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

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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. Sumaira Nazar Hussain | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sumaira Nazar Hussain | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shenzhen University, China

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Sumaira Nazar’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Lahore College for Women University in Pakistan. She furthered her education with a Master of Science degree in Chemistry from the same institution. Her passion for chemistry led her to pursue a Bachelor of Education degree from Allama Iqbal Open University in Islamabad, Pakistan. This diverse educational background laid the groundwork for her future success in research and academia.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Sumaira Nazar’s professional endeavors took a significant leap when she enrolled in the Ph.D. program in Chemistry at Wuhan University in China. Her research focus on nanomaterial synthesis for clean energy and environmental applications earned her a Ph.D. degree. Currently, she works as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, in Shenzhen, China. Her role involves conducting research, collaborating with colleagues, and contributing to the academic community.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Sumaira Nazar’s research expertise lies in nanomaterial synthesis, electrocatalytic water splitting, and nano-impact electrochemistry. Her work focuses on developing sustainable solutions for clean energy and environmental applications. She has published 10 papers in reputable peer-reviewed journals, showcasing her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. Her research has garnered significant attention, with a total impact factor of over 100 and an H-index of 6 since 2022.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Sumaira Nazar’s outstanding contributions to research have earned her recognition within the academic community. Her publications have been cited over 100 times, demonstrating the impact of her work. Her commitment to research excellence has also been acknowledged through various awards and accolades.

Impact and Influence 🌐

Sumaira Nazar’s research has far-reaching implications for sustainable energy and environmental solutions. Her work on nanomaterial synthesis and electrocatalytic water splitting has the potential to contribute significantly to the development of clean energy technologies. As a researcher, she continues to inspire and influence the next generation of scientists and researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔜

Sumaira Nazar’s legacy in the field of chemistry and materials science will be marked by her significant contributions to research and academia. As she continues her research endeavors, she is poised to make even more groundbreaking discoveries, advancing our understanding of sustainable energy and environmental solutions. Her commitment to research excellence and her passion for chemistry will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the scientific community.

📝Notable Publications

Molybdenum-Induced Tuning 3d-Orbital Electron Filling Degree of CoSe₂ for Alkaline Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution Reactions

Author: SN Hussain, Y Men, Z Li, P Zhao, G Cheng, W Luo

Journal: Chinese Chemical Letters

Year: 2023

GM Trust Shaped by Trust Determinants with the Impact of Risk/Benefit Framework: The Contingent Role of Food Technology Neophobia

Author: S Ali, MA Nawaz, M Ghufran, SN Hussain, AS Hussein Mohammed

Journal: GM Crops & Food

Year: 2021

Advancing the Development of Hollow Micro/Nanostructured Materials for Electrocatalytic Water Splitting: Current State, Challenges, and Perspectives

Author: MA Mushtaq, M Ahmad, A Shaheen, A Mehmood, G Yasin, M Arif, Z Ali, SN Hussain

Journal: ACS Materials Letters

Year: 2024

The Psychological Perspective on the Adoption of Approved Genetically Modified Crops in the Presence of Acceptability Constraint: The Contingent Role of Passion

Author: S Ali, M Ghufran, MA Nawaz, SN Hussain

Journal: GM Crops & Food

Year: 2019

Morphology-Controlled Synthesis of Cobalt Diselenide Nanorods for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline and Acidic Media

Author: SN Hussain, H Gul, N Raza, F Albouchi, M Ahmad, ZM El-Bahy

Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds

Year: 2023

Prof. Hetao Chu | Material Science Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hetao Chu | Material Science Research | Best Researcher Award | 3601

University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Chu Hetao’s journey into the realm of engineering and advanced materials began with a strong academic foundation. His passion for material sciences and structural engineering led him to the prestigious Harbin Institute of Technology, where he pursued a Ph.D. in Engineering at the Institute of Composite Materials and Structures, School of Astronautics. His doctoral research laid a solid groundwork for his future explorations into intelligent materials, composite structures, and flexible material applications. During these formative years, he honed his expertise in developing materials that could seamlessly integrate functionality with structural integrity, a theme that would later define his career.

Professional Endeavors and Research Focus 📚

As a Professor and Doctoral Supervisor, Chu Hetao has dedicated his career to pioneering research in the field of intelligent materials, high wave-transparent structural-functional integrated composites, and flexible materials. His work is at the intersection of engineering and material science, focusing on developing innovative solutions that can be applied in various high-tech industries, including aerospace, telecommunications, and biomedical fields. His ability to bridge fundamental scientific research with practical applications has set him apart as a thought leader in his field.

His research has been widely recognized, with over 30 publications in internationally renowned journals such as Science, Advanced Functional Materials, and ACS Nano. His contributions to an English monograph further demonstrate his role in shaping the academic discourse around composite materials. Through his studies, he has not only advanced theoretical knowledge but also contributed to real-world technological advancements that push the boundaries of material performance and integration.

Contributions and Innovations 🎨

Chu Hetao’s contributions to the field extend beyond publications and theoretical advancements. His inventive spirit has led to the application and authorization of 15 Chinese invention patents and one PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) patent. These patents reflect his commitment to developing new materials with enhanced functionalities, whether it be through improved sensing capabilities, actuation mechanisms, or wave-transparency features.

His research has garnered significant attention from both domestic and international media, highlighting its importance and transformative potential. Additionally, he has been invited to serve as a session chair and present academic reports at numerous conferences, further cementing his reputation as a leading expert in his domain. His ability to communicate complex material science concepts effectively has made him a sought-after speaker in academic and industrial circles alike.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Recognizing his exceptional contributions, Chu Hetao has been the recipient of several prestigious honors and awards. He was selected for the National High-level Youth Talent Program, a testament to his outstanding research achievements and potential to drive innovation in his field. His recognition as a Reserve Candidate of Sichuan Academic and Technical Leaders and his inclusion in the “Hundred Talents Program” at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China further underscore his influence and leadership in academia.

In 2021, he was honored with the Outstanding Young Scientist Award by the International Forum on Advanced Materials (IFAM), recognizing his groundbreaking work in material sciences. These accolades reflect the impact of his research and its significance in advancing both academic knowledge and practical applications.

Impact and Influence 🌐

Beyond his individual achievements, Chu Hetao has made substantial contributions to the academic and scientific communities. He serves as a committee member of the Sichuan Science and Technology Collaborative Innovation Promotion Association and holds editorial board positions in esteemed journals such as J. Mater. Sci. Technol., Nano. Prec. Eng., and China Plastics. His role as a reviewer for high-impact journals like Advanced Functional Materials, Biomaterials, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces further highlights his expertise and influence in shaping contemporary research.

Additionally, he has been appointed as a science and technology expert for the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Science and Technology, Sichuan Province, and Chongqing City. His advisory roles demonstrate his commitment to guiding national and regional scientific advancements and ensuring that research translates into meaningful technological progress.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking ahead, Chu Hetao’s work is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of intelligent and composite materials. His research continues to push the frontiers of material science, with potential applications spanning aerospace, defense, medical technology, and beyond. By mentoring doctoral students and leading innovative projects, he is shaping the next generation of researchers who will carry forward his vision of integrating structural and functional excellence in materials.

As technological demands evolve, his expertise in flexible and wave-transparent materials will play a crucial role in advancing next-generation technologies. Whether through academic publications, patented innovations, or collaborative research initiatives, Chu Hetao remains at the forefront of engineering breakthroughs, ensuring that his contributions will continue to influence scientific progress for years to come.

📝Notable Publications

Dielectric-mechanical couple effect of COF cyanate derived from dual functions of molecular interaction and chain entanglement

Author(s): Feifan Cai, Ruoyu Chen, Qichao Dong, Wansong Gu, Kai Zheng, Longjiang Deng, Hetao Chu
Journal: Journal of Materials Science & Technology
Year: 2025

Nanozyme‐Based Stretchable Hydrogel of Low Hysteresis with Antibacterial and Antioxidant Dual Functions for Closely Fitting and Wound Healing in Movable Parts

Author(s): Yanyan Li, Peng Yu, Jie Wen, Hui Sun, Dingqian Wang, Jinming Liu, Jianshu Li, Hetao Chu
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2022

Chemically Grafted Nanozyme Composite Cryogels to Enhance Antibacterial and Biocompatible Performance for Bioliquid Regulation and Adaptive Bacteria Trapping

Author(s): Yanyan Li, Dingqian Wang, Jie Wen, Peng Yu, Jinming Liu, Jianshu Li, Hetao Chu
Journal: ACS Nano
Year: 2021

Ultra‐Stretchable, Variable Modulus, Shape Memory Multi‐Purpose Low Hysteresis Hydrogel Derived from Solvent‐Induced Dynamic Micelle Sea‐Island Structure

Author(s): Yanyan Li, Dingqian Wang, Jie Wen, Jinming Liu, Dongyue Zhang, Jianshu Li, Hetao Chu
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2021

Overall Structure Construction of an Intervertebral Disk Based on Highly Anisotropic Wood Hydrogel Composite Materials with Mechanical Matching and Buckling Buffering

Author(s): Jinming Liu, Dingqian Wang, Yanyan Li, Ziqi Zhou, Dongyue Zhang, Jianshu Li, Hetao Chu
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
Year: 2021

Ms. Isabelle Baconnais | Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Isabelle Baconnais | Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Lausanne, Switzerland

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📝 Summary

Dr. Isabelle Baconnais is a dedicated postdoctoral research applicant specializing in Ecosystem Function and Stable Isotope Geochemistry in modern systems. With a strong background in marine geochemistry, she has contributed significantly to the understanding of chromium isotopes in oceanic environments.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Geology: University of Saskatchewan, Canada (2015 – 2022)
  • Master’s Degree in Marine Chemistry: University of Brest – IUEM, France (2012 – 2014)
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences: University of Western Brittany, France (2011 – 2012)
  • Technical Diploma in Biological Engineering: University of Western Brittany, France (2006 – 2008)

💼 Professional Experience

  • Postdoctoral Fellow: University of Lausanne, Switzerland (2022 – 2024)
  • Marine Geochemistry Research Assistant: IFREMER, France (2014)
  • Teaching Roles: Various courses at the University of Saskatchewan, including:
    • Ocean Circulation and Marine Biogeochemistry (2023)
    • Isotope Geochemistry (2021)
    • Earth Processes (2020, 2021)
    • Mineralogy (2018)

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Baconnais is focused on the development and application of advanced techniques in marine geochemistry, specifically analyzing particulate chromium concentration and isotopic ratios in marine particles. Her work aims to enhance the understanding of chromium’s biogeochemical cycles, particularly in Oxygen Minimum Zones.

Notable Publications

“Determination of the copper isotope composition of seawater revisited: A case study from the Mediterranean Sea”:

Authors: Isabelle Baconnais, Olivier J. Rouxel, Gabriel Dulaquais, Marie Boye

Journal: Chemical Geology

Year: 2019