Thembinkosi Donald Malevu | Nanomaterials | Young Scientist Award

Published on 24/12/202424/12/2024 by Composite Awards

Thembinkosi Donald Malevu | Nanomaterials | Young Scientist Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Thembinkosi Donald Malevu , University of North West, South Africa.

Dr. Thembinkosi Donald Malevu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at North-West University (NWU), with a rich academic background in physics, nanoscience, and semiconductor physics. His research focuses on the development of nanomaterials and their applications in various technological fields. Dr. Malevu has collaborated with international experts from institutions such as Stockholm University and Uppsala University, leading to successful projects funded by the SASUF-NRF Seed Grant. He has contributed significantly to research in nanoscience, with numerous published articles. His academic journey has spanned roles from lecturer to associate professor, with leadership experience in media and marketing.

Publication profile

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Education and Experience

2015-2018: Doctor of Philosophy (Physics)
2013-2014: Master of Science in Nanoscience
2012: Bachelor of Science Honours (Semiconductor Physics)
2008-2011: Bachelor of Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology)
2024-Present: Associate Professor, Department of Physics, NWU, Mmabatho, South Africa
2021-2024: Associate Professor, Department of Physics, SMU, South Africa
2021-2024: Senior Lecturer, Department of Physics, SMU, South Africa
2017-2021: Lecturer, Department of Physics, UKZN, South Africa
2015: Stand-by Lecturer, Department of Physics, UFS, South Africa
2014: Lecturer, Maluti FET, South Africa
2015-2017: Head of Media and Marketing, Postgraduate Council, UFS
2010-2017: Tutor and Laboratory Assistant, UFS, South Africa

Suitability For The Award

Dr. Thembinkosi Donald Malevu is an outstanding candidate for the Young Scientist Award, owing to his exceptional contributions in the field of physics, particularly within nanoscience, semiconductor physics, and materials research. With an impressive academic and professional background, Dr. Malevu has demonstrated significant achievements in both his research and teaching roles. His collaborations, both locally and internationally, further highlight his influence and impact on the scientific community.

Professional Development

Dr. Thembinkosi Malevu has demonstrated significant professional growth through a blend of teaching, leadership, and research. He has mentored students as a tutor and laboratory assistant, eventually progressing to senior academic roles. His international collaborations, including the SASUF-NRF Seed Grant, have broadened his exposure to global research, strengthening his expertise in nanoscience and materials development. As an Associate Professor, Dr. Malevu actively contributes to advancing his field, balancing research with teaching responsibilities. His leadership experience in media and marketing showcases his versatility, further enhancing his impact in academia.

Research Focus

Dr. Thembinkosi Malevu’s research is centered on nanoscience and semiconductor physics, focusing on the development and application of nanomaterials for various technological innovations. His work explores the physical properties of nanomaterials and their potential in energy, electronics, and materials engineering. By conducting interdisciplinary research and collaborating internationally, Dr. Malevu aims to address challenges in advanced materials science and contribute to the development of sustainable solutions in modern technology. His research pushes the boundaries of nanotechnology, leading to innovations in areas such as energy storage and semiconductors.

Publications Top Notes

“A summary of new findings on the biological effects of selenium in selected animal species—a critical review”, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(10), 2209, Cited by 248 (2017) .
**”Effect of annealing temperature on structural, morphology and optical properties of ZnO nano-needles prepared by zinc-air cell system method”*, International Journal of Electrochemical Science, 10(2), 1752-1761, Cited by 79 (2015) .
“Developments on perovskite solar cells (PSCs): a critical review”, Applied Sciences, 12(2), 672, Cited by 49 (2022) .
“Overview on different types of solar cells: an update”, Applied Sciences, 13(4), 2051, Cited by 47 (2023) .
“A review of the impact of zinc oxide nanostructure morphology on perovskite solar cell performance”, Processes, 10(9), 1803, Cited by 44 (2022) .
“Phase transformations of high-purity PbI2 nanoparticles synthesized from lead-acid accumulator anodes”, Physica B: Condensed Matter, 496, 69-73, Cited by 20 (2016) .

Mabrouka Ghiloufi | Nanocomposites | Environmental Innovation Award

Published on 09/10/202409/10/2024 by Composite Awards

Mabrouka Ghiloufi | Nanocomposites | Environmental Innovation Award

Dr.Mabrouka Ghiloufi , Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Tunisia.

Dr.Mabrouka Ghiloufi is a dedicated Ph.D. student in Inorganic Chemistry at the Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Tunisia. She has a passion for research, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites, specifically TiO2, for photocatalytic degradation of pharmaceutical products under UV and solar irradiation. Mabrouka is known for her curiosity and adaptability in laboratory settings. She has also gained international experience through internships in Germany and is committed to pushing the boundaries of chemical research to make a positive impact.

Publication profile

Orcid

Scopus

Education & Experience

Ph.D. (2022–Present), Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Tunisia – Inorganic Chemistry
Research Master (2019–2021), Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Tunisia – Inorganic Chemistry
Bachelor (2015–2019), Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Tunisia – Chemistry
Ph.D. Research Intern (2024–Present), Hof University of Applied Sciences, Germany – Photocatalysis
Research Intern (2023), Hof University of Applied Sciences, Germany – TiO2 Photocatalytic Efficiency
Student Researcher (2021), National Institute of Research, Tunisia – Nanocomposites for Degradation of Levofloxacin

Suitability for The Award

Dr.Mabrouka Ghiloufi is a commendable candidate for the Environmental Innovation Award, given her dedicated research in photocatalysis and her focus on developing nanocomposites for the degradation of pharmaceutical pollutants. As a Ph.D. student at the National Institute of Research and Physiochemical Analysis in Tunisia, she has actively contributed to the synthesis and characterization of TiO2-based nanocomposites, which are pivotal in addressing environmental contamination caused by pharmaceuticals. Her research not only emphasizes innovative solutions for pollution degradation but also explores the efficiency of these materials under various irradiation conditions, showcasing her commitment to advancing sustainable environmental technologies.

Professional Development ()

Dr.Mabrouka has actively engaged in professional development by participating in international conferences, workshops, and collaborative projects. She attended the 5th International Symposium on Medicinal Plants & Materials in Tunisia, where she enhanced her knowledge of cutting-edge chemical techniques. Additionally, Mabrouka has honed her skills in design of experiments using NemrodW Software and Rietveld Refinement Method. Her experience extends to specialized training in chemical safety, including a workshop on neutralizing surplus weaponizable chemicals in collaboration with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, USA.

Research Focus

Dr.Mabrouka’s research focuses on the development and optimization of nanocomposites, particularly based on TiO2, for applications in photocatalysis. Her work centers on investigating the effects of oxide additives on the band gap and photocatalytic efficiency of TiO2 as a fixed film. Her recent projects include the synthesis and characterization of ternary nanocomposites for environmental applications such as the degradation of pharmaceutical contaminants under both UV and solar irradiation. Mabrouka aims to contribute to sustainable environmental solutions through advanced chemical research.

Awards and Honors ()

Publication: “Investigation of the Effect of Oxide Additives on TiO2 Photocatalytic Efficiency,” Materials, 2024
Publication: “Photocatalytic Activity of Ternary-Based-TiO2 Nanocomposite,” Inorganic and Nano-Metal Chemistry, 2024
Workshop Attendance: Design of Experiments (DOE) using NemrodW Software, 2023
Conference Attendance: 21st Tunisia Chemistry Conference, 2022
Workshop Completion: Train the Trainer on Chemical Neutralization, USA, 2022

Publication Top Notes

Investigation of the Effect of Oxide Additives on the Band Gap and Photocatalytic Efficiency of TiO2 as a Fixed Film
Ghiloufi, M., Schnabel, T., Mehling, S., Kouass, S.
Published: 2024, Cited by: 0
Stability of power systems integrating renewable energy: Modal analysis of linear dynamic systems
Ghiloufi, M., Sbita, L.
Published: 2024, Cited by: 0
Photocatalytic activity and electrochemical properties of a ternary-based-TiO2 nanocomposite
Ghiloufi, M., Trifi, B., Kouass Sahbani, S., Dhaouadi, H., Kouass, S.
Published: 2024, Cited by: 0
Impact of High Renewable Integration on Interarea Oscillations. Koopman Modal Analysis
Boussaa, Y., Ghiloufi, M., Jlassi, Z., Ben Kilani, K., Elleuch, M.
Published: 2022, Cited by: 0

Conclusion

Dr.Mabrouka Ghiloufi Ghiloufi’s academic background, research initiatives, and collaborative efforts position her as a strong contender for the Environmental Innovation Award. Her work on photocatalytic nanocomposites addresses critical environmental challenges and demonstrates a commitment to innovative research that aligns with the award’s goals. Awarding her this recognition would not only honor her contributions but also encourage further advancements in sustainable practices within the field of chemistry.

Jaime Ruiz Garcia | Colloidal Self-Assembling | Best Researcher Award

Published on 09/09/202410/09/2024 by Composite Awards

Jaime Ruiz Garcia | Colloidal Self-Assembling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jaime Ruiz Garcia , Institute of Physics, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí , México.

Prof. Jaime Ruiz Garcia 🧑‍🔬 is a distinguished Professor-Researcher Level VI at the Instituto de Física “Manuel Sandoval Vallarta,” Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Instituto Tecnológico de Zacatepec and a PhD from the University of Maryland , where he studied equilibrium polymerization as a phase transition. His postdoctoral research at UCLA focused on Langmuir monolayers . Prof. Ruiz Garcia’s work on biological and colloidal self-assembling systems, particularly at the air/water interface, has earned him recognition as a member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences and an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow . He has supervised numerous students and postdoctoral fellows and has made significant contributions to physical chemistry and molecular assembly research .

Publication Profile

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Suitability For The Award

Jaime Ruiz-Garcia stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive and pioneering contributions to the field of physical chemistry, particularly in the study of biological and colloidal self-assembling systems. His research focuses on Langmuir monolayers at the air/water interface, investigating phenomena such as phase transitions, molecular ordering, and the self-assembly of various molecules and particles.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering – Instituto Tecnológico de Zacatepec, México
Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering – University of Maryland, USA

Experience

Professor-Researcher Level VI – Instituto de Física “Manuel Sandoval Vallarta,” Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí
Research Focus – Specializes in biological and colloidal self-assembling systems, including Langmuir monolayers
Supervised – Numerous students and postdoctoral fellows
Alexander von Humboldt Fellow – Awarded for contributions to research
Member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences – Recognition for academic excellence

Professional Development

Dr. Luis F. S. Martínez has continually advanced his expertise through rigorous professional development. As a Humboldt Fellow , he engaged in cutting-edge research on self-assembling systems, enriching his global perspective. His involvement with the Mexican Academy of Sciences underscores his commitment to academic excellence and collaboration. Dr. Martínez’s contributions are bolstered by his role as a Professor-Researcher Level VI at the Instituto de Física “Manuel Sandoval Vallarta,” where he supervises numerous students and postdoctoral fellows 👨‍🏫 . His ongoing work in biological and colloidal systems reflects his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Research Focus

Dr. Luis F. S. Martínez’s research focuses on exploring complex self-assembling systems within biological and colloidal contexts. His work delves into the design and analysis of dynamic materials that mimic natural processes, providing insights into molecular interactions and material properties. By leveraging his expertise in statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, Dr. Martínez investigates how these systems can be utilized for advanced technological applications. His research is pivotal in understanding and harnessing the fundamental principles of material science to innovate in fields like drug delivery, environmental sustainability, and advanced manufacturing.

Publications

“Streptococcus dentisani inhibits the growth of Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: in vitro assay” – JGS Medina, JLC Camacho, J Ruiz Garcia, A Mira, RE Martínez Martínez, International Microbiology (2024)
“Silver nanoparticles incorporated dental restorative resin and its antibiofilm effect” – V Campos-Ibarra, A Rodríguez-Moreno, NV Zavala-Alonso, Journal Royal Society of Chemistry (Accepted, 2024)
“The separation between mRNA-ends is more variable than expected” – NA Gerling-Cervantes, JA Mendez-Cabañas, E Gomez, J Ruiz-Garcia, FEBS Journal (2024)
“Spontaneous bilayer wrapping of virus particles by a phospholipid Langmuir monolayer” – JF Torres-Salgado, MV Villagrana-Escareño, AL Duran-Meza, THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL E (2023)
“An Observation of a Very High Swelling of Bromovirus Members at Specific Ionic Strengths and pH” – XF Segovia-González, MV Villagrana-Escareño, M Ríos-Ramírez, Journal Viruses (2023)
“How green and simple can non-toxic antimicrobial nanoparticles been obtained? Deposition of AgNPs on the TiO2 surface in a neutral aqueous media by using the flavonoid quercetin” – MG Peña-Juarez, LO Sanchez-Vargas, EJ Gutierrez-Castañeda, Journal Applied Organometallic Chemistry (2023)
“Spontaneous Condensation of RNA into Nanoring and Globular Structures” – JF Ruiz-Robles, AM Longoria-Hernández, N Gerling, E Vazquez-Martinez, ACS Omega (2022)

Conclusion

Jaime Ruiz-Garcia’s comprehensive and innovative research, combined with his distinguished academic background and significant contributions to mentoring and training, make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work has not only advanced fundamental knowledge in physical chemistry but also opened new avenues for research in colloidal and biological systems. His recognition by national and international scientific communities underscores his exceptional impact and leadership in the field.