Sofia Pacheco | Polymer Matrix Composites | Research Excellence Award
Ms. Sofia Pacheco at Faculty of Engineering – University of Porto | Portugal
Featured Publication
Authors: Sofia Pacheco et al.
Arthittaya Chuaybamrung 🎓 is a dedicated Ph.D. student in Polymer Science and Technology at Prince of Songkla University, Thailand 🇹🇭. With a strong foundation in rubber and polymer research 🧪, she specializes in developing natural rubber-based composites for flexible sensors and bio-adhesives. Her innovative work has earned her national awards 🏆 and several publications in reputed journals 📚. Arthittaya has practical experience as a research assistant and intern in leading rubber and polymer industries 🏭. A passionate and goal-oriented researcher, she is committed to advancing sustainable materials science 🌱 and contributing to Thailand’s industrial innovations 🚀.
Education & Experience 📘 Education
🎓 Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Technology (2021–Present) – Prince of Songkla University
Thesis: Modified natural rubber/CNT composites for flexible sensors
🎓 B.Sc. in Polymer Science (2016–2020) – Prince of Songkla University
Project: Leather-like materials from natural rubber
🛠️ Work Experience
🧪 Research Assistant (May 2020 – May 2021), Rubber Technology and Engineering, Prince of Songkla University
🧫 Trainee in Compounding (Jan – Mar 2020), Top Glove Medical, Thailand
🔬 R&D Trainee (May – Jul 2019), Rubber Authority of Thailand
Ms. Arthittaya Chuaybamrung, a dedicated Ph.D. scholar in Polymer Science and Technology at Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her research encompasses cutting-edge innovations in natural rubber-based composites, flexible sensors, and eco-friendly bio-adhesives, reflecting a strong alignment with sustainability, industrial application, and scientific advancement. Arthittaya’s remarkable achievements in both academic and applied polymer research have earned her national awards, competitive patents, and impactful publications in international journals.
Professional DevelopmentArthittaya actively engages in scientific development and entrepreneurship through diverse platforms 🌏. She has delivered oral presentations at international conferences 🗣️ and participated in expos like Thailand Rubber Expo 2023 and PACCON 2022 🧪. A competitor in innovation contests like the Merck Young Science Award 🏅 and the Rubber Start-up Program 🚀, she also contributed to community technology transfers in Yala and Satun 🧬. Her continuous learning mindset and collaborations across institutions reflect her drive to bring lab research into real-world applications 🧠🔧. Arthittaya’s growth-oriented spirit fuels her commitment to sustainable, impactful polymer research 🌿.
Research Focus Arthittaya’s research primarily centers on natural rubber-based nanocomposites and green polymer innovations 🌱🧪. Her Ph.D. work explores carbon nanotube-reinforced natural rubber materials using glutaraldehyde for low-temperature curing 🌡️, targeting flexible sensor applications 🔌. Additionally, she has developed bio-adhesives from rubber seed oil, promoting eco-friendly alternatives in wood and rubber industries 🪵🌍. Her research spans polymer chemistry, vulcanization techniques, and material property enhancement using nanotechnology ⚗️📊. With a keen interest in the integration of biopolymers and industry relevance, she bridges sustainability with innovation across latex technology, composites, and smart material systems 🤖🧫.
Awards & Honors 🏅 Feb 2024 – Gold Medal, Thailand New-Gen Inventor Award (NRCT)
🥇 Jul 2023 – 1st Place, Rubber Innovation Contest (Graduate Level), Rubber Authority of Thailand
🥈 Jun 2022 – 2nd Place, Materials Science Innovation Contest, Kasetsart University
📜 Mar 2018 – Certificate of Academic Excellence, Faculty of Science, PSU
📘 (2022) – Development and characterization of in-house leather-like material based on natural rubber vulcanizate, Journal of Physical Science, Vol. 33(1), 65–82. 🧪📄
📗 (2022) – Development of a new bio-adhesive for sawdust particleboard using modified rubber seed oil, The 2022 Pure and Applied Chemistry International Conference, p. 449. 🧫📊
📙 (2023) – Synergistic effects of 2,4 dihydroxybenzaldehyde and carbon black nanoparticles on the properties of natural rubber, Emergent Materials, Vol. 6, 1371–1382. ⚗️🧾
📕 (2023) – Enhancing thermo‑mechanical properties of thermoplastic starch/natural rubber blends through PEG and modified natural rubber, Journal of Polymers and the Environment. 🌱🔬
📒 (2024) – Rapid formation of carbon nanotubes–natural rubber films cured with glutaraldehyde for reducing percolation threshold concentration, Discover Nano, Vol. 19, Article 30. 🧬⚡
📓 (2024) – A novel chemical route for low-temperature curing of natural rubber using 2,4 dihydroxybenzaldehyde: improved thermal and tensile properties, Iranian Polymer Journal. 🌡️
📔 (2025) – Influence of grafted natural rubber on electrical, mechanical and thermo-mechanical properties of NR/CNT nanocomposites using glutaraldehyde, Iranian Polymer Journal (English Edition). ⚙️📈
Dr. Mingde Tong is a postdoctoral researcher at Northwestern Polytechnical University, specializing in high-temperature-resistant composites for aerospace applications. His research focuses on carbon fiber-reinforced ultrahigh-temperature ceramic composites (C/UHTCs), particularly enhancing the oxide layer’s bonding strength and compactness using the self-sintering effect of Hf₆Ta₂O₁₇. He has published 20 SCI papers in renowned journals, holds six patents, and collaborates on industry projects. As a member of the Chinese Society for Composite Materials, he actively contributes to material innovation. His work significantly advances the mechanical property retention of aerospace composites after cyclic ablation. 🚀📚
✅ Education:
✅ Experience:
Dr. Mingde Tong, an exceptional postdoctoral researcher at Northwestern Polytechnical University, is a leading expert in carbon fiber-reinforced ultrahigh-temperature ceramic composites (C/UHTCs). His pioneering contributions to aerospace materials have significantly advanced thermal stability, ablation resistance, and mechanical performance, making him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With an outstanding track record of high-impact research, innovation in material engineering, and strong industry collaborations, Dr. Tong has played a crucial role in shaping the future of high-temperature aerospace applications. His work provides breakthrough solutions for improving thermal protection systems, ensuring enhanced durability and reliability in extreme environments.
Dr. Mingde Tong actively advances aerospace material research, focusing on high-temperature-resistant ceramic composites. His work optimizes Hf/Ta atomic ratios for superior ablation resistance (2000–2600°C) and enhances the oxide layer’s mechanical properties. Using PIP and CVI techniques, he developed a Hf-Ta-Si-C ceramic matrix with exceptional flexural strength post-ablation (195.9±20.7 MPa). His collaboration with CRRC Qishuyan Institute extends his research impact to industrial applications. As a member of the Chinese Society for Composite Materials, Dr. Tong continuously contributes to innovative composite material development, strengthening China’s aerospace capabilities. ✈️🛰️
Dr. Mingde Tong specializes in high-temperature-resistant composites, particularly carbon fiber-reinforced ultrahigh-temperature ceramic composites (C/UHTCs) for aerospace applications. His research explores optimizing oxide layers to enhance ablation resistance and mechanical strength retention. By leveraging the self-sintering effect of Hf₆Ta₂O₁₇, he significantly improved the bonding strength and compactness of ceramic matrices. His studies also focus on PIP and CVI fabrication techniques to construct advanced multi-component ceramic matrices. His work ensures superior thermal stability and mechanical integrity, addressing critical challenges in high-speed aerospace applications and next-generation hypersonic technologies. 🌡️🚀
Prof. Sabrina Cipolletta is a Full Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Padova, Italy. With a Ph.D. in Personality and Social Psychology , she has held multiple academic positions, including Associate Professor . She has contributed extensively to research in health psychology, psychotherapy, and social psychology. A practicing psychotherapist since , she has collaborated internationally, including at the University of Hertfordshire and Rīga Stradiņš University. Her work bridges psychology, health, and social dynamics, making significant contributions to academia and applied psychology. 



Ph.D. in Personality and Social Psychology – University of Padova (2003)
Postdoctoral Research Scholarship – University of Padova (2003)
Licensed Psychotherapist – Since 2002
Full Professor of Social Psychology – University of Padova (2024–Present)
Associate Professor of Social Psychology – University of Padova (2018-2024)
Assistant Professor of Social Psychology – University of Padova (2007-2017)
Adjunct & Contract Professor – Social Psychology, Health Psychology, and Prevention at multiple faculties (2006-2017)
International Research Collaborator – University of Hertfordshire (UK), Rīga Stradiņš University (Latvia) 
Prof. Sabrina Cipolletta, Ph.D., a distinguished Full Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Padova, is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a prolific academic career spanning over two decades, she has significantly contributed to the fields of social psychology, health psychology, and personality development. Her research has played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of human behavior, psychological well-being, and the psychosocial aspects of health and illness.


Prof. Sabrina Cipolletta has actively engaged in international collaborations, research projects, and academic mobility programs to advance social psychology and health research. She was a visiting professor at Rīga Stradiņš University in Latvia, sharing insights into health psychology and pedagogy. In the UK, she collaborated with leading researchers at the University of Hertfordshire on projects integrating psychotherapy, social psychology, and cognitive sciences. Her extensive teaching portfolio spans psychology, medicine, and management, showcasing her multidisciplinary expertise. She continues to mentor students, contribute to scientific literature, and explore the intersection of psychology and societal well-being. 



Prof. Sabrina Cipolletta research spans social psychology, psychotherapy, and health psychology, focusing on how individuals and groups interact within health and social contexts. She explores topics like health behaviors, psychological well-being, illness narratives, and the role of social support in therapy. Her work also delves into virtual environments in psychotherapy, patient-centered care, and mental health interventions. With a keen interest in how social structures influence health decisions, she collaborates across disciplines, blending psychology, medicine, and sociology to improve patient care and societal well-being. Her contributions have shaped both academic knowledge and real-world applications. 

We Are All in This Together: Narratives of a Blended Intervention to Support Well‐Being and Social Connectedness in International Students – Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology, 2025
[DOI: 10.1002/casp.70059]
Identification, Similarity, and Understanding in Female Same-Sex Couples: A Dyadic Study – Journal of Constructivist Psychology, 2024
[DOI: 10.1080/10720537.2023.2267151]
Problematic Pornography Use, Mental Health, and Suicidality among Young Adults – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2024
[DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21091228]
Dr.Ivo Vaz de Oliveira
is an esteemed researcher and professor specializing in plant physiology, fruit quality, and agricultural sustainability. ![]()
He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) and has conducted extensive postdoctoral research on almond, hazelnut, and cherry cultivation. ![]()
With a career spanning academia and research, he has contributed to multiple European projects, including BRESOV (Horizon 2020). ![]()
Currently, he serves as an Invited Assistant Professor at UTAD and a Guest Adjunct Professor at the Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, shaping the next generation of agricultural scientists. ![]()
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Dr. Ivo Vaz de Oliveira, a distinguished researcher in the field of agro-environmental and biological sciences, is a deserving recipient of the
Best Researcher Award. His extensive research contributions, spanning over a decade, have significantly advanced the understanding of tree physiology, fruit quality, and sustainable agricultural practices. His interdisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, microbiology, and plant physiology, has positioned him as a leader in agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Dr.Ivo Vaz de Oliveira has actively engaged in research on agricultural sustainability, fruit quality, and plant physiology. ![]()
His work spans pre-harvest factors affecting fruit production, including fertilization, irrigation, and stress reduction strategies. ![]()
He has collaborated on multiple international projects, optimizing tree physiology and enhancing industrial applications of almonds, hazelnuts, and cherries. ![]()
Additionally, he has contributed to studies on vineyard adaptability to climate change. ![]()
As a university professor, he integrates cutting-edge research with academic instruction, mentoring students and developing research proposals for funding.
His expertise bridges plant science and sustainable agriculture. ![]()
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Dr.Ivo Vaz de Oliveira research centers on plant physiology, fruit quality enhancement, and agricultural sustainability. ![]()
His studies focus on optimizing tree physiology through advanced fertilization and irrigation techniques, improving the quality of crops like almond, hazelnut, cherry, and apple. ![]()
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He also explores climate adaptation strategies for vineyards
and investigates natural compounds to enhance plant resilience. ![]()
His expertise extends to biological pest control, particularly in olive cultivation. ![]()
With a strong foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry, his work contributes to sustainable farming and the valorization of agro-food by-products. ![]()
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2021: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, University of Porto.
2022-present: Pursuing a Master’s degree in Industrial Chemistry at the University of Beira Interior.
2023: Published research on green composites in the journal Polymers.
“Temporal data mining: An overview” by CM Antunes, AL Oliveira, KDD Workshop on Temporal Data Mining, 2001 – Cited by 493 
“Generalization of pattern-growth methods for sequential pattern mining with gap constraints” by C Antunes, AL Oliveira, Machine Learning and Data Mining in Pattern Recognition, 2003 – Cited by 109 
“A structured view on pattern mining-based biclustering” by R Henriques, C Antunes, SC Madeira, Pattern Recognition, 2015 – Cited by 87 
“Acquiring background knowledge for intelligent tutoring systems” by C Antunes, Educational Data Mining, 2008 – Cited by 69 
“Sequential pattern mining algorithms: Trade-offs between speed and memory” by C Antunes, AL Oliveira, 2nd Workshop on Mining Graphs, Trees and Sequences, 2004 – Cited by 56 
“Anticipating Students’ Failure As Soon As Possible” by C Antunes, Handbook of Educational Data Mining, 2010 – Cited by 36 
“Predicting teamwork results from social network analysis” by PT Crespo, C Antunes, Expert Systems, 2015 – Cited by 31 
“Accessing emotion patterns from affective interactions using electrodermal activity” by R Henriques, A Paiva, C Antunes, Humaine Association Conference on Affective Computing and Intelligent Interaction, 2013 – Cited by 31 