Fouaz Lekoui | Surface Science | Excellence in Research

Dr. Fouaz Lekoui | Surface Science | Excellence in ResearchĀ 

Dr at Centre de dĆ©veloppement des technologies avancĆ©es (CDTA),Ā  Algeria

Fouaz Lekoui, born on July 23, 1985, in Collo City, is an accomplished Algerian researcher specializing in thin film deposition through PVD and CVD techniques. With over a decade of experience, he has contributed significantly to the development and characterization of advanced materials, focusing on annealing and diffusion furnace technologies, dry/wet oxidation processes, and ultra-vacuum systems. Renowned for his dedication, Fouaz has effectively balanced his career while residing in Algiers and sharing life with his family. He currently works at CDTA, leading advancements in material science and engineering. His expertise extends to various sectors involving high-precision coatings and functional thin films, highlighting his commitment to pushing technological boundaries.

Profile

Scholar

Education šŸŽ“

Fouaz Lekoui’s academic journey started with a BAC in Exact Sciences (2003), progressing to an engineering degree in mechanical engineering, energy option (2009), where he acquired foundational knowledge in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, turbo machinery, and thermal transfers. In 2012, he earned his Magister in mechanical engineering, specializing in “mechanics of materials and surfaces,” delving into material properties and surface treatments. His thesis on “Elaboration and Characterization of a Material Based on Potassium Phosphate and Magnesium” reflected a passion for utilizing local resources. By 2019, Fouaz completed his PhD with a focus on thin films in the Zn-Ag-Mg-O system, contributing to multifunctional, transparent, conductive, and antibacterial coatings. In 2022, he achieved HDR certification in Mechanical Engineering, emphasizing material sciences and further cementing his expertise in innovative material research.

Experience šŸ§‘ā€šŸ«

Since 2013, Fouaz Lekoui has been a dedicated researcher at CDTA (Advanced Technology Development Center), actively contributing to the plasma and application team within the ionized and laser division. His role includes overseeing DC magnetron sputtering and evaporation processes. He gained significant industry exposure during his internship at Sonatrach’s natural gas liquefaction unit GL1K, enhancing his practical understanding of energy processes. As an experienced scientist, Fouaz has worked on pioneering techniques in thin film deposition and characterization. He has developed a strong command over advanced vacuum technologies and material processing, showcasing his leadership in implementing high-standard research methodologies and quality assurance measures. His continuous work at CDTA exemplifies his commitment to fostering innovation and advancing technology in materials engineering.

šŸ† Awards and Honors

Fouaz Lekouiā€™s dedication to his field has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. His early recognition came with awards for academic excellence during his undergraduate and Magister studies, where his research on local materials gained attention. As a distinguished researcher at CDTA, Fouaz has been commended for his contributions to thin film technology and innovative material coatings. His work on transparent, conductive, and antibacterial films has set new industry standards, leading to awards at national and international research symposia. Achieving the HDR in Mechanical Engineering in 2022 was a testament to his continued impact in academia and research, positioning him as a leading expert in materials science.

šŸ”¬ Research Focus

Fouaz Lekouiā€™s research delves into advanced thin film deposition using PVD and CVD techniques, with a particular emphasis on multifunctional thin films based on the Zn-Ag-Mg-O system. His studies focus on developing transparent, conductive, and antibacterial coatings for various substrates like glass and silicon. His exploration of MgO thin film growth on Ag crystals (100) has contributed to breakthroughs in nanotechnology and material enhancement. Fouaz has also investigated dry and wet oxidation processes, enhancing his expertise in furnace technologies and vacuum systems. His current research seeks to bridge fundamental science with practical applications, providing innovative solutions in materials engineering for advanced technology sectors.

Conclusion

Dr. Fouaz Lekoui’s comprehensive expertise in thin-film deposition, materials characterization, and surface mechanics makes him an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award. His professional and academic achievements, combined with his practical experience and leadership in key technical areas, highlight his significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering and materials science. Recognition of his work would underscore the importance of advanced materials research in addressing technological challenges and developing innovative solutions.

Publications šŸ“š

  • “Investigation of the effects of thermal annealing on the structural, morphological and optical properties of nanostructured Mn doped ZnO thin films”
    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: F. Lekoui, R. Amrani, W. Filali, E. Garoudja, L. Sebih, I.E. Bakouk, H. Akkari, …
    • Journal: Optical Materials 118, 111236
    • Citations: 32

 

  • “Elaboration and characterization of Mg-doped ZnO thin films by thermal evaporation: annealing temperature effect”
    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: F. Lekoui, S. Hassani, M. Ouchabane, H. Akkari, D. Dergham, W. Filali, …
    • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Physics 51, 544-552
    • Citations: 22

 

  • “Effect of annealing temperature on the properties of Ag doped ZnO thin films”
    • Year: 2018
    • Authors: F. Lekoui, M. Ouchabane, H. Akkari, S. Hassani, D. Dergham
    • Journal: Materials Research Express 5 (10), 106406
    • Citations: 16

 

  • “Analysis of Iā€“VT characteristics of Be-doped AlGaAs Schottky diodes grown on (100) GaAs substrates by molecular beam epitaxy”
    • Year: 2022
    • Authors: S. Oussalah, W. Filali, E. Garoudja, B. Zatout, F. Lekoui, R. Amrani, …
    • Journal: Microelectronics Journal 122, 105409
    • Citations: 13

 

  • “Artificial bee colony algorithm: a novel strategy for optical constants and thin film thickness extraction using only optical transmittance spectra for photovoltaic applications”
    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: E. Garoudja, R. Amrani, W. Filali, F. Lekoui, S. Oussalah, Y. Cuminal, …
    • Journal: Optik 241, 167030
    • Citations: 12

 

  • “Investigation of structural and electrical properties of ITO thin films and correlation to optical parameters extracted using novel method based on PSO algorithm”
    • Year: 2023
    • Authors: R. Amrani, E. Garoudja, F. Lekoui, W. Filali, H. Neggaz, Y.A. Djebeli, L. Henni, …
    • Journal: Bulletin of Materials Science 46 (1), 8
    • Citations: 8

 

  • “Synthesis, Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Agā€TiO2ā€Fe Composite Thin Films”
    • Year: 2022
    • Authors: D. Grine, H. Akkari, P. FernĆ”ndez, T. Mekhalif, S. Hassani, F. Lekoui
    • Journal: Physica Status Solidi (a)
    • Citations: 7

 

  • “On the substrate heating effects on structural, mechanical and linear/non-linear optical properties of Agā€“Mn co-doped ZnO thin films”
    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: F. Lekoui, R. Amrani, S. Hassani, E. Garoudja, W. Filali, M. Ouchabane, …
    • Journal: Optical Materials 150, 115151
    • Citations: 6

 

  • “Examining the microstructure, morphological features, and wetting characteristics of Ti/TiN/TiAlN thin films produced through RF/DC magnetron co-sputtering”
    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: H. Benzouid, S. Boudebane, H. Ferkous, F. Lekoui, N.B. Nayan, A. Delimi, …
    • Journal: Materials Today Communications 37, 107405
    • Citations: 6

 

Carolin Mercy | Electrocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Carolin Mercy | Electrocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms at Carolin Mercy SRM IST, India

Carolin Mercy Enoch is a dedicated Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, India, focusing on innovative materials for energy conversion and storage devices. With a keen interest in materials chemistry, particularly perovskites, she has accumulated over five years of experience in advanced laboratories. Carolin is passionate about developing eco-friendly and efficient electrocatalysts, with a commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies. Her strong analytical skills and expertise in data interpretation complement her research endeavors. As a single woman from India, she aims to contribute significantly to the field of chemistry, inspiring others along her journey.

Profile

Scholar

šŸŽ“ Education

Carolin holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Lady Doak College, Madurai, and an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Madras Christian College, both with first-class distinctions. She pursued her M.Phil. at Madras University, where she graduated with first-class honors. Currently, she is working towards her Ph.D. at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, focusing on the strategic design of oxygen-deficient perovskite oxides for bifunctional electrocatalysts. Her educational journey reflects her dedication to academic excellence and her passion for the field of chemistry, equipping her with a strong foundation for her research pursuits.

šŸ’¼Ā Experience

Carolin has been a Ph.D. scholar at SRM IST since 2020, specializing in the synthesis of electro-catalysts for oxygen reduction reactions. Prior to this, she served as an Assistant Professor at VSB Engineering College, where she contributed to undergraduate education and mentored students in the field of Chemistry. Her research experience includes various projects, such as the strategic design of bifunctional electrocatalysts for energy devices and electroanalysis of compounds at chemically modified electrodes. Carolin’s diverse professional background enhances her research capabilities and positions her as a valuable asset in academic and research settings.

šŸ† Awards & Honors

Carolin has received several accolades for her academic and research achievements, including the “Best Poster Presentation” at RASTH 2021 and the Dr. Parrivendhar Research Colloquium in 2022 at SRM IST. She also won first prize in the Science Quiz Competition during National Science Day celebrations in 2015 at the University of Madras. These recognitions highlight her commitment to excellence and her contributions to the scientific community. Carolin’s awards reflect her dedication to advancing research in chemistry and her ability to communicate her findings effectively.

šŸ”¬ Research Focus

Carolin’s current research focuses on improving the activity of non-noble metal-based electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions to replace expensive platinum catalysts. She aims to enhance the stability and durability of composite materials while maintaining electrocatalytic activity. Her work involves studying the mechanisms and bonding of electrocatalysts, conducting durability tests, and investigating various catalysts using electrochemical techniques like cyclic voltammetry. Carolin is also exploring electrocatalysis for CO2 reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable energy solutions and innovative materials science.

Conclusion šŸ“

Carolin Mercy Enoch is a highly motivated researcher with a strong academic foundation, significant contributions to materials chemistry, and a proven ability to communicate her work effectively. Her strengths in research, awards, and publications position her well for the Best Researcher Award. However, she could benefit from broadening her collaborative networks, enhancing the visibility of her research, focusing on grant acquisition, and further developing her teaching experience. By addressing these areas for improvement, she can amplify her contributions to the field and solidify her standing as a leading researcher in materials chemistry.

Publications Top Notes

  • Strategic Design and Insights into Lanthanum and Strontium Perovskite Oxides for Oxygen Reduction and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
    Authors: S Ingavale, M Gopalakrishnan, CM Enoch, C Pornrungroj, M Rittiruam, …
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Small, 20 (19), 2308443

 

  • Molten salt-directed synthesis of strontium manganese perovskite oxide: an active electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction
    Authors: CM Enoch, S Ingavale, P Marbaniang, I Patil, A Swami
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 11 (40), 21780-21792

 

  • Strategic Design and Insights into Lanthanum and Strontium Perovskite Oxides for Oxygen Reduction and Oxygen Evolution Reactions (Duplicate entry)
    Authors: S Ingavale, M Gopalakrishnan, CM Enoch, C Pornrungroj, M Rittiruam, …
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Small, 20 (19), 2470144

 

  • Molten salt-directed synthesis of strontium manganese perovskite oxide: an active electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction (Duplicate entry)
    Authors: I Patil, P Marbaniang, A Swami, CM Enoch, S Ingavale
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Royal Society of Chemistry