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

Posted on 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

 

 

Bienvenu Mbanga | Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr. Bienvenu Mbanga | Chemistry | Environmental Chemistry Award

Doctorate at Nelson Mandela university, South Africa

Bienvenu Mbanga is a dynamic and driven professional with a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg. He is recognized for his expertise in nanomaterial development, water analysis, and environmental chemistry. His career spans research, teaching, and mentorship roles, showcasing his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering collaborations within academia and beyond. His interdisciplinary approach underscores his dedication to addressing environmental challenges through innovative research and practical solutions.

Author Metrics

Scopus Profile

ORCID Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Citations: Since 2019, Bienvenu Mbanga’s work has been cited 222 times in scholarly literature, reflecting the impact and reach of his research within the academic community.

h-index: As of 2019 and continuing into the present, Bienvenu Mbanga has an h-index of 7. This metric indicates that he has published at least 7 papers that have each received at least 7 citations.

i10-index: Bienvenu Mbanga’s i10-index, which counts the number of publications with at least 10 citations, remains at 4 since 2019. This metric gives insight into the impact of his research in terms of highly cited publications.

Education

Bienvenu Mbanga’s educational journey is anchored by degrees from the University of Johannesburg, including a PhD in Chemistry (2021), a Masters (2016), a BSc Honours (2014), and a Bachelors in Science (2013) from the University of South Africa. His academic foundation in chemistry and mathematics has been pivotal in deepening his expertise through specialized research and academic pursuits, shaping his career in environmental science and analytical chemistry.

Research Focus

Bienvenu Mbanga’s research is centered on pioneering solutions in environmental sustainability, focusing on the development of nanomaterials for water treatment, analysis of water quality and environmental pollutants, and the application of advanced analytical techniques to environmental samples. His research underscores a commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges through rigorous scientific inquiry and practical applications in pollution control and resource management.

Professional Journey

Bienvenu Mbanga’s professional journey encompasses roles such as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Nelson Mandela University (since 2022), where he conducts innovative research in agricultural waste and wastewater treatment. His prior experiences include teaching and facilitating chemistry at high schools and contributing to research projects as a Research Assistant and Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. These roles highlight his versatility and dedication to research, education, and community engagement.

Honors & Awards

Bienvenu Mbanga has garnered recognition for his contributions to science and education, including serving as a judge for prestigious scientific competitions, being selected among the 100 Brightest Minds in Africa, and participating in mentorship programs and international seminars. These accolades underscore his influence and impact in the scientific community, reflecting his leadership and commitment to professional development in science and education.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Bienvenu Mbanga’s scholarly contributions are extensive, encompassing significant research findings published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences. His publications focus on nanomaterial synthesis, water chemistry, and environmental sciences, contributing to advancements in scientific knowledge and addressing environmental challenges through innovative methodologies and practical applications.

Estimation of energy demand and carbon emissions for the road transport sector: A case study of Douala, Cameroon

Authors: FD Bissai, BGF Mbanga, CA Mezoue, S Nguiya

Published in: Hybrid Advances, Volume 6, 100187, 2024

Application of Metallic Oxide Coated Carbon Nanoparticles in Adsorption of heavy metals and Reusability for Latent Fingerprint Detection: A Review

Authors: BG Fouda-Mbanga, OP Onotu, CI Olushuyi, YB Nthwane, B Nyoni, …

Published in: Hybrid Advances, 100248, 2024

A comprehensive review of heavy metals (Pb2+, Cd2+, Ni2+) removal from wastewater using low-cost adsorbents and possible revalorisation of spent adsorbents

Authors: YB Nthwane, BG Fouda-Mbanga, M Thwala, K Pillay

Published in: Environmental Technology, 1-17, 2024

The Potential of Agricultural Waste Chars as Low-Cost Adsorbents for Heavy Metal Removal From Water

Authors: B Nyoni, BG Fouda-Mbanga, BM Hlabano-Moyo, YB Nthwane, B Yalala, …

Published in: Biosorption Processes for Heavy Metal Removal, 244-270, 2024

Analysis Driving Factors of Energy Consumption in the Road Transport Sector of the City in Douala, Cameroon

Authors: FD Bissai, BGF Mbanga, CA Mezoue, S Nguiya

Published in: Preprints, 2023

These publications highlight Bienvenu Mbanga’s research interests and contributions, focusing on topics such as energy demand and carbon emissions in road transport, applications of nanomaterials in heavy metal adsorption, and the use of agricultural waste for environmental remediation. His work demonstrates a commitment to addressing environmental challenges and advancing scientific knowledge in these critical areas.

Research Timeline

Bienvenu Mbanga’s research trajectory illustrates a progressive engagement in scientific inquiry, from early roles as a research assistant focusing on soil and plant analysis to his current position as a postdoctoral fellow specializing in agricultural and wastewater treatment. His career path reflects a commitment to excellence in research and an interdisciplinary approach to tackling pressing environmental issues through collaborative and innovative research projects.

Collaborations and Projects

Bienvenu Mbanga has actively collaborated on projects aimed at developing sustainable solutions in water treatment and pollution control, partnering with academic institutions and industry stakeholders. His projects emphasize the application of nanotechnology and advanced analytical techniques to address environmental challenges, contributing significantly to global efforts in environmental sustainability and resource management.

Impact and Innovation

Bienvenu Mbanga’s research has made a profound impact on environmental science and sustainability by innovating in nanomaterial development and water treatment technologies. His work not only addresses current environmental challenges but also lays the groundwork for future innovations in pollution control and sustainable resource management, contributing to global efforts towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Mentorship

Bienvenu Mbanga is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists, actively guiding undergraduate and postgraduate students in research methodologies, academic writing, and professional development. His mentorship extends to participation in educational programs aimed at nurturing young talent and fostering a passion for science and environmental stewardship, reflecting his commitment to shaping future leaders in the fields of chemistry and environmental science.