Shahid Aziz | Nanomaterial | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Shahid Aziz | Nanomaterial | Research Excellence Award 

Assistan professor | Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST) | Pakistan

Dr. Shahid Aziz is an accomplished organic chemist and Assistant Professor at Mirpur University of Science & Technology (MUST), Mirpur AJK, with a research portfolio distinguished by over 20 publications and a growing global scholarly footprint marked by 466 citations, an h-index of 13, and an i10-index of 14. His work centers on the isolation, structural elucidation, and biological evaluation of natural products, particularly from medicinal plants indigenous to the Himalayan and Kashmir regions. Dr. Aziz has significantly contributed to understanding the chemical diversity and pharmacological potential of essential oils, polyphenols, alkaloids, and secondary metabolites, with several of his studies achieving high citation impact—such as investigations on Thymus serpyllum, Verbascum thapsus, Angelica glauca, Zanthoxylum alatum, and Prunus persica. His collaborative work with national and international researchers has advanced knowledge in antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiplasmodial, and phytotoxic activities, providing scientific bases for traditional medicinal uses and identifying promising bioactive compounds for drug discovery. In synthetic organic chemistry, Dr. Aziz has contributed to the development of novel anthrapyran derivatives, semicarbazides, triazoles, and pyrroloimidazoles, expanding the repertoire of compounds with potential therapeutic relevance. His research has been published in reputable journals such as Natural Product Communications, Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants, Biochemical Systematics and Ecology, and Journal of King Saud University–Science. Beyond advancing fundamental science, his work supports bioprospecting, natural-product-based drug development, and regional biodiversity conservation, reflecting both academic merit and societal value. Through sustained scholarly output, cross-disciplinary collaborations, and commitment to natural product chemistry, Dr. Aziz continues to contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Aziz, S., & Rehman. (2008). Isolation and structural studies on the chemical constituents of Thymus serpyllum. Turkish Journal of Chemistry, 32, 605–614. Cited by: 57

2. Hussain, H., Aziz, S., Miana, G. A., Ahmad, V. U., Anwar, S., & Ahmed, I. (2009). Minor chemical constituents of Verbascum thapsus. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology, 37(2), 124–126. Cited by: 55

3. Irshad, M., Rehman, H., Shahid, M., & Aziz, S. (2011). Antioxidant, antimicrobial and phytotoxic activities of essential oil of Angelica glauca. Asian Journal of Chemistry, 23(5), 1947–1951. Cited by: 43

4. Hussain, H., Aziz, S., Schulz, B., & Krohn, K. (2011). Synthesis of a 4H-anthra [1,2-b] pyran derivative and its antimicrobial activity. Natural Product Communications, 6(6), 1934578X1100600621. Cited by: 39

5. Irshad, M., Aziz, S., Rehman, H., & Hussain, H. (2012). GC-MS analysis and antimicrobial activities of essential oils of Angelica glauca, Plectranthus rugosus, and Valeriana wallichii. Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants, 15(1), 15–21. Cited by: 3

Dr. Shahid Aziz’s research in natural products and organic chemistry advances the discovery of bioactive compounds from medicinal and aromatic plants, contributing to the development of novel antimicrobial, antioxidant, and phytotoxic agents. His work bridges fundamental chemical research with practical applications in medicine, agriculture, and pharmaceutical sciences, supporting global efforts in health, sustainability, and natural product innovation.

Sara Amelia Ramírez Pasten | Nanotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sara Amelia Ramírez Pasten | Nanotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Researcher, Bernardo O’Higgins University, Chile

Dr. Sara Amelia Ramírez Pastén is a Chilean chemist and researcher with expertise in nanotechnology, electrochemical sensors, and antimicrobial materials. 🎓 She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from Universidad de Santiago de Chile in 2021 and currently works as a lecturer and principal investigator at Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins. Her work bridges science and entrepreneurship, developing nanomaterials for real-world healthcare applications. 🌍🔬

Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

She completed all her higher education at Universidad de Santiago de Chile, earning her chemistry degree, licentiate, and Ph.D. in Chemistry. 📘 Additionally, she undertook technical training in industrial safety and chemical labs during her early education, showcasing her strong practical foundation from an early stage. 🧑‍🔬

🧑‍🔬 Experience

Dr. Ramírez Pastén has served in academic and research roles at several Chilean institutions, including Universidad Central and Universidad del Desarrollo. 👩‍🏫 She completed a research internship in Spain and has held leadership positions in national research and entrepreneurial projects. Her experience spans lab teaching, project management, and nanotechnology innovation. 🔬

🔬 Research Interests

Her research focuses on nanotechnology, surface chemistry, and electrocatalysis, especially in developing nanostructured materials for antimicrobial and biomedical use. 🧫 She is passionate about applying science to solve public health challenges, including biosensors and anti-biofilm surfaces. 🧠⚗️

📚 Publications Top Notes

Antimicrobial Properties of a Novel PEGylated Copper Nanoparticle-Embedded Silicone Rubber with Potential for Use in Biomedical Applications
Journal: Polymers, 2025
Summary: This study investigates a novel silicone rubber material embedded with PEGylated copper nanoparticles, demonstrating significant antimicrobial properties suitable for biomedical applications.

Copper-Modified Cellulose Paper: A Comparative Study of How Antimicrobial Activity Is Affected by Particle Size and Testing Standards
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025
Summary: The research compares the antimicrobial efficacy of copper-modified cellulose paper, highlighting the influence of particle size and testing standards on performance.

Fast and Easy Synthesis of Silver, Copper, and Bimetallic Nanoparticles on Cellulose Paper Assisted by Ultrasound
Journal: Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 2023
Summary: This article presents an efficient method for synthesizing silver, copper, and bimetallic nanoparticles on cellulose paper using ultrasound, offering a scalable approach for material fabrication.

Molecular Anchoring with 4-Mercaptobenzoic Acid and 4-Aminothiophenol for Using Active Nanorods in the Detection of Dopamine
Journal: ECS Sensors Plus, 2022
Summary: The study explores the use of molecular anchors to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of gold nanorods for dopamine detection, contributing to advancements in electrochemical sensors.

Mapping Experimental and Theoretical Reactivity Descriptors of Fe Macrocyclic Complexes Deposited on Graphite or on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for the Oxidation of Thiols: Thioglycolic Acid Oxidation
Journal: Electrochimica Acta, 2021
Summary: This research provides insights into the reactivity of Fe macrocyclic complexes, deposited on various substrates, for thiol oxidation, aiding in the design of efficient electrocatalysts.

🏆 Conclusion

Dr. Ramírez Pastén is a rising leader in nanoscience, with a proven record of research excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 🥇 Her work integrates science and public health, producing materials that could transform medical treatment and infection control. She continues to drive impactful research, mentor students, and commercialize discoveries, making her a strong candidate for recognition. 💼🔬

Aleksandar Bojić | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Aleksandar Bojić | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Full Professor | University of Niš, Faculty of Sciences | Serbia

Aleksandar Bojić is a distinguished Serbian academic and researcher currently serving as a Full Professor at the Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Niš. With an extensive background in applied, industrial, and environmental chemistry, Bojić has made significant contributions to the fields of water treatment, environmental chemistry, and materials science. Over the years, he has directed several key research projects focusing on innovative approaches to wastewater purification, chemical and electrochemical processes, and environmental protection. His work has earned him recognition within both national and international scientific communities.

Profile

Education

Bojić’s educational journey began at the University of Niš, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in 1991, focusing on the influence of physicochemical properties of glasses on the mechanical characteristics of ceramic joints. He continued his academic pursuit by obtaining a Master’s degree in 1997, exploring electrocatalysis in aqueous solutions with a solid metal catalyst. In 2002, Bojić completed his PhD, which centered on the electrochemical effects of microalloyed aluminum-based composites on microorganisms in aqueous environments.

Experience

Throughout his career, Bojić has held various academic and research positions at the University of Niš, advancing through the ranks from Research Assistant to Full Professor. His professional experience extends beyond teaching, as he has led numerous research initiatives and contributed significantly to the scientific community’s understanding of water treatment and environmental chemistry. He has served as Head of the Laboratory for Applied, Industrial, and Environmental Chemistry since 2011, a role that allows him to directly impact the development of new technologies for water purification and waste management.

Research Interest

Bojić’s research interests are wide-ranging but focus primarily on applied chemistry and environmental engineering. He is particularly interested in advanced oxidation processes (e.g., UV/Ox, photocatalysis, and Fenton processes) for water treatment, as well as the use of biosorbents and activated carbons in wastewater purification. Additionally, his work explores electrochemical processes for water treatment, such as electro-oxidation and electro-coagulation-flotation. He has also made notable contributions to the study of corrosion, materials science, and the development of sustainable solutions for environmental protection. His work in these fields aims to address global challenges, including water contamination and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Award

Based on the extensive qualifications, research background, and contributions, Aleksandar Bojić seems highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Note

Bojić, A.L., et al. “Enhanced thermal stability and excellent electrochemical and photocatalytic performance of needle-like form of zinc-phthalocyanine.” Ceramics International, 2024.

Filipović, K., et al. “Highly efficient nano sorbent as a superior material for the purification of wastewater contaminated with anthraquinone dye RB19.” Journal of Water Process Engineering, 2024.

Petrović, M.M., et al. “Co-doped ZnO catalyst for non-thermal atmospheric pressure pulsating corona plasma degradation of reactive dye.” Materials Chemistry and Physics, 2024.

Velinov, N.D., et al. “The Application of Wood Biowaste Chemically Modified by Bi2O3 as a Sorbent Material for Wastewater Treatment.” Processes, 2024.

Tadić, T.T., et al. “Novel eco-friendly sorbent derived from Acer pseudoplatanus seed for atenolol removal from pharmaceutical wastewater.” Journal of Water Process Engineering, 2024.

Petrović, M.M., et al. “Non-thermal atmospheric-pressure positive pulsating corona discharge in degradation of textile dye Reactive Blue 19 enhanced by Bi2O3 catalyst.” Plasma Science and Technology, 2024.

Conclusion

Aleksandar Bojić is a respected researcher and academic whose work in environmental chemistry, water treatment, and materials science has had a profound impact on both academic and practical approaches to environmental sustainability. His numerous publications, research projects, and awards speak to his commitment to advancing the understanding of chemical processes for environmental protection. Through his leadership in research and teaching, Bojić continues to contribute to the scientific community, guiding the next generation of researchers in tackling some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.