthesis of optically active polycyclic terpenoids. 🧬 Prof. Ishihara is adept at designing recoverable and reusable catalysts, as well as supramolecular acid–base combined catalysts. His comprehensive approach to research, which emphasizes environmental sustainability, has led to significant advancements in green chemistry and the development of efficient, eco-friendly synthetic methods.

Publications

Asymmetric direct aldol reaction assisted by water and a proline‐derived tetrazole catalyst
🧑‍🔬 H Torii, M Nakadai, K Ishihara, S Saito, H Yamamoto
📰 Angewandte Chemie International Edition 43 (15), 1983-1986
📅 2004
🔢 674 citations
3, 4, 5-Trifluorobenzeneboronic acid as an extremely active amidation catalyst
🧑‍🔬 K Ishihara, S Ohara, H Yamamoto
📰 The Journal of Organic Chemistry 61 (13), 4196-4197
📅 1996
🔢 584 citations
Scandium trifluoromethanesulfonate as an extremely active Lewis acid catalyst in acylation of alcohols with acid anhydrides and mixed anhydrides
🧑‍🔬 K Ishihara, M Kubota, H Kurihara, H Yamamoto
📰 The Journal of Organic Chemistry 61 (14), 4560-4567
📅 1996
🔢 539 citations
Enantioselective Kita oxidative spirolactonization catalyzed by in situ generated chiral hypervalent iodine (III) species
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, T Yasui, K Ishihara
📰 Angewandte Chemie International Edition 12 (49), 2175-2177
📅 2010
🔢 487 citations
Quaternary ammonium (hypo) iodite catalysis for enantioselective oxidative cycloetherification
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, H Okamoto, T Yasui, K Ishihara
📰 Science 328 (5984), 1376-1379
📅 2010
🔢 448 citations
Enantioselective halocyclization of polyprenoids induced by nucleophilic phosphoramidites
🧑‍🔬 A Sakakura, A Ukai, K Ishihara
📰 Nature 445 (7130), 900-903
📅 2007
🔢 404 citations
Direct condensation of carboxylic acids with alcohols catalyzed by hafnium (IV) salts
🧑‍🔬 K Ishihara, S Ohara, H Yamamoto
📰 Science 290 (5494), 1140-1142
📅 2000
🔢 395 citations
2-Iodoxybenzenesulfonic acid as an extremely active catalyst for the selective oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and enones with oxone
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, M Akakura, K Ishihara
📰 Journal of the American Chemical Society 131 (1), 251-262
📅 2009
🔢 370 citations
In situ generated (hypo) iodite catalysts for the direct α‐oxyacylation of carbonyl compounds with carboxylic acids
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, D Suzuki, T Yasui, K Ishihara
📰 Angewandte Chemie International Edition 23 (50), 5331-5334
📅 2011
🔢 369 citations
Highly enantioselective catalytic Diels-Alder addition promoted by a chiral bis (oxazoline)-magnesium complex
🧑‍🔬 EJ Corey, K Ishihara
📰 Tetrahedron Letters 33 (45), 6807-6810
📅 1992
🔢 368 citations
Scandium trifluoromethanesulfonate as an extremely active acylation catalyst
🧑‍🔬 K Ishihara, M Kubota, H Kurihara, H Yamamoto
📰 Journal of the American Chemical Society 117 (15), 4413-4414
📅 1995
🔢 329 citations
Hypervalent iodine-mediated oxidation of alcohols
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, K Ishihara
📰 Chemical Communications, 2086-2099
📅 2009
🔢 307 citations
A new chiral BLA promoter for asymmetric aza Diels-Alder and Aldol-type reactions of imines
🧑‍🔬 K Ishihara, M Miyata, K Hattori, T Tada, H Yamamoto
📰 Journal of the American Chemical Society 116 (23), 10520-10524
📅 1994
🔢 283 citations
Widely useful DMAP-catalyzed esterification under auxiliary base-and solvent-free conditions
🧑‍🔬 A Sakakura, K Kawajiri, T Ohkubo, Y Kosugi, K Ishihara
📰 Journal of the American Chemical Society 129 (47), 14775-14779
📅 2007
🔢 281 citations
Catalysis with in situ‐generated (hypo) iodite ions for oxidative coupling reactions
🧑‍🔬 M Uyanik, K Ishihara
📰 ChemCatChem 4 (2), 177-185
📅 2012
🔢 270 citations