M. Khalilur Rahman Khan | Materials Science at Cryogenic Temperatures | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. M. Khalilur Rahman Khan | Materials Science at Cryogenic Temperatures | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Prof. Dr. Md. Khalilur Rahman Khan is a distinguished physicist and academic leader, serving as Chairman of the Department of Physics at the University of Rajshahi. With over three decades of teaching, research, and administrative experience, he has made significant contributions to materials science, superconductivity, and thin film technology. His prolific publication record, mentorship of postgraduate researchers, and leadership in national and international collaborations have positioned him as an influential figure in advancing physics research and education.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Prof. Khan completed his early education in the sciences, excelling consistently in his academic journey. He earned his Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physics from the University of Rajshahi, graduating first in his class. He continued at the same institution for his Master’s in Physics with a specialization in Solid State Physics, again securing the top position. His pursuit of advanced research led him to Yamanashi University, Japan, where he obtained a Ph.D. in Materials Science, focusing on superconductivity. His educational foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics set the stage for his future innovations in materials synthesis and characterization.

Experience

Prof. Khan’s academic career at the University of Rajshahi began as a Lecturer in the Department of Physics, where his dedication to teaching and research quickly earned him promotions through the ranks to Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and ultimately Professor (Selection Grade). He has held prestigious visiting positions, including as Visiting Professor at the Venture Business Laboratory, University of Toyohashi, Japan, and as a Commonwealth Fellow at the University of the West of Scotland, UK. He has also undertaken postdoctoral research at Yamanashi University, Japan, under both follow-up and joint research fellowships. Beyond his academic duties, he has served in numerous administrative roles such as Dean of the Faculty of Science, Finance Committee Member, Senate Member, and Syndicate Member at various universities, contributing to academic governance and institutional development.

Research Focus

Prof. Khan’s research primarily explores the preparation and characterization of magnetic and semiconducting materials, with particular emphasis on the effects of elemental substitution on their structural and physical properties. He has extensively investigated the structural, electrical, and optical properties of semiconducting, ferroelectric, and perovskite solar cell thin films prepared using vacuum evaporation, chemical deposition, and spray pyrolysis techniques. His work on superconductivity has advanced understanding in the field of high-temperature superconductors, contributing to both fundamental physics and potential applications in energy systems. He remains actively engaged in national and international collaborations, enhancing cross-disciplinary approaches in condensed matter physics and materials science.

Awards & Honors

Prof. Khan’s academic excellence has been recognized with numerous honors. He received the Chancellor’s Award, the highest academic accolade at the University of Rajshahi, for his outstanding performance in his B.Sc. (Honours). He has also been awarded the S. N. Nahar Award for Researcher of the Year in Physics, reflecting his significant contributions to scientific advancement. His international fellowships include the Commonwealth Staff Fellowship (UK), Postdoctoral Fellowships at Yamanashi University (Japan), and a Visiting Professorship in Japan. These distinctions highlight his global academic presence and contributions to fostering research excellence.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Effect of Ni doping on structure, morphology and opto-transport properties of spray pyrolised ZnO nano-fiber
Authors: MY Ali, MKR Khan, AMMT Karim, MM Rahman, M Kamruzzaman
Summary: Investigates how Ni doping alters ZnO nano-fiber structure, morphology, and opto-transport properties prepared via spray pyrolysis.

Title: Effect of annealing temperature on structural, electrical and optical properties of spray pyrolytic nanocrystalline CdO thin films
Authors: MA Rahman, MKR Khan
Summary: Examines influence of annealing temperature on CdO thin films’ structural, electrical, and optical characteristics for improved performance.

Title: Effect of Al doping on structural, electrical, optical and photoluminescence properties of nano-structural ZnO thin films
Authors: MM Rahman, MKR Khan, MR Islam, MA Halim, M Shahjahan, MA Hakim, …
Summary: Studies Al doping impact on ZnO thin films’ structure, electrical behavior, optical traits, and photoluminescence efficiency.

Title: Effect of Al-doping on optical and electrical properties of spray pyrolytic nano-crystalline CdO thin films
Authors: MKR Khan, MA Rahman, M Shahjahan, MM Rahman, MA Hakim, …
Summary: Analyzes Al-doping effects on CdO thin films’ optical transmission, bandgap, and electrical conductivity prepared by spray pyrolysis.

Title: Electronic, mechanical, optical and photocatalytic properties of perovskite RbSr2Nb3O10 compound
Authors: MNH Liton, M Roknuzzaman, MA Helal, M Kamruzzaman, A Islam, …
Summary: Explores RbSr2Nb3O10 perovskite’s structural, electronic, mechanical, optical, and photocatalytic properties for multifunctional material applications.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Md. Khalilur Rahman Khan’s career reflects an unwavering dedication to advancing physics through research, education, and leadership. His contributions in superconductivity, thin film technology, and functional materials have not only enriched the scientific literature but also shaped the capabilities of the next generation of physicists through his mentorship. His administrative service has strengthened academic institutions, while his global collaborations have elevated Bangladesh’s presence in the international physics community. With an exceptional combination of scholarly excellence, innovative research, and visionary leadership.

Xin Zhong | Superconductivity | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Xin Zhong | Superconductivity | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Xin Zhong, Jilin University, China

Prof. Xin Zhong is an accomplished Associate Professor at the College of Physics, Jilin University, specializing in first-principles calculations, high-temperature superconductivity, structure prediction, electronic properties, and phase transitions. His research focuses on the structural design and physical property simulation of condensed matter under high-pressure extreme conditions. He has achieved original results in the theoretical design of novel superconductors and in the investigation of compounds with abnormal stoichiometry. With more than forty peer-reviewed articles in prestigious international journals, his work has significantly advanced the frontiers of high-pressure materials science.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Prof. Zhong earned a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from the State Key Laboratory of Superhard Materials at Jilin University. His doctoral research applied first-principles computational methods to predict the structures, stability, and electronic properties of materials under extreme pressures. During this period, he developed expertise in density functional theory, crystal structure prediction, and phase transition mechanisms, laying the foundation for his later breakthroughs in high-temperature superconductivity and materials design.

Experience

Following his doctorate, Prof. Zhong began his academic career as an Associate Professor at the College of Physics, Jilin Normal University, where he combined teaching with active research in condensed matter physics and superconductivity. He also undertook postdoctoral research at the Beijing Computational Science Research Center, focusing on the prediction and analysis of novel high-pressure phases, and later at the Center for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research, concentrating on the theoretical design and simulation of high-pressure superconductors. He is currently a tenure-track Associate Professor at the College of Physics, Jilin University, where he leads innovative research in superconductivity and materials design.

Research Focus

Prof. Zhong’s research encompasses two main directions. The first is the theoretical design of new high-temperature superconductors under high pressure, aiming to predict stable and metastable phases capable of superconductivity at elevated temperatures, potentially approaching or surpassing room temperature. The second is the structural design and physical property simulation of compounds with abnormal stoichiometry under high pressure, which often exhibit unique electronic and structural behaviors. His work employs advanced computational techniques to identify promising candidate materials and to guide experimental synthesis, effectively bridging theoretical predictions with experimental feasibility.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Substitution of Y, Ce, and Th for La in LaBeH₈ as a Path Towards Lower Synthesis Pressures of Superconducting Hydrides
Journal: Physical Review B
Summary: This study examines the substitution of yttrium, cerium, and thorium for lanthanum in LaBeH₈, showing that such modifications can significantly lower synthesis pressures for superconducting hydrides, improving experimental accessibility.

Title: Data-Driven Search for High-Temperature Superconductors in Ternary Hydrides Under Pressure
Journal: Physical Review B
Summary: A systematic, data-driven search identifies promising ternary hydrides with favorable stability and high superconducting transition temperatures, offering clear guidance for experimental synthesis efforts.

Title: Superconductivity of Electron-Doped Chalcohydrides Under High Pressure
Journal: Physical Review Research
Summary: This work explores how electron doping enhances superconducting transition temperatures and stability in chalcohydrides under high pressure, providing a viable strategy for designing advanced superconductors.

Title: Clathrate Metal Superhydrides Under High-Pressure Conditions: Enroute to Room-Temperature Superconductivity
Journal: National Science Review
Summary: A comprehensive review of clathrate metal superhydrides, discussing stability, structure, and superconducting properties under high pressure, and outlining pathways toward room-temperature superconductivity.

Title: Unlocking the Origin of Stability and Superconductivity in LaBeH₈ at Submegabar Pressure
Journal: Physical Review B
Summary: An in-depth analysis of structural and electronic factors governing the stability and superconductivity of LaBeH₈ at submegabar pressures, revealing key bonding and lattice dynamics that influence performance.

Conclusion

Prof. Xin Zhong’s career exemplifies a sustained commitment to advancing condensed matter physics and materials science. Through the integration of first-principles calculations, structural prediction, and high-pressure simulations, he has identified novel superconductors and elucidated the mechanisms behind their stability and superconducting behavior. His pioneering contributions to high-temperature superconductivity under extreme conditions hold transformative potential for energy transmission, quantum technologies, and beyond. With an outstanding publication record, international collaborations, and a clear vision for future breakthroughs, Prof. Zhong stands out as a highly deserving candidate for this award.

Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Senior Manager at Construction Industry Council, Hong Kong

Hao Jiang is a highly accomplished engineering leader and innovator in the construction industry, serving as President-elect of the ASCE Greater China Section. With an extensive portfolio of leadership roles, professional affiliations, and research achievements, he is recognized for advancing modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics applications in construction. As Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, a statutory body established by the Hong Kong government, he oversees the Construction Productivity Department, managing the R&D Fund, manpower forecasting, and technology implementation. His exceptional contributions have earned multiple prestigious awards for innovation, sustainability, and professional excellence.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Hao Jiang holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Southeast University, a Master of Science from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and dual Master of Business Administration degrees from Tsinghua University and Cornell University. This combination of technical expertise and advanced business acumen has enabled him to approach construction engineering challenges with both innovation and strategic insight. His academic foundation bridges engineering principles, applied research, and managerial leadership, equipping him to design and implement industry-wide solutions. His education also reflects a global outlook, combining leading institutions in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and the United States, which has broadened his perspective on international engineering practices.

Experience

In his current role as Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, Ir JIANG leads initiatives that directly impact the future of Hong Kong’s construction sector. He manages the council’s Construction Productivity Department, oversees research funding allocation, drives manpower forecasting, and champions the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics to enhance productivity and safety. Before joining the CIC, he served as a Research Fellow at the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he advanced research on steel construction technologies. His professional journey also includes extensive involvement in key infrastructure and construction projects, demonstrating his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.

Research Focus

JIANG’s research interests center on modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and cutting-edge construction technologies. He has contributed significantly to the integration of robotics into construction workflows, addressing industry needs for automation, efficiency, and safety enhancement. His work on modular construction has advanced prefabrication methodologies, improving project delivery speed and reducing environmental impact. In the area of high-performance materials, he has been involved in developing solutions that improve structural durability and sustainability. His efforts reflect a strong commitment to applying research outcomes to practical applications, bridging the gap between academic innovation and industry adoption.

Publication Top Note

Title: A meta-analysis of environmental impacts of building reuse and recycling
Authors: Bowen Zheng, Yang Yang, Albert Ping-chuen Chan, Hao Jiang, Zhikang Bao
Summary: This study synthesizes life cycle assessment (LCA) data to compare the environmental impacts of building reuse, recycling, and landfilling. Results show that reuse has substantially lower impacts than recycling, and recycling outperforms landfilling. Mass timber reuse and design-for-disassembly modular buildings perform especially well, with only 20–50% of the impacts of recycling. The authors recommend prioritizing reuse, then recycling, as sustainable waste management strategies in construction.

Conclusion

Hao Jiang is a distinguished engineering leader whose career blends technical expertise, research innovation, and strategic leadership. His work in modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics has positioned him at the forefront of modern construction technology advancement. Through his leadership roles, academic achievements, and industry contributions, he has significantly impacted both the Hong Kong construction sector and the global engineering community. His dedication to bridging research and industry, fostering sustainable practices, and embracing emerging technologies exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding award nominee. As ASCE Greater China Section President-elect, he continues to inspire innovation and set new benchmarks for excellence in the field of civil and structural engineering.

Farzad Habibi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Farzad Habibi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Sahand University of Technology, Iran

Dr. Farzad Habibi is a materials scientist and engineer with an extensive background in joining metallurgy, surface engineering, and materials characterization. He currently serves as CEO of Fara Sakht Karan Azerbaijan Co., while maintaining key research and teaching roles at Sahand University of Technology. With over a decade of academic, industrial, and research experience, Dr. Habibi has contributed significantly to the development of innovative joining technologies and high-performance coatings. His expertise spans thermodynamic simulations, microstructural analysis, and advanced welding methods, positioning him as a leading figure in both academic and industrial materials engineering communities.

Professional Profile

ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Habibi earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Sahand University of Technology. His doctoral studies built upon a Master of Science in Welding Metallurgy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Tabriz University. He began his academic journey with a High School Diploma in Mathematics and Physics, laying the foundation for his analytical and engineering skills.

Experience

Dr. Habibi has held diverse roles in academia and industry, reflecting his interdisciplinary proficiency he has been the CEO of Fara Sakht Karan Azerbaijan Co., where he oversees advanced materials solutions for industrial applications. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Sahand Nanolotus Co., and has been a lead researcher at Iran Mavad Co. His academic roles include laboratory assistant at Sahand University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Center and past teaching assistant positions. He has also worked in quality control and R&D management in automotive and heat treatment industries.

Research Focus

Dr. Habibi’s research centers on joining metallurgy, including brazing, soldering, and diffusion bonding techniques for dissimilar materials. He is also active in the development of electro-spark deposition (ESD) coatings and investigates the physical metallurgy of phase transformations and thermodynamics. His work extends into archaeometry and the analysis of ancient metallic artifacts. Current projects include the development of HEA coatings, interlayer engineering for tungsten carbide/steel joints, and electro-spark deposition of titanium- and zirconium-based coatings.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Habibi has received several professional recognitions for his contributions to materials science and engineering. He was honored by the Nano Headquarters for securing research funding and was named Best Reviewer by the Journal of Advanced Joining Processes (Elsevier). He also holds a patent related to the use of electro-spark deposition (ESD) for dissimilar material joining. Additionally, Dr. Habibi has led multiple industrial projects focused on wear-resistant coatings for major manufacturing companies.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Feasibility of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) of AZ31 Lightweight Magnesium Alloy in Dielectric Fluids of Hydrocarbon Oil and Deionized Water
Authors: Saeed Asghari, Mohammad Reza Shabgard, Maghsoud Shalvandi, S. Abolfazl Roudehchi, Farzad Habibi
Journal: International Journal of Lightweight Materials and Manufacture
Summary: This research evaluates EDM machining of AZ31 magnesium alloy using hydrocarbon oil and deionized water as dielectric fluids. The study investigates machining efficiency, surface quality, and tool wear to assess the feasibility of EDM for lightweight magnesium alloys.

Title: Microstructural Evaluation and Mechanical Properties of WC-6%Co/AISI 1045 Steel Joints Brazed by Copper, Brass, and Ag-based Filler Metals: Selection of the Filler Material
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Amir Mostafapour, Karim Heydarpour
Journal: Journal of Advanced Joining Processes
Summary: The article compares copper, brass, and silver-based filler metals in brazing WC-6%Co to AISI 1045 steel. It focuses on microstructural changes and mechanical properties to determine the optimal filler for joint strength and durability.

Title: In-situ Formation of Ultra-hard Titanium-based Composite Coatings on Carbon Steel through Electro-Spark Deposition in Different Gas Media
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi
Journal: Surface and Coatings Technology
Summary: Explores the influence of various gas atmospheres on electro-spark deposition of titanium-based composite coatings on carbon steel. The study examines coating hardness, phase composition, and microstructural characteristics.

Title: Microstructural Evolution During Low-temperature Brazing of WC-Co Cemented Carbide to AISI 4140 Steel Using a Silver-based Filler Alloy
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi, Mohammad Nouri
Journal: International Journal of Refractory Metals and Hard Materials
Summary: Investigates the microstructural development and bonding mechanisms in low-temperature brazing of WC-Co cemented carbide to AISI 4140 steel with silver-based filler alloys, aiming to improve joint quality.

Title: Interfacial Reactions in Actively Brazed Cu-Al₂O₃ Composites and Copper Using a Newly Developed Cu-Sn-Ag-Ti Filler Alloy
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi
Journal: Science and Technology of Welding and Joining
Summary: This study presents a novel Cu-Sn-Ag-Ti active filler alloy for brazing copper to Cu-Al₂O₃ composites. It examines interfacial reactions, phase formation, and joint integrity to enhance metal-ceramic joining techniques.

Conclusion

Dr. Farzad Habibi is a dedicated scientist whose multifaceted work in materials science bridges academic theory and industrial application. His innovations in joining technologies and surface engineering, combined with a strong publication record and commitment to education, make him a highly deserving nominee for distinction in materials science and engineering. Through continued research, leadership, and mentorship, Dr. Habibi contributes meaningfully to the advancement of advanced manufacturing and materials characterization in both national and international contexts.