Gao Zhenzhen | Heterocycle Synthesis | Green Chemistry Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gao Zhenzhen | Heterocycle Synthesis | Green Chemistry Award

Dean at Liaocheng University | China

Dr. Zhenzhen Gao is an Associate Professor at the School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Liaocheng University, China. She has been a faculty member at Liaocheng University since 2017, advancing from Lecturer to Associate Professor in 2025. Dr. Gao’s research lies at the intersection of synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry, with a focus on phosphine-catalyzed reactions and the development of biologically active molecules. She has published in reputable journals such as Molecules and International Journal of Molecular Sciences, contributing significant advancements in the synthesis of maleimide derivatives and their biological applications. She has successfully led a Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation General Project on the design and synthesis of α-allenoates with electron-withdrawing groups and novel cyclization reactions. Her work integrates chemical innovation with potential therapeutic value, bridging fundamental organic synthesis with applied pharmaceutical research. Dr. Gao is committed to advancing green, efficient, and biologically relevant synthetic methodologies.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Zhenzhen Gao holds advanced academic training in pharmaceutical and chemical sciences, having completed her higher education in China with a specialization in organic chemistry and drug synthesis. She developed a strong foundation in organic reaction mechanisms, catalysis, and structure–activity relationships during her postgraduate studies. Her academic journey emphasized both theoretical and experimental approaches, enabling her to work on designing and synthesizing functionalized organic compounds with potential biological activity. While formal education details are not specified, her expertise and publications reflect extensive training in synthetic methodologies, heterocyclic chemistry, and phosphine-catalyzed transformations. Dr. Gao’s education also involved collaborative research projects, where she gained experience with interdisciplinary teams combining chemistry, pharmacology, and materials science. This academic background has equipped her with the skills to develop innovative molecular scaffolds, optimize reaction conditions, and explore the medicinal potential of novel compounds—forming the basis of her later independent research career at Liaocheng University.

Experience 

Dr. Zhenzhen Gao began her academic career in July 2017 as a Lecturer at the School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Liaocheng University, where she contributed to teaching, curriculum development, and guiding undergraduate research. Over the next seven years, she expanded her research portfolio in organic synthesis, focusing on phosphine-catalyzed transformations and the synthesis of biologically relevant molecules. In January 2025, she was promoted to Associate Professor, recognizing her academic contributions and leadership in research. She has successfully led projects funded by the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation, including the design and synthesis of α-allenoates with electron-withdrawing substituents and development of new cyclization methodologies. Dr. Gao’s professional experience combines innovative laboratory research with mentorship, academic service, and scholarly publishing. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to bridge chemical synthesis with pharmaceutical applications, contributing to advancements in both fundamental organic chemistry and applied medicinal chemistry.

Awards 

While no specific national or international awards are listed, Dr. Zhenzhen Gao’s professional achievements reflect significant academic recognition. Her promotion to Associate Professor at Liaocheng University in 2025 is a testament to her sustained research productivity, teaching excellence, and contribution to the university’s scientific standing. She has been entrusted with leading a competitive Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation General Project—an acknowledgment of her capability to conduct innovative, high-impact research. Her publications in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals such as Molecules and International Journal of Molecular Sciences demonstrate scholarly recognition from the scientific community. These achievements collectively serve as academic milestones, indicating her growing influence in the field of organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry. Through her leadership in funded projects, consistent publication record, and active involvement in academic activities, Dr. Gao has built a professional profile characterized by scientific rigor, innovation, and dedication to advancing chemical research.

Research Interests 

Dr. Zhenzhen Gao’s research interests center on synthetic organic chemistry, with a focus on phosphine-catalyzed reactions and the design of novel biologically active molecules. She specializes in the synthesis of α-allenoates containing electron-withdrawing substituents and the development of innovative cyclization methodologies. Her work explores the creation of functionalized heterocycles and maleimide derivatives, aiming to expand their potential in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical development. Dr. Gao is particularly interested in reaction mechanism elucidation, optimizing reaction efficiency, and achieving high selectivity in complex molecule synthesis. She also engages in studying structure–activity relationships (SAR) to understand how chemical modifications influence biological activity. By integrating synthetic strategies with biological evaluation, her research seeks to contribute to the development of new therapeutic agents. Additionally, she is interested in advancing green and sustainable chemistry practices, designing synthetic pathways that minimize environmental impact while maximizing chemical and pharmacological value.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Antifungal Activity and Multi-Target Mechanism of Action of Methylaervine on Candida albican
    Year: 2024 (June 24)

  • Title: Synthesis of 3,4-Disubstituted Maleimide Derivatives via Phosphine-Catalyzed Isomerization of α-Succinimide-Substituted Allenoates Cascade γ′-Addition with Aryl Imines
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Phosphine-Catalyzed γ′-Carbon 1,6-Conjugate Addition of α-Succinimide Substituted Allenoates with Para-Quinone Methides: Synthesis of 4-Diarylmethylated 3,4-Disubstituted MaleimidesYear: 2024 (May 31

Conclusion 

In summary, Dr. Zhenzhen Gao is an accomplished organic chemist whose career reflects a balance between innovative research and academic dedication. From her early role as a Lecturer to her promotion as Associate Professor, she has demonstrated consistent growth in scholarship, leadership, and project management. Her research on phosphine-catalyzed transformations and novel heterocyclic compounds bridges the gap between fundamental organic synthesis and potential medicinal applications. The successful execution of a Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation project underscores her capacity for impactful, funded research. Through publications in respected international journals, she has contributed valuable knowledge to the fields of synthetic methodology and medicinal chemistry.

 

Prof. Dr. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani | Catalysis | Best Faculty Award

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Prof. Dr. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani | Catalysis | Best Faculty Award

Prof. Dr. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani , Catalysis , Faculty at Bu-Ali Sina University, Iran

Dr. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani,  is a distinguished Professor of Organic Chemistry currently serving at Bu-Ali Sina University. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to the field of synthetic organic chemistry. Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani earned his Ph.D., M.Sc., and B.Sc. degrees from Bu-Ali Sina University, demonstrating consistent academic excellence. He further broadened his research experience as a visiting graduate student and professor at the University of Western Ontario, Canada. Known for his innovative work on green chemistry and heterogeneous catalytic systems, he has authored numerous publications in reputed international journals. His dedication to research and teaching has earned him multiple awards and recognition at institutional and provincial levels. A leading name in Iranian academia, Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani continues to inspire through his impactful research, dynamic teaching, and exemplary scholarly output in the field of organic synthesis.

Professional Profile :         

Scopus 

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Prof. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani is a seasoned academic and researcher in Organic Chemistry, currently serving as a Professor at Bu-Ali Sina University. His distinguished career spans over two decades, with significant contributions in research, teaching, and academic leadership. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry and a visiting research stint in Canada, underlining his international exposure and collaboration. He has published numerous impactful research papers in peer-reviewed journals, particularly in the fields of green chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, and N-nitrosation reactions, reflecting his sustained contribution to cutting-edge research. Prof. Ghorbani has received over 18 prestigious awards, including recognitions at the university, faculty, and provincial levels, and the title of International Scientist by ISI (ESI). Prof. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani exemplifies the ideal candidate for the “Best Faculty Award” due to his exceptional academic achievements, innovative research contributions, and outstanding commitment to education. His consistent recognition by academic and scientific bodies over the years underscores his excellence, dedication, and leadership in the field. He not only meets but exceeds the criteria typically expected for such an honor.

🎓Education:

Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry (2001) from Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamadan, Iran. He pursued his passion for organic chemistry further by completing his M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry (2003) from the same university, where he was recognized as a distinguished student. He later earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry in 2007, again from Bu-Ali Sina University. As part of his doctoral training, he was a Visiting Graduate Student at The University of Western Ontario, Canada (2005–2006), where he gained international exposure and advanced laboratory experience. His educational background is rooted in rigorous research and innovative synthesis techniques, particularly in green and heterogeneous organic chemistry. His early dedication to academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a prolific career in both teaching and research, with his work receiving accolades for its scientific rigor and practical application.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani’s teaching and research career began in 2007 when he joined Ilam University as an Assistant Professor, advancing to Associate Professor in 2013 and Professor in 2017. He served Ilam University until 2020, during which time he significantly enhanced the university’s research output and mentored numerous students. He later joined Bu-Ali Sina University in September 2020, where he continues to serve as a Professor of Organic Chemistry. In 2018, he was a Visiting Professor at the University of Western Ontario, further expanding his international collaborations and exposure. His research expertise lies in green chemistry, catalytic systems, and sustainable synthetic methodologies. Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani is known for his dedication to fostering academic excellence through teaching, mentoring, and publishing high-quality research. His progressive career path demonstrates his commitment to advancing science and education in Iran and on the international stage.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani has been the recipient of numerous prestigious honors recognizing his academic and research excellence. He was a Distinguished Student at Bu-Ali Sina University multiple times (2000–2006) and received commendations such as the Kharazmi Symposium Appreciation Letter (2001). His excellence in research earned him several Distinguished Researcher titles at Ilam University and the Province of Ilam between 2008–2018. He was also acknowledged as the Distinguished Teacher of Ilam University (2009) and was named an International Scientist by ISI (ESI) in December 2017. These honors reflect his impactful scholarly contributions and his leadership in academic circles. His continuous recognition at faculty, university, and provincial levels signifies not only his scientific achievements but also his influence as an educator and innovator in the field of organic chemistry.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani’s research primarily focuses on green chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, and innovative organic synthesis. He is particularly known for his work on N-nitrosation of amines, oxidation of 1,4-dihydropyridines, and the design of efficient, recyclable catalytic systems under mild conditions. His research integrates principles of sustainability and eco-friendliness, contributing to the advancement of clean synthesis methods. He has utilized diverse reagents and support systems like silica chloride, ZrCl₄/NaNO₂, silica-modified sulfuric acid, and trichloroisocyanuric acid in the development of novel chemical transformations. His studies have opened new pathways in heterogeneous reaction systems, often under solvent-free or mild conditions, making them industrially relevant. Dr. Ghorbani-Choghamarani’s innovative work has earned international acclaim, and he continues to publish extensively, mentor young scientists, and contribute to the global research community in organic and green chemistry.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Title: ZnFe₂O₄@SiO₂@n-pr@xanthine-Pr: as a highly versatile catalyst for the preparation of 1H-tetrazoles and sulfoxidation reaction

2. Title: A new Schiff-base-N-propylhydrazine-1-carbothioamide complex of copper on boehmite nanoparticles as a recoverable catalyst in the homoselective synthesis of 5-substituted tetrazoles

Citations: 1

3. Title: ZnFe₂O₄@SiO₂@L-lysine@SO₃H: preparation, characterization, and its catalytic applications in the oxidation of sulfides and synthesis of Bis(pyrazolyl)methanes

Citations: 2

4. Title: Catalytic performance of hexagonal boron Nitride@APTS-SO₃H as heterogeneous nanocatalyst for biodiesel production

Citations: 2

5. Title: One-pot conversion of 2-ethoxycarbonyl-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-4-ones to tetracyclic quinazoline-6,12-diones in the presence of a Pd complex nanocatalyst

Citations: 1

6. Title: The bifunctional and reusable catalyst of cerium/L-arginine on mesoporous KIT-6 in the chemoselective oxidation of sulfides and homoselective synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans

Citations: 4

7. Title: Magnetically recoverable Fe₃O₄@SiO₂@SBA-3@2-ATP-Cu: an improved catalyst for the synthesis of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles

Citations: 2

8. Title: FDU-12@AGA-Pd: A green, novel, recyclable, and highly versatile mesoporous catalyst for C–C coupling reaction and synthesis of tetrazoles

Citations: 2

9. Title: Surfactant-free synthesis of mesoporous silica materials (Using tetraethylorthosilicate and oleic acid): Preparation, characterization, and catalytic applications

Citations: 1

10. Title: Immobilization of Schiff base-Pd complex in mesoporous silica KIT-6 channels: A novel, green, recyclable, and highly versatile mesoporous catalyst for the carbon-carbon cross-coupling reaction

Citations: 8