Haijie Ben | Design of Materials and Components | Best Researcher Award

Published on 14/11/202514/11/2025 by Composite Awards

Haijie Ben | Design of Materials and Components | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof. Dr. Haijie Ben at Quzhou University | China

Dr. Haijie Ben, Ph.D., is an accomplished researcher and Associate Professor at the College of Chemical and Material Engineering, Quzhou University, specializing in advanced materials science with a focus on organic photoelectric materials, photocatalytic systems, and innovative functional materials for environmental and industrial applications. He earned his Bachelor’s degree with honors in Materials Science from Huaibei Normal University in 2012 and completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science at Tianjin University in 2017 under the supervision of Prof. Shichun Jiang, where he conducted pioneering research on the design, characterization, and performance of organic photoelectric materials. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Ben served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Materials Science at Huazhong Normal University from 2018 to 2021, working with Prof. Lizhi Zhang on high-efficiency photocatalytic materials for environmental purification. His academic career at Quzhou University began in 2021 as a Lecturer, and through his strong research output and leadership, he was promoted to Associate Professor in 2024. Dr. Ben has secured several competitive research grants as Principal Investigator, including funding from the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation for the development of squaraine-linked zwitterionic covalent organic frameworks with enhanced photocatalytic activities, and multiple major projects from the Quzhou Science and Technology Bureau involving advanced wastewater treatment technologies, graphene-modified thermosetting polyesters, and specialized injection molding processes. His research also extends to iron–carbon composite materials and mechanistic studies of NO photooxidation by surface-peroxided BiOX. Dr. Ben has contributed significant publications to reputable international journals, including recent work on fiber-supported lithium adsorbents for selective lithium extraction and a comprehensive review on sewage sludge-derived iron–carbon composites for environmental remediation. With an expanding portfolio of interdisciplinary research, Dr. Ben continues to advance sustainable material innovation, environmental catalysis, and industrial polymer processing technologies.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Hu, H., Li, H., Zheng, R., Ben, H., Bai, P., Liang, Z., & Chen, W. (2025). Fiber-supported lithium adsorbent with engineered interlayers for enhanced lithium adsorption and selectivity from high Mg/Li ratio salt lakes. Separation and Purification Technology.

Ben, H., Yan, G., Li, M., Zou, P., Ji, H., Wang, H., Hu, Z., Yang, Z., & Feng, Y., et al. (2022). Dynamic disulfide bonds contained covalent organic framework modified separator as efficient inhibit polysulfide shuttling in Li–S batteries. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering.

Zhang, H., Li, L., Chen, N., Ben, H., Zhan, G., Sun, H., Li, Q., Sun, J., & Zhang, L. (2022). Hydroxylamine enables rapid heterogeneous–homogeneous coupled Fenton sulfamethazine degradation on ferric phosphate. Applied Catalysis B: Environmental.

Hu, Z., Yan, G., Zhao, J., Zhang, X., Feng, Y., Qu, X., Ben, H., & Shi, J. (2022). Covalent organic framework wrapped by graphene oxide as an efficient sulfur host for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries. Nanotechnology.

Ling, C., Liu, X., Li, H., Wang, X., Gu, H., Wei, K., Li, M., Shi, Y., Ben, H., & Zhan, G., et al. (2022). Atomic-layered Cu₅ nanoclusters on FeS₂ with dual catalytic sites for efficient and selective H₂O₂ activation. Angewandte Chemie International Edition.

Vassilis Kostopoulos | Polymer Matrix Composites | Best Researcher Award

Published on 17/10/202517/10/2025 by Composite Awards

Vassilis Kostopoulos | Polymer Matrix Composites | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Vassilis Kostopoulos at University Of Patras | Greece

A distinguished scholar in mechanical and aerospace engineering, Professor Vassilis Kostopoulos has made pioneering contributions to the fields of applied mechanics, composite materials, and structural health monitoring. He has served as Professor and former Director of the Applied Mechanics & Vibrations Laboratory (2003–2024) at a leading European university, with visiting appointments at major international institutions, including the University of Delaware (USA) and George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureş (Romania). His expertise spans design, analysis, and optimization of lightweight composite structures, non-destructive evaluation, nano-engineering, aerospace structures under extreme conditions, and additive manufacturing. A key contributor to European and international research programs, he has coordinated or participated in over 85 research projects funded by organizations such as the EU, ESA, EDA, EDF, NSF, and USAF. His extensive academic output includes 345 publications, 301 conference presentations, 7 books, 21 book chapters, and numerous technical reports, achieving 6,304 citations from 5,234 documents with an h-index of 40. He has supervised 35 Ph.D. and 185 M.Sc. theses and co-organized 61 international conferences. His leadership roles include membership in the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, Advisory Council for Aviation Research and Innovation in Europe (ACARE), and the European Society for Composite Materials (ESCM), where he also served as President. He is an editorial board member for several international journals and an evaluator for research programs across Europe. His research achievements have been recognized with multiple international awards, including the 1st Senior Scientist Award at TRA-VISIONS 2020, ESA Aerospace Challenge distinctions, and Innovation Awards in aerospace and space engineering, reflecting his enduring impact on advanced materials and aeronautical research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | GoogleScholar

Featured Publications

Attia, S., Eleftheriou, P., Xeni, F., Morlot, R., Ménézo, C., Kostopoulos, V., Betsi, M., & others. (2017). Overview and future challenges of nearly zero energy buildings (nZEB) design in Southern Europe. Energy and Buildings, 155, 439–458.

Kostopoulos, V., Baltopoulos, A., Karapappas, P., Vavouliotis, A., & Paipetis, A. (2010). Impact and after-impact properties of carbon fibre reinforced composites enhanced with multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Composites Science and Technology, 70(4), 553–563.

Loutas, T. H., Roulias, D., Pauly, E., & Kostopoulos, V. (2011). The combined use of vibration, acoustic emission and oil debris on-line monitoring towards a more effective condition monitoring of rotating machinery. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, 25(4), 1339–1352.

Karapappas, P., Vavouliotis, A., Tsotra, P., Kostopoulos, V., & Paipetis, A. (2009). Enhanced fracture properties of carbon reinforced composites by the addition of multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Journal of Composite Materials, 43(9), 977–985.

Loutas, T. H., Sotiriades, G., Kalaitzoglou, I., & Kostopoulos, V. (2009). Condition monitoring of a single-stage gearbox with artificially induced gear cracks utilizing on-line vibration and acoustic emission measurements. Applied Acoustics, 70(9), 1148–1159.

Yong Yu | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Published on 24/02/202524/02/2025 by Composite Awards

Yong Yu | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yong Yu , Qingdao University of Technology , China.

Dr. Yong Yu is a dedicated researcher in civil engineering at the School of Civil Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, China. His expertise lies in high-performance concrete, crumb rubber concrete, and steam-cured concrete. With a strong academic background and a passion for sustainable materials, Dr. Yu has contributed extensively to advancing concrete technology. His research aims to enhance durability, eco-friendliness, and structural performance in construction. He actively collaborates with academia and industry to implement innovative solutions in civil engineering.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Education & Experience

Ph.D. in Civil Engineering – Specialized in advanced concrete materials
Professor at Qingdao University of Technology – Leading research in sustainable concrete
Industry Collaboration – Works with construction firms on eco-friendly materials
Published Researcher – Numerous papers on high-performance and rubberized concrete

Suitability summary

Dr. Yong Yu, a distinguished researcher at the School of Civil Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, China, is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His groundbreaking contributions to high-performance concrete, crumb rubber concrete, and steam-cured concrete have significantly advanced sustainable and durable construction materials. His expertise in optimizing concrete properties for enhanced strength, durability, and eco-friendliness makes him a leading innovator in civil engineering.

Professional Development

Dr. Yong Yu actively engages in cutting-edge research on sustainable concrete materials. His contributions focus on enhancing durability, strength, and environmental benefits in construction. He regularly publishes in top-tier journals, presents at international conferences, and collaborates with industry experts to develop innovative solutions. As a mentor, he supervises students and researchers in civil engineering, guiding them towards practical and impactful research. His work not only advances theoretical knowledge but also influences real-world construction practices, ensuring a balance between strength and sustainability.

Research Focus

Dr. Yong Yu’s research is centered on developing high-performance, durable, and eco-friendly concrete materials. His focus includes:

High-Performance Concrete (HPC): Enhancing durability, strength, and resistance to extreme conditions
Crumb Rubber Concrete: Utilizing recycled rubber to improve flexibility and sustainability
Steam-Cured Concrete: Optimizing rapid curing processes for efficient construction

His studies contribute to reducing carbon footprints, improving material longevity, and promoting sustainable construction worldwide.

Awards & Honors

Outstanding Researcher Award – Recognized for contributions to concrete innovation
Best Paper Award – Published groundbreaking research in material science
Excellence in Teaching Award – Acknowledged for mentoring and academic leadership
Industry Innovation Recognition – Collaborated on sustainable construction projects

Publication Top Notes

“Molecular and structural basis of the dual regulation of the polycystin-2 ion channel by small-molecule ligands” (2024) – Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
“Structural basis for human Cav1.2 inhibition by multiple drugs and the neurotoxin calciseptine” (2023) – Cell
“The diverse effects of pathogenic point mutations on ion channel activity of a gain-of-function polycystin-2” (2023) – Journal of Biological Chemistry
“Structures of the R-type human Cav2.3 channel reveal conformational crosstalk of the intracellular segments” (2022) – Nature Communications
“Structural basis for the severe adverse interaction of sofosbuvir and amiodarone on L-type Cav channels” (2022) – Cell
“The roles of two extracellular loops in proton sensing and permeation in human Otop1 channel” (2022) – Communications Biology
“The ion channel TRPM7 regulates zinc depletion-induced MDMX degradation” (2021) – Journal of Biological Chemistry

Parami Ama Shakya | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Published on 06/01/202506/01/2025 by Composite Awards

Parami Ama Shakya | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Parami Ama Shakya, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Parami Ama Shakya is a passionate physicist and researcher specializing in dye-sensitized solar cells and thin-film materials. With a B.Sc. Honours in Physics from the University of Kelaniya (Second Upper Class) and ongoing M.Phil studies, she combines academic excellence with impactful research. Her contributions include publications in reputed journals and conferences. Currently a Physicist in the Sri Lanka Scientific Service, she is a skilled project manager, problem solver, and creative thinker. Parami is also an accomplished musician, holding a Visharada in Sitar, and has won the All-Island Championship in 2013.

Publication profile

Orcid

Education and Experience

Education

M.Phil in Physics – University of Kelaniya (reading)
B.Sc. Honours in Physics – University of Kelaniya (2017–2021)
- Key Courses: Physics, Pure Mathematics, Electronics
- GPA: 3.57 (Second Upper Class)
G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination – Physical Science Stream (2016)
G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination – 2012

Experience

Temporary Demonstrator (Aug 2022 – Dec 2022) – Department of Physics & Electronics, University of Kelaniya
Temporary Research Assistant (Dec 2022 – Oct 2024) – University of Kelaniya
Physicist (Dec 2024 – Present) – Sri Lanka Scientific Service

Suitability For The Award

Ms. Parami Ama Shakya, a dedicated physicist currently pursuing her M. Phil in Physics at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a B.Sc. Honours in Physics and a second upper class GPA of 3.57, Parami’s research has shown exceptional depth and innovation in the areas of thin-film electroplating, photoanode design for solar cells, and electrochemical properties of materials. Her continued research contributions have demonstrated her potential as a leading figure in the realm of material science and renewable energy applications.

Professional Development

Parami Ama Shakya actively enhances her expertise through various programs and workshops. She completed a six-month program on statistical analysis, research methodology, and scientific writing conducted by FGS, University of Kelaniya. She participated in training sessions on ChemDraw and Adobe Illustrator for Scientific Figures and Illustrations.

Parami attended workshops on current trends in photo-electrochemical and photovoltaic materials, gaining insights into advanced methodologies. Her involvement in sustainability leadership initiatives and science exhibitions further highlights her commitment to scientific advancement and community outreach.

Research Focus

Parami Ama Shakya focuses her research on dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and thin-film materials. She explores the enhancement of DSSC performance through natural dyes and innovative electrodeposition techniques. Her work delves into wettability properties, co-sensitization with green tea and grapes, and optimizing photoanode materials like TiO₂. Her publications in reputed journals and conferences demonstrate her expertise in advancing renewable energy technologies and sustainable solutions. By integrating materials science with cutting-edge photovoltaics, she contributes significantly to eco-friendly energy innovations.