Prof. HRUDANANDA JENA | Research and development in science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. HRUDANANDA JENA | Research and development in science | Best Researcher Award

Homi Bhabha National Institute, IGCAR campus, India

Author Profile

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hrudananda Jena’s journey into the world of science began with a deep-rooted curiosity for materials and their transformations. Born on December 31, 1966, in India, his academic inclination matured into a focused pursuit of knowledge in the realm of materials science. His doctoral studies at the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, placed him in the heart of one of India’s leading scientific institutions. There, he explored ionic transport phenomena and the structural behavior of perovskite materials — critical components in many modern technologies — through his thesis titled “Ionic transport and structural investigations on selected perovskites synthesized by wet chemical methods.”

His strong foundation in experimental and theoretical materials science was further strengthened by his postdoctoral research at Southern University, Baton Rouge, USA, from July 2005 to August 2006. There, he contributed to a United States Department of Energy (U.S-DOE-NETL) project, further honing his skills in advanced material characterization and expanding his research horizon into energy technologies.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Jena’s professional trajectory is marked by a distinguished association with the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), one of India’s premier nuclear research facilities under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). Currently serving as the Head of the Materials Processing Chemistry Section and holding the senior rank of Scientific Officer (H), he plays a pivotal role in pioneering material synthesis and processing techniques essential to the atomic energy program.

Simultaneously, he contributes to the academic ecosystem as a Professor in Chemical Sciences at the Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, stationed at the IGCAR campus. His dual role as a researcher and educator underscores his commitment to advancing science both in practice and pedagogy.

From developing cutting-edge techniques in materials processing to mentoring young scientists, Dr. Jena’s role at IGCAR spans innovation, leadership, and strategic planning in material chemistry critical to India’s nuclear fuel cycle and energy future.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Jena’s research revolves around materials chemistry, solid-state ionics, wet chemical synthesis, and perovskite structures. His doctoral and postdoctoral work laid the foundation for his continuing interest in ionic conductivity and material stability — topics of central importance in energy storage devices, fuel cells, and nuclear material development.

At IGCAR, he has led efforts in processing nuclear materials using innovative wet chemical routes and advanced characterization. His expertise in solid-state synthesis and chemical methods has contributed to efficient material development techniques vital for metal fuel cycles. His work supports the safe and efficient operation of fast breeder reactors and aligns with India’s long-term nuclear energy goals.

In addition to his hands-on laboratory contributions, Dr. Jena is also known for his interdisciplinary collaborations, especially those integrating chemical sciences with physics and engineering domains.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Jena’s academic and professional excellence has been recognized both nationally and internationally. His selection as a Senior Research Associate on a U.S. Department of Energy project is a testament to his global scientific standing. Domestically, his continuous rise within the Department of Atomic Energy, from researcher to section head and scientific officer at the highest grade, reflects the high regard in which he is held by India’s scientific community.

Moreover, his appointment as a Professor at HBNI further affirms his stature not only as a researcher but also as a thought leader and educator in chemical sciences.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Jena’s influence reaches beyond his laboratory at Kalpakkam. His work directly supports India’s strategic energy autonomy, particularly in the nuclear sector. The materials he helps develop and process are integral to fuel safety, reactor efficiency, and long-term sustainability in nuclear power generation.

As a mentor and professor, he has inspired numerous young scientists, guiding them through advanced research and helping them understand the complex interplay between chemistry and energy systems. His participation in both national and international forums adds to his impact, enabling knowledge exchange and fostering global scientific cooperation.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

With decades of rich experience, Dr. Hrudananda Jena continues to be a guiding force in the field of materials chemistry. His legacy will be defined not just by the innovations he has introduced but also by the scientific culture he fosters — one grounded in curiosity, precision, and purpose.

Looking ahead, his continued contributions to the chemical sciences, particularly in sustainable nuclear materials and energy systems, are expected to remain central to India’s scientific advancement. As the global demand for clean and safe energy intensifies, researchers like Dr. Jena will be at the forefront of crafting solutions that balance innovation with safety and environmental stewardship.

His journey stands as a beacon for aspiring scientists, showing that rigorous research, global collaboration, and a commitment to national development can come together to create a meaningful and lasting impact.

Synthesis of nano-crystalline zeolite-A and zeolite-X from Indian coal fly ash, its characterization and performance evaluation for the removal of Cs⁺ and Sr²⁺ from simulated solutions

Authors: M.K. Murukutti, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Year: 2022

Ionic transport and structural investigations on MSn(OH)₆ (M = Ba, Ca, Mg, Co, Zn, Fe, Mn) hydroxide perovskites synthesized by wet sonochemical methods

Authors: H. Jena, K.V.G. Kutty, T.R.N. Kutty
Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
Year: 2004

Innovative processing of dense LSGM electrolytes for IT-SOFCs

Authors: B. Rambabu, S. Ghosh, W. Zhao, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Power Sources
Year: 2006

Actinide immobilization in crystalline matrix: a study of uranium incorporation in gadolinium zirconate

Authors: K.V.G. Kutty, R. Asuvathraman, R.R. Madhavan, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
Year: 2005

Direct single-step synthesis of phase pure zeolite Na–P1, hydroxy sodalite and analcime from coal fly ash and assessment of their Cs⁺ and Sr²⁺ removal efficiencies

Authors: M.M. Kumar, H. Jena
Journal: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials
Year: 2022

Dr. Mohammed Q. Alkhatib | Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammed Q. Alkhatib | Research | Best Researcher Award

University of Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mohammed Q. Alkhatib’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in Telecommunications Engineering at Yarmouk University in Jordan. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2008, he displayed a keen interest in the intricacies of communication systems, signal processing, and network technologies. His undergraduate years were marked by rigorous coursework, extensive lab work, and an insatiable curiosity for cutting-edge innovations in the field of telecommunications.

Eager to expand his knowledge and contribute to technological advancements, Alkhatib pursued higher education in the United States. He enrolled in the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) for a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. With a stellar GPA of 3.9/4.0, his postgraduate studies allowed him to delve deeper into complex electrical engineering concepts, refining his expertise in communication networks, digital signal processing, and programming. The completion of his master’s degree in December 2011 was a significant milestone, setting the stage for his doctoral pursuits.

Recognizing his academic prowess, UTEP welcomed Alkhatib into its Ph.D. program in Electrical and Computer Engineering. He dedicated himself to extensive research, exploring new frontiers in signal processing and remote sensing. His doctoral work, completed in May 2018 with an impressive GPA of 3.92/4.0, laid the foundation for his future contributions to academia and industry. His research during this period was instrumental in enhancing remote sensing methodologies, particularly in detecting anomalies and improving imaging technologies.

Professional Endeavors and Teaching Excellence 🌟

Alkhatib’s professional career has been marked by a blend of teaching, research, and industry collaboration. His passion for educating future engineers and innovators led him to take on academic roles in the UAE, where he has had a profound impact on students and colleagues alike.

He began his academic career as a Lecturer at Abu Dhabi Polytechnic in 2014, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s curriculum and mentoring students. His expertise in Computer Electronics, Java Programming, and Calculus enabled him to deliver comprehensive and engaging courses. Beyond teaching, he actively contributed to academic administration by leading the Quality Assurance (QA) committee. In this capacity, he developed Course Learning Outcomes (CLO) reports, ensuring that the institution maintained high educational standards. His meticulous approach to curriculum development and student assessment helped foster an environment of academic excellence.

In January 2021, Alkhatib joined the University of Dubai as an Assistant Professor in the College of Engineering and IT (CEIT). In this role, he has been instrumental in designing and delivering courses in Communication Systems, Signals and Systems, Digital Signal Processing, and Networking. His commitment to student success goes beyond the classroom; he provides academic advising, supervises research projects, and mentors students in their academic and professional journeys. His ability to break down complex engineering concepts into digestible lessons has earned him admiration from both students and colleagues.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌐

Alkhatib’s research interests are deeply rooted in remote sensing technology, digital signal processing, and communication networks. His tenure at the University of Dubai has allowed him to expand his research portfolio, focusing on the development of advanced algorithms for remote sensing applications. As an advisor at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center Lab (MBRSC-Lab), he has contributed significantly to research initiatives in satellite imaging and remote sensing.

His previous research experience as a Research Assistant at UTEP saw him develop unsupervised algorithms for detecting skin wounds and ulcers using infrared (IR) video imagery. This research, conducted in collaboration with SpectralMD Company, showcased his ability to merge engineering principles with healthcare applications. His work in this domain demonstrated the potential of machine learning and imaging technologies in medical diagnostics, further proving his interdisciplinary expertise.

Alkhatib has consistently contributed to the academic community through scholarly publications in reputable journals and conferences. His research findings have provided valuable insights into remote sensing methodologies, improving image processing techniques and communication technologies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Alkhatib has been recognized for his academic excellence, research contributions, and dedication to student mentorship. His outstanding academic record, demonstrated by his high GPAs across all levels of education, reflects his commitment to learning and intellectual growth. His work in academia and industry has earned him respect as a leading researcher and educator in the field of electrical and computer engineering.

His role as a peer reviewer for academic journals underscores his credibility in the research community. By participating in peer review processes, he has helped maintain the quality and integrity of scientific publications, ensuring that groundbreaking research meets rigorous academic standards.

Impact and Influence in Academia and Industry 💡

Alkhatib’s impact extends beyond his immediate academic environment. As an educator, he has inspired countless students to pursue careers in engineering and technology. His mentorship has helped students navigate complex research topics, guiding them toward innovative solutions and career success. Many of his mentees have gone on to contribute significantly to industry and academia, a testament to his effectiveness as a mentor.

In the research domain, his work in remote sensing and digital signal processing continues to shape technological advancements. His contributions to satellite imaging and healthcare applications highlight the practical implications of his research, bridging the gap between theory and real-world solutions.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking ahead, Alkhatib aims to expand his research in remote sensing, exploring new applications in environmental monitoring, healthcare, and space technology. His involvement with MBRSC-Lab positions him at the forefront of space research in the UAE, where he continues to push the boundaries of satellite imaging and data processing.

As an academic leader, he is committed to enhancing engineering education through innovative teaching methodologies and curriculum development. His focus on integrating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, into traditional engineering courses ensures that his students remain competitive in an ever-evolving job market.

Alkhatib’s legacy will be defined by his unwavering dedication to education, research, and technological innovation. His contributions have already left an indelible mark on the field of electrical and computer engineering, and his future endeavors promise to further solidify his reputation as a thought leader and pioneer in the domain.

With a career built on excellence, curiosity, and a passion for knowledge, Mohammed Q. Alkhatib stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring engineers and researchers worldwide. His journey from a dedicated student to a distinguished professor and researcher exemplifies the power of perseverance, intellectual rigor, and the relentless pursuit of innovation.

📝Notable Publications

“Tri-CNN: A Three Branch Model for Hyperspectral Image Classification”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Al-Saad, N Aburaed, S Almansoori, J Zabalza, S Marshall, …

Journal: Remote Sensing

Year: 2023

“A Review of Spatial Enhancement of Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Imaging Techniques”

Authors: N Aburaed, MQ Alkhatib, S Marshall, J Zabalza, H Al Ahmad

Journal: IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing

Year: 2023

“Improved Spatial-Spectral Superpixel Hyperspectral Unmixing”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Velez-Reyes

Journal: Remote Sensing

Year: 2019

“3D Expansion of SRCNN for Spatial Enhancement of Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Images”

Authors: N Aburaed, MQ Alkhatib, S Marshall, J Zabalza, H Al Ahmad

Journal: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Signal Processing and Information Security (ICSPIS)

Year: 2021

“PolSAR Image Classification Using Attention-Based Shallow to Deep Convolutional Neural Network”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Al-Saad, N Aburaed, MS Zitouni, H Al-Ahmad

Journal: IGARSS 2023 – IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium Proceedings

Year: 2023

Aziz İLHAN-Decision-making and Problem-solving Award-Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Aziz İLHAN-Decision-making and Problem-solving-Best Researcher Award 

İnönü Üniversity-Turkey 

Author profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Aziz İlhan embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Mathematics Education from Dicle University in 2009. This foundational education laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the field of mathematics education. He furthered his studies by completing a Master's degree in Elementary Mathematics Education at Fırat University in 2015, focusing on the development of a scale for visual mathematics literacy and its relationship with geometry achievements among elementary mathematics teacher candidates. Subsequently, he pursued a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at İnönü University, successfully defending his thesis in 2019, which explored the correlation between visual mathematics literacy levels and reasoning skills in geometry among primary education mathematics teacher candidates.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Aziz İlhan has made significant contributions to academia through his various professional roles and responsibilities. He began his career as a Lecturer at Munzur University, where he actively engaged in teaching and supervising students in the field of accounting and taxation from 2013 to 2019. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as an Assistant Professor at Munzur University, where he continued to excel in teaching and research from 2019 to 2021.

In 2021, Dr. İlhan joined İnönü University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics Education, further enriching his academic and research pursuits. He also served as the Deputy Director of the Research and Application Center for Gifted Students at İnönü University, showcasing his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering educational excellence.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. İlhan's research focus encompasses various aspects of mathematics education, with a particular emphasis on visual mathematics literacy, geometry learning, and the integration of technology in teaching mathematics. He has supervised numerous master's theses exploring topics such as digital mathematics literacy, augmented reality in mathematics education, and the use of digital games in teaching mathematics.

His publications in international refereed journals reflect his scholarly contributions, including studies on the relationship between visual mathematics literacy and geometry performance, the impact of technology on mathematics learning, and the development of assessment tools for mathematics education.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Aziz İlhan's contributions to the field of mathematics education have been recognized through awards such as the Young Researcher Award from the Faculty of Education in 2023. His dedication to advancing teaching methodologies and enhancing student learning outcomes has garnered respect and admiration from peers and colleagues.

Impact and Influence on Decision-making and Problem-solving Award

Dr. İlhan's work has had a significant impact on shaping contemporary practices in mathematics education, especially in the areas of digital literacy, problem-solving strategies, and pedagogical approaches. His research outcomes and pedagogical innovations have influenced curriculum development and instructional practices in mathematics education at both the national and international levels.

Aziz İlhan has been recognized with the Decision-making and Problem-solving Award for his exceptional contributions to the field of education. His innovative approaches to decision-making and problem-solving have had a profound impact on educational practices and research methodologies. Through his extensive work in mathematics education, he has demonstrated a keen ability to analyze complex issues, develop effective strategies, and implement solutions that enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As an esteemed academic and researcher, Dr. Aziz İlhan's legacy lies in his dedication to advancing the field of mathematics education through rigorous research, innovative teaching methodologies, and mentorship of future educators. His continued contributions are poised to further enrich the academic landscape and inspire new generations of scholars and educators in the realm of mathematics education.

Aziz Ilhan's award-winning efforts in decision-making and problem-solving extend beyond theoretical frameworks to practical applications in educational settings. He has spearheaded initiatives that promote critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making among educators and students alike. His contributions have not only elevated the standards of education but also inspired a new generation of scholars and practitioners to embrace innovative approaches in addressing challenges within the education sector.

Notable publications