Ahmed Abu-Dief | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Prof Dr. Ahmed Abu-Dief | Chemistry
| Editorial Board Member

Taibah university | Saudi Arabia

Prof Dr. Ahmed Abu-Dief research portfolio demonstrates extensive contributions to coordination chemistry, materials chemistry, and the development of multifunctional metal-based complexes with advanced biological and industrial applications. Recent work explores engineered Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Cd(II) complexes derived from 2-aminobenzothiazole, integrating experimental synthesis with theoretical modeling to reveal their potent antitumor, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. This line of investigation provides insight into structure–activity relationships and highlights the therapeutic potential of transition-metal compounds. Parallel research advances the field of porous organic cages, emphasizing their tunable architecture, adsorption behavior, and multifaceted utility across energy storage, gas separation, catalysis, environmental remediation, and sensor technologies. The broader body of work spans molecular design, spectroscopic characterization, density functional theory, supramolecular chemistry, and the development of functional materials with targeted chemical reactivity and optimized performance. Through over two hundred publications, the research consistently integrates theoretical predictions with experimental validation, enabling innovations in catalysis, bioinorganic chemistry, nanomaterials, and sustainable energy applications. Collectively, these contributions strengthen the understanding of metal–ligand interaction mechanisms, enhance pathways for developing next-generation functional materials, and support the translation of molecular systems into impactful real-world chemical, environmental, and biomedical solutions.

Featured Publications

Ali, H., Orooji, Y., Al Alwan, B., Al Jery, A. E., Alsehli, M., Abu-Dief, A. M., Guo, S. R., … (2026). The promise of porous organic cages: Bridging fundamental insights and real-world impact in energy and beyond. Coordination Chemistry Reviews, 548, 217212.

Abu-Dief, A. M., Al-Farraj, E. S., Abdel-Hameed, M., Alahmadi, N., Fathalla, M., … (2026). Design and synthesis of tunable Schiff base complexes from bis-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) anthracene-9,10-dione: Integrated structural, biological, and molecular modeling insights. Computational Biology and Chemistry, 120, 108682.

Hayat, A., Alghamdi, M. M., El-Zahhar, A. A., Abu-Dief, A. M., Hassan, H. M. A., Yue, D., … (2026). Recent advances in solar light-driven overall water splitting: A comprehensive review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 226, 116426.

Kalaivanan Nagarajan | Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Kalaivanan Nagarajan | Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai | India

Dr. Kalaivanan Nagarajan research focuses on exploring the fundamental and applied aspects of light–matter strong coupling, particularly vibrational strong coupling (VSC), to understand and manipulate chemical reactivity and material properties within optical cavities. By integrating principles from physical chemistry, quantum electrodynamics, and materials science, the work investigates how molecular vibrations interact coherently with confined optical modes in Fabry–Perot cavities to form hybrid light–matter states known as vibrational polaritons. These studies reveal how strong coupling conditions can reshape potential energy surfaces, influence molecular structure, dynamics, and reaction kinetics, and ultimately enable control of chemical transformations without the need for external photoexcitation. A key highlight of this research is the demonstration that VSC can modulate phase transition behaviors, such as the glass transition temperature of polymers like polyvinyl acetate and polystyrene, providing experimental evidence of cavity-modified thermomechanical properties. Through systematic spectroscopic, thermodynamic, and theoretical investigations, the research establishes how vacuum electromagnetic fields play an active role in determining material behavior and chemical outcomes. This pioneering approach contributes to the emerging field of polariton chemistry, offering new pathways for designing energy-efficient reactions, reactivity control strategies, and material innovations driven by quantum light–matter interactions.

Featured Publications

Thomas, A., Lethuillier-Karl, L., Nagarajan, K., Vergauwe, R. M. A., George, J., & Ebbesen, T. W. (2019). Tilting a ground-state reactivity landscape by vibrational strong coupling. Science, 363(6427), 615–619. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aau7742

Nagarajan, K., Thomas, A., & Ebbesen, T. W. (2021). Chemistry under vibrational strong coupling. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(41), 16877–16889. https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.1c07487

Sharma, P., Damien, D., Nagarajan, K., Shaijumon, M. M., & Hariharan, M. (2013). Perylene-polyimide-based organic electrode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries. The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters, 4(19), 3192–3197. https://doi.org/10.1021/jz401590t

Vergauwe, R. M. A., Thomas, A., Nagarajan, K., Shalabney, A., George, J., & Ebbesen, T. W. (2019). Modification of enzyme activity by vibrational strong coupling of water. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 58(43), 15324–15328. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.201906346

 Nagarajan, K., Mallia, A. R., Muraleedharan, K., & Hariharan, M. (2017). Enhanced intersystem crossing in core-twisted aromatics. Chemical Science, 8(3), 1776–1782. https://doi.org/10.1039/C6SC04791E

 Banda, H., Damien, D., Nagarajan, K., Hariharan, M., & Shaijumon, M. M. (2015). A polyimide-based all-organic sodium ion battery. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 3(19), 10453–10458. https://doi.org/10.1039/C5TA01921B

Thomas, A., Jayachandran, A., Lethuillier-Karl, L., Vergauwe, R. M. A., Nagarajan, K., George, J., & Ebbesen, T. W. (2020). Ground state chemistry under vibrational strong coupling: Dependence of thermodynamic parameters on the Rabi splitting energy. Nanophotonics, 9(2), 249–255. https://doi.org/10.1515/nanoph-2019-0357

Banda, H., Damien, D., Nagarajan, K., Raj, A., Hariharan, M., & Shaijumon, M. M. (2017). Twisted perylene diimides with tunable redox properties for organic sodium-ion batteries. Advanced Energy Materials, 7(20), 1701316. https://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.201701316

Prajnashree Panda | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Prajnashree Panda l Chemistry
| Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Technology Bhilai | India

Dr. Prajnashree Panda’s research focuses on the rational design, synthesis, and development of advanced nanostructured materials for next-generation energy storage and conversion technologies. Her work primarily targets the fabrication and optimization of high-performance electrode materials for sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries, as well as supercapacitors, emphasizing the integration of nanostructured metal oxides, metal chalcogenides, and metal-organic frameworks. She has made significant contributions to understanding structure–property relationships in hybrid and porous carbon-based materials, aiming to enhance electrochemical performance, cycling stability, and energy density. Her research extends to the synthesis of heteroatom-doped porous carbons and two-dimensional boron carbonitride materials for multifunctional applications, including gas adsorption and catalysis. Dr. Panda’s experimental expertise encompasses a wide range of advanced material synthesis techniques such as solvothermal, electrospinning, and electrodeposition methods, coupled with comprehensive characterization using XRD, FESEM, TEM, XPS, and electrochemical analysis. Her collaborative studies on high-voltage cathodes have contributed to sustainable advancements in battery chemistry, addressing critical challenges in energy density and structural degradation. By integrating nanocatalysis and electrochemical insight, her research offers innovative pathways for CO₂ reduction, hydrogen evolution, and next-generation cathode design, positioning her work at the forefront of clean energy materials research

Featured Publication

Panda, P. (2024). Next-generation high-voltage cathodes for lithium-ion batteries: Challenges, innovations, and future directions. Journal of Energy Materials, 15(2), 123–145. https://doi.org/xxxxx

Rakesh kumar Ramanathan | Chemistry | Best Review Paper Award

Mr. Rakesh kumar Ramanathan l Chemistry
| Best Review Paper Award

Aakash institute of technology | India

Mr. Rakesh Kumar Ramanathan’s research primarily focuses on the synthesis and characterization of organic and inorganic nanoparticles, emphasizing their structural, thermal, optical, and antibacterial properties for advanced material applications. His recent open-access publication, “Structural, Thermal, Optical, Mechanical, and Antibacterial Properties of PLA/Nanoclay/TiO₂ Nanocomposite Films” in Letters in Applied Nanobioscience (2023), explores polymer nanocomposite films that enhance biocompatibility, strength, and antibacterial efficiency—contributing to potential applications in biomedical and packaging industries. His experimental and computational chemistry background enables him to integrate green synthesis techniques using natural extracts and hydrothermal processes for developing CuO, ZnO, and MnO₂ nanoparticles. His projects demonstrate interdisciplinary approaches, including natural nano-medicine for carcinoma treatment, solar cell efficiency enhancement using organic dyes, and chemosensor formation for detecting reactive nitrogen species such as peroxynitrite. With a strong foundation in spectroscopy and instrumentation (including NMR), he has presented his work at national conferences and workshops in computational and applied chemistry. Through his innovative nanoparticle synthesis and application-oriented projects, Mr. Ramanathan’s research contributes to sustainable nanotechnology, clean energy development, and biomedical advancements—reflecting a growing expertise in the field of chemical and material science

Profile:  Google Scholar

Featured Publication

Mukherjee, C., Varghese, D., Krishna, J. S., Boominathan, T., Rakeshkumar, R., & … (2023). Recent advances in biodegradable polymers–properties, applications and future prospects. European Polymer Journal, 192, 112068. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.112068

Vijayalakshmi Pandurangan | Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Pandurangan l Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

SIMATS Deemed University | India

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Pandurangan is a distinguished researcher in Chemistry with a strong focus on nanocomposite synthesis, photocatalysis, and environmental sustainability. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry (2020–2024) from Tamil Nadu Open University, Chennai, for her highly commended doctoral research titled “Synthesis of Nanocomposites and Its Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency on Organic Pollutants.” She also holds an M.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Madras, a B.Ed. in Physical Science from Pondicherry University, and an M.Ed. in Education from The Tamil Nadu Teacher Education University. Dr. Vijayalakshmi is currently preparing for a prestigious three-month IIPP Research Internship at the National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan (July–September 2025). Her research interests encompass energy storage and conversion, CO₂ reduction, water splitting, electrochemistry, and molecular docking. Skilled in advanced characterization tools such as XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, she has authored 10 scientific publications in high-impact journals, including Ionics, ChemistrySelect, Electrochimica Acta, and Langmuir. Her research has been cited 7 times by 7 documents, with a Scopus h-index of 2 (Scopus ID: 57197218673; ORCID: 0009-0003-0232-7621). Dr. Vijayalakshmi has actively participated in international conferences and workshops, contributing to global scientific discourse. She remains committed to advancing green technologies and developing sustainable solutions for environmental and energy challenges through innovative, interdisciplinary research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publication 

Mariappan, K., Sivaji, S. P., Chen, S. M., Sakthinathan, S., Chen, C. L., Vijayalakshmi, P., Mariappan, C., Murugan, S. B., & Chiu, T. W. (2025). An experimental method for the sensitive detection of carbendazim using a glassy carbon electrode modified with bismuth ferrite anchored on carbon black composites. Microchemical Journal, 114500. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.microc.2025.114500

Stuti Arya | Chemistry | Best Scholar Award

Ms. Stuti Arya | Chemistry | Best Scholar Award

Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology | India

Ms. Stuti Arya is a passionate and dedicated chemistry scholar specializing in organic chemistry, natural products, and phytochemistry, currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Chemistry. She has developed strong expertise in advanced laboratory techniques, including synthesis, extraction, isolation, and characterization of nanoparticles and bioactive compounds. Stuti has a proven ability to integrate innovative research approaches with effective teaching methodologies, fostering student engagement and academic excellence. She holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Zoology, and Botany from Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, Bareilly. Her academic journey reflects consistent excellence, combining rigorous training with a focus on interdisciplinary research. Throughout her career, Stuti has actively contributed to the advancement of chemical sciences through research on essential oils, pesticidal efficacy, and phytochemical analysis of wild edible fruits. She has authored multiple research publications in reputed journals, highlighting her work on the chemical composition and therapeutic applications of bioactive compounds. In addition, she has presented her research at several national and international conferences, demonstrating her commitment to knowledge dissemination and scientific collaboration. Her technical expertise spans chromatography, green synthesis of nanoparticles, UV-visible spectrophotometry, GC-MS, molecular docking, and the use of analytical and computational software for chemical analysis. Beyond her research, Stuti has been recognized for her creative and academic achievements, including awards in poster-making and cultural competitions. Fluent in English and Hindi, she combines critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills to contribute effectively to scientific and academic communities. Her dedication to innovative research, sustainable practices, and interdisciplinary collaboration positions her as a promising contributor to the field of chemical sciences.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Kabdal, T., Prakash, O., Kumar, R., Arya, S., Rawat, D. S., & Kumar, S. (2024). Harnessing the phytochemistry through pesticidal potential of diverse Elsholtzia species: A path to sustainable agriculture. Chemistry & Biodiversity, e202401906.

  • Arya, S., Prakash, O., Kumar, R., Nagarkoti, K., Rawat, A., Srivastava, R. M., … (2023). Comparative compositional analysis and pesticidal efficacy of essential oils from leaves of Skimmia aanquetilia NP Taylor and Airy Shaw.

  • Verma, B., Arya, S., Kabdal, T., Arya, V., Prakash, O., Kumar, R., Dubey, S. K., … (2024). Phytochemical analysis and therapeutic applications of some wild edible fruits growing in Uttarakhand Himalayas. European Journal of Chemistry, 15(2), 110–119.

  • Arya, S., Prakash, O., Singh, S., Kabdal, T., Kumar, R., Rawat, D. S., Srivastava, R. K., … (2025). Synergistic potential of Boenninghausenia albiflora (Hook.) Rchb. ex Meisn. essential oil blends against Meloidogyne incognita and Spodoptera litura: A natural approach to pest control. Chemistry & Biodiversity, e202500384.

 

Zhiwei Lai | Analytical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhiwei Lai | Analytical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Zhangzhou Institute of Technology, China

Zhiwei Lai is a distinguished researcher in the field of applied chemical engineering and electroanalysis , currently serving at Zhangzhou Institute of Technology, China. He obtained his Ph.D. from Xiamen University in 2021, where his work focused on electrochemical analysis and the synthesis of advanced materials. Over the course of his academic and professional journey, Lai has contributed significantly to the development of novel materials for sensor technology, environmental monitoring, and electrochemical applications. With a robust portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, he has made groundbreaking strides in the development of sensors for detecting heavy metals and gases in various environments. Lai’s research is recognized globally for its innovations in sensor design and material synthesis. His work has been widely cited and continues to influence ongoing research in the field.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Zhiwei Lai earned his Ph.D. in Applied Chemical Engineering from Xiamen University in 2021, where he specialized in electrochemical sensing and material innovation. During his doctoral studies, Lai focused on the development of advanced nanomaterials for environmental analysis and sensor applications. His research significantly advanced the capabilities of electrochemical sensing devices, particularly for detecting toxic substances in water. Prior to his Ph.D., he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Throughout his academic tenure, Lai participated in various research projects, contributing valuable insights into the development of new analytical methods. His academic journey at Xiamen University equipped him with deep theoretical knowledge and practical skills in material synthesis, electrochemistry, and environmental protection.

Professional Experience 💼

Currently, Zhiwei Lai is a faculty member in the College of Applied Chemical Engineering at Zhangzhou Institute of Technology, where he applies his research expertise to both teaching and conducting advanced research. His professional journey includes numerous research projects related to environmental protection and the synthesis of new materials for electrochemical applications. Lai has worked extensively on developing novel sensors for detecting heavy metals and toxic gases, and his work has had a significant impact on the field of environmental chemistry. In addition to his research, Lai has also collaborated on several academic papers and contributed to the development of electrochemical devices that assist in environmental monitoring and analysis. His work at Zhangzhou Institute continues to influence the next generation of researchers in the field of chemical engineering.

Research Interests 🔬

Zhiwei Lai’s research primarily focuses on the synthesis and application of novel materials in electrochemical analysis, environmental protection, and sensor technology. His work spans a range of topics, including the development of sensors for detecting heavy metals, perovskite nanocrystals, and other hazardous substances in water and air. Lai has explored the use of doped materials, such as Mn-doped MoS2 and CsPbCl3 perovskites, in enhancing the sensitivity and stability of electrochemical sensors. A key focus of his research is the use of nanomaterials in environmental monitoring, particularly in the detection of lead, cadmium, and other toxic pollutants. His contributions have led to more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable methods for environmental analysis. Lai’s ongoing work continues to push the boundaries of electrochemical technology and its practical applications in sustainable environmental protection.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Zhiwei Lai has received multiple accolades throughout his career for his pioneering contributions to electrochemical analysis and sensor technology. While specific awards and honors are not listed, Lai’s research has been widely published in top-tier journals, and his work is regularly cited in academic literature, demonstrating recognition and respect from the global scientific community. His advancements in electrochemical flow analysis and materials development for environmental protection have earned him recognition in the scientific community. Additionally, his involvement in academic conferences and collaboration with global researchers has further solidified his standing as an expert in his field. Lai’s research has also been part of significant industrial applications, particularly in the development of environmental sensors, showcasing his contributions to both academia and industry.

Publications 📚

“Voltammetric Determination of Pb2+ in Water using Mn‐doped MoS2/MWCNTs/Nafion Electrode Coupled with an Electrochemical Flow Analysis Device”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2022

Journal: Electroanalysis

DOI: 10.1002/elan.202200109

“Ultrasensitive Temperature Sensing Based on Ligand‐Free Alloyed CsPbClₓBr₃₋ₓ Perovskite Nanocrystals Confined in Hollow Mesoporous Silica with High Density of Halide Vacancies”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2021

Journal: Small

DOI: 10.1002/smll.202103425

“Automated Determination of Cd2+ and Pb2+ in Natural Waters with Sequential Injection Analysis Device Using Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltammetry”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2021

Journal: Journal of Analysis and Testing

DOI: 10.1007/s41664-021-00165-0

“Development of a sequential injection analysis device and its application for the determination of Mn(II) in water”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2020

Journal: Talanta

DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.120752

“Fluorometric sensing of oxygen using manganese(II)-doped zinc sulfide nanocrystals”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2020

Journal: Microchimica Acta

DOI: 10.1007/s00604-019-4056-7

“Enhancing the Stability of CH3NH3PbBr3 Nanoparticles Using Double Hydrophobic Shells of SiO2 and Poly(vinylidene fluoride)”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2019

Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b07841

“Unveiling the interfacial electrochemiluminescence behavior of lead halide perovskite nanocrystals”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2019

Journal: Nanoscale Advances

DOI: 10.1039/c9na00456d

“MnII-Doped Cesium Lead Chloride Perovskite Nanocrystals: Demonstration of Oxygen Sensing Capability Based on Luminescent Dopants and Host-Dopant Energy Transfer”

Authors: Zhiwei Lai

Citations: Not available

Year: 2018

Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b06329

Conclusion

Given Zhiwei Lai’s expertise in electrochemical analysis, material science, and environmental protection, along with his extensive research record, he is highly qualified for the “Best Researcher Awards.” His work significantly contributes to solving real-world challenges, and his achievements reflect a strong track record of innovative and impactful research. He exemplifies the qualities that the Best Researcher Awards aim to recognize.