Mr. Rasim Omanović | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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.

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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

 

Dr. Emmanuel Mintah Bonku | Green Chemistry | Sustainable Chemistry Award

Dr. Emmanuel Mintah Bonku | Green Chemistry | Sustainable Chemistry Award

Dr. Emmanuel Mintah Bonku , Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, CAS , China

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku, PhD, is a dedicated postdoctoral researcher at the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in green chemistry and sustainable drug development. With a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, his research focuses on synthetic methodologies for antiviral drugs, especially in emerging diseases like monkey pox. He developed a groundbreaking synthesis process for tecovirimat, which is undergoing registration in China. Emmanuel has also worked on the synthesis of cariprazine, benzimidazole compounds, and other pharmaceuticals. His achievements have earned him the Excellent International Graduate Award from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2024. Passionate about sustainability in the pharmaceutical sector, Emmanuel strives to inspire future generations of scientists with his innovative approach to drug development.

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku, PhD, is highly suitable for the “Sustainable Chemistry Award” based on his exceptional contributions to green and sustainable drug development, particularly in medicinal chemistry. His research focuses on the development of innovative and environmentally friendly synthetic methodologies, notably for antiviral and other life-saving drugs. He has demonstrated excellence in synthesizing antiviral drugs like tecovirimat for monkey pox, optimizing the production process for large-scale application with minimal environmental impact. Emmanuel Mintah Bonku has also worked on biotransformation techniques and green chemistry, striving to make pharmaceutical synthesis more sustainable. Emmanuel Mintah Bonku is an ideal candidate for the “Sustainable Chemistry Award” due to his groundbreaking work in green chemistry and sustainable pharmaceutical development. His innovative research and dedication to promoting sustainability in drug manufacturing make him a strong advocate for environmentally conscious chemistry practices.

🎓Education:

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (2021-2024), focusing on green and sustainable drug development. He completed a Master of Engineering (M.Eg.) in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Wuhan University of Science and Technology (2018-2021), specializing in biotransformation and sustainable chemistry. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Environmental Science, with a focus on ethnobotany, from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana (2012-2017). In addition, Emmanuel holds a certificate in Information Communication and Technology (2012) from All Nations University College, Ghana. His academic background has equipped him with the technical expertise and interdisciplinary knowledge to make significant contributions to medicinal chemistry, particularly in the development of antiviral drugs and sustainable pharmaceutical processes.

🏢Work Experience:

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in sustainable drug development. During his doctoral research, he pioneered novel synthetic methodologies for antiviral drugs, contributing to the development of tecovirimat for monkeypox and cariprazine for schizophrenia. He has also worked extensively on the synthesis of benzimidazole compounds for antihypertensive and anthelmintic applications. In his earlier career, Emmanuel contributed to projects focused on biotransformation and sustainable chemistry while earning his Master’s degree at Wuhan University of Science and Technology. His experience spans academic research, guest reviewing for journals, and collaborative work with international experts in the field. Emmanuel’s role as a researcher involves advanced techniques in medicinal chemistry, drug synthesis, and process optimization, with an emphasis on green and sustainable practices.

🏅Awards: 

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to medicinal chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of antiviral drugs. In 2024, he received the Excellent International Graduate Award from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in recognition of his innovative research on tecovirimat, a key antiviral drug for monkeypox. His achievements in sustainable drug development have positioned him as a leading figure in his field. Emmanuel has also contributed to various projects in the pharmaceutical industry and academia, promoting sustainability in drug development. His work has garnered attention and respect in the scientific community, and he continues to inspire others through his research, publications, and collaborations. As a guest reviewer for journals like Journal of Green Synthesis and Catalysis and Journal of Food Science, he is also recognized for his contributions to the scientific peer-review process. Emmanuel remains committed to advancing the field of green chemistry and pharmaceutical innovation.

🔬Research Focus:

Emmanuel Mintah Bonku’s research focuses on green and sustainable drug development, with a particular emphasis on the synthesis of antiviral drugs. His work is at the intersection of medicinal chemistry and sustainable chemistry, where he develops new synthetic methodologies for emerging infectious diseases, including monkeypox. Emmanuel pioneered a large-scale process for synthesizing tecovirimat, a critical antiviral drug, and has worked on the development of other pharmaceuticals like cariprazine for schizophrenia and benzimidazole compounds for antihypertensive and anthelmintic purposes. He is passionate about improving drug synthesis processes to make them more sustainable, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while maintaining high efficiency and effectiveness. His research also includes process optimization, such as using reactive distillation for drug synthesis. Emmanuel’s work aims to address current challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly the need for greener, more efficient production methods for critical drugs in the global healthcare landscape.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Extraction of Essential Oil from Citrus reticulate Blanco Peel and Its Antibacterial Activity Against Cutibacterium acnes (Formerly Propionibacterium acnes)

Authors: HS Hou, EM Bonku, R Zhai, R Zeng, YL Hou, ZH Yang, C Quan

Year: 2019

Citations: 90

Journal: Heliyon 5(12)

2. An Alkali-Tolerant Carbonyl Reductase from Bacillus subtilis by Gene Mining: Identification and Application

Authors: W Luo, HJ Du, EM Bonku, YL Hou, LL Li, XQ Wang, ZH Yang

Year: 2019

Citations: 8

Journal: Catalysis Letters 149, 2973–2983

3. Extraction of Essential Oil from Citrus reticulate Blanco Peel and Its Antibacterial Activity Against Cutibacterium acnes (Formerly Propionibacterium acnes)

Authors: HS Hou, EM Bonku, R Zhai, R Zeng, YL Hou, ZH Yang, C Quan

Year: 2019

Citations: 7

Journal: Heliyon 5, E02

4. Facile Synthesis of Benzimidazoles via N-Arylamidoxime Cyclization

Authors: H Qin, A Odilov, EM Bonku, F Zhu, T Hu, H Liu, HA Aisa, J Shen

Year: 2022

Citations: 6

Journal: ACS Omega 7(49), 45678–45687

5. Efficient Large-Scale Process for Tecovirimat via Reactive Distillation for the Preparation of Cycloheptatriene

Authors: EM Bonku, H Qin, A Odilov, F Yang, X Xing, X Wang, SD Guma, J Shen

Year: 2023

Citations: 5

Journal: Organic Process Research & Development 27(11), 1984–1991

6. Synergistic Effect and Structure–Property of Bio-Based 1, 6-Hexanediol on Thermal, Mechanical, and Degradation Properties of Biopolymers

Authors: WMK Siegu, LDW Djouonkep, NBS Selabi, EM Bonku, Z Cheng, …

Year: 2023

Citations: 5

Journal: Journal of Polymers and the Environment 31(3), 1144–1159

7. Extraction of Essential Oil from Citrus reticulate

Authors: HS Hou, EM Bonku, R Zhai, R Zeng, YL Hou, ZH Yang, C Quan

Year: 2019

Citations: 5

Journal: Not listed

8. Establishment of a Propolis Ethanolic Extract Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System and Its Antibacterial Activity

Authors: TC Wang, B Appiah, EM Bonku, ZH Yang, L Luo

Year: 2021

Citations: 4

Journal: Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology 31, 101905

9. Improved and Ligand-Free Copper-Catalyzed Cyclization for an Efficient Synthesis of Benzimidazoles from o-Bromoarylamine and Nitriles

Authors: EM Bonku, H Qin, A Odilov, S Abduahadi, SD Guma, F Yang, F Zhu, …

Year: 2024

Citations: 3

Journal: RSC Advances 14(10), 6906–6916

10. Impurity Study of Tecovirimat

Authors: EM Bonku, H Qin, A Odilov, S Abduahadi, SD Guma, F Yang, X Xing, …

Year: 2024

Citations: 1

Journal: Heliyon 10(9)