Iyakutti Kombiah | Materials Chemistry | Lifetime Achievement Award

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Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah | Materials Chemistry | Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah | SRM Institute of Science and Technology | India

Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah, an eminent physicist and computational materials scientist, has made outstanding contributions to condensed matter physics, nanomaterials, and energy storage research, with a career spanning over four decades. He obtained his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Madras, followed by postdoctoral research in quantum chemistry at Uppsala University, Sweden, supported by SIDA. He served as Lecturer at the University of Madras, Reader and Professor at Madurai Kamaraj University, and later as Professor Emeritus and CSIR Emeritus Scientist at SRM University. His pioneering expertise lies in computational design and experimental validation of nanomaterials for hydrogen storage, photovoltaics, and CO₂ conversion, demonstrated through his leadership of multiple AOARD and ONRG-funded international projects. A prolific scholar with over 229 publications, 1,804 citations, and an h-index of 24, his research continues to influence the fields of energy materials and quantum chemistry. Dr. Iyakutti has held visiting positions at leading institutions in Japan, Canada, and the USA, fostering global collaborations. His recent works (2020–2025) focus on graphene-based hydrogen storage, Heusler alloys, and 2D nanomaterials, combining density functional theory with experimental studies. Honored with CSIR and UGC Emeritus Fellowships, he remains a leading figure advancing computational and sustainable energy materials research in India and beyond.

Profile: ORCID  | Scopus 

Featured Publications

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025). DFT based computational investigation of 2D monolayer gold (Au)–the goldene. Computational Condensed Matter, 25, e01132.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Jayan, S., AjayJawahar, K., Karthigeyan, A., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025). Heterostructuring, electronic and hydrogen storage properties of boron, carbon, nitrogen based 2D nanomaterials – A DFT study. International Journal of Computational Materials Science and Engineering, 14(3), 2550028.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025, February 26). DFT based computational investigation of 2D monolayer gold (Au)–the goldene. Preprint.

  • Kaliyaperumal, A., Periyasamy, G., Iyakutti, K., & Annamalai, K. (2024). Effect of a mesoporous NiCo₂O₄ urchin-like structure catalyzed with a surface oxidized LiBH₄ system for reversible hydrogen storage applications. RSC Advances, 14, 12345–12354.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., AjayJawahar, K., Lakshmi, I., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., Surya, V. J., Karthigeyan, A., & Kawazoe, Y. (2024). Interaction of H, H₂, and MgH₂ with graphene and possible application to hydrogen storage—A density functional computational investigation. International Journal of Quantum Chemistry, 124(15), e27467.

 

 

 

Prof. Dr. Xuanmeng He | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Xuanmeng He | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xuanmeng He , Inorganic Chemistry , Laboratory Chief at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, China

Prof. He Xuanmeng is a distinguished faculty member at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology. With a profound dedication to material innovation and functional nanomaterials, he has risen through academic ranks from lecturer to full professor since joining the university in 2008. His research primarily focuses on energy-related materials, including high-entropy oxides, electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reactions (OER), and advanced color pigments. A prolific researcher, Prof. He has authored several impactful publications in reputed journals like Journal of Alloys and Compounds, ACS Applied Nano Materials, and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. His interdisciplinary approach bridges inorganic chemistry, electrochemistry, and materials engineering. Through years of rigorous academic training and research, he has emerged as a key contributor to China’s materials science domain. Prof. He continues to inspire future scientists through both his scholarly work and academic leadership.

Professional Profile : 

Scopus 

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Prof. He Xuanmeng, currently serving as a Professor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, exemplifies all the qualities befitting a recipient of the “Best Researcher Award”. His academic path, entirely pursued at Shaanxi University, reflects both loyalty and progressive excellence in materials science. With over 15 years of research experience, he has consistently advanced from lecturer to full professor, demonstrating a strong trajectory of academic growth and leadership. Prof. He Xuanmeng is a highly qualified and deserving nominee for the “Best Researcher Award”.  Honoring him with this award would be a recognition of research excellence, sustained innovation, and impactful scholarship. His research output includes high-impact publications in reputed international journals such as ACS Applied Nano Materials, Journal of Alloys and Compounds, and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science.Prof. He’s ability to integrate multifunctionality, sustainability, and performance optimization in material design stands out. His interdisciplinary work impacts both the energy sector and ceramic industries, illustrating his broad contribution to science and technology. His work on high-entropy oxides, energy electrocatalysts, Li-S battery materials, and environmentally friendly ceramic pigments showcases innovation, application relevance, and scientific depth. Moreover, his expertise bridges nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and optical engineering, aligning with contemporary global research priorities.

🎓Education:

Prof. He Xuanmeng’s academic journey is deeply rooted in Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, where he pursued all three degrees in materials science. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials in 2018, focusing on advanced material synthesis and applications. Earlier, he completed his Master’s in Materials Physics and Chemistry in 2008, laying the foundation for his work on functional coatings and hybrid materials. His undergraduate degree, completed in 2005, was in Inorganic Non-metallic Materials Engineering—a program emphasizing ceramics, pigments, and structural materials. This consistent academic path has endowed him with a deep, layered understanding of both the theoretical and applied aspects of materials science. The continuity of education at the same institution reflects his long-standing commitment to its academic culture and research goals. His comprehensive training across materials chemistry and engineering now informs his innovative research in energy materials and ceramic-based nanostructures.

🏢Work Experience:

Prof. He Xuanmeng began his professional career in 2008 as a Lecturer at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology. With a passion for research and academic excellence, he was promoted to Associate Professor in 2010, a role he held for eight years. In 2018, he was elevated to the position of Professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering. Over more than 15 years of service, he has been instrumental in shaping the department’s research direction, focusing on functional nanomaterials and energy applications. He has successfully mentored graduate students, led research initiatives, and published extensively. His multidisciplinary collaborations and expertise in high-entropy oxides, pigment design, and electrode materials have significantly contributed to the university’s reputation in materials science. Prof. He’s progression through academic ranks highlights his dedication to teaching, research, and scientific advancement in the field of advanced functional materials.

🏅Awards: 

While specific awards and honors were not listed in the resume provided, Prof. He Xuanmeng’s academic journey and publication record strongly indicate a career marked by peer recognition and scholarly impact. His multiple first-author papers in top-tier journals like ACS Applied Nano Materials, Journal of Alloys and Compounds, and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science reflect high academic merit. He likely has received internal recognition for excellence in teaching and research within Shaanxi University of Science and Technology. Additionally, contributing to high-impact studies in areas like oxygen evolution reaction and Li-S battery applications suggests involvement in nationally or provincially funded research projects. Given his track record and position, he may also be serving as a reviewer or editorial board member for reputed journals in materials science. Further details of awards can be included upon availability to comprehensively highlight his career achievements.

🔬Research Focus:

Prof. He Xuanmeng’s research focuses on advanced functional materials with applications in energy conversion, storage, and optical properties. He specializes in the synthesis and design of high-entropy oxides, spinel-type nanostructures, and graphene-composite hybrids for electrocatalysts, particularly the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). His work also explores Li-S battery materials, utilizing hollow microspheres and reduced graphene oxide for sulfur hosting. Additionally, Prof. He has made significant contributions to the development of ceramic pigments with core-shell structures for enhanced coloration and NIR reflectance, offering sustainable alternatives with reduced heavy metal content. His interdisciplinary approach bridges material chemistry, solid-state physics, and energy applications, aiming to develop cost-effective and high-performance materials. His research outputs demonstrate innovation in structural control, electronic modulation, and multifunctionality in both energy and optical domains, aligning with global goals for sustainable energy and environmental-friendly technologies.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Enhanced Multienzyme‑like and Antibacterial Activity by Copper Atomically Dispersed into Molybdenum Disulfide for Accelerated Wound Healing

2. Carbon Cloth Supporting (CrMnFeCoCu)₃O₄ High‑Entropy Oxide as Electrocatalyst for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reactions

Citations: 2

3. Highly Stable Hierarchical Core‑Shell Structure CuMn₀.₅Co₂O₄@CC with Self‑Regulating Electronic and Conductivity for Its Improved OER Performance

Citations: 5

4. Nanocrystalline (CrMnFeCoCu)₃O₄ High‑Entropy Oxide for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Citations: 15

Dr. Minitha R | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Chemistry Awards

Dr. Minitha R | Inorganic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Minitha R ,Inorganic Chemistry, GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE, EZHUKONE, KOLLAM, KERALA, India

Dr. Minitha R. is an Associate Professor with over 14 years of teaching and 15 years of research experience in chemistry. She holds an M.Sc., M.Phil., NET, UGC-JRF, and Ph.D. Her expertise spans organic, coordination, supramolecular, and inorganic chemistry. She has served in key academic roles, including NSS Programme Officer and Chief Superintendent of Examinations. A dedicated researcher, Dr. Minitha has guided students and undertaken projects like developing a chemosensor for metal ion detection. She has organized multiple national seminars and actively participates in international conferences and workshops.

Professional Profile :                       

Orcid

Scopus  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Minitha R., an accomplished Associate Professor with 15 years of research experience, has significantly contributed to the field of Inorganic Chemistry, particularly in Coordination Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. With a strong publication record, she has authored several impactful research papers in highly reputed journals, covering diverse topics such as metal complexes, chemosensors, molecular structures, and spectroscopic studies. Dr. Minitha R. is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” given her proven research excellence, scholarly contributions, and leadership in the scientific community. Her extensive work in metal-based coordination complexes, chemosensors, and supramolecular chemistry, along with her active role in mentoring and academic leadership, makes her a highly deserving nominee.

🎓Education:

Dr. Minitha R. holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and has qualified for the NET and UGC-JRF. She completed her M.Sc. and M.Phil. in Chemistry, demonstrating academic excellence throughout. Her education provided her with a strong foundation in inorganic chemistry, particularly in complex synthesis, supramolecular interactions, and chemosensing applications. Her academic journey was driven by a passion for molecular recognition, ligand design, and structural chemistry. She has actively participated in seminars and workshops to enhance her knowledge and keep up with evolving research trends.

🏢Work Experience:

With 14 years of teaching and 15 years of research experience, Dr. Minitha R. has handled Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry courses. She has successfully guided research scholars, fostering innovations in supramolecular and coordination chemistry. Apart from teaching, she has played key roles as an NSS Programme Officer, Nature Club Coordinator, Chief Superintendent of Examinations, and Young Innovators Programme Facilitator. She has also organized national seminars and workshops on emerging trends in chemistry, enhancing academic collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Minitha R. has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to academia and research. She served as the NSS Programme Officer (2021-2022), demonstrating her commitment to student welfare and community service. As the Nature Club Coordinator (2019-2020), she played a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness. Her leadership extended to being the Chief Superintendent of Examinations (2020-2021), ensuring smooth academic assessments. Additionally, she facilitated the Young Innovators Programme (2019), fostering creativity and scientific curiosity among students. Her research endeavors were supported by a KSCSTE-funded M.Sc. student project, where she developed a chemosensor for metal ion detection. These roles reflect her dedication to education, research, and institutional development.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Minitha R. specializes in Inorganic Chemistry, with a keen interest in Organic Chemistry, Coordination Chemistry, and Supramolecular Chemistry. Her research explores the synthesis and characterization of novel metal complexes, particularly those with biological and chemosensory applications. She has contributed significantly to the development of pyrazolylhydrazone-based metal complexes, dioxo molybdenum(VI) compounds, and benzothiazolium salts. Her work also extends to fluorescent hydrazones and ruthenium(II) complexes, emphasizing their structural and functional properties. Additionally, her studies on five-coordinate Zn(II) complexes highlight their potential in nonlinear optical applications. Through her research, she aims to bridge the gap between fundamental chemistry and real-world applications, particularly in materials science, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry.

Publication Top Notes:

Formation of dicyano ruthenium(II) complex mediated by triethylamine via deprotonation of hydrazonochroman-2,4-dione
Synthesis, spectroscopic and biological studies of metal complexes of an ONO donor pyrazolylhydrazone – Crystal structure of ligand and Co(II) complex
Studies of some dioxo molybdenum(VI) complexes of a polydentate ligand
One pot synthesis of 1–(3–methyl–4H–benzo[1,4]thiazin–2–yl)-ethanone and its antimicrobial properties
 Synthesis, spectral, and magnetic studies of benzothiazolium tetrachlorocuprate salts: crystal structure and semiconducting behavior of bis[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)benzothiazolium] tetrachlorocuprate(II)
Fluorescent coumarin-based hydrazone: Synthesis, crystal structure, and spectroscopic studies
FT-IR, FT-Raman and computational study of 1H-2,2-dimethyl-3H-phenothiazin-4[10H]-one
Synthesis, crystal structure, spectral analysis, and NLO studies of five-coordinate Zn(II) complexes of hydrazochromandione
 Chemosensing study of 1,4-Benzothiazine generated from acetylacetone