Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yun Zhang | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Chemistry Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yun Zhang | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yun Zhang  , Environmental Chemistry , Faculty at  Lanzhou University , China

Dr. Yun Zhang is an Associate Professor at Lanzhou University, China, with extensive expertise in environmental chemistry and nanomaterials. She earned her Ph.D. from Lanzhou University and the University of Vienna, specializing in porous chelating adsorbents and ionic liquids. Dr. Zhang has held academic positions at Lanzhou University and conducted postdoctoral research at Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research bridges environmental science and materials chemistry, focusing on the development of advanced nanostructures for pollutant detection and removal. Dr. Zhang has led several national and provincial research projects on catalysts and adsorbents for environmental remediation. Her contributions are recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including the International Postdoctoral Exchange Fellowship. She is also an active peer reviewer for leading journals such as Chemosphere and Journal of Hazardous Materials. Her innovative work on SERS-based pollutant detection and polymer-nanoparticle composites continues to impact sustainable environmental solutions.

Professional Profile : 

Orcid

Scopus  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Yun Zhang’s academic journey, marked by international collaboration, advanced research on nanostructured materials for environmental remediation, and successful leadership in funded projects, makes her a highly suitable candidate for a “Best Researcher Award.” Her work is innovative, globally relevant, and reflects a consistent trajectory of excellence and contribution to both fundamental and applied science. She exemplifies the qualities of a researcher who translates high-impact science into real-world environmental solutions. Dr. Yun Zhang fulfills the criteria expected of a “Best Researcher Award” recipient. Her research record demonstrates scientific innovation, international recognition, and societal relevance. Based on her proven capabilities, scholarly achievements, and impactful contributions to environmental chemistry and nanotechnology, she is strongly recommended as a deserving nominee for the “Best Researcher Award”.

🎓Education:

Dr. Yun Zhang completed her Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry (2008–2011) through a joint program between Lanzhou University and the University of Vienna, where she focused on porous chelating adsorbents and ionic liquids for environmental applications. Prior to that, she earned her Master’s degree in Environmental Chemistry (2005–2008) from Lanzhou University, with research centered on atmospheric particles, PAHs, and analytical methods like GC-MS. Her undergraduate training in Environmental Science (2001–2005), also from Lanzhou University, laid a solid foundation in environmental monitoring and pollution analysis. The interdisciplinary nature of her academic training—spanning inorganic chemistry, environmental science, and polymer technology—has equipped her with a comprehensive approach to tackling modern environmental challenges through material innovation and chemical analysis.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Yun Zhang currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science at Lanzhou University, a role she has held since December 2019. She began her academic career as a Lecturer in the Institute of Polymer Science & Engineering at the same university from 2010 to 2016. From 2016 to 2018, she expanded her international research experience during a postdoctoral fellowship in Materials Science and Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, where she developed expertise in nanostructured materials for pollutant sensing and degradation. Returning to Lanzhou University, she resumed teaching and research as a Lecturer (2018–2019) before her promotion. Dr. Zhang’s career reflects a dynamic blend of teaching, mentoring, and high-impact research across material science, environmental remediation, and nanotechnology. Her interdisciplinary experience has enabled her to lead cutting-edge research projects and mentor emerging scholars in environmental chemistry.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Yun Zhang has received several prestigious awards recognizing her academic excellence and international research contributions. In 2015, she was selected for the International Postdoctoral Exchange Fellowship Project (2016–2018), supporting her research tenure at Georgia Tech. She earned the Bao Gang Education Scholarship in 2011, acknowledging her outstanding academic record. That same year, she also received the Scholarship Award for Excellent Doctoral Student, highlighting her impactful contributions during her Ph.D. studies. Earlier, in 2010, she was honored with a joint doctoral scholarship by the CSC (China Scholarship Council) and FWF (Austrian Science Fund), which facilitated her research at the University of Vienna. These accolades reflect not only her commitment to scientific excellence but also her capacity to contribute meaningfully to global research collaborations. Dr. Zhang’s recognition at national and international levels demonstrates her status as a leading figure in environmental chemistry and materials science.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Yun Zhang’s research integrates environmental chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology to develop advanced solutions for pollution control. She specializes in the precise synthesis of noble metal nanostructures such as Ag nanocubes and Ag@Pt-Rh core-frame nanocrystals, which are employed in sensitive detection and catalytic degradation of organic pollutants using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Her work also explores polymer-nanoparticle composite adsorbents for the extraction of heavy metals, as well as the application of ionic liquids (ILs) in micro-pollutant removal. A distinctive feature of her research is the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique, which enables controlled nanomaterial design for environmental applications. Her interdisciplinary projects are supported by competitive grants, emphasizing applied innovations for antibiotic degradation, mercury detection, and bimetallic catalysis. Through the integration of chemistry and environmental science, Dr. Zhang addresses pressing ecological challenges while advancing fundamental research in nanomaterials.

Publication Top Notes:

1. A Specific Time Lag Regulation of Soil Moisture Across Layers on Soil Salinization in the Northeast Tibetan Plateau Agroecosystem

2. Differential Quantitative Analysis of Carbon Emission Efficiency of Gansu Manufacturing Industry in 2030

3. Multi-Scenario Land Use/Cover Change and Its Impact on Carbon Storage Based on the Coupled GMOP-PLUS-InVEST Model in the Hexi Corridor, Chin

4. Hydrothermal Conditions in Deep Soil Layer Regulate the Interannual Change in Gross Primary Productivity in the Qilian Mountains Area, China

5. Syntheses, Plasmonic Properties, and Catalytic Applications of Ag–Rh Core-Frame Nanocubes and Rh Nanoboxes with Highly Porous Walls

6. Thiazole Orange-Modified Carbon Dots for Ratiometric Fluorescence Detection of G-Quadruplex and Double-Stranded DNA

7. Enriching Silver Nanocrystals with a Second Noble Metal

8. Observing the Overgrowth of a Second Metal on Silver Cubic Seeds in Solution by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering

9. Pt–Ag Cubic Nanocages with Wall Thickness Less Than 2 nm and Their Enhanced Catalytic Activity Toward Oxygen Reduction

10. Fabrication of Magnetic Alginate Beads with Uniform Dispersion of CoFe₂O₄ by the Polydopamine Surface Functionalization for Organic Pollutants Removal

11. Facile One-Pot Assembly of Adhesive Phenol/Fe³⁺/PEI Complexes for Preparing Magnetic Hybrid Microcapsules

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jing Qi | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Chemistry Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jing Qi | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jing Qi , Environmental Chemistry , Associate Professor at Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Dr. Jing Qi is an Associate Professor at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences (RCEES), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. Her research specializes in algae removal and secondary pollution control, with a keen interest in the oxidative stress mechanisms in algae, algal-bacterial interactions, and advanced flocculation technologies. She has significantly contributed to national and international water treatment research and has been principal investigator on several projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Dr. Qi has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and holds eight national invention patents. Her scientific work bridges fundamental algal physiology with applied environmental solutions, aiming to safeguard water quality and reduce health hazards. In her current role, she also contributes to mentoring young researchers and promoting innovations in water purification processes. She is recognized as a rising leader in eco-environmental sciences, with impactful contributions in aquatic environmental chemistry.

Professional Profile : 

Scopus 

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Jing Qi, an Associate Professor at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences (RCEES), Chinese Academy of Sciences, demonstrates exceptional research caliber in the field of aquatic environmental science. Her work addresses globally relevant challenges such as algae removal, secondary pollution control, and oxidative stress mechanisms in algae, which have direct applications in water quality improvement and public health protection. Her impressive academic trajectory, including a Ph.D. from RCEES (2017) and rapid advancement to Associate Professor (2021), reflects her strong research capability. Dr. Qi has led multiple national research projects funded by prestigious Chinese agencies, and has made significant scientific contributions through 30+ peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals like Water Research, Environmental Science & Technology, and Journal of Hazardous Materials. Additionally, she holds eight national invention patents, underscoring her commitment to applied innovation and environmental problem-solving. Dr. Jing Qi is a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” . Her scholarly achievements, patent contributions, and leadership in national environmental projects affirm her as a pioneering scientist whose work significantly contributes to the advancement of sustainable water treatment technologies. She combines scientific excellence, innovation, and real-world impact, making her a compelling choice for this prestigious recognition.

🎓Education:

Dr. Jing Qi earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the prestigious Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences (RCEES), Chinese Academy of Sciences, in 2017. Her doctoral research focused on the mechanisms of algae behavior in water treatment processes, particularly the oxidative stress responses and interaction with chemical agents. This work laid the foundation for her ongoing studies on algal metabolism and secondary pollution control in drinking water systems. Prior to her Ph.D., Dr. Qi underwent intensive training in aquatic chemistry, environmental chemistry, and microbiological techniques, which provided her with a robust interdisciplinary foundation. Her academic excellence was consistently evident through her publications even during her early career. The comprehensive education she received at RCEES empowered her with advanced laboratory skills, critical thinking, and an applied approach to addressing China’s pressing water quality challenges, helping her transition smoothly into a research-intensive professional career.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Jing Qi began her professional journey as an Assistant Professor at the State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, RCEES, after completing her Ph.D. in 2017. Her early projects focused on optimizing coagulation and oxidation techniques for algal control in raw water. In 2021, she was promoted to Associate Professor, reflecting her consistent contributions to national research projects and high-impact publications. At RCEES, she actively leads interdisciplinary research teams and collaborates with national water management agencies. Dr. Qi’s role encompasses both academic and applied dimensions—ranging from supervising postgraduate students and publishing scholarly work to developing patentable technologies for algae removal. Her involvement in applied environmental chemistry has made her a sought-after expert for improving China’s municipal water treatment processes. Her research group integrates biochemical, ecological, and technological strategies to mitigate algal blooms and associated pollutants in freshwater systems.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Jing Qi has received multiple commendations for her innovative contributions to environmental science and water treatment. She has been a principal investigator on several prestigious grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, supporting her pioneering studies in algal oxidative stress and flocculation enhancement. Her research excellence has earned her awards for technological innovation and patent development within the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Dr. Qi has also been invited to present at national conferences and recognized for excellence in young scientist research forums. Her eight national invention patents on algae control and water purification reflect both scientific novelty and real-world impact. Additionally, several of her papers have been listed as highly cited in their respective journals. These honors underscore her position as a thought leader in aquatic environmental chemistry and a contributor to public health through improved drinking water technologies.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Jing Qi’s research primarily addresses the ecological and chemical mechanisms underlying algae removal and secondary pollution control in aquatic systems. Her focus includes the growth regulation and metabolic dynamics of algae in raw water, oxidative stress responses to disinfectants, and the microbial interactions between algae and bacteria. She investigates how algal organic matter contributes to pollution during water treatment and explores techniques such as pre-oxidation, enhanced flocculation, and photocatalysis to mitigate these effects. A distinctive feature of her work is the integration of biochemical analysis with environmental engineering solutions, ensuring both mechanistic understanding and practical application. Dr. Qi also explores microplastic-algae interactions, emerging pollutants, and their impact on trophic dynamics in aquatic food webs. Her interdisciplinary approach—combining microbiology, chemistry, and materials science—provides innovative strategies for sustainable drinking water treatment and eutrophication prevention, contributing directly to national and global environmental quality goals.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Environmental Gradient Changes Shape Multi-Scale Food Web Structures: Impact on Antibiotics Trophic Transfer in a Lake Ecosystem

2. Bipartite Trophic Levels Cannot Resist the Interference of Microplastics: A Case Study of Submerged Macrophytes and Snail

3. Prechlorination of Algae-Laden Water: The Effects of Ammonia on Chlorinated Disinfection Byproduct Formation During Long-Distance Transportation

 

Mr. Rasim Omanović | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Chemistry Awards

Mr. Rasim Omanović | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Rasim Omanović | Green Chemistry | Senior Teaching Assistant at University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Science, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Rasim Omanović is a Ph.D. student in Chemistry at the University of Sarajevo, specializing in analytical chemistry, green chemistry and environmental sciences. With extensive experience in laboratory research, scientific writing, and academic teaching, he currently serves as a Senior Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo. Additionally, he is a Technical Expert at the Institute for Accreditation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. His research interests include atmospheric aerosol analysis, heavy metal contamination, and green extraction methods using deep eutectic solvents. He has actively participated in international research projects and conferences, contributing significantly to environmental chemistry and sustainable methodologies. Alongside his academic career, he has industry experience as a Sales Engineer at Petrol BH Oil Company. A recipient of the University of Sarajevo Award for Scientific Work, he continues to make notable contributions to analytical and environmental chemistry.

Professional Profile :         

Google Scholar

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Rasim Omanović is a highly qualified and dedicated researcher in the field of analytical and environmental chemistry, making him an excellent candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”. His research contributions span critical areas such as atmospheric aerosol analysis, green chemistry, and the development of eco-friendly extraction techniques using deep eutectic solvents. His work is not only innovative but also impactful, addressing global environmental challenges such as pollution control and heavy metal remediation. He has a strong academic background, currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Sarajevo, and has gained substantial research and teaching experience as a Senior Teaching Assistant. His extensive list of peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals and active participation in international research collaborations, such as the NextAIRE Horizon project and scientific partnerships with Slovenia, further demonstrate his commitment to scientific excellence. Given Rasim Omanović’s outstanding research contributions, numerous high-quality publications, and active participation in international collaborations, he is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”. His ability to integrate sustainable methodologies into analytical chemistry, his recognized scientific achievements, and his dedication to solving real-world environmental issues make him highly deserving of this recognition.

🎓Education:

Rasim Omanović is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Science (2021–Present). He previously earned his Master’s degree in Chemistry from the same institution in 2016 and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in 2015. His academic journey has been complemented by various specialized training programs. In 2022, he attended the Training & Research for Academic Newcomers at the University of Sarajevo, further strengthening his pedagogical skills. Additionally, he completed the Fundamentals of Manuscript Preparation course from Elsevier Researcher Academy, gaining valuable insights into scientific writing. His commitment to academic excellence also led him to complete a course on Effective Researcher and Pedagogic Stratification in Academics with the International Society of Engineering Science and Technology in 2021. Furthermore, he successfully passed the Professional Exam in Forensic Science administered by the Civil Service Agency of FBiH in 2018, expanding his expertise into forensic applications.

🏢Work Experience:

Rasim Omanović has extensive experience in academia and research. Since 2023, he has been serving as a Senior Teaching Assistant of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Science. His prior roles include Teaching Assistant of Analytical Chemistry (2020–2023) at the same institution and an External Associate Teaching Assistant at the University of Bihać – Faculty of Health Studies (2023–2024) and the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (2021–2022). In 2025, he expanded his expertise as a Technical Expert at the Institute for Accreditation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Additionally, since 2021, he has been a Research Assistant at the International Society of Engineering Science and Technology. Before transitioning into academia, he gained industry experience as a Sales Engineer at Petrol BH Oil Company (2017–2020). His diverse experience showcases his strong analytical, teaching, and research skills across various scientific disciplines.

🏅Awards: 

Rasim Omanović has been recognized for his outstanding scientific contributions. In 2022, he received the University of Sarajevo Award for Scientific Work Results, an acknowledgment of his research achievements. His dedication to scientific excellence extends to his involvement in international collaborations. He is a key researcher in projects under the Scientific and Technological Cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia for 2024–2025. His work on Physico-chemical testing of atmospheric aerosol particles and biomonitoring showcases his expertise in environmental chemistry. Additionally, his research on Deep eutectic solvents for green and sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds highlights his commitment to eco-friendly methodologies. In 2025, he joined NextAIRE – Next Generation AI Researchers for Air Quality Excellence, a prestigious EU-funded Horizon project. These honors reflect his continuous efforts in advancing scientific knowledge and addressing critical global challenges in green chemistry, environmental and analytical chemistry.

🔬Research Focus:

Rasim Omanović’s research primarily revolves around analytical and environmental chemistry. His work includes the physico-chemical testing of atmospheric aerosol particles, biomonitoring, and investigating new atmospheric particle formation, a project under the scientific cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia. He is also engaged in the development of deep eutectic solvents for green and sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds from agro-industrial by-products, aligning with eco-friendly chemistry principles. Additionally, he is part of the NextAIRE project, which integrates AI into air quality monitoring. His research also extends to developing green nano-sorbents for heavy metal remediation in water and soil contamination analysis. With a strong focus on sustainable and innovative methodologies, his contributions are making a significant impact on environmental science, pollution control, and analytical chemistry. His work demonstrates a multidisciplinary approach, bridging chemistry with technological advancements to solve pressing environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

Synthesis of green nano sorbents for simultaneous preconcentration and recovery of heavy metals from water

Citations: 24

Emerging technologies for biogas production: A critical review on recent progress, challenges and perspectives

Citations: 19

Analysis of stability of naturally aged single base propellants

Heavy metal contamination of street dust of Canton Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina–Health risk assessment

Determination of Water Extractable Chloride in the Greenhouse Soil and Minimizing Interferences Caused by the Presence of the Iron Ions

Application of Grapefruit Peel as Biosorbent for Removal of Copper (II), Lead (II), Cadmium (II) and Zinc (II) from Aqueous Solution