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.

 

 

 

Mr. ROSHAN KUMAR | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. ROSHAN KUMAR | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ROSHAN KUMAR , Materials Chemistry , Senior Scientist at CSIR – National Metallurgical Laboratory, India

Dr. Roshan Kumar is a highly accomplished Senior Scientist at CSIR–National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur. With an academic foundation from premier institutes like IIT Delhi and NIT Jamshedpur, he brings over a decade of research and industrial experience in materials science, mechanical design, and manufacturing. His expertise spans from engine integration design at Tata Motors to pioneering research in biodegradable implants, hydrogen energy, and advanced metallurgy at CSIR-NML. He is actively involved in national research projects including DRDO, DST, and CSIR initiatives. Known for his innovative thinking and multidisciplinary research capabilities, he has significantly contributed to the development of green hydrogen solutions and advanced manufacturing processes. Dr. Kumar is also a passionate advocate for technology-driven social change, participating in programs like Women Technology Park. With multiple publications in reputed international journals and awards to his credit, he continues to bridge academic excellence and applied engineering for societal advancement.

Professional Profile : 

Scopus 

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Roshan Kumar exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, with a strong academic background from premier institutions like IIT Delhi and NIT Jamshedpur, and over a decade of professional experience across industry and research. Currently a Senior Scientist at CSIR–National Metallurgical Laboratory, he has made significant contributions to materials research, particularly in biodegradable implants, hydrogen energy, computational modeling, and metal corrosion studies. His work bridges computational science with experimental materials design, reflecting innovation and societal relevance. Recognized with an All India Rank 3 in CSIR-NET and a Best Poster Award at an international hydrogen conference, he has authored impactful publications in high-ranking journals. His leadership in interdisciplinary CSIR and DST projects underscores his collaborative and forward-looking research approach. With a clear focus on materials science and clean energy, Dr. Kumar’s achievements demonstrate excellence, innovation, and real-world application. Dr. Roshan Kumar is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award”, given his exemplary track record in research innovation, publication impact, national-level project leadership, and meaningful contributions to sustainable and advanced technologies.

🎓Education:

Dr. Roshan Kumar’s educational journey showcases academic brilliance and technical depth. He earned his M.Tech in Design Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi in 2015 with an impressive CGPA of 9.115, demonstrating strong command in mechanical design and computational engineering. He completed his B.Tech in Production Engineering and Management from NIT Jamshedpur in 2010, securing a GPA of 8.65, laying a robust foundation in manufacturing and production systems. His schooling reflects consistent academic performance with 72% in CBSE (2005) from VBCV, Jamshedpur, and 69.2% in Class X (2003) under the Jharkhand Board from SJS, Jamshedpur. His early academic achievements were further validated by an All India Rank 3 in CSIR-NET, earning him eligibility for the prestigious Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Fellowship (2013). This strong educational background has fueled his contributions to scientific research, innovation, and national R&D missions.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Roshan Kumar currently serves as a Senior Scientist at the Engineering Division of CSIR–NML, Jamshedpur (Dec 2019 – Present), where he leads and contributes to projects involving materials science, hydrogen energy, and biodegradable implants. Before joining CSIR, he worked as a Senior Manager at Tata Motors Limited (Sept 2015 – Nov 2019) in the Engine Integration Design department at the Engineering Research Centre, Jamshedpur. His role involved design validation, component analysis, and optimization in automotive engineering. Earlier, he began his career at Mahindra and Mahindra Limited (July 2010 – June 2011) as a Graduate Apprentice Trainee in the Engine Department at Rudrapur. Across these roles, Dr. Kumar has built a strong reputation in integrating academic research with industrial applications, especially in engine systems, manufacturing technology, and metallurgical engineering. His experience spans both applied research and industrial innovation, making him a valuable contributor to national science missions.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Roshan Kumar has received notable recognition for his research excellence and academic accomplishments. He secured an All India Rank 3 in the CSIR-NET Examination, qualifying him for the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Fellowship in 2013, one of the most prestigious fellowships for young researchers in India. In 2023, he was honored with the Best Poster Award at the 1st International Conference on Green Hydrogen for Global De-carbonization, recognizing his innovative work in clean energy research. His award-winning contributions span materials design, hydrogen generation, and advanced manufacturing. Additionally, his work is frequently cited and featured in reputed international journals, establishing his scholarly impact. These accolades highlight his dedication to solving global engineering challenges and his capacity to influence cutting-edge research in sustainable technologies, materials development, and design engineering. His involvement in national-level projects and active membership in multiple CSIR initiatives further solidify his reputation as a leading researcher in his field.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Roshan Kumar’s research is focused on materials engineering, design optimization, and clean energy technologies, with a keen interest in sustainable manufacturing. His key contributions include the development of biodegradable Mg/Zn-based implants, atomic-scale corrosion studies, and hydrogen generation through metal–water reactions. At CSIR–NML, he has led and co-led projects on machinability of Mg alloys, electroplating systems for medical applications, and weldability of high-strength steels in collaboration with DRDO and Tata Steel. His work blends computational simulations, molecular dynamics, and experimental validations to explore fracture toughness, fatigue behavior, and additive manufacturing processes. He also contributes to the CSIR Integrated Skill Training and Phenome India Health Cohort initiatives. His interdisciplinary approach leverages simulation, materials science, and product design to create real-world engineering solutions. Dr. Kumar’s work plays a pivotal role in India’s R&D landscape, especially in advancing green hydrogen energy, smart materials, and medical-grade alloys.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Atomic Investigation of Corrosion Mechanism and Surface Degradation of Fe–Cr–Ni Alloy in Presence of Water: Advanced Reactive Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Citations: 2

2. Atomistic Characterization of Multi Nano‑Crystal Formation Process in Fe–Cr–Ni Alloy During Directional Solidification: Perspective to the Additive Manufacturing

 

 

Prof. Dr. Vânia Caldas Sousa | Materials Chemistry | Material Chemistry Award

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Prof. Dr. Vânia Caldas Sousa | Materials Chemistry | Material Chemistry Award

Prof. Dr. Vânia Caldas Sousa | Materials Chemistry | Professor at UFRGS/DEMAT , Brazil 

Vânia Caldas de Sousa is a distinguished Professor Titular at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil. She specializes in materials engineering, with a focus on non-metallic materials, ceramics, and advanced processing techniques. With a prolific research career spanning decades, she has contributed significantly to the synthesis of ceramic materials, particularly in ZnO-based varistors and refractory composites. She has conducted postdoctoral research at renowned institutions such as the University of California, Davis, Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio (Spain), and Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar). Her work has been widely recognized through numerous publications, research projects, and academic contributions. She has played a key role in mentoring young researchers and developing innovative approaches in materials engineering. As an active academic, she has been dedicated to advancing knowledge in ceramic materials, their processing, and their applications in various engineering fields.

Professional Profile :

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Vânia Caldas de Sousa is a distinguished researcher in Materials Chemistry, specializing in ceramics, varistors, and composite materials. With a Ph.D. in Science and Engineering of Materials from the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), her research has significantly advanced the synthesis and processing of ceramic materials. Her expertise in combustion synthesis, refractory materials, and electrical ceramics aligns perfectly with the award’s focus on innovative contributions to materials chemistry. Dr. Vânia Caldas de Sousa is highly suitable for the “Material Chemistry Award” due to her extensive research in materials chemistry, particularly in ceramic materials, varistors , and chemical synthesis techniques. Her academic leadership, international collaborations, and impactful publications make her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious recognition.

🎓Education:

Vânia Caldas de Sousa holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar), Brazil, where she worked on the synthesis of ZnO-based varistors through combustion reaction techniques. Her doctoral research significantly contributed to understanding chemical synthesis methods for ceramic materials. She earned her master’s degree from the same institution, focusing on the preparation and characterization of mullite-cordierite composites for refractory applications. She completed her undergraduate degree in Materials Engineering at Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), where she developed a strong foundation in materials science and processing. Throughout her academic journey, she has pursued multiple short courses and training programs, covering topics such as biomaterials, ceramic processing, phase diagrams, and surface analysis. Her continuous academic development has been complemented by postdoctoral research experiences at leading global institutions, enhancing her expertise in advanced materials engineering and ceramic technologies.

🏢Work Experience:

Vânia Caldas de Sousa is a Professor Titular at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), where she leads research in materials science, particularly focusing on ceramic materials, synthesis techniques, and powder processing. She has held this position for several years, actively contributing to research and academic programs. She has taught courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including subjects like Advanced Ceramics, Science of Materials, and Mechanical Construction Materials. Additionally, she has mentored numerous graduate students in research projects related to ceramic materials and their applications. Her international research collaborations have included postdoctoral stints at the University of California, Davis, and Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio (Spain). She has also been involved in various funded research projects, contributing to advancements in materials engineering, and has worked extensively on developing innovative ceramic materials with applications in energy storage, electronics, and structural components.

🏅Awards: 

Vânia Caldas de Sousa has received multiple awards and recognitions for her contributions to materials science and engineering. She has been honored with research grants and fellowships from esteemed organizations, including the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) and the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). Her research excellence has been acknowledged through invitations to speak at international conferences and workshops. She has been recognized for her outstanding mentorship of graduate students, fostering innovation and development in ceramic materials. Her work has been featured in prestigious scientific journals, and she has received distinctions for her contributions to the advancement of non-metallic materials. Through her active involvement in academia, she has played a crucial role in shaping the future of materials engineering, earning respect and accolades from the scientific community.

🔬Research Focus:

Vânia Caldas de Sousa’s research revolves around the synthesis, processing, and characterization of ceramic materials. She specializes in powder synthesis techniques, including combustion reactions, for developing high-performance ceramics. Her work has contributed significantly to the understanding of ZnO-based varistors, which are essential for electronic applications. She is also deeply involved in the study of refractory materials, particularly mullite-cordierite composites, for high-temperature applications. Another key aspect of her research is the development of advanced ceramic processing techniques, including thermal analysis and phase equilibrium studies. Her investigations into the electrical and optical properties of inorganic materials have further expanded the applications of engineered ceramics. She collaborates with international institutions to explore innovative solutions in materials science, emphasizing energy efficiency, sustainability, and industrial applications of ceramic materials. Her research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental science and technological advancements in material engineering.

Publication Top Notes:

Characterization of silica produced from rice husk ash: comparison of purification and processing methods

Authors: IJ Fernandes, D Calheiro, FAL Sánchez, ALD Camacho, TLAC Rocha, VC Sousa

Citations: 189

Year: 2017

Combustion synthesized ZnO powders for varistor ceramics

Authors: VC Sousa, AM Segadaes, MR Morelli, R Kiminami

Citations: 179

Year: 1999

Recent research developments in SnO2-based varistors

Authors: MR Cássia-Santos, VC Sousa, MM Oliveira, FR Sensato, WK Bacelar, …

Citations: 105

Year: 2005

Magnetic and Mössbauer behavior of the nanostructured MgFe2O4 spinel obtained at low temperature

Authors: S Da Dalt, AS Takimi, TM Volkmer, VC Sousa, CP Bergmann

Citations: 95

Year: 2011

The effect of Ta2O5 and Cr2O3 on the electrical properties of TiO2 varistors

Authors: VC Sousa, ER Leite, JA Varela, E Longo

Citations: 59

Year: 2002

Combustion process in the synthesis of ZnO–Bi2O3

Authors: VC de Sousa, MR Morelli, RHG Kiminami

Citations: 58

Year: 2000

Physical, chemical and electric characterization of thermally treated rice husk ash and its potential application as ceramic raw material

Authors: IJ Fernandes, FAL Sánchez, JR Jurado, AG Kieling, TLAC Rocha, VC Sousa

Citations: 56

Year: 2017

Influence of fuel on morphology of LSM powders obtained by solution combustion synthesis

Authors: DP Tarragó, C de Fraga Malfatti, VC de Sousa

Citations: 48

Year: 2015

Study of structural and optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized by an eco-friendly tapioca-assisted route

Authors: WL de Almeida, NS Ferreira, FS Rodembusch, VC de Sousa

Citations: 38

Year: 2021

Eco-friendly and cost-effective synthesis of ZnO nanopowders by Tapioca-assisted sol-gel route

Authors: WL de Almeida, FS Rodembusch, NS Ferreira, VC de Sousa

Citations: 34

Year: 2020

Microstructure and electrical properties of (Ta, Co, Pr) doped TiO2 based electroceramics

Authors: VC Sousa, MM Oliveira, MO Orlandi, E Longo

Citations: 32

Year: 2010

Nonlinear behavior of TiO2· Ta2O5· MnO2 material doped with BaO and Bi2O3

Authors: MRD Bomio, VC Sousa, ER Leite, JA Varela, E Longo

Citations: 32

Year: 2004

Electrical Properties of La0.6Sr0.4Co1–yFeyO3 (y = 0.2–1.0) Fibers Obtained by Electrospinning

Authors: M Lubini, E Chinarro, B Moreno, VC de Sousa, AK Alves, CP Bergmann

Citations: 30

Year: 2015

Tertiary urban wastewater treatment with microalgae natural consortia in novel pilot photobioreactors

Authors: EG de Morais, JCA Marques, PR Cerqueira, C Dimas, VS Sousa, …

Citations: 27

Year: 2022

Prof. Junfa Zhu | Surface Chemistry Award | Best Scholar Award

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Prof. Junfa Zhu | Surface Chemistry Award | Best Scholar Award 

Prof. Junfa Zhu ,University of Science and Technology of China ,China

Dr. Junfa Zhu is a Chair Professor at the National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (NSRL), University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). He earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from USTC in 1999. His postdoctoral and research tenure included positions at Johannes-Kepler-Universität Linz (Austria), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (Germany), and the University of Washington (USA). Returning to USTC in 2006 under the “Hundred Talent Program” by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dr. Zhu has been pivotal in advancing surface science research. His work emphasizes in-situ surface chemistry, functional material interfaces, and synchrotron radiation techniques. With over 460 peer-reviewed publications, including Nature Communications and J. Am. Chem. Soc., his contributions have garnered 40,000+ citations and an impressive H-index of 102. As an editor for Surface Science Reports and other journals, Dr. Zhu also manages two soft X-ray spectroscopy endstations at NSRL, facilitating cutting-edge scientific investigations.

Professional Profile:

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Junfa Zhu is an exemplary candidate for the “Best Scholar Award” due to his outstanding contributions to the field of surface science and material chemistry. With over 460 peer-reviewed publications in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, J. Am. Chem. Soc., and Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., his work has garnered more than 40,000 citations, achieving an impressive H-index of 102. Dr. Zhu’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of in-situ surface chemistry, functional material interfaces, and synchrotron radiation techniques. Dr. Junfa Zhu exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding scholar: exceptional research productivity, international recognition, and substantial contributions to scientific advancements.

🎓Education:

Dr. Junfa Zhu completed his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), where he focused on advanced surface science methodologies. His academic foundation provided him with the expertise to investigate the intricate behaviors of chemical interactions and surface properties. Postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions further expanded his knowledge base. At Johannes-Kepler-Universität Linz in Austria, he explored experimental physics, while his tenure at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany deepened his specialization in physical chemistry. His research at the University of Washington in the United States provided him with hands-on experience in studying surface and interface structures in functional materials. This rigorous academic and research training equipped Dr. Junfa Zhu with interdisciplinary skills and a profound understanding of cutting-edge surface science techniques, laying the groundwork for his distinguished career in synchrotron radiation and material chemistry.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Junfa Zhu has cultivated an illustrious career that spans international institutions and interdisciplinary research. His postdoctoral appointments in Austria, Germany, and the United States honed his expertise in experimental physics, physical chemistry, and material science. He joined the University of Science and Technology of China as a professor, bringing global perspectives and advanced methodologies to his role. At the National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, he oversees two state-of-the-art soft X-ray spectroscopy endstations, enabling groundbreaking studies in surface chemistry and material interfaces. As an editor for influential journals, including Surface Science Reports, Dr. Junfa  Zhu contributes to advancing scientific dialogue in his field. His leadership and extensive collaborations have positioned him as a key figure in bridging fundamental research with real-world applications, further cementing his role as a leader in the scientific community and a catalyst for innovation in surface science.

🏅Awards:

Dr. Junfa Zhu has earned numerous accolades for his extraordinary contributions to surface science and material chemistry. His recognition under prestigious programs highlights his research excellence and potential to drive innovation in scientific discovery. He has received the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, an acknowledgment of his groundbreaking studies in surface and interface chemistry. Designated as a Highly Cited Researcher, his extensive publications and remarkable citation impact underscore his global influence. As an editor for journals like Surface Science Reports, he has been acknowledged for his thought leadership in the academic community. Additionally, his role in managing state-of-the-art synchrotron facilities reflects his technical expertise and commitment to advancing experimental methodologies. These accolades, combined with his extensive contributions to high-impact journals, affirm Dr. Junfa  Zhu’s exceptional standing as a leader in the scientific community and a recipient of numerous prestigious honors.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Junfa Zhu’s research revolves around the innovative study of surface chemistry and functional materials using advanced experimental techniques. His work focuses on in-situ investigations of chemical reactions at surfaces, unraveling the complex interactions that govern material properties. He specializes in the structural and chemical analysis of interfaces in functional materials, which has implications for catalysis, nanotechnology, and material design. Leveraging advanced synchrotron radiation tools, Dr. Junfa Zhu explores atomic-level phenomena, providing critical insights into dynamic surface processes. His leadership in managing soft X-ray spectroscopy facilities enables cutting-edge experiments that bridge fundamental science and applied technology. His research has advanced the understanding of material behaviors under operational conditions, driving innovation in sustainable energy, electronic devices, and catalytic systems. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and a focus on real-time surface studies, Dr. Junfa  Zhu has made transformative contributions to the fields of material science and surface chemistry.

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Recent progress on surface chemistry II: Property and characterization”
      Citations: 3
  • “Recent progress on surface chemistry I: Assembly and reaction”
      Citations: 3
  • “Recent progress in on-surface synthesis of nanoporous graphene materials”
      Citations: 1
  • “Dualistic insulator states in 1T-TaS2 crystals”
      Citations: 1
  • “Substrate-modulation effect in on-surface synthesis”