Assist. Prof. Dr. TESFAYE HAILE HABTEMARIAM | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. TESFAYE HAILE HABTEMARIAM , Green Chemistry , Inorganic Chemist at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia

Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam, is an Ethiopian inorganic chemist and Assistant Professor at Wolaita Sodo University. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he specializes in inorganic materials, nanotechnology, and environmental chemistry. He earned both his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Addis Ababa University and undertook a research visit at the University of Nottingham, UK. Dr. Tesfaye has held leadership roles, including Head of the Chemistry Department at Wolaita Sodo University. An active member of prestigious chemical societies like the American Chemical Society and Royal Society of Chemistry, he contributes significantly to research in MOFs, photocatalysis, and nanomaterials. Dr. Tesfaye is well-regarded for his community-oriented research, particularly in water treatment and environmental remediation, and has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications. His commitment to scientific innovation and education makes him a valuable contributor to both national and international scientific communities.

Professional Profile :

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award”. His consistent research output, international exposure, impactful studies in environmental and materials chemistry, and leadership roles reflect a well-rounded academic profile. His work in nanotechnology and MOFs addresses pressing global issues, reinforcing his candidacy for this prestigious recognition. He is an exemplary researcher contributing meaningfully to science, innovation, and academic mentorship, making him a strong nominee for the “Best Researcher Award”.His impactful research on environmentally focused nanomaterials, global academic recognition, consistent publication record, and leadership in Ethiopian higher education underscore his contributions to science, innovation, and sustainable development.He exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier researcher with international collaborations, practical solutions, and dedication to academic excellence, making him an outstanding nominee for this honor.

🎓Education:

Dr. Tesfaye received both his advanced degrees in Inorganic Chemistry from Addis Ababa University. He completed his M.Sc. (2008–2010) with research focused on inorganic synthesis, followed by a Ph.D. (2014–2019), where he explored novel metal-organic frameworks and porous materials for environmental applications. During his Ph.D., he was awarded an opportunity to conduct part of his research at the University of Nottingham, UK, under the supervision of Prof. Neil R. Champness, gaining international exposure and experience in cutting-edge material science. This academic journey laid the foundation for his career in materials chemistry, environmental catalysis, and nanotechnology. His educational path reflects strong theoretical and applied understanding in inorganic chemistry, further enriched by hands-on laboratory skills and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This robust background enables him to contribute significantly to both teaching and research in the field of chemistry at national and international levels.

🏢Work Experience:

Since October 29, 2010, Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam has served as an Assistant Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia. Over the years, he has been actively involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate chemistry courses, mentoring students, and leading numerous research projects. From October 2019 to November 2021, he served as the Head of the Department of Chemistry, where he played a crucial role in strengthening teaching, research, and community engagement activities in line with national education policy. Dr. Tesfaye has established himself as a proactive academician with expertise in nanotechnology, MOFs, and adsorptive materials. His collaborative approach has led to productive research engagements and multiple publications. He also contributed to institutional development and curriculum improvements while promoting sustainable technologies for environmental management. His experience integrates research, administration, and teaching—making him a well-rounded academic leader and contributor to Ethiopia’s scientific development.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Tesfaye has received several honors recognizing his academic and research contributions. In 2019, he won a year’s subscription to ChemComm awarded at the PACN Congress by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). This reflected his active participation and engagement with international scientific forums. Earlier in 2015, he was awarded a UNESCO-IHE short course scholarship for “Nanotechnology for Water and Wastewater Treatment” held in Delft, The Netherlands, which enhanced his expertise in water purification technologies using nanomaterials. These awards not only highlight his scientific curiosity but also his commitment to global knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Tesfaye is a Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC), the American Chemical Society (ACS), and the Chemical Society of Ethiopia, affirming his engagement with the global scientific community. These accolades demonstrate both his potential and proven track record in sustainable science and innovation.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Tesfaye’s research focuses on the synthesis and application of inorganic and nanostructured materials for environmental and energy-related challenges. His core interests include the design and spectroscopic study of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for use in photocatalysis, water and wastewater treatment, and removal of toxic contaminants. He also investigates adsorptive materials, exploring their capacity to eliminate pollutants such as heavy metals and dyes from aqueous systems. Additionally, he works on nanotechnology applications for antibacterial activity, leveraging biosynthesized nanoparticles from plant extracts for sustainable health applications. A particular strength of his research lies in green synthesis methods, combining traditional knowledge with modern chemistry to produce eco-friendly materials. His interdisciplinary work links material science, environmental chemistry, and nanotechnology, aiming to develop low-cost, efficient, and scalable solutions for real-world environmental problems in Ethiopia and beyond.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Nutritional and Mineral Composition of Amaranthus caudatus Leaves in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia

2. Adsorptive Removal of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution Using Activated Carbon of Enset Root (Ensete ventricosum)

3. Biological Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Fruit Extract of Ruta Chalepensis as Photoelectrode for Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Application

4. Biosynthesis of CuO Nanoparticle Using Leaf Extracts of Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex Benth and Withania somnifera (L) Dunal for Antibacterial Activity

5. Pillared‐Layer Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Photodegradation of Methyl Orange in Wastewater

6. Polyaniline‐ZnO‐NiO Nanocomposite Based Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Sensor for Malathion Detection

7. Room Temperature Synthesis of Pillared-Layer Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)

8. The Determination of Caffeine Level of Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia Coffee Using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer

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.

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.