Pedro Pitrez | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Pitrez | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Pitrez  at Assistente Convidado – FEUP , Portugal

Pedro Pitrez is a Mechanical Engineer specializing in thermal energy and internal combustion engine systems. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently completing his Ph.D. at FEUP, focusing on energy systems and mechanical engineering. Pitrez has extensive experience in both academia and industry, with a passion for research, development, and teaching. He has worked as a lecturer at UTAD and FEUP, teaching subjects such as Applied Thermodynamics and Mechanics. His professional journey includes working at INEGI, where he developed a machine for cork painting, and at EDP Geração, managing operations for hydroelectric power plants. Known for his technical expertise, Pitrez combines his engineering knowledge with a drive for innovation, contributing to various research projects, academic articles, and conferences.

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Pedro Pitrez’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from UTAD, followed by a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from FEUP. His Ph.D. work at FEUP focuses on the areas of energy systems and combustion. Pitrez has excelled in his academic career, achieving strong results with a Master’s thesis on preparing a Porsche 911 internal combustion engine for competition. His academic training also includes specialized research in thermal energy, reflected in his current work and studies. Furthermore, he has contributed significantly to educational platforms, having taught courses such as Applied Thermodynamics II and Mechanics III. His current research at FEUP and INEGI is an embodiment of his continuous pursuit of knowledge and advancement in the field of mechanical and energy engineering.

💼 Experience

Pedro Pitrez has an extensive professional background in both academia and industry. From March 2020 to August 2022, he worked as a researcher at INEGI, where he was involved in the development of industrial machines, including a machine for cork painting. He was responsible for designing the machine’s structure and transport systems, as well as creating the control software. Additionally, Pitrez gained valuable experience in teaching at FEUP, offering courses in thermodynamics and mechanics. He has also worked at Amorim Cork Composites, where he provided academic support, including practical classes and student supervision. His professional career also includes working at EDP Geração, where he currently holds a position as an engineer in charge of planning and operations for hydroelectric power plants. Pitrez’s broad experience and academic contributions make him a well-rounded professional in mechanical engineering and energy systems.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Pedro Pitrez has received numerous accolades for his contributions to research and academia. Notably, he won the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Technologies and Materials for Renewable Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (TMREES23) in 2023. His research work on plasma gasification and energy systems optimization has earned him recognition in both academic and professional circles. Additionally, Pitrez has presented at several high-profile conferences, such as the VII Jornadas de Engenharia Mecânica UTAD and the International Conference on Renewable Energy and Sustainability (TMREES23). His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence, having also contributed to published articles in reputable journals such as Energy Reports and ENCIT 2020. These awards and honors reflect his impact and dedication to advancing research in mechanical engineering and sustainable energy solutions.

🔍 Research Focus

Pedro Pitrez’s research primarily focuses on energy systems, combustion processes, and sustainable energy technologies. His current work includes investigating plasma gasification for hazardous waste treatment and optimizing energy conversion processes. He has developed expertise in the numerical analysis of energy systems and the efficient production of syngas. His research is highly interdisciplinary, bridging mechanical engineering with environmental sustainability. Pitrez is particularly focused on applying energy optimization to industrial processes, as evidenced by his work on internal combustion engines and hydroelectric power plants. Additionally, his ongoing Ph.D. research explores the potential of alternative fuels in the transportation and energy sectors. His work contributes to the development of cleaner, more efficient energy systems, with practical applications in industries such as automotive, power generation, and environmental technologies. Pitrez’s dedication to advancing energy solutions aligns with his long-term vision of sustainable and efficient mechanical systems.

Publication Top Notes

  • Energy Recovery from Infectious Hospital Waste and Its Safe Neutralization

    • Authors: P. Pitrez, Pedro; E.L.M. Monteiro, Eliseu L.M.; A.I. Rouboa, Abel Ilah
    • Citations: 0 (as it is a forthcoming publication)
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
  • Numerical Analysis of Plasma Gasification of Hazardous Waste Using Aspen Plus

    • Authors: Not provided in the reference.
    • Citations: 0
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Energy Reports
    • Volume: 9, Pages 418-426
  • Optimization of Plasma Gasification System for Treatment of COVID-19 Hazardous Waste for Valorization of LHV and H2 Composition

    • Authors: Not provided in the reference.
    • Citations: 0
    • Year: In Review (no specific year yet)
    • Journal: Status: In Review

 

Yogesh Thakare | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Yogesh Thakare | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr Yogesh Thakare, Ramdeobaba University, Nagpur, India

Dr. Yogesh Thakare 🎓 is an accomplished researcher and educator in Electronics and Communication Engineering. He earned his Ph.D. (2020) from SGB Amravati University, specializing in DRAM design using submicron technology 💾. Currently an Assistant Professor at Shri Ramdeobaba College of Engineering & Management, Nagpur 👨‍🏫, he has published in SCIE and Scopus-indexed journals 📑. His research spans FPGA architectures, AI, IoT, and biomedical systems 🤖. A GATE qualifier (94.92%), he has led government-funded projects 💰 and organized AI & IoT workshops 🏗️. Passionate about innovation, he contributes to cutting-edge electronics and computing technologies ⚡.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Excellence

Dr. Yogesh Thakare earned his Ph.D. in Electronics Engineering from SGB Amravati University in 2020, focusing on Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) design using submicron technology ⚡🔬. His academic journey reflects excellence, having completed his M.Tech with Distinction (85.10%) 🎓🏆 and his B.E. with First-Class (72.62%) 📚✨. With a strong foundation in electronics and a passion for advanced semiconductor technologies, Dr. Thakare has made significant contributions to memory design and innovation. His expertise in microelectronics and circuit design continues to drive advancements in the field, shaping the future of high-performance computing and digital storage solutions 💡🔍.

Funded Research & Grants

Dr. Yogesh Thakare has demonstrated exceptional research leadership by securing ₹24.6 Lakhs from CSIR for developing an automated water distribution system 💧🔬. His innovative approach aims to enhance water management efficiency through automation, contributing to sustainable resource utilization 🌱💡. This significant funding underscores his expertise in engineering solutions that address real-world challenges 🏗️⚙️. With a strong commitment to technological advancement, Dr. Thakare continues to drive impactful research that promotes water conservation and smart distribution systems 🌍📊. His work not only fosters scientific progress but also supports community welfare by ensuring efficient and equitable water access 🚰✅.

Experience

Dr. Yogesh Thakare is an experienced educator with over 14 years of teaching in top engineering institutes 🏫, including Shri Ramdeobaba College of Engineering and Management, Nagpur. As an Assistant Professor, he has played a key role in shaping technical education 📚. His passion for emerging technologies has led him to organize numerous workshops on Artificial Intelligence 🤖, the Internet of Things 🌐, and Machine Learning 📊, empowering students with cutting-edge knowledge. Through his dedication to academic excellence and innovation, Dr. Thakare continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers 🚀.

Research Focus

Dr. Yogesh Thakare’s research spans electronics, artificial intelligence, IoT, and machine learning 🤖📡. His work includes DRAM memory design 🏗️💾, FPGA-based cryptography 🔐, and deepfake detection using neural networks 🕵️‍♂️🎭. He has contributed to environmental intelligence systems 🌱📊, weather prediction for agriculture 🌦️🚜, and smart monitoring technologies 📡🏠. Additionally, he has explored cortisol detection for stress monitoring 🧪⚕️ and crime reporting frameworks 🚔📜. His interdisciplinary research integrates hardware and AI-driven solutions, making impactful advancements in computing, security, and human well-being 🔬💡. His innovative approach bridges technology and real-world applications, enhancing automation, safety, and intelligence. 🚀

Publication Top Notes

Intelligent Life Saver System for People Living in Earthquake Zone.

An Effect of Process Variation on 3T-1D DRAM

Analysis of power dissipation in design of capacitorless embedded DRAM

IoT-Enabled Environmental Intelligence: A Smart Monitoring System

Detection of Deepfake Video Using Residual Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory.

A Read-out Scheme of 1T-1D DRAM Design with Transistor Assisted Decoupled Sensing Amplifier in 7 nm Technology

Enhancing weather prediction and forecasting for agricultural applications using machine learning

FPGA Implementation of Compact Architecture for Lightweight Hash Algorithm for Resource Constrained Devices

Crafting visual art from text: A generative approach

Cortisol Detection Methods for Stress Monitoring: Current Insight and Future Prospect: A Review

An Ensemble Learning with Deep Feature Extraction Approach for Recognition of Traffic Signs in Advanced Driving Assistance Systems

Development and design approach of an sEMG-based Eye movement control system for paralyzed individuals

 

Manila Mallik | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Manila Mallik | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at VEER SURENDRA SAI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, BURLA, India

Dr. Manila Mallik is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering. She earned her Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, in 2016, with a focus on lead-free solder materials and their characterization. With a solid background in various areas including thin films, nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and industrial waste utilization, Dr. Mallik has actively contributed to both research and teaching. She has published several research papers in renowned journals, presented at numerous national and international conferences, and is an expert in materials characterization techniques like X-ray diffraction, SEM, and atomic force microscopy. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor at Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology, Burla, and has guided several Ph.D. and M.Tech students. Dr. Mallik is also known for her involvement in organizing seminars, workshops, and academic events, and has received multiple awards for her contributions to the field.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Manila Mallik’s educational journey reflects her dedication to the field of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering. She completed her Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Metallurgical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, in 2009, where she developed a strong foundation in materials science. Dr. Mallik then pursued her Master’s degree (M.Tech) in Metallurgical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, graduating in 2011. Her exceptional academic performance led her to continue her research at IIT Kharagpur, where she completed her Ph.D. in 2016. Her doctoral research focused on lead-free solder materials, where she extensively studied their mechanical properties and characterization techniques. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Mallik has been committed to advancing her knowledge and expertise in materials science, contributing significantly to both her research field and the education of future engineers and researchers.

Professional Experience

Dr. Manila Mallik has extensive professional experience in the field of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, with a focus on both academia and industry. She began her career as a Lecturer in the Department of Metallurgical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, where she contributed to teaching and research from 2011 to 2014. Following her doctoral studies, Dr. Mallik worked as an Assistant Professor at the same institution, where she continued to teach and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students while advancing her research on materials science. Her expertise in lead-free solder materials led her to collaborate on several research projects, including industry-sponsored work. Dr. Mallik has also held various academic roles such as research coordinator and has published numerous papers in international journals and conferences. Her career is distinguished by her commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications in materials engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Manila Mallik’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, metallurgy, and engineering, with a particular focus on the development and evaluation of lead-free solder materials. Her work investigates the mechanical, thermal, and microstructural properties of these materials, exploring alternatives to traditional lead-based solders for use in electronics and other industrial applications. Dr. Mallik is also interested in the design and optimization of advanced materials for electronic and energy-efficient devices, emphasizing their durability and performance under various operating conditions. Her research extends to areas such as corrosion behavior, fatigue analysis, and material degradation, particularly in the context of environmentally sustainable materials. Additionally, Dr. Mallik explores the impact of processing techniques on the properties of materials, utilizing computational modeling and experimental approaches to enhance material performance. Her research aims to contribute to the development of safer, more reliable materials for a wide range of technological and industrial applications.

Award and Honor

Dr. Manila Mallik has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her significant contributions to the fields of materials science and metallurgy. Her research on lead-free solder materials and sustainable engineering practices has earned her accolades at both national and international levels. Dr. Mallik was awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award for her innovative work on materials development in electronic devices. Additionally, she has been recognized with the Excellence in Research Award for her pioneering research in the field of corrosion behavior and materials degradation. Her work has been widely published in high-impact journals, and she has received the Best Paper Award for several of her research articles. Dr. Mallik’s outstanding academic achievements have also earned her scholarships and grants from prominent research organizations. These awards reflect her dedication to advancing sustainable engineering solutions and her ongoing commitment to driving innovations that benefit society and industry alike.

Conclusion

Dr. Manila Mallik exhibits a solid academic background, diverse research interests, and strong hands-on technical expertise, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to materials science, particularly in lead-free solder materials and nanocomposites, demonstrate her commitment to addressing global challenges through scientific innovation. With continued growth in industry partnerships, interdisciplinary research, and public outreach, Dr. Mallik has the potential to further elevate her already impressive career, contributing even more significantly to both academia and industry.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Substrate effect on electrodeposited copper morphology and crystal shapes
    Authors: S Banthia, S Sengupta, M Mallik, S Das, K Das
    Year: 2018
    Citation: 39
  • Title: Effect of current density on the nucleation and growth of crystal facets during pulse electrodeposition of Sn–Cu lead-free solder
    Authors: M Mallik, A Mitra, S Sengupta, K Das, RN Ghosh, S Das
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 35
  • Title: Investigation on lithium conversion behavior and degradation mechanisms in Tin based ternary component alloy anodes for lithium ion batteries
    Authors: S Sengupta, A Mitra, PP Dahiya, A Kumar, M Mallik, K Das, SB Majumder, …
    Year: 2017
    Citation: 19
  • Title: Effect of anodic passivation at high applied potential difference on the crystal shape and morphology of copper electrodeposits: thermodynamics and kinetics of …
    Authors: A Mitra, M Mallik, S Sengupta, S Banthia, K Das, S Das
    Year: 2017
    Citation: 15
  • Title: Corrosion inhibition behavior of dual phase steel in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution by Carica papaya peel extracts
    Authors: S Sahoo, S Nayak, D Sahoo, M Mallik
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 8
  • Title: Potential utilization of LD slag and waste glass in composite production
    Authors: M Mallik, S Hembram, D Swain, G Behera
    Year: 2020
    Citation: 7
  • Title: Pseudo lamellae of Cu6Sn5 on the crystal facet of Sn in electrodeposited eutectic Sn-Cu lead-free solder
    Authors: M Mallik, K Das, RN Ghosh, S Das
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 3
  • Title: Effect of temperature and pressure on diffusivity of nitinol pellet bonded with steel plate
    Authors: I Tripathy, SP Rout, M Mallik
    Year: 2020
    Citation: 3
  • Title: Production of copper powder by electrodeposition with different equilibrium crystal shape
    Authors: B Nanda, M Mallik
    Year: 2020
    Citation: 2
  • Title: Fatigue Crack Initiation and Growth Behavior of 7475 Aluminium Alloy in Air and Aggressive Environment
    Authors: RPK Verma B.B., Mallik Manila, Atkinson John D
    Year: 2012
    Citation: 2
  • Title: Effect of microstructure on the indentation creep behaviour of 2.25 Cr-1Mo and its comparison with modified 9Cr-1Mo ferritic steel
    Authors: M Mallik
    Year: 2011
    Citation: 2
  • Title: Effect of Cetyl Trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) amount on the Nanoindentation creep behaviour of Sn-cu-Y2O3 nanocomposite Lead-free solder
    Authors: M Mallik, K Das, RN Ghosh, S Das
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 1
  • Title: 3D Printing of Smart Materials: A Path toward Evolution of 4D Printing
    Authors: M Mallik
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 1
  • Title: Electrochemical behavior of 250-grade maraging steel by using Cascabela Thevetia as an organic inhibitor
    Authors: S Sahoo, AA Sahu, A Pradhan, SR Barik, A Mohanty, M Mallik
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 1
  • Title: Synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanocomposite coating by electrodeposition route: a state of the art review
    Authors: BK Karali, S Das, G Behera, M Mallik
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 1
  • Title: Flexible PMN-PT/rGO/PVDF-TrFE based composites for triboelectric and piezoelectric energy harvesting
    Authors: S Das, M Mallik, K Parida, N Bej, J Baral
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 1
  • Title: Microstructural characteristics of flexible ceramics
    Authors: S Das, K Parida, N Bej, M Mallik
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 1

Dong Lu | Construction Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Dong Lu | Construction Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Doctorate at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong

Dr. Dong Lu is a distinguished researcher in the field of smart pavement and low-carbon, sustainable building materials. He holds an M.S. degree from Chang’an University and a Ph.D. from Harbin Institute of Technology, with a second Ph.D. currently in progress at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Dr. Lu has authored over 60 SCI-indexed publications, including five highly cited papers, accumulating over 1,200 citations and an H-index of 23. His groundbreaking work includes the development of microwave heating self-healing technology for asphalt pavement, significantly advancing road maintenance and monitoring. In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Lu has been involved in multiple high-impact research projects and holds 10 granted patents out of 17 applications, demonstrating his commitment to innovation in sustainable construction technologies.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Academic and Training Background

Dr. Dong Lu has a solid academic foundation in civil engineering and materials science. He earned his M.S. degree from Chang’an University, where he developed a strong interest in sustainable infrastructure. He then pursued a Ph.D. at Harbin Institute of Technology, focusing on advanced construction materials and smart pavements. Currently, Dr. Lu is working towards a second Ph.D. at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, further specializing in low-carbon, sustainable building materials and structures. His academic journey has equipped him with a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of modern civil engineering challenges.

💼 Work Experience

Dr. Dong Lu has an impressive work experience that blends academic research with industry collaboration. He has been extensively involved in research on smart pavement and sustainable building materials, contributing significantly to the field through his innovative work on microwave heating self-healing technology for asphalt pavements. Dr. Lu has led and participated in numerous high-profile research projects, including those funded by the State Key Laboratory of Mountain Bridge and Tunnel Engineering and the Research Grant Council of Hong Kong. His experience also includes consultancy roles, where he has collaborated with enterprises such as Suzhou Solid Tough Nanomaterials Technology Co., Ltd., focusing on the development of nano-carbon multifunctional coating materials. Dr. Lu’s work has had a tangible impact on key infrastructure projects, including the Hong Kong Hung Hom Road Overhaul and Greater Bay Area Road Maintenance, showcasing his ability to apply cutting-edge research to real-world engineering challenges.

🏆 Strengths for the Award

Dr. Dong Lu’s strengths for the Research for Young Scientist Award are rooted in his innovative contributions to civil engineering and materials science. He has pioneered research on smart pavements and low-carbon, sustainable building materials, notably developing microwave heating self-healing technology for asphalt pavements, which has practical applications in road maintenance. His prolific publication record, with over 60 SCI-indexed papers, including several highly cited works, underscores his influence and impact in the scientific community. Additionally, Dr. Lu’s strong integration of academic research with industry needs is demonstrated through his successful collaborations on product development projects and his impressive portfolio of 17 patents, of which 10 have been granted. His leadership in high-impact research projects, funded by prestigious organizations like the Research Grant Council of Hong Kong, further highlights his ability to manage and deliver on complex initiatives. With over 1,200 citations and an H-index of 23, Dr. Lu’s work is globally recognized, making him a deserving candidate for this award.

🔍 Areas for Improvement

Dr. Dong Lu has demonstrated exceptional expertise and accomplishments in his field, there are areas where further development could enhance his already impressive profile. Diversifying his research portfolio to include interdisciplinary collaborations beyond civil engineering and materials science could broaden the impact of his work. Additionally, expanding his mentorship of young researchers and involvement in international research networks may help to further establish his influence and leadership on a global scale. Finally, while his publication record is strong, increasing engagement with the broader scientific community through keynote speeches, workshops, and participation in global conferences could enhance his visibility and contribute to the dissemination of his research findings.

Publications:

  • Understanding the role of unzipped carbon nanotubes in cement pastes
    • Journal: Cement and Concrete Composites
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 73
    • Volume: 126, Article ID: 104366
  • Carbon nanotube polymer nanocomposites coated aggregate enabled highly conductive concrete for structural health monitoring
    • Journal: Carbon
    • Year: 2023
    • Cited by: 55
    • Volume: 206, Pages: 340-350
  • Carbon-based nanomaterials engineered cement composites: a review
    • Journal: Journal of Infrastructure Preservation and Resilience
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 51
    • Volume: 3(1), Article ID: 2
  • Interfacial bonding between graphene oxide coated carbon nanotube fiber and cement paste matrix
    • Journal: Cement and Concrete Composites
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 50
    • Volume: 134, Article ID: 104802
  • Highly conductive and sensitive piezoresistive cement mortar with graphene coated aggregates and carbon fiber
    • Journal: Cement and Concrete Composites
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 48
    • Volume: 134, Article ID: 104731
  • Influence of ternary blended cementitious fillers in a cold mix asphalt mixture
    • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
    • Year: 2021
    • Cited by: 47
    • Volume: 318, Article ID: 128421
  • Growing nanocrystalline graphene on aggregates for conductive and strong smart cement composites
    • Journal: ACS Nano
    • Year: 2023
    • Cited by: 45
    • Volume: 17(4), Pages: 3587-3597
  • Interfacial nano-engineering by graphene oxide to enable better utilization of silica fume in cementitious composite
    • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 45
    • Volume: 354, Article ID: 131381
  • Nano-engineering the interfacial transition zone in cement composites with graphene oxide
    • Journal: Construction and Building Materials
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 39
    • Volume: 356, Article ID: 129284
  • Graphene coated sand for smart cement composites
    • Journal: Construction and Building Materials
    • Year: 2022
    • Cited by: 37
    • Volume: 346, Article ID: 128313

🏅 Conclusion

Dr. Dong Lu’s extensive research contributions, innovative solutions, and strong academic and industry connections make him a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. His work not only pushes the boundaries of knowledge in smart and sustainable construction materials but also has significant real-world applications, making him a valuable asset to both academia and industry.