Assist. Prof. Dr. Emilia Paone , Industrial Chemistry , Assistant Professor at Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, Italy

Dr. Emilia Paone is a dynamic and forward-thinking Fixed-Term Researcher (RTD-B) at the Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, specializing in Industrial Chemistry (SSD: CHIM/07). Born on September 14, 1990, in Reggio Calabria, Italy, she has emerged as a leading young scientist in the field of heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable chemical transformations. Her research pivots on the valorization of waste biomass and plastic residues into high-value chemicals and fuels. With over 41 peer-reviewed international publications, an h-index of 21, and significant international collaborations, Dr. Paone has built a formidable academic presence. She has held multiple national scientific qualifications for associate professorship in both CHIM/04 and CHIM/07. Her global perspective is enriched by research periods in Spain and collaboration with industrial partners. An active voice in green chemistry and environmental sustainability, she is a rising star driving innovation in catalytic materials and waste valorization technologies.

Professional Profile :

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Emilia Paone exemplifies the core qualities sought in a “Young Scientist Award” recipient. With a Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Safety Engineering, she has consistently demonstrated scientific maturity, innovation, and dedication in the realm of green and sustainable chemistry. Her postdoctoral and fixed-term research roles, particularly under national initiatives such as DM 1062/2021 in thematic GREEN areas, highlight her alignment with sustainability and circular economy goals. She has published 41 peer-reviewed papers, authored 2 book chapters, and amassed over 2,000 citations with an h-index of 21, which is remarkable for a young researcher. Her work on heterogeneous catalysis, biomass valorization, and e-waste upcycling contributes meaningfully to global sustainability challenges. She has held international research roles, including ERASMUS+ staff mobility in Spain, showing global engagement and collaborative spirit. Moreover, she has achieved dual National Scientific Qualifications for Associate Professor roles, underscoring her excellence and leadership potential.Dr. Emilia Paone’s proven research excellence, international collaborations, impactful publications, and clear contribution to sustainable technologies make her a strong, deserving, and outstanding candidate for the “Young Scientist Award’. Her work not only meets but exceeds the typical expectations for this recognition, and she stands as a role model for early-career researchers in green and industrial chemistry.

🎓Education:

Dr. Paone earned her Bachelor’s (2009–2013) and Master’s Degrees (2013–2015) in Chemistry from the Università degli Studi di Messina. She then completed her Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Safety Engineering (2015–2018) at the Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria, specializing in Science and Technology, Materials, and Energy. Her doctoral thesis was titled “Transfer Hydrogenolysis of Lignin and its Derived Aromatic Ethers Promoted by Heterogeneous Bimetallic Pd-Based Catalysts.” She has also completed a qualification exam in chemistry exercise in 2015. Emilia further enhanced her academic training with research internships in both Italy and Spain, including studies on chemical equilibria and potable water analysis. Notably, she has enriched her learning with international research mobility under Erasmus+, and visiting positions in Spain, gaining practical expertise in nanostructured materials, catalysis, and green technologies.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Paone currently serves as a Fixed-Term Researcher (RTD-B) at Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria (since March 2024), focusing on Industrial Chemistry. Previously, she held an RTD-A position (2022–2024) under Italy’s GREEN program (Action IV.6), collaborating with Capua 1880 s.r.l. on sustainable technologies. Earlier, as a postdoctoral researcher (2021), she worked on the environmental sustainability of materials recovered from lithium battery waste. From 2019 to 2021, she worked with the University of Florence and Reggio Calabria on nanostructured materials for detecting metal ions in solutions. During her Ph.D. and internships, she explored lignin valorization and heterogeneous catalysis. Internationally, she served as a Visiting Researcher and Professor at the University of Córdoba, Spain, and as a Ph.D. student researcher in the same institution. Her experience spans academia, industrial collaboration, and international teaching and research exchanges—showcasing both scientific excellence and applied innovation.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Emilia Paone has achieved significant recognition in the field of sustainable chemistry and heterogeneous catalysis through her impactful research and academic contributions. She holds two prestigious National Scientific Qualifications (Abilitazione Scientifica Nazionale) for the role of Associate Professor—one in Industrial Chemistry (CHIM/04 – 03/C2) awarded in 2023, and another in Principles of Chemistry for Applied Technologies (CHIM/07 – 03/B2) awarded in 2022. These qualifications are a testament to her high scientific standards and professional competence, as evaluated by national committees in Italy. Furthermore, her international engagement and excellence were highlighted when she was selected as a Visiting Researcher and Professor under the ERASMUS+ Staff Mobility program in 2023 at the Universidad de Córdoba, Spain. Her academic visibility is reinforced by her impressive bibliometric indicators, with over 2,000 citations and an h-index of 21, showcasing her growing influence in catalysis, green chemistry, and the valorization of waste to high-value products.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Paone’s research is at the cutting edge of green chemistry 🌱, with a core focus on heterogeneous catalysis for the valorization of waste and biomass into value-added products such as bioplastics, biofuels, and fine chemicals. Her work spans the transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin, reductive catalytic upgrading of plastic waste, and photocatalytic degradation of pollutants, contributing to sustainable circular economy models. She has developed MOF-derived, single-atom, and bimetallic Pd-based catalysts that efficiently convert industrial and e-waste streams. She actively collaborates on projects transforming orange peels, PET, polyolefins, and lithium battery residues into useful chemicals via eco-friendly methods. Her interdisciplinary approach combines catalyst design, nanomaterials, environmental remediation, and flow chemistry, with a strong emphasis on industrial scalability and green metrics. Dr. Paone’s research consistently addresses pressing climate and sustainability goals, establishing her as a key player in Europe’s scientific green transition.

Publication Top Notes:

Continuous flow production of γ-valerolactone from methyl-levulinate promoted by MOF-derived Al₂O₃–ZrO₂/C catalysts

Waste-minimized access to diarylamines and triarylamines via Csp²–N coupling under batch and flow conditions

E-Waste Wars: The Catalyst Awakens

Long-Term Preservation of Orange Peel Waste for the Production of Acids and Biogas

Direct Reuse of Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Reductive Upgrading of Biomass-Derived Furfural

The reductive catalytic upcycling of polyolefin plastic waste

Hydrothermal Carbonization as Sustainable Process for the Complete Upgrading of Orange Peel Waste into Value-Added Chemicals and Bio-Carbon Materials

A New Biorefinery Approach for the Full Valorisation of Anchovy Residues: Use of the Sludge Generated during the Extraction of Fish Oil as a Nitrogen Supplement in Anaerobic Digestion

Electrospun Nanofibers and Electrochemical Techniques for the Detection of Heavy Metal Ions.

Self Standing Mats of Blended Polyaniline Produced by Electrospinning

Integral valorization of orange peel waste through optimized ensiling: Lactic acid and bioethanol production

Sustainably Sourced Olive Polyphenols and Omega-3 Marine Lipids: A Synergy Fostering Public Health

Dr. Kàshinath Lellala | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 26/02/202526/02/2025 by sciencefather

Dr. Kàshinath Lellala | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kàshinath Lellala , Materials Chemistry , University of Mysore , India

Dr. Kashinath Lellala is an accomplished materials scientist with expertise in advanced functional materials for energy and environmental applications. With over 12 years of research experience and 10 years of teaching, he has made significant contributions to materials fabrication, catalysis, and battery technology. His research spans heterojunction materials, electrocatalysts, and Li-ion battery components. Dr. Lellala has held postdoctoral positions at esteemed institutions such as Xavier University (USA), Luleå University of Technology (Sweden), and Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (India). He has also served as a lecturer at Xavier University, JSS University, and Royal University of Bhutan. His interdisciplinary approach integrates computational studies with experimental research, enhancing his contributions to materials science. He actively collaborates with global researchers and has served on editorial boards of reputed journals. His work has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Eminent Educator Award and prestigious fellowships.

Professional Profile :

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Kashinath Lellala is exceptionally qualified for “Best Researcher Awards” due to his extensive and diverse contributions to materials science and engineering. With over 12 years of research experience and 10 years of teaching, his work spans advanced functional materials, photocatalysis, and lithium-ion battery technology. His innovative approaches in synthesizing heterojunction materials, semiconductor-supported catalysts, and graphene-based nanomaterials have significantly advanced the fields of energy and environmental applications. His global research stints—at institutions such as Xavier University, Luleå University of Technology, and Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University—underscore his ability to collaborate across borders and disciplines. Additionally, his editorial board roles, numerous publications, and prestigious awards, including the Caryl Trigger Research Fellowship and Eminent Educator Award, reflect both his academic rigor and leadership.

🎓Education:

Dr. Kashinath Lellala earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science from the University of Mysore, India, in 2019, under the guidance of Prof. K. Byrappa, focusing on hybrid metal oxide/metal sulfide-graphene oxide nanocomposites for energy and environmental applications. He completed his M.Phil. in Physics (Thin Films and Nanotechnology) from Alagappa University, India, in 2013, where he synthesized and characterized single-layered graphene via chemical exfoliation. His M.Sc. in Physics, with a specialization in electronics, was awarded by Kakatiya University, Warangal, Telangana, India, in 2007. Additionally, he holds a Diploma in Embedded Technology from Kionia Software Institution, Pune University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) from Andhra Pradesh Electronics Limited (APEL). His academic background is complemented by a Certificate in Typing (English Lower Grade), reflecting his diverse skill set in computational work and experimental physics.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Lellala has 12 years of research and 10 years of teaching experience across prestigious institutions worldwide. He served as a Postdoctoral Fellow & Lecturer at Xavier University of Louisiana (2022–2023), working on semiconductor and heterojunction materials for batteries, 3D bio-inkjet printing, and fuel cells. At Lulea University of Technology, Sweden (2020–2022), he contributed to water remediation research through semiconductor-supported photocatalysis. Earlier, he was a Research Associate at Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (2019–2020), focusing on silicon nanoparticle-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. His Ph.D. research (2014–2019) at the University of Mysore involved fabricating hybrid metal oxide/sulfide-graphene oxide nanocomposites for energy applications. Additionally, he has held teaching positions at JSS University, Bhutan Royal University, Iringa University (Tanzania), and New Science PG College, delivering lectures on physics, materials science, and nanotechnology.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Kashinath Lellala has received multiple prestigious awards in recognition of his contributions to materials science and engineering. He was awarded the Caryl Trigger Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship at Lulea University of Technology in 2020. He also received the Eminet Educator Award-2020 from the Forum of Interdisciplinary Research in Mathematical Sciences (FIRMS), India. His research excellence was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for Reviewing by Elsevier’s Journal of Cleaner Production (2021). Additionally, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Science & Technology, India (2019), and an International Visiting Research Student at the University of South Australia (2017). His research potential was acknowledged with the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) at the University of Mysore (2017) and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) by the Department of Science & Technology (2014).

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Kashinath Lellala’s research is centered on advanced functional materials for energy and environmental applications. His expertise spans photo- and electro-catalysis, heavy metal removal, and organic pollutant degradation through semiconductor-supported photocatalysts. His work on heterojunction materials includes developing fuel cell electrodes (HER, OER, ORR) and lithium-ion battery anode/cathode materials using metal oxide/metal sulfide composites. He specializes in graphene-based nanomaterials, exploring the fabrication of porous graphene sheets doped with boron and nitrogen for enhanced electrochemical performance. Additionally, he has worked extensively on silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, including the innovative synthesis of graphene from camphor. His research extends to microwave-assisted hydrothermal processing for fabricating high-efficiency heterostructures. His contributions in water remediation, particularly through photo-electrochemical oxidation, demonstrate his commitment to sustainable and green chemistry solutions for environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles decorated on N-doped graphene oxide nanosheets for elimination of heavy metals from industrial wastewater and desulfurization

Ceria Boosting on In Situ Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Oxide for Efficient Bifunctional ORR/OER Activity

Citations: 7

Sol-gel mediated microwave synthesis of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles decorated on N-doped graphene oxide nanosheets: An excellent material for removal of heavy metals, organic pollutants, and desulfurization

Ceria boosting on in-situ nitrogen-doped graphene oxide for efficient bifunctional ORR/OER activity

Electrochemical Deposition of Si Nano-spheres from Water Contaminated Ionic Liquid at Room Temperature: Structural Evolution and Growth Mechanism

One-pot microwave synthesis of SnSe and Lanthanum doped SnSe nanostructure with direct Z scheme pattern for excellent photodegradation of organic pollutants

Microwave-hydrothermal synthesis of copper sulphide nanorods embedded on graphene sheets as an efficient electrocatalyst for excellent hydrogen evolution reaction

Sulphur Embedded On In-Situ Carbon Nanodisc Decorated On Graphene Sheets For Efficient Photocatalytic Activity And Capacitive Deionization Method For Heavy Metal Removal

Microwave-Assisted Facile Hydrothermal Synthesis of Fe₃O₄–GO nanocomposites for the Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalytic Activity of OER/ORR

Role of surface passivation on the development of camphor-based Graphene/SiNWAs Schottky diode

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna | Theoretical Chemistry | Catalysis Award

Posted on 17/02/202517/02/2025 by sciencefather

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna | Theoretical Chemistry | Catalysis Award

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna | Theoretical Chemistry | Lecturer – University of Douala-Cameroon , Cameroon

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna is a Cameroonian researcher specializing in Theoretical chemistry and Computational Chemistry . He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Douala in 2021. His expertise spans Density Functional Theory (DFT), Pharmacokinetics (ADMET), Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics (MD), and ab initio Molecular Dynamics (ADMP). Dr. Ongagna has contributed significantly to computational chemistry, particularly in studying metal complexes, chemical bonding, and reaction mechanisms. He has participated in prestigious international conferences and workshops, presenting groundbreaking research on chemical bonding interactions. With numerous publications in high-impact journals such as RSC Advances and the International Journal of Quantum Chemistry, his work advances the understanding of transition metal complexes and their applications. He actively collaborates with researchers worldwide and is dedicated to developing computational tools for chemical and biological systems.

Professional Profile :

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna is an outstanding candidate for the “Catalysis Awards”, given his significant contributions to computational catalysis and theoretical chemistry. His research extensively applies Density Functional Theory (DFT), Quantum Chemical Calculations, and Molecular Dynamics (MD) to investigate transition metal complexes, non-standard chemical bonding, and catalytic reaction mechanisms. His studies provide deep insights into metal-ligand interactions, catalytic efficiency, and reaction pathways, which are fundamental for designing novel catalytic systems. Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna’s research in computational catalysis, transition metal chemistry, and theoretical modeling aligns perfectly with the objectives of the “Catalysis Awards”. His work advances the understanding of catalyst behavior, reaction mechanisms, and molecular interactions, making a substantial impact on modern catalysis research. His ability to integrate quantum chemistry tools with catalytic design positions him as a highly suitable candidate for this prestigious recognition.

🎓Education:

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna pursued his higher education at the University of Douala, Cameroon. He earned a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Computational Chemistry (2021), focusing on Density Functional Theory (DFT) and molecular simulations. In 2016, he completed his Master’s degree in the same field, where he explored the computational analysis of metal-ligand interactions. His Bachelor’s degree in Physical Chemistry (2013) laid the foundation for his research on quantum chemistry and molecular modeling. Before university, he completed his GCE Advanced Level (Baccalauréat D) in 2008 at Laic Private College “La Liberté” in Douala. His education equipped him with expertise in quantum chemistry, molecular docking, and theoretical modeling, enabling him to contribute to cutting-edge research. Throughout his academic journey, he attended specialized workshops and conferences to enhance his skills in computational chemistry, continuously refining his expertise in quantum simulations and advanced chemical theories.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna has extensive experience in Theoretical chemistry and Computational Chemistry, with expertise in Density Functional Theory (DFT), Molecular Docking, Pharmacokinetics (ADMET), and ab initio Molecular Dynamics (ADMP). He has actively participated in international conferences, presenting research on transition metal complexes, chemical bonding, and molecular interactions. He has contributed to significant projects involving the computational study of catalysts, biomolecular interactions, and pharmaceutical compounds. Dr. Ongagna has also collaborated with renowned institutions and researchers worldwide, publishing extensively in high-impact journals. His research experience includes developing and applying quantum chemical tools for investigating metal-ligand interactions and reaction mechanisms. He has been involved in multiple computational chemistry workshops, enhancing his knowledge of secondary metabolite discovery, quantum topology, and electronic structure theory. His contributions have led to a deeper understanding of non-standard chemical bonding and have implications for catalysis, drug design, and materials science.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to Theoretical and Computational Chemistry. He has been invited as a speaker at international conferences, including the 4th Commonwealth Chemistry Posters (2023) and the Virtual Conference on Chemistry and Its Applications (2021, 2022). His research on transition metal complexes and quantum chemistry has been published in high-impact journals such as RSC Advances and the International Journal of Quantum Chemistry. He has received accolades for his computational investigations on catalytic and biomolecular systems, contributing to the advancement of quantum chemical methodologies. His participation in scientific workshops at the University of Buea (Cameroon) and Technische Universität Dresden (Germany) further highlights his academic excellence. His continuous engagement in international scientific discussions and collaborations has strengthened his reputation as a leading researcher in quantum chemistry and molecular modeling.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Jean Moto Ongagna’s research focuses on Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, particularly Density Functional Theory (DFT), Quantum Chemical Calculations, Molecular Docking, Pharmacokinetics (ADMET), and Molecular Dynamics (MD). He specializes in studying transition metal complexes, non-standard chemical bonds, and catalytic reactions. His work involves topological analysis of chemical interactions using advanced computational techniques such as Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM), Energy Decomposition Analysis (EDA), and Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) analysis. He has made significant contributions to understanding palladium complexes, Diels–Alder reactions, and bioactive compounds. His research extends to computational drug discovery, antimicrobial compounds, and bioinorganic chemistry, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical modeling and experimental applications. By integrating quantum chemical methods with molecular simulations, his studies provide valuable insights into reaction mechanisms, electronic structures, and potential applications in pharmaceuticals, catalysis, and material science.

Publication Top Notes:

Deciphering the Influence of Alkylene Bridged and Chelating Mode on Pd—C and Pd—X (X = Cl, Br, and I) Bonding Interaction Within Bis‐(NHC)‐Palladium Complexes Using Quantum Chemistry Tools

Authors: Gaël Mouzong D’Ambassa, Jean Moto Ongagna, Adjieufack Abel Idrice, Désiré Bikele Mama

Year: 2024

Computational Exploration of the Impact of Low‐Spin and High‐Spin Ground State on the Chelating Ability of Dimethylglyoxime Ligand on Dihalo Transition Metal: A QTAIM, EDA, and CDA Analysis

Authors: Daniel Lissouck, Suzane Leonie Djendo Mazia, Gaël Mouzong D’Ambassa, Jean Moto Ongagna

Year: 2024

Deciphering the Influence of PdII and PdIV Oxidation States on Non-Standard Chemical Bonds Within Bis(N-Heterocyclic Carbene) Complexes: Insights from DFT

Authors: Gaël Mouzong D’Ambassa, Jean Moto Ongagna, Adjieufack Abel Idrice, Désiré Bikele Mama

Year: 2024

Exploring the Mechanism of the Intramolecular Diels–Alder Reaction of (2E,4Z,6Z)-2(allyloxy)cycloocta-2,4,6-trien-1-one Using Bonding Evolution Theory