Featured Publications
– Korean Journal of Metals and Materials, Oct 2025
– Metals and Materials International, Oct 2023
Dr. Sahar Kafashi is an accomplished mining engineer, researcher, and industry professional whose expertise spans mineral processing, drilling and blasting engineering, hydrometallurgy, and advanced techniques for environmentally sustainable mineral extraction. She currently contributes to research and operational excellence through her engineering role within the global mining sector while simultaneously advancing academic research in collaboration with Murdoch University, CSIRO, and industry partners. Dr. Kafashi’s work focuses on innovative in-situ recovery technologies for metals from impermeable hard rocks, exploring advanced crack-inducing techniques such as microwave radiation, high-voltage pulse stimulation, and cryogenic fluid treatment to enhance rock permeability and improve the efficiency and environmental performance of resource recovery. Her research contributes to the development of sustainable extraction pathways for critical minerals and rare earth elements, addressing industrial challenges associated with energy consumption, processing cost, and recovery efficiency. She has authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles and international conference papers, with her published research currently achieving 125 citations referenced by 105 citing documents, supported by an h-index of 5 and an i10-index of 3, demonstrating the growing academic recognition of her scientific contributions. Dr. Kafashi has accumulated extensive technical experience across leading mining organizations including large-scale operations and metallurgical laboratories, working on drill-and-blast optimization, vibration control strategies, production planning, ore blending, and experimental evaluation of rock treatment methods. Her professional background further includes roles in consultancy, international sales, laboratory supervision, and research project execution. She is an active contributor to conferences, professional training programs, and international workshops, and holds memberships in multiple prestigious scientific and engineering organizations. Known for integrating industrial problem-solving with scientific innovation, Dr. Kafashi is committed to advancing sustainable engineering technologies, supporting STEM excellence, and contributing meaningful research that strengthens global mining and resource recovery industries.
Kafashi, S., Rasaei, M., & Karimi, G. (2017). Effects of sugarcane and polyanionic cellulose on rheological properties of drilling mud: An experimental approach. Egyptian Journal of Petroleum, 26(2), 371–374.
K., Sahar., & … (2021). Visual study of TiO₂ nanofluid stabilization methods on inhibition of asphaltene precipitation in porous media. Minerals Engineering, 169.
Kafashi, S., Kuhar, L., Bóna, A., & Nikoloski, A. N. (2023). Review of fracturing techniques (microwaves, high-voltage pulses, and cryogenic fluids) for application as access creation method in low-permeability hard rocks for potential … Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy Review, 1–16.
Kafashi, S., Rasaei, M. R., & Karimi, G. R. (2020). Experimental study of nanoclay absorbents and additives’ effects on modification of rheological properties of drilling fluids in porous media using glass micromodel. Journal of Porous Media, 23(6).
Kafashi, S., Taghdimi, R., & Karimi, G. (2014). Modification of nanoclay systems: An approach to stabilizing drilling fluids. Advanced Materials Research, 829, 818–824.
Ms. Lihong Ding is an accomplished researcher and experimenter in the field of mechanical engineering, currently serving at Jiangsu University of Technology, where she plays a key role in advancing laboratory instruction, engineering innovation, and collaborative research initiatives. With strong academic training in mechanical engineering and extensive hands-on laboratory experience, she has established herself as a dedicated educator and emerging researcher contributing to the development of advanced manufacturing processes and high-performance materials. Her work centers on laser cladding additive manufacturing, with a particular focus on structural integrity, crack arrest mechanisms, and material performance enhancement for demanding industrial environments, including aerospace and high-strength engineering systems. Ms. Ding has authored multiple research publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals, including core and SCI-indexed articles, demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence and knowledge dissemination. Among her notable scientific contributions is her research on the crack arrest effect of FeMnNiSi-Inconel625-Ni60 laminated structures produced through laser cladding additive manufacturing, which provides valuable insight into process-structure-property relationships and improved crack resistance for advanced gradient materials. She has participated in collaborative education initiatives supported by national academic-industry innovation platforms and has contributed to research project development related to emerging engineering applications. In addition to her scientific achievements, she has authored educational materials, including the professional training book “CNC Lathe Skill Training and Competition Question Selection,” supporting skills development and technical education for engineering students. Through her dedication to experimental teaching, research supervision, and laboratory innovation, Ms. Ding continues to foster strong academic-industry integration and advancement in next-generation manufacturing technologies. Her work reflects a commitment to excellence, professional development, and meaningful scientific impact, positioning her as a promising researcher and valued contributor to the mechanical engineering community.
Ding, L., Lei, W., & Chen, J. (2025). Crack arrest effect of FeMnNiSi–Inconel 625–Ni60 laminated structure prepared by laser cladding additive manufacturing. Materials, 18(21), 4996.
Burn, C. R., Bartsch, A., Chakraborty, E., Niu, F., et al. (2025). Developments in permafrost science and engineering in response to climate warming in circumpolar and high mountain regions, 2019–2024. Permafrost and Periglacial Processes, 36(2), 167–188.
Huang, Y., Niu, F.*, He, P., et al. (2024). Effectiveness evaluation of cooling measures for express highway construction in permafrost regions based on GPR and ERT. Cold Regions Science and Technology, 228, 104339.
Xuling, R., Niu, F.*, & Qihao, Y., et al. (2024). Research progress of soil thermal conductivity and its predictive models. Cold Regions Science and Technology, 217, 104027.
He, J., Niu, F.*, Jiang, H., et al. (2023). Fractional viscoelastic-plastic constitutive model for frozen soil based on microcosmic damage mechanism. Mechanics of Materials, 177, 104545.
Ju, X., Niu, F.*, Liu, M., & Luo, J. (2023). Evolution characteristics of freeze–thaw-induced sandstone damage under water immersion conditions in Changdu, Tibet, China. Cold Regions Science and Technology, 104013.
Jiang, H., Wang, E., Niu, F.*, et al. (2022). Experimental investigation on performance degradation of insulation materials induced by freeze–thaw cycles and its applications. Construction and Building Materials, 350, 128844.
Assist. Prof. Dr. Naveed Ahmed is a medical microbiologist and research scientist with extensive expertise in infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, vaccine design, and nanomedicine. Currently serving at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, he combines academic leadership with impactful research collaborations across multiple countries. He has authored numerous high-impact Q1/Q2 publications, holds multiple copyrights, and is actively engaged in global health initiatives, including as a GBD Senior Collaborator and a Registered Scientist (UK). His multidisciplinary work spans from molecular microbiology to translational medicine.
Dr. Ahmed earned his Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology from Universiti Sains Malaysia, where his doctoral work explored immune checkpoint regulation in EBV-associated cancers. He previously obtained a Master’s in Microbiology from the University of Central Punjab and a BS (Honors) in Medical Laboratory Technology from the University of the Punjab. His education is complemented by certifications from professional bodies such as the Royal Society of Biology (UK) and the Malaysia Board of Technologists.
Dr. Ahmed’s career spans clinical diagnostics, academic teaching, and advanced research. As Assistant Professor at the University of Tabuk, he teaches medical sciences and contributes to curriculum design and quality assurance. His previous roles include Graduate Research Assistant at Universiti Sains Malaysia, where he managed research grants and ethics approvals, and Laboratory Technologist roles in top medical institutions in Pakistan. He has also served as a visiting lecturer in multiple universities.
Assist. Prof. Dr. Naveed Ahmed possesses a diverse skill set combining technical, analytical, and linguistic competencies. He is fluent in Urdu and Punjabi, advanced in English, and has basic proficiency in Arabic. His programming expertise includes R for data cleaning, visualization, and statistical modelling, with proficiency in conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. He is skilled in data analysis software such as R, SPSS, RevMan, CMA, and OpenMeta, and proficient in Microsoft Office and LaTeX for document creation. His laboratory expertise spans advanced instruments including flow cytometry, PCR systems, ELISA readers, HPLC analyzers, hematology analyzers, and automated diagnostic systems.
Assist. Prof. Dr. Naveed Ahmed has earned multiple prestigious recognitions for his academic and research excellence. He received the Graduate on Time Award and was nominated for the Best PhD Thesis Award at Universiti Sains Malaysia. His presentation skills and impactful research earned him the 2nd Place Oral Presentation and Young Investigator Award at the Regional Conference on Molecular Medicine and the National Conference for Cancer Research. He has twice received the Sanggar Sanjung Award for outstanding publications, along with awards for best oral and poster presentations. Additionally, he was awarded the USM Research Assistance Scheme for academic merit.
Dr. Ahmed’s research focuses on infectious diseases, nanomedicine, antimicrobial resistance, and molecular diagnostics. He integrates in silico, in vitro, and translational approaches to address global health challenges, including the development of nanomaterials for diagnostics and therapeutics, computational vaccine design, and the study of emerging pathogens. His work bridges fundamental science and clinical application, with strong collaborations in Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
A Review of In Silico and In Vitro Approaches in the Fight Against Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales
Authors: Absar, M.; Zaidah, A.R.; Ahmed, N.; Nik Hashim, N.H.H.; Yean, C.Y.; Mahmood, A.; Ahmad, S.; Ejaz, H.
Journal: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis (2025)
Carbon-Based Nanomaterials as Multifunctional Particles for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Naveed Ahmed; Mai Abdel Haleem A. Abusalah; Muhammad Absar; Muhammad Sajid Noor; Bakhtawar Bukhari; Saira Ali Anjum; Kirnpal Kaur Banga Singh; Chan Yean Yean
Journal: Nano LIFE (2025)
The Microbial Sources of Bioactive Compounds: Potential Anticancer Therapeutic Options
Authors: Naveed Ahmed; Mai Abdel Haleem A. Abusalah; Muhammad Absar; Muhammad Hassan Nasir; Anam Farzand; Ijaz Ahmad; Zaineb Sohail; Kirnpal Kaur Banga Singh; Atif Amin Baig; Chan Yean Yean
Journal: Nano LIFE (2025)
ipaH-Targeted Electrochemical Genosensor: A Fast and Reliable Diagnostic Approach for Simultaneous Detection of Shigella Species and Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli
Authors: Pavithrah Shunmugam; Naveed Ahmed; Kirnpal Kaur Banga Singh
Journal: Microchemical Journal (2025)
Prevalence of Leptospirosis Infections Among Humans in Malaysia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mohd Yusof M.S.; Naveed Ahmed
Journal: Tropical Biomedicine (2025)
Exploring TGF-β Signaling in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: From Cellular Senescence to Fibrosis and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Abida Khan; Hayat Ali Alzahrani; Shatha Ghazi Felemban; Alanood Saeed Algarni; Amani Baqqan S. Alenezi; Mehnaz Kamal; Zia Ur Rehman; Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq; Naveed Ahmed
Journal: Biogerontology (2025)
Synthesis, and Biological Activities of Silver Nanoparticles Produced via Green Synthesis Method Using Cordyceps Militaris Aqueous Extract
Authors: Muhammad Afzal; Tayyaba Khan; Noshaba Mehmood; Romaisa Irfan; Ravish Fatima; Zeemal Seemab Amin; Naveed Ahmed
Journal: Nano (2025)
Assist. Prof. Dr. Naveed Ahmed demonstrates all the hallmarks of a top-tier researcher international collaborations, a strong publication record in Q1/Q2 journals, clinical and laboratory expertise, intellectual property generation, and leadership in medical science education. His contributions to infectious disease research, vaccine development, and nanomedicine strongly support his nomination and suitability for the Best Researcher Award.
Mr. Dae Hyeob Yoon is currently an undergraduate researcher in Mechanical Engineering at Chungbuk National University (CBNU), South Korea. His research interests lie in micro/nanotechnology, sensors, and MEMS. Despite being at an early stage in his academic career, he has already contributed to a peer-reviewed publication in Applied Sciences and participated in nationally recognized research programs. His early engagement in advanced materials research and active academic presentation record demonstrate a deep commitment to scientific inquiry.
Mr. Yoon is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at CBNU. Alongside his coursework, he has been actively involved in undergraduate research initiatives, including the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP). His academic training has allowed him to integrate theoretical knowledge with experimental design and fabrication techniques related to flexible electronics and nanomaterials.
As an undergraduate, Mr. Yoon has contributed to one completed research project involving the development of a flexible and conductive heating membrane. He has presented his work at the Korean Society of Mechanical Engineers (KSME) and will present at the EKC conference in Austria. His publication demonstrates competency in research design, experimental methodology, and technical writing, marking significant early-career achievements.
Mr. Dae Hyeob Yoon’s research is focused on developing flexible heating technologies for use in wearable electronics and smart textiles. His current work involves creating a scalable, low-voltage, and mechanically stable heating platform using advanced materials and fabrication techniques. This research addresses major limitations in existing flexible heaters, such as fragility and high energy demands. The technology he is advancing has significant potential for integration into next-generation wearable devices, enabling personalized and adaptive applications in health, fitness, and smart clothing systems. His innovative approach contributes meaningfully to the field of flexible, functional electronics.
Mr. Yoon’s primary research focus is on the application of micro and nanotechnology to develop scalable and efficient platforms for wearable and flexible electronics. His current work addresses key challenges in mechanical stability and power efficiency, contributing to emerging markets in personalized technology and smart textiles. His interdisciplinary interest bridges mechanical engineering with material science and electronics.
Development of a Flexible and Conductive Heating Membrane via BSA-Assisted Electroless Plating on Electrospun PVDF-HFP Nanofibers
Author: Dae Hyeob Yoon
Mr. Dae Hyeob Yoon is a motivated and talented early-stage researcher whose contribution to nanofiber-based heating technologies is noteworthy. His research potential is clear, and with continued academic development and broader engagement in scientific activities, he has the capacity to evolve into a strong candidate for high-level research awards. At this time, he would be better suited for young researcher or emerging researcher recognition, while continuing to build toward Best Researcher status in the future.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou is a medical physicist and researcher at the University Medical Center Freiburg 🇩🇪, specializing in intraoperative electron beam radiation therapy (IOERT) ⚡🏥. She holds an MSc in Medical Physics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens 🇬🇷, graduating top of her class 🎓. Her research explores targeted dosimetry, radiation planning, and magnetic nanoparticles for hyperthermia therapy 🧲🧪. Skilled in Monte Carlo simulations, clinical software, and nanomaterials analysis, she integrates theory with real-world clinical application 🔬💻. Charoula’s work contributes to more precise, effective cancer therapies and positions her as a promising figure in radiation oncology research 🌍📈.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou holds an MSc in Medical Physics – Radiation Physics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2020), where she graduated top of her class (Rank 1/19, Grade 9.14/10) 🎓🏅. She earned her BSc in Physics from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2018 (Rank 2/23, Grade 8.18/10) 📘🔬. In 2017, she participated in the Erasmus+ program at the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany, gaining international academic experience 🌍📖. Her academic journey began with an excellent high school diploma from Xanthi, Greece (Grade 18.9/20) 🏫📐, demonstrating consistent excellence in science and education.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou is currently a Physicist in the Division of Medical Physics at the University Medical Center Freiburg 🇩🇪, where she develops image-guided planning and verification workflows for IOERT (Intraoperative Electron Beam Radiation Therapy) 🏥⚡. Her MSc research focused on in vivo dosimetry for breast cancer using EBT3 Gafchromic films 🎯🧪. She has hands-on training in radiation treatment planning and quality assurance from AHEPA Hospital and early research experience in nanoparticle hyperthermia and magnetometry 🧲🔬. Her work combines clinical physics with nanoscale science, showing deep engagement from student researcher to applied medical physicist 👩🔬📈.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou was honored with the “Best Undergraduate Student Internship of the Physics Department for the year 2017–2018” 🏅 by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece 🇬🇷. This award recognized her outstanding performance, commitment, and research initiative during her clinical internship in radiation oncology and medical physics 🏥🔬. It reflects her early dedication to academic and professional excellence, as well as her ability to integrate theoretical knowledge into practical medical applications 🎓⚙️. This recognition served as a launching point for her future achievements in medical physics, marking her as an emerging talent in the field 🌟.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou brings a powerful set of scientific and technical skills to her research in medical physics 🧪. Her expertise includes radiation dosimetry, magnetic nanoparticle characterization (VSM, SQUID), X-ray diffraction, SEM-TEM imaging, and Monte Carlo simulations 🔬📊. She is proficient in tools such as MATLAB, SPSS, EGSnrc, ImageJ, and clinical planning systems like ECLIPSE and RADIANCE 💻🧠. Charoula is multilingual—fluent in Greek, English, Spanish, and German 🗣️—and excels in teamwork, leadership, communication, and project management 🤝📅. Her skillset bridges computational analysis, clinical application, and experimental research, making her a highly versatile scientist.
Mrs. Charoula Iliaskou focuses her research on medical and radiation physics, particularly on intraoperative electron beam radiation therapy (IOERT) and targeted dosimetry techniques for cancer treatment ⚛️🏥. Her interests span the development of image-guided planning workflows, Monte Carlo simulations, and nanoparticle-based hyperthermia therapies 🧲🔬. She combines advanced analytical tools like radiation dosimetry, X-ray diffraction, and SEM-TEM imaging with clinical software such as ECLIPSE and RADIANCE 💻📊. With interdisciplinary expertise bridging nanotechnology, oncology, and statistical modeling, her research aims to improve precision and outcomes in radiation oncology and cancer therapy 🌍📈.
Minimum and optimal requirements for a safe clinical implementation of ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy: A focus on patient’s safety and radiation protection
✍️ Authors: C. Garibaldi, S. Beddar, N. Bizzocchi, T.T. Böhlen, C. Iliaskou, R. Moeckli, …
📚 Journal: Radiotherapy and Oncology, Vol. 196, 110291 (2024)
🛡️ Theme: Radiation safety, FLASH radiotherapy, clinical implementation
Ex-vivo evaluation of magnetite magnetic nanoparticles as magnetic hyperthermia carriers
✍️ Authors: N. Maniotis, E. Myrovali, Z. Kalpaxidou, C. Iliaskou, M. Angelakeris, …
📚 Conference: 2018 EMF-Med 1st World Conference on Biomedical Applications of Electromagnetic Fields
🧲 Theme: Magnetic nanoparticles, hyperthermia therapy, biomedical applications
Evaluation of RADIANCE Monte Carlo algorithm for treatment planning in electron based Intraoperative Radiotherapy (IOERT)
✍️ Authors: C. Iliaskou, G. Rossi, I. Sachpazidis, V. Boronikolas, M. Gainey, D. Baltas
📚 Journal: Zeitschrift für Medizinische Physik, 2024
🧮 Theme: Monte Carlo simulation, IOERT, treatment planning systems
Development of a TLD-100 based setup for in vivo dosimetry in Intraoperative Electron Beam Radiation Therapy (IOERT): An experimental and clinical evaluation
✍️ Authors: C. Iliaskou, M. Gainey, B. Thomann, M. Kollefrath, R. Saum, E. Gkika, …
📚 Journal: Zeitschrift für Medizinische Physik, 2025
📏 Theme: In vivo dosimetry, TLD-100, intraoperative radiation
PS02.29 Clinical Evaluation of a TLD-Based In-Vivo Dosimetry Workflow in Pancreatic Intraoperative Electron Beam Radiation Therapy (IOERT): One Case Report Study
✍️ Authors: C. Iliaskou, M. Gainey, M. Kollefrath, E. Gkika, U. Wittel, D. Ruess, A.L. Grosu, …
📚 Conference/Journal: Case study presentation, clinical physics context
🩺 Theme: Clinical evaluation, pancreatic cancer, IOERT workflow
Mr. Sicheng Wang, a graduate in Information and Computing Science from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, excels in applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to energy systems. He has authored three notable papers, including one published in the SCI-indexed journal Computers and Electrical Engineering, focusing on spatio-temporal PV prediction. Recognized with multiple national awards, such as the Second Prize in Mathematical Modeling and the Bronze Award in Innovation Competitions, Mr. Wang showcases exceptional research and problem-solving skills. His work in energy management and smart grids highlights his vision for sustainable technology solutions. 🏆⚡📚
Mr. Sicheng Wang holds a degree in Information and Computing Science from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, demonstrating a solid foundation in computational methods and data-driven research. His academic journey is distinguished by multiple prestigious awards, including the Second Prize in the National Undergraduate Mathematical Modeling Contest and the Bronze Award in the China International College Students’ Innovation Competition. These achievements reflect his exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to academic excellence. His dedication to applying advanced computational techniques makes him a standout in his field. 🏅🔬✨
Mr. Sicheng Wang has earned multiple prestigious awards in national and provincial competitions, highlighting his excellence in innovation and problem-solving. In September 2023, he secured the Second Prize in the National Undergraduate Mathematical Modeling Contest. He later achieved the Bronze Award in the China International College Students’ Innovation Competition in September 2024. Additionally, he won the Third Prize in the National Undergraduate Computer Design Contest (June 2024) and the First Prize in the Beijing Division of the Innovation Competition (July 2024). His accolades also include a Second Prize in the National Undergraduate Mathematics Contest (October 2023). 🏅🔢✨
He has been actively engaged in advanced studies and research in Information and Computing Science, focusing on innovative applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning. His academic involvement includes participation in high-impact research projects and national competitions, showcasing his dedication to both theoretical and practical advancements in technology. His ongoing commitment to research and learning reflects his drive for excellence in the field of computing. 🧠🔬📊
Mr. Sicheng Wang’s research focuses on the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in energy systems and smart grids. He has authored several high-impact papers, including a study on spatio-temporal PV prediction using a convolutional-based hybrid network, published in Computers and Electrical Engineering (SCI Q3, IF 4.0). His other notable works include an AI diagnostic model presented at AUTEEE 2023 and a multi-task learning framework for medium-term load forecasting accepted at APPEEC 2024. His research addresses critical challenges in energy prediction and management, contributing to sustainable technological advancements. 🧠📊⚡
Dr Jiageng Guo, Guangxi university of Chinese Medicine, China
Dr. Jiageng Guo is a distinguished researcher at Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializing in pharmacology and cancer research. He has made significant contributions to liver cancer therapy, focusing on natural compounds like cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid. His work spans cutting-edge areas, including network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and both in vitro and in vivo experimental techniques. With high-impact publications in journals like Frontiers in Pharmacology, Dr. Guo integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern pharmacology. His interdisciplinary approach offers innovative solutions for cancer therapy and drug discovery. 🌿🔬🧬💡📚
Dr. Jiageng Guo is undoubtedly a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his extensive research background, significant publications in top journals, mastery of diverse experimental techniques, and his impactful contributions to both modern cancer research and traditional medicine. His work is poised to make meaningful advancements in therapeutic development, particularly for liver cancer, and his multi-disciplinary approach offers considerable promise for future breakthroughs.