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

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

Profile

ORCID

 🎓 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

Mubarak Ahmad Khan | Materials science | Best Researcher Award

Mubarak Ahmad Khan | Materials science | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mubarak Ahmad Khan, Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation, Bangladesh

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan is a distinguished researcher in Polymer and Radiation Chemistry, specializing in biopolymers, natural fibers, and composite materials 🌿🔬. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Chemistry, he has received numerous accolades, including the Jagodish Chandro Bose Green Research Leadership Award and National Environment Gold Medal 🏆🌍. Dr. Khan has held key positions as a Scientific Advisor to Bangladesh Jute Mills and Chief Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, with over 30 years of teaching experience at top universities 🎓. He has published 700+ papers, authored 21 book chapters, and holds 8 patents 📚💡, contributing significantly to sustainable materials science. 🌱

Publication Profile

Google  Scholar

Educational Background 🎓

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan earned his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Polymer and Radiation Chemistry in 1991, showcasing his expertise in advanced materials science and chemistry 🧪. Prior to that, he completed his M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry in 1981, providing a strong foundation in chemical processes and compounds 🔬. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry in 1979, setting the stage for his illustrious career in the field of chemistry and materials science 🎓. Dr. Khan’s educational background underscores his profound knowledge and contribution to polymer and radiation chemistry 🌍.

Award Received 🥇

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, reflecting his outstanding contributions to science and sustainability. In 2023, he was honored with the Jagodish Chandro Bose Green Research Leadership Award 🌱. He also received the National Environment Gold Medal in 2019, presented by the Honorable Prime Minister of Bangladesh 🇧🇩, along with the Pollima Green Gold Medal Award that same year. Other accolades include the National Jute Award (2017) and the Bangladesh Academy of Science Gold Medal (2010). His work has been recognized globally, with honors like the MIT Solve (2020) and Federation of Asian Chemical Society Award (2017) 🌍🏅.

Professional Experience and Contributions 💼

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan has held key positions throughout his career, showcasing his expertise and leadership in various scientific fields. He has served as the Scientific Advisor at Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation since 2017 🌾 and previously held the role of Chief Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (2009–2017) ⚛️. Dr. Khan has also worked at esteemed research institutes globally, including as a fellow at IAEA, DAAD, and Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in countries like Australia, Germany, Japan, and the USA 🌍. His teaching experience spans multiple universities, including Michigan State University, Shahjalal University, and Dhaka University 🎓.

Memberships

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan holds numerous prestigious academic and professional memberships. He is a Senate member at Jahangirnagar University, an academic member of Higher Studies at Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, and has served on several selection and syllabus committees at universities such as Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University and Noakhali Science and Technology University 🎓. Professionally, he is a member of The New York Academy of Science, a Fellow at the Bangladesh Academy of Science, and a lifetime member of both the Bangladesh Chemical Society and Bangladesh Physical Society 🌍. He is also part of UPAC, Polymer Division 🌿.

Research Focus Area 🌱🧬

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan’s research focuses on materials science, specifically biopolymers, natural fibers, and composite materials 🌿. His work includes surface modification of fibers like jute and coir to improve the performance of biodegradable composites 🌱. He has contributed extensively to the development of eco-friendly materials for various applications, including textiles, biomedical devices, and renewable energy solutions 🌍. His research also explores the mechanical properties and thermal behavior of composites, with a focus on sustainable practices in material science 🌱. Additionally, he has delved into the use of natural fibers in reinforced composites and their applications in diverse industries 🧵.

Publication Top Notes 📄✨

Effect of dye extracting solvents and sensitization time on photovoltaic performance of natural dye sensitized solar cells

Effect of chemical modification on the performance of biodegradable jute yarn-Biopol® composites

Effect of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) on the mechanical and thermal properties of jute-polycarbonate composite

Hybrid composites of jute and man-made cellulose fibers with polypropylene by injection moulding

Characterization of plant and animal based natural fibers reinforced polypropylene composites and their comparative study

Physico-mechanical properties of wound dressing material and its biomedical application

The Impact of Capital Structure and Financial Performance on Stock Return “A case of Pakistan Textile Industry”

Surface treatment of coir (Cocos nucifera) fibers and its influence on the fibers’ physico-mechanical properties

Conclusion

Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan’s extensive career, significant contributions to materials science and environmental sustainability, leadership in research, and his considerable academic achievements make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work not only enhances the field of polymer chemistry but also promotes the use of sustainable materials, especially natural fibers, contributing to both scientific and societal advancements.