Tag: Best Astronomy Research Award

Jonas Muheki | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Mr. Jonas Muheki | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award

University of Houston | United States

Mr. Jonas Muheki is an emerging researcher in Medical and Biological Physics, currently pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Houston, Texas, USA, where he specializes in developing innovative opto-electromagnetic modalities for cancer therapy. With a strong academic foundation that includes a Master of Science in Physics with specialization in Photonics from Marwadi University, India, and a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics from Makerere University, Uganda, he has cultivated a multidisciplinary expertise spanning computational physics, photonics, metamaterials, biosensing, and biomedical applications of electromagnetic fields. Jonas has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed journal publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, collectively accumulating over 143 citations, demonstrating his emerging influence in advanced sensor design, nanophotonics, graphene-based metasurfaces, and machine-learning-assisted biomedical devices. His notable publications include contributions to journals such as Plasmonics, Optics & Quantum Electronics, and Micromachines, and he has collaborated with international researchers across India, Saudi Arabia, Uganda, and the United States. His work has advanced modern biosensor architectures, solar absorber designs, and terahertz metamaterial-based diagnostic platforms with growing application potential in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and renewable energy. In addition to his research output, Jonas has contributed significantly to teaching and academic development as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Houston and previously as a Physics Lecturer at Kyambogo University in Uganda. He has supervised undergraduate research, reviewed manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and actively participates in scientific communities including the American Physical Society and the Gulf Coast Consortia.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Muheki, J., Wekalao, J., Albargi, H. B., Jalalah, M., Almawgani, A. H. M., & Patel, S. K. (2025). A graphene gold metasurface inspired surface plasmon resonance sensor designed for terahertz applications in sensing and detection of heavy metals in water. (Plasmonics, 20(1), 289–303)

Wekalao, J., Mandela, N., Muheki, J., & Zaid, A. (2025). Design and analysis of a terahertz metasurface-based refractive index sensor for hemoglobin detection with behaviour prediction using polynomial regression. (Plasmonics, 20(4), 2123–2152)

Wekalao, J., Muheki, J., Mandela, N., Kabarokole, P., & Makoye, P. (2025). Machine learning-optimized titanium-based broadband absorber with high-efficiency performance across visible and infrared wavelengths. (Optical and Quantum Electronics, 57(2), 129)

Armghan, A., Jonas, M., Surve, J., Patel, S. K., Aliqab, K., & Alsharari, M. (2023). Refractory material inspired ultra-wideband solar absorber for thermoelectric photovoltaic performance enhancement with ML inspired prediction. (Alexandria Engineering Journal, 73, 461–472)

Alsharari, M., Muheki, J., Armghan, A., Aliqab, K., Surve, J., & Patel, S. K. (2023). Thermal management mechanism employing transparent nanostructures for winter and summer seasons for indoor environments. (International Journal of Thermal Sciences, 193, 108533)

Rifat Capan | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Prof Dr. Rifat Capan | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Had of Atomic and Molecular Physics at Balikesir university, Turkey

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan is a distinguished physicist at the University of Balıkesir, specializing in pyroelectric heat sensors, gas sensors for environmental applications, and organic thin film fabrications. He completed his education at Hacettepe University and the University of Sheffield, where he earned his PhD. Throughout his career, he has published 144 articles and authored two books, receiving numerous accolades, including the Leverhulme Visiting Fellowship and International Scientist of the Year 2004. Prof. Çapan has held various leadership roles, including establishing the first Thin Film and Gas Sensor Research Laboratory at his university. He actively collaborates internationally, serving as the Turkey project coordinator for European Union initiatives. His significant contributions to physics and dedication to research and education make him a highly respected figure in his field, reflecting a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation.

Profile

Education

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan completed his primary, secondary, and high school education in his hometown of Yozgat, Turkey. He pursued higher education at Hacettepe University in Ankara, where he graduated in 1989 with a degree in Physics Teaching from the Faculty of Education. Following his graduation, he worked as a research assistant in the same department from 1989 to 1993 while completing his Master’s degree in Physics Engineering at Hacettepe University between 1989 and 1991. Prof. Çapan then advanced his academic career by moving to the University of Sheffield in the UK to pursue his doctoral studies in Physics, representing Balıkesir University. He successfully earned his PhD in 1998 and returned to Balıkesir University, where he has since made significant contributions to research and education in the field of physics. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his subsequent research endeavors and leadership roles in academia.

Professional Experience

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan has a distinguished professional experience primarily at the University of Balıkesir, where he has served since 1993. He began his academic journey as a research assistant in the Department of Physics at Hacettepe University, later completing his master’s and PhD at the same institution and the University of Sheffield, respectively. After returning to Balıkesir University, he rose through the ranks from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor and ultimately became a full Professor in 2007. Throughout his career, Prof. Çapan has held various administrative roles, including Head of the Physics Department, Deputy Head of the Department, and Manager of the Scientific Research Projects Unit. He established the Thin Film and Gas Sensor Research Laboratory and has been actively involved in several research projects, securing funding from Turkish Research Council (TÜBİTAK). His leadership and contributions have significantly advanced the university’s research profile and fostered international collaborations.

Research Interest

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan’s research interests primarily focus on the development and characterization of advanced sensor technologies, specifically pyroelectric heat sensors and gas sensors for environmental applications. His work involves the fabrication of organic thin films and their subsequent analysis using structural, electrical, and optical techniques. Prof. Çapan explores the properties and mechanisms of pyroelectric materials, contributing to the enhancement of sensor sensitivity and efficiency. His research is vital for addressing environmental challenges, particularly in monitoring air quality and detecting harmful gases. Additionally, he is engaged in projects that involve molecular engineering of sensor materials, aiming to create innovative solutions for industrial and scientific applications. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, Prof. Çapan actively seeks to integrate his research with other fields, enhancing the applicability and impact of his findings within the scientific community and beyond.

Research Skills

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan possesses a diverse set of research skills that significantly contribute to his expertise in physics. His proficiency in pyroelectric heat sensors and gas sensors is supported by a strong foundation in structural, electrical, and optical characterizations, enabling him to innovate in sensor technology for environmental applications. Dr. Çapan’s experience in organic thin film fabrication enhances his ability to develop novel materials with specific functionalities. His adeptness in experimental design and data analysis ensures rigorous methodologies in his research projects. Additionally, he demonstrates strong collaboration skills, evidenced by his coordination of international projects and partnerships with various institutions. His engagement in mentorship allows him to guide emerging researchers, fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation. Dr. Çapan’s ability to communicate complex concepts clearly through publications and presentations further solidifies his role as a leading figure in his field.

Award and Recognition

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions throughout his academic career, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of physics. He was honored with the Overseas Research Student (ORS) award during his doctoral studies at the University of Sheffield, underscoring his commitment to research excellence. In 2004, he was named International Scientist of the Year by the International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, UK, a testament to his global recognition in the scientific community. Additionally, he received the Leverhulme Visiting Fellowship, allowing him to conduct research as a visiting professor at Sheffield Hallam University. His accolades also include the Turkish Physical Society Honor Award in 2021 and the Balıkesir Radio BRT award for Scientists of the Year in 2007. These honors highlight his impactful research in pyroelectric heat sensors and gas sensors, establishing him as a leading figure in his field and a respected mentor for future generations of scientists.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Rifat Çapan is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive contributions to the field of physics, particularly in sensor technology. His accomplishments in research, teaching, and administrative roles underscore his dedication and leadership in the scientific community. By addressing areas for improvement, he can further enhance his impact, ensuring that his work continues to contribute significantly to both academia and society. Recognizing him with this award would not only honor his past achievements but also encourage his future endeavors in research and mentorship.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Sensor parameters and adsorption behaviour of rhodamine-based polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofiber against dichloromethane vapour
    • Authors: Capan, R., Capan, I., Bayrakci, M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Microchemical Journal
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 207, 111806
    • Citations: 0
  2. Spin-coated films of calix[4]resorcinarenes as sensors for chlorinated solvent vapours
    • Authors: Çapan, R., Çapan, İ., Davis, F., Ray, A.K.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 35(25), 1701
    • Citations: 0
  3. Heterocyclic-based Schiff base material designed as optochemical sensor for the sensitive detection of chlorinated solvent vapours
    • Authors: Halay, E., Capan, I., Capan, R., Ay, E., Acikbas, Y.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Research on Chemical Intermediates
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 50(9), pp. 4579–4593
    • Citations: 0
  4. Rhodamine-Based Electrospun Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Nanofiber Sensor for the Detection of Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Vapors
    • Authors: Capan, R., Capan, I., Bayrakci, M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 6(13), pp. 7500–7511
    • Citations: 2
  5. Sensing Volatile Pollutants with Spin-Coated Films Made of Pillar[5]arene Derivatives and Data Validation via Artificial Neural Networks
    • Authors: Kursunlu, A.N., Acikbas, Y., Yilmaz, C., Buyukkabasakal, K., Senocak, A.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 16(24), pp. 31851–31863
    • Citations: 1
  6. Sensing volatile organic compounds with CVD graphene: insights from quartz crystal microbalance and surface plasmon resonance studies
    • Authors: Selvi, H., Capan, I., Capan, R., Acikbas, Y.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 35(18), 1268
    • Citations: 0
  7. Chloroform sensing properties of Langmuir-Blodgett thin films of Zn(II)phthalocyanine containing 26-membered tetraoxadithia macrocycle groups
    • Authors: Capan, I., Capan, R., Acikbas, Y., Kabay, N., Gök, Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Optik
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 294, 171429
    • Citations: 1
  8. A new approach for the adsorption kinetics using surface plasmon resonance results
    • Authors: Çapan, R., Çapan, İ., Davis, F.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 394, 134463
    • Citations: 9
  9. Metal sulfide sub-nanometer clusters formed within calix(8)arene Langmuir-Blodgett films
    • Authors: Ozkaya, C., Abu-Ali, H., Nabok, A., Hammond, D., Capan, R.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Thin Solid Films
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 782, 140024
    • Citations: 1
  10. Electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/polypyrrole (PPy) nanofiber-coated quartz crystal microbalance for sensing volatile organic compounds
    • Authors: Yagmurcukardes, N., Ince Yardimci, A., Yagmurcukardes, M., Capan, R., Acikbas, Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
    • Volume/Issue/Page: 34(27), 1869
    • Citations: 3