Ms Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award-2401

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Ms Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi is a dedicated researcher currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the Durban University of Technology. Her work focuses on green and sustainable chemistry, specifically the use of ZIF-8 and ionic liquids to convert biomass-derived glucose into valuable biochemicals. She holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and has professional experience as a Research Scientist Intern and Sales Technology Chemist. With a strong background in coordination chemistry and applied research, she brings a passion for innovation, community impact, and scientific advancement.

Ms Vuyolwethu Tokoyi, Durban University of Technology, South Africa

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 🎓 Education

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi has an extensive academic background in Chemistry. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the Durban University of Technology, where her research focuses on the application of ZIF-8 and ionic liquids for the conversion of glucose extracted from sugarcane bagasse to value-added biochemicals. She holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her master’s research centered on the synthesis and evaluation of Co(II) and Mn(II) dithiocarbamate complexes and their morpholine adducts, with applications in antibacterial and anticancer studies. she completed her Honours degree in Chemistry with distinction (Cum Laude) at the University of Fort Hare, focusing her research on bipyridine adducts of transition metal dithiocarbamate complexes. She also earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Geology from the University of Fort Hare. Prior to that, she obtained her matric exemption from Templeton High School .

Contribution

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi has made meaningful contributions to the field of chemistry through her academic research and applied scientific work. Her Ph.D. research is advancing sustainable chemical processes by converting agricultural waste into high-value biochemicals using innovative materials like ZIF-8 and ionic liquids—supporting green chemistry and waste valorization efforts. She has also contributed to the understanding of metal-ligand complexes with potential antibacterial and anticancer properties, enriching the field of bioinorganic chemistry. Beyond the lab, she has supported research development at the Institute of Water and Wastewater Technology and contributed to technology-driven solutions during her time at Buckman Laboratories and the Technology Innovation Agency. Through her academic achievements, technical skills, and public-sector engagement, she is helping to bridge research, industry, and societal impact.

🏆Awards

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Ms. Tokoyi has been recognized for her excellence and dedication. She is a recipient of the prestigious National Research Foundation (NRF) Scholarship for both her Honours and Master’s studies. In 2017, she was awarded the James Moir Medal by the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) for outstanding academic performance in Chemistry. She has completed numerous professional development programs, earning certificates in business writing and communications, Microsoft digital literacy, ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems, ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety, Mushroom Cultivation, and the design of bioactive molecules such as Pleuran and Cordycepin. She also holds certifications in Quality Control and Quality Assurance Techniques.

👩‍🔬 Experience

Ms. Tokoyi brings over three years of professional experience, primarily within research and applied chemistry roles. she has been serving as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at Durban University of Technology. Her earlier roles include working as a Sales Technology Chemist at Buckman Laboratories under the Yes Graduate Program, where she honed her skills in technical sales and client support. Additionally, she served as a Research Scientist Intern at the Technology Innovation Agency, gaining practical experience in scientific research, laboratory operations, and applied innovation in the chemical sciences.

🔬 Research Focus

Ms. Tokoyi’s research is rooted in applied and sustainable chemistry. Her current Ph.D. work investigates the use of advanced materials such as ZIF-8 and ionic liquids for the green conversion of biomass-derived glucose into biochemicals, contributing to circular economy and renewable resource utilization. Her prior research involved transition metal complexes with potential biological applications, highlighting her interests in bioinorganic chemistry, coordination chemistry, and materials chemistry. Her academic trajectory illustrates a commitment to leveraging chemistry for innovation in both health-related and environmental applications.

📚 Publications

Ferrocene-Based Bimetallic MOF Beads as Bifunctional Dye Scavenging and Degrading Materials
👥 Vuyolwethu Tokoyi
📰 Chemical Engineering Transactions, July 2024

Potential Application of IL@ZIFMOF Composites for Lignocellulosic Biomass Valorization: Recent Update
👥 Vuyolwethu Tokoyi
📰 Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques

Should “Ionic Liquids” also be used for solid ionic compounds: Synthesis and characterization of p-anisidinium-based ionic compounds
👥 Vuyolwethu Tokoyi
📰 Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques

Synthesis and antibacterial studies of p-anisidinium-based ionic liquids: Experimental, DFT calculations and molecular docking
👥 Vuyolwethu Tokoyi
📰 Journal of Molecular Liquids

Prof Norasikin Othman | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Norasikin Othman | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Norasikin Othman is a distinguished professor in the Chemical Engineering Department at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). With a career spanning over three decades, she has made significant contributions to chemical engineering research, particularly in liquid membrane technology and solvent extraction processes. She is a passionate educator, accomplished researcher, and active professional member in renowned engineering societies.

Prof Norasikin Othman, Universiti Teknologi, Malaysia 

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🎓 Academic Background

Prof. Dr. Norasikin Othman is a highly accomplished Chemical Engineer 🏗️ with an extensive academic background from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). She earned her PhD in Chemical Engineering 🧪 in 2006, specializing in metal recovery using emulsion liquid membrane technology. Prior to this, she obtained her Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Chemical Engineering ⚙️ in 1997, enhancing her expertise in separation processes. Her journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering 🔬 in 1992, building a strong foundation in industrial applications. With her vast knowledge, she has contributed significantly to research, innovation, and academic excellence. 🚀

👨‍🏫 Professional Experience 

Prof. Dr. Norasikin Othman is a distinguished researcher and chemical engineering expert ⚙️ with extensive experience in academic evaluations, journal reviewing, and scientific conferences 🌍. She serves as a reviewer for high-impact Q1 & Q2 journals 📖, including Journal of Separation and Purification, Desalination, and Chemical Engineering Research & Design. She is also a technical evaluator panel member for major research grants, including GUP TIER 1, FRGS, and YUTP 🏆. A sought-after invited speaker 🎤, she has shared her insights at ICoST, ICCSS, and UTM seminars. Her contributions extend to book evaluations, panel reviews, and scientific committee roles. 🏅

🏆 Honors & Awards 

Prof. Dr. Norasikin Othman has received numerous prestigious awards 🏅 for her contributions to chemical engineering research and innovation 🔬. She has won multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals 🥇🥈🥉 at INATEX, MTE, and Seoul International Invention Fair, recognizing her groundbreaking work in silver recovery, dye recovery, and high-voltage demulsification ⚙️. She also received the Excellence Service Award (2008, 2012) for her dedication to academia 🎓. Notably, she earned the Best Award (MTE 2010) and Publication Award (2007) 📖. Her Bio-Inno Awards highlight her contributions to biotechnology and applied sciences, making her a distinguished researcher in her field. 🚀

🔬 Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Norasikin Othman specializes in separation processes ⚗️, with a focus on solvent extraction and liquid membrane technology 🌊. Her research aims to develop synergistic liquid membranes for removing and recovering pollutants from industrial wastewater 🚰. She explores reactive dye removal, phenol extraction kinetics, and chromium removal using eco-friendly membranes 🍃. Her innovative work on green liquid membrane formulation enhances metal and dye recovery, contributing to sustainable environmental solutions 🌍. By integrating advanced membrane fabrication 🏭, she addresses critical challenges in wastewater treatment, promoting cleaner industrial practices and efficient resource recovery 🔄.

📚 Publications

Separation of silver from photographic wastes by emulsion liquid membrane system 🧪
👨‍🏫 Authors: N. Othman, H. Mat, M. Goto
📖 Journal: Journal of Membrane Science 282 (1-2), 171-177 (2006)
📊 Citations: 210

Review of research progress on aluminium–magnesium dissimilar friction stir welding 🔩
👨‍🏫 Authors: L.H. Shah, N.H. Othman, A. Gerlich
📖 Journal: Science and Technology of Welding and Joining 23 (3), 256-270 (2018)
📊 Citations: 160

Performance of plastic wastes in fiber-reinforced concrete beams 🏗️
👨‍🏫 Authors: F.S. Khalid, J.M. Irwan, M.H.W. Ibrahim, N. Othman, S. Shahidan
📖 Journal: Construction and Building Materials 183, 451-464 (2018)
📊 Citations: 128

Easy removal of phenol from wastewater using vegetable oil-based organic solvent in emulsion liquid membrane process 🌱💧
👨‍🏫 Authors: N. Othman, N.F.M. Noah, L.Y. Shu, Z.Y. Ooi, N. Jusoh, M. Idroas, M. Goto
📖 Journal: Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering 25 (1), 45-52 (2017)
📊 Citations: 111

Highly selective transport of palladium from electroplating wastewater using emulsion liquid membrane process ⚛️
👨‍🏫 Authors: N.F.M. Noah, N. Othman, N. Jusoh
📖 Journal: Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers 64, 134-141 (2016)
📊 Citations: 90

Mr Qiusheng Shi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Qiusheng Shi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Qiusheng Shi is a dedicated postgraduate researcher at the College of Optoelectronics Engineering, Chongqing University 📡. His research focuses on smart materials, point defects, and doping mechanisms to enhance photoelectric and mechanical properties of materials for flexible sensor applications 🤖. His work on pentagonal-BCN materials contributes to next-generation optoelectronic devices and energy-efficient technologies ⚡. He has published in the Journal of Solid State Chemistry, demonstrating his commitment to scientific innovation 📖. His expertise in materials characterization, nanotechnology, and optoelectronics positions him as a rising talent in smart material engineering 🌍.

Mr Qiusheng Shi, College of Optoelectronics Engineering, Chongqing University, China

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Education 🎓

Mr. Qiusheng Shi is a graduate student at the School of Optical and Electronic Engineering, Chongqing University 📡. His research focuses on smart materials and structures, with applications in flexible electronics, sensors, and optoelectronic devices 🤖. He specializes in material doping, point defects, and their influence on photoelectric and mechanical properties ⚡. His academic journey has equipped him with advanced knowledge in material science, nanotechnology, and optoelectronics 🔬. As an emerging researcher, he is committed to developing next-generation energy-efficient and intelligent material systems for industrial and technological advancements 🏆.

Research and Innovations 🔬

Mr. Shi’s research primarily explores doping and point defects to regulate the photoelectric and mechanical properties of pentagonal-BCN. His completed research includes:
✅ Investigation of smart materials for flexible sensor applications 🤖
✅ Study of photoelectric properties in doped materials 🔆
✅ Contributions to the understanding of point defects in BCN-based materials 🏗️
✅ Advancement of mechanical property optimization through nanostructuring ⚙️

His work supports the next-generation electronic and optoelectronic materials, contributing to flexible and energy-efficient device applications.

Contributions 🏛️

While Mr. Shi is an early-career researcher, his work has significant implications for flexible electronics and material applications. His contributions include:
📡 Development of smart materials for sensor technologies
📖 Enhancing understanding of BCN-based material defects
🛠️ Potential applications in energy-efficient and flexible electronics

His research lays a foundation for future innovations in material science and engineering.

Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Qiusheng Shi’s research focuses on smart materials and structures, particularly in doping and point defects to regulate the photoelectric and mechanical properties of pentagonal-BCN 🏗️. His work explores novel material modifications to enhance optical, electrical, and mechanical performance for next-generation flexible sensors and optoelectronic devices 📡. Through nanostructuring and material engineering, he aims to develop energy-efficient, highly durable smart materials 🔆. His published work in the Journal of Solid State Chemistry highlights significant advancements in material optimization for flexible electronics, wearables, and intelligent material systems, contributing to the future of optoelectronic applications 🤖.

Notable Publication 📚

Prof. Dr Abdelkhalek kammouni | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Abdelkhalek kammouni | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Abdelkhalek Kammouni is a leading researcher in materials science, nanotechnology, and sustainable engineering. Currently a Professor of Higher Education at Moulay Ismaïl University, Morocco, he holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science from Paul Cézanne University, France (2007) 🎓. His expertise includes thermoelectric materials, composite materials, and advanced thin films. He has pioneered fire-resistant bio-based composites, non-destructive testing techniques, and energy-efficient material solutions ⚡🏗️. With numerous SCI-indexed publications, international collaborations, and leadership in materials research, Prof. Kammouni’s innovations contribute to green energy, infrastructure safety, and sustainable material development 🌍🔬. His impactful research makes him a top contender for the Best Researcher Award 🏅.

Prof. Dr Abdelkhalek kammouni, Faculty of Sciences, Morocco

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🎓 Education 

Prof. Dr. Abdelkhalek Kammouni has an extensive academic background in materials science, metallurgy, and computational modeling. He earned his Doctorate in Materials Science (2007) from Paul Cézanne University, France, focusing on precipitation mechanisms and microstructural stability in TRIP steels 🏗️. In 2016, he received his Habilitation Universitaire in metallic and composite materials for environmental applications 🌱. He also holds a Master’s in Computer Science from INP Toulouse, a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (DEA) in Processes and Materials from Perpignan University, and was appointed Professor of Higher Education in 2022 👨‍🏫. His diverse expertise bridges materials engineering, nanotechnology, and sustainability 🔬⚡.

👨‍🏫 Experience 

Prof. Dr. Abdelkhalek Kammouni is a permanent professor and researcher at Moulay Ismaïl University, Meknès, specializing in materials science, metallurgy, and nanotechnology 🏗️. From 2011-2017, he served as an Assistant Professor at the École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers, Casablanca 🏫. He has conducted scientific research stays at IM2NP Marseille, INSA Lyon, and ENSCI Limoges (France) 🇫🇷. His postdoctoral research at CP2M, France, focused on the influence of galvanization on bainitic steels. He has worked as an expert consultant for Sollac Méditerranée, optimizing precipitation and microstructural properties of steels. His expertise bridges academia, industry, and advanced material characterization 🔬⚡.

📡Research Projects 

🌍 International Projects:
✅ TOUBKAL Project (2025-2027, 2018-2021) – Development of bio-based fire-resistant composites in collaboration with CNRS France 🔥.
✅ Residential Research School (2024) – Research on functional nanostructured materials 🏗️.
✅ FINCOM Project (2023, 2015) – Characterization of nanostructured materials ⚡.

🏛️ National Projects:
✅ URL-CNRST (2020-2024) – Research on advanced materials 🏭.
✅ UMI Project (2018-2022) – Thermal energy recycling for sustainability 🌱.

🔬 Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Abdelkhalek Kammouni research primarily focuses on materials characterization, microstructural analysis, and composite materials. Their work includes TEM-based local carbon concentration measurements in retained austenite, mechanical and thermal properties of natural fiber composites, and CO₂ sensing using CuO/spinel thin films. They also study thermoelectric properties of Mg-Ag-Sb thin films, microalloyed steels, and historical lime mortars for self-healing properties. Their expertise spans nanomaterials, metallurgy, and environmental materials, contributing to advanced materials science for construction, aerospace, and energy applications. 🏗️🔬⚡🌿

📚 Publications 

📖 A methodology suitable for TEM local measurements of carbon concentration in retained austenite
👨‍🔬 Authors: A. Kammouni, W. Saikaly, M. Dumont, C. Marteau, X. Bano, A. Charaï
📰 Journal: Materials Characterization 🏗️ (2008)

📖 Effect of surface modification on morphological, mechanical, and thermal conductivity of hemp fiber: Characterization of the interface of hemp–Polyurethane composite
👨‍🔬 Authors: S. Sair, A. Oushabi, A. Kammouni, O. Tanane, Y. Abboud, H. F. Oudrhiri
📰 Journal: Case Studies in Construction Materials 🏡 (2017)

📖 CO₂ sensing characteristics of CuO/Spinel thin films deposited on micro-heater
👨‍🔬 Authors: P. T. F. Oudrhiri-Hassani, L. Presmanes, A. Barnabe, A. Kammouni
📰 Journal: Journal of Materials and Environmental Science 🌍 (2015)

📖 Seebeck coefficient variations of α-MgAgSb in crystalline Mg-Ag-Sb thin films
👨‍🔬 Authors: N. Oueldna, A. Portavoce, M. Bertoglio, M. Descoins, A. Kammouni
📰 Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds ⚡ (2023)

📖 Investigation of historical lime mortars from the Chellah Mosque (Morocco): Mineralogical characterization and self-healing mechanisms of micro-cracks
👨‍🔬 Authors: N. Oulida, A. Kammouni, T. Lamhasni, M. Haddad, M. Ziani, S. A. Lyazidi
📰 Journal: Construction and Building Materials 🏛️ (2023)

His work spans nanomaterials, thermoelectrics, heritage conservation, and sustainable composites 🔥🌱.