Taame Abraha Berhe | Physical Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Taame Abraha Berhe | Physical Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Adigrat university | Ethiopia 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Taame Abraha Berhe is an accomplished researcher in physical and quantum chemistry, materials science, and energy materials, with a strong interdisciplinary profile spanning advanced characterization, surface engineering, and nanomaterials design. His scientific contributions focus on halide perovskites, photocatalytic nanomaterials, electronic structure modulation, and sustainable materials for energy and environmental applications, positioning him as an emerging global scholar in the development of next-generation functional materials. Dr. Berhe has authored 9 Scopus-indexed publications, accumulating over 2,017 citations with an h-index of 5, reflecting a noteworthy and steadily rising research impact. His work appears in high-visibility journals such as Energy & Environmental Science, Journal of Materials Chemistry A, Energy Advances, Inorganics, and Materials Research Express, demonstrating both academic rigor and international relevance. Dr. Berhe’s research excellence is complemented by extensive collaborations with leading institutions in Taiwan, Ethiopia, and Japan, including substantial experience at the Taiwan Photon Source/Taiwan Light Source and Japanese synchrotron facilities, where he contributed to advanced in-situ structural studies of perovskite materials. His scholarly recognition includes several international research awards in materials science, analytical chemistry, and engineering, alongside active service as a reviewer for top-tier journals such as ACS Nano, RSC Advances, and Emerging Materials. He also serves as a member of esteemed scientific bodies including the Royal Society of Chemistry, the American Physical Society, and the African Materials Research Society. Beyond academic research, Dr. Berhe has contributed significantly to societal and institutional development through technology-transfer projects, evaluation of postgraduate theses, and leadership roles in academic committees. His work on photocatalysts, water treatment materials, and sustainable synthesis methods highlights his commitment to scientific solutions with environmental and community impact. With his ongoing international engagements and expanding research portfolio, Dr. Berhe continues to advance cutting-edge materials science while contributing meaningfully to global scientific progress.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Features Publications

Berhe, T. A., Su, W. N., Chen, C. H., Pan, C. J., Cheng, J. H., Chen, H. M., Tsai, M. C., … (2016). Organometal halide perovskite solar cells: Degradation and stability. Energy & Environmental Science, 9(2), 323–356.

Dubale, A. A., Tamirat, A. G., Chen, H. M., Berhe, T. A., Pan, C. J., Su, W. N., & Hwang, B. J. (2016). A highly stable CuS and CuS–Pt modified Cu₂O/CuO heterostructure as an efficient photocathode for the hydrogen evolution reaction. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 4(6), 2205–2216.

Ibrahim, K. B., Tsai, M. C., Chala, S. A., Berihun, M. K., Kahsay, A. W., Berhe, T. A., … (2019). A review of transition metal-based bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts. Journal of the Chinese Chemical Society, 66(8), 829–865.

Berhe, T. A., Cheng, J. H., Su, W. N., Pan, C. J., Tsai, M. C., Chen, H. M., Yang, Z., Tan, H., … (2017). Identification of the physical origin behind disorder, heterogeneity, and reconstruction and their correlation with the photoluminescence lifetime in hybrid perovskite thin films. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 5(39), 21002–21015.

Berhe, T. A., Su, W. N., & Hwang, B. J. (2024). Halide perovskites’ multifunctional properties: Coordination engineering, coordination chemistry, electronic interactions, and energy applications beyond photovoltaics. Inorganics, 12(7), 182.

Laxminarayana Eppakayala | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Laxminarayana Eppakayala | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology, India

Dr. E. Laxminarayana is a distinguished academician and researcher specializing in Organic Chemistry. With over two decades of teaching experience and 14 years dedicated to research, he has made significant contributions to the field. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Laxminarayana has been instrumental in mentoring students and advancing research initiatives within the department. His scholarly work is reflected in his impressive portfolio of 165 publications in both national and international journals. Beyond teaching, he has guided five Ph.D. scholars from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad, focusing on innovative synthetic methodologies and computational studies. His commitment to excellence in education and research has been recognized through various awards, including the Best Teacher and Best Researcher accolades. Dr. Laxminarayana’s expertise and dedication continue to inspire students and colleagues alike, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the field of Organic Chemistry.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. E. Laxminarayana’s academic journey is rooted in Kakatiya University, where he pursued all his higher education degrees. He completed his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in 1999, laying a strong foundation in the sciences. His passion for chemistry led him to undertake a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Organic Chemistry, which he completed in 2002. Driven by a quest for deeper knowledge and research, he pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Organic Chemistry, culminating in 2009. His doctoral research focused on the development of novel synthetic methodologies, contributing valuable insights to the field. Throughout his academic pursuits, Dr. Laxminarayana demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence, which has been the cornerstone of his subsequent teaching and research career.

Professional Experience

With over 20 years of teaching experience, Dr. E. Laxminarayana has been a pivotal figure in shaping the academic landscape at Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology. As an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry, he has been instrumental in delivering comprehensive education in subjects like Engineering Chemistry and Environmental Science. His pedagogical approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, fostering a conducive learning environment for students. Beyond classroom teaching, Dr. Laxminarayana has actively engaged in curriculum development, research mentorship, and departmental administration. His leadership has been crucial in initiating co-curricular and extracurricular activities, enhancing the holistic development of students. His dedication to education and research has not only elevated the department’s stature but also contributed significantly to the institution’s academic excellence.

Research Interests

Dr. E. Laxminarayana’s research interests are primarily centered around Organic Synthesis and Computational Studies. His work in Organic Synthesis involves developing innovative methodologies for constructing complex organic molecules, which has significant implications in pharmaceuticals and material science. In the realm of Computational Studies, he employs computational chemistry techniques to model and predict the behavior of organic compounds, facilitating a deeper understanding of reaction mechanisms and molecular properties. This interdisciplinary approach allows for the integration of theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, leading to more efficient and sustainable chemical processes. His research has not only contributed to academic knowledge but also holds potential for real-world applications in drug development and industrial chemistry.

Research Skills

Dr. E. Laxminarayana possesses a robust set of research skills that underpin his contributions to Organic Chemistry. His expertise in Organic Synthesis enables him to design and execute complex chemical reactions, leading to the creation of novel compounds with potential therapeutic applications. He is proficient in various spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, essential for the characterization and analysis of chemical substances. In Computational Chemistry, he utilizes advanced software tools to simulate molecular structures and predict chemical behaviors, aiding in the rational design of experiments. His ability to integrate computational insights with experimental data enhances the efficiency and accuracy of his research. Additionally, his experience in guiding Ph.D. students reflects his mentorship skills and commitment to fostering new talent in the field.

Awards and Honors

Dr. E. Laxminarayana’s dedication to teaching and research has been recognized through several prestigious awards. He has been honored with the Best Teacher Award, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to education and student development. His research excellence has earned him the Best Researcher Award, reflecting the impact and quality of his scholarly work. Furthermore, he has received the Best Citizens of India award from the Indian Institute of Financial Studies (IIFS), New Delhi, highlighting his contributions to the nation through education and research. These accolades underscore his commitment to academic excellence and his influence as a thought leader in the field of Organic Chemistry.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. E. Laxminarayana stands out as a dedicated educator and a prolific researcher in Organic Chemistry. His extensive teaching experience, coupled with a strong research portfolio, has significantly contributed to the academic community. His work in Organic Synthesis and Computational Studies not only advances scientific understanding but also has practical implications in various industries. The recognition he has received through multiple awards attests to his excellence and influence in the field. As he continues to mentor students and pursue innovative research, Dr. Laxminarayana remains a vital asset to Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology and the broader scientific community.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Design, synthesis, in silico ADME, toxicity prediction, molecular docking studies of 1,2,4-oxadiazole incorporated indolizine-thiadiazole derivatives and their biological evaluation as anticancer agents
    Authors: Ketha, Swarupa; Chithaluri, Sudhakar; Kethireddy, Shashikala; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana; Asiri, Yahya I.
    Journal: Tetrahedron
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Synthesis and biological evaluation of thiazolo[3,2-b][1,2,4]triazole substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazole and pyridine derivatives as anticancer agents
    Authors: Alkhathami, Ali Gaithan; Tasqeeruddin, Syed; Sultana, Shaheen; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana; Somaiah, Nalla
    Journal: Tetrahedron
    Year: 2025

  • Title: In silico and antibacterial studies of Thiadiazole and Triazole linked 1,8-Napthyridine derivatives
    Authors: Lakshmi, Bhargavi J.; Pittala, Bhaskar; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana; Donta, Paramesh; Reddy, Chittireddy Venkata Ramana
    Journal: Research Journal of Chemistry and Environment
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Synthesis and biological evaluation of aryl derivatives of indole-1,3,4-thiadiazole as anticancer agents
    Authors: Kalagara, Sudhakar; Baddam, Sudhakar Reddy; Ganta, Srinivas; Damarancha, Anil; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana
    Journal: Synthetic Communications
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Synthesis and molecular docking studies of some new 2-N-acylaminobenzothiazole derivatives
    Authors: Pittala, Bhaskar; Bireddy, Srinivasa Reddy; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana; Chittireddy, Venkata Ramana Reddy
    Journal: Indian Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Highly Efficient Synthesis of 1,3,5-Oxadiazinan-4-one and 5-Methyl-1,3,5-triazinan-2-one Derivatives of Benzimidazolyl Pyrimidine and Their Activity Analysis through Docking Studies
    Authors: Patolla, S.; Kethireddy, Shashikala; Pittala, Bhaskar; Eppakayala, Laxminarayana; Bireddy, Srinivasa Reddy
    Journal: Russian Journal of Organic Chemistry
    Year: 2024

Yang Na | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yang Na | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China

Dr. Na Yang (b. Jan 1992) is an Associate Professor at the School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 🇨🇳. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Chongqing University and completed postdoctoral research under Prof. Zhongwei Chen at South China Normal University and the University of Waterloo 🇨🇦. Her research focuses on density functional theory (DFT)🧠, ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD)🧪, catalyst design🧲, and electrochemical mechanisms⚡. With an H-index of 15, Dr. Yang has published in high-impact journals like Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Materials, and ACS Energy Letters 📚. She has contributed significantly to the fields of CO₂ reduction, oxygen reduction reactions, and nitrogen fixation catalysis 🌱.

Publication Profile

Scopus Profile

Research Fields

Dr. Yang Na’s research spans several cutting-edge areas in materials science and energy technology ⚙️⚡. Her primary expertise lies in density functional theory (DFT) and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), which she uses to model and simulate material behavior at the atomic level 🧬💻. She is deeply involved in the design and screening of catalysts for various energy applications, focusing on improving efficiency and stability 🔍🔋. Dr. Yang also works on the preparation of new highly active catalysts, utilizing advanced synthesis techniques to enhance catalytic performance 🧪⚗️. Another key area of her research is the exploration of electrochemical catalytic mechanisms, where she investigates fundamental reaction pathways to optimize energy conversion processes such as hydrogen evolution and oxygen reduction 🌱⚡. Through these interdisciplinary approaches, Dr. Yang contributes significantly to the development of sustainable and high-performance energy materials for a greener future 🌍🔧

🎓 Educational Background

Dr. Yang Na earned her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Chongqing University, Chongqing, China, where she studied from September 2014 to June 2020 🧪🎓. Under the expert mentorship of Professor Li Li, she developed a strong foundation in advanced chemical engineering principles and materials research 🔬📘. Her doctoral studies involved in-depth exploration of catalyst design, electrochemical energy conversion, and computational modeling, laying the groundwork for her current contributions to energy materials and catalysis research 💡⚙️. The rigorous academic environment at Chongqing University provided her with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on research experience, enabling her to tackle real-world energy challenges with innovative scientific approaches 🌍💻. Dr. Yang’s time at Chongqing University was instrumental in shaping her expertise in computational chemistry, materials synthesis, and electrochemical systems, which continue to define her career as a forward-thinking and impactful researcher in the field of materials science and energy technology ⚛️🔋.

💼 Professional Experience

From September 2020 to September 2022, Dr. Yang Na undertook postdoctoral research that significantly advanced her expertise in materials and energy science 🌱🔬. She began her postdoctoral journey at the School of Information and Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangdong, China, where she worked under the mentorship of Prof. Zhongwei Chen 📡🧠. During this period, she focused on optoelectronic materials and their applications in energy systems.

Simultaneously, Dr. Yang continued her postdoctoral research at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada 🍁⚗️. Under the same mentorship of Prof. Chen, she deepened her research into electrocatalysis and advanced energy storage materials, contributing to cutting-edge developments in sustainable energy technologies 🔋🌍. These international and interdisciplinary experiences enriched her research perspective and equipped her with global insights into innovation and collaboration in the materials science domain 🌐🧪.

Research Focus

Dr. Yang Na specializes in cutting-edge research within the fields of catalysis, energy materials, and sustainable chemistry ⚗️🔋. Her work spans a diverse range of topics including electrocatalysis, chemical looping reforming, CO₂ photoreduction, and ammonia synthesis. Using advanced techniques like density functional theory (DFT) and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), she designs and screens highly active catalysts for clean energy conversion 🌱🌍. Her contributions to perovskite-based and polymer dielectric materials show a strong interdisciplinary approach, connecting materials science, environmental engineering, and green chemistry ♻️🧪. Dr. Yang’s research plays a vital role in promoting efficient energy solutions.

Conclusion

Dr. Yang Na’s exceptional research in renewable energy, particularly her work on catalytic mechanisms and material design for electrochemical reactions, positions her as an outstanding candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Her contributions to both theoretical and practical aspects of energy research make her a leader in the field, and her continued work promises to bring lasting impacts to sustainable energy solutions.

Publication Top Notes
  • 🔬 Tailoring active lattice oxygen in CeO₂-Based oxygen carriers for enhanced chemical looping dry reforming of methaneJournal of the Energy Institute, 2025  📄

  • ⚡ NiFe-based arrays with MnO₂ enhance chloride blocking for durable alkaline seawater oxidationJournal of Colloid and Interface Science, 2025 | 1 citation 💧

  • 🌞 Rational Design of Methylated Triazine-Based Polymers for CO₂ Photoreduction with WaterAdvanced Materials, 2025  📘

  • 🧪 Durable, Super-Resilient Polyurethane Elastomers via Hydrogen Bond Cross-LinkingMacromolecules, 2025 🧵

  • 🧫 Axial Cl-Induced Symmetry-Breaking Iron SAC for Electrochemical Ammonia SynthesisACS Catalysis, 2025 ⚗️

  • 🔌 All-organic dielectric PP-based polymer with high breakdown strengthPolymer, 2025  ⚡

  • 🧴 Mini-review: Indium-oxide based catalysts for CO₂ to methanol2025  📚

  • 💡 Lattice Oxygen Redox in Zeolite-Encapsulated CsPbBr₃ Perovskites for OERAdvanced Science, 2025 🌐

  • 🔄 Real-Time Detection in KNixFe₁₋ₓF₃ Perovskites for Water OxidationSmall, 2025 | 1 citation 🔍

  • 💧 Water dissociation via bimetallic phosphide & Mn oxide for alkaline HERNano Research, 2025  🌊