Thabang Somo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Thabang Somo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher at University of Limpopo | South Africa

Thabang Ronny Somo is a highly skilled scientific researcher whose work intersects advanced computational chemistry, data science, and applied experimentation. Through rigorous academic training culminating in doctoral-level expertise, Thabang has developed exceptional proficiency in chemical synthesis, lab instrumentation, safe laboratory protocols, and scientific communication. His academic journey has been enriched by numerous online certifications, enhancing his competency in analytical tools and platforms and empowering a seamless blend of scientific and data-driven methodologies.

Profile Verification

Education Details

His educational background encompasses a comprehensive progression through physical sciences and chemistry disciplines, encompassing both theoretical foundations and hands-on laboratory work. At the graduate level, he immersed himself in rigorous coursework, experimental techniques, and data‐centric research, applying computational approaches to chemical problems. Throughout his studies, he engaged deeply with advanced analytical concepts, established scientific methods, and cultivated a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied research.

Professional Experience

As a dedicated Data and Image Scientist in both industrial and research settings, Thabang has led multifaceted projects that harness machine learning, database architecture, and image analysis. In the mining sector, he crafted predictive algorithms and integrated custom analytical tools into user-friendly interfaces to aid technical decision-making. He also engineered sophisticated image analysis systems that enhanced mineral characterization, while managing complex multi-source datasets to inform operational insights. In the fintech domain, he spearheaded end-to-end modeling for digital platform pricing, constructed forecasting frameworks to guide enterprise fee strategies, and maintained robust ETL pipelines to underpin accurate data integration and commercial pricing operations. His scientific research roles saw him design and manage interdisciplinary projects in hydrogen storage, oversee data structuring and preprocessing, implement predictive modeling, and perform simulations and modeling of green hydrogen processes.

Research Interests

His research is driven by a deep interest in applying computational and data-centric strategies to complex scientific challenges. He is passionate about designing predictive and machine learning models tailored to materials discovery and mineral analysis. Likewise, he is committed to developing visualization and algorithmic tools that translate intricate data into actionable insights across chemistry, energy materials, and industrial analytics.

Awards and Honors

While specific accolades are not listed here, Thabang’s rigorous academic achievements, progressive leadership roles, and continual upskilling through technical certifications reflect a clear recognition of his dedication, excellence, and professional growth by academic and industry peers alike.

Publication Top Notes

Theoretical hydrogen storage properties of high entropy alloys: A combined DFT and machine learning approach. Materials Today Communications.

Thermodynamic and elastic properties of laves phase AB₂-based alloys and their hydrides: A density functional theory (DFT) study. Materials Chemistry and Physics.

Highlighting the importance of characterization techniques employed in adsorption using metal–organic frameworks for water treatment. Polymers.

A comparative review of metal oxide surface coatings on three families of cathode materials for lithium ion batteries. Coatings.

Review on the effect of metal oxides as surface coatings on hydrogen storage properties of porous and non-porous materials. Chemical Papers.

Conclusions

Thabang Ronny Somo represents a synergy of scientific rigor and data science agility. He combines deep domain knowledge in chemistry and materials science with advanced analytical and modeling techniques, empowering impactful innovation across both research and commercial spheres. His blend of technical acumen, leadership ability, and cross-disciplinary fluency positions him strongly for projects at the intersection of science, data, and strategic decision-making.

Jinn Chu| nanostructure array| Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Jinn Chu| nanostructure array| Best Academic Researcher Award

Chair Professor, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Prof. Jinn Chu is a Chair Professor at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan. Renowned for his pioneering contributions to nanostructure arrays and thin film technologies, his research bridges materials science and nanotechnology with practical applications in electronics, energy, and surface engineering. With a distinguished academic career spanning decades, Prof. Chu has authored numerous high-impact publications and holds several patents, reflecting his leadership in innovative materials research. His work has earned him international recognition and positions on editorial boards and scientific committees. He continues to mentor emerging scholars and drive advancements in nanoscale materials engineering.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Jinn P. Chu earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science from the prestigious University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA. His strong academic foundation in materials science laid the groundwork for a prolific career in both research and academic leadership, focusing on advanced materials engineering and thin film technology.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Chu is currently the Chair Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech). Over the years, he has held numerous influential roles at the university, including Vice President, Dean of Research and Development, and Vice Dean of the College of Engineering. His contributions extend to professional societies, having served as President of the Taiwan Association for Coatings and Thin Films Technology (TACT) from 2012 to 2014, and as Vice President of MRS-Taiwan. He is also a past Chair of the AVS-Taiwan Chapter.

🛠️ Skills and Editorial Roles

Dr. Chu’s expertise spans a wide array of interdisciplinary skills including thin-film deposition techniques, metallic glasses, MEMS/NEMS device fabrication, and nanostructured coatings. He serves as an Associate Editor of the AVS Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology (JVST) and is a member of the Editorial Board of Thin Solid Films journal. His technical and editorial skills have helped elevate global materials research standards.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Chu’s research centers on the physics and physical properties of thin-film metallic glasses, particularly those fabricated by magnetron sputter deposition. His work is notable for the application of metallic nanotube arrays, which earned recognition from the American Chemical Society. These nanostructures are integral to MEMS and NEMS applications, such as biosensors, optical gratings, and nanogenerators, demonstrating both fundamental and applied scientific impact.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Chu’s distinguished contributions have earned him numerous accolades. These include the Outstanding Research Award from Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology, the Taiwan National Innovation Awards, and the ACS Award at Japan Nano Tech 2018. He has been consistently recognized in Stanford University’s list of Top 2% Scientists (Career Impact) for 2021, 2022, and 2023. With over 230 peer-reviewed publications and 50 patents, his innovations continue to shape the landscape of modern materials science.

  • Title: Semiconductor-based wafer-scale highly ordered metallic nanostructured arrays for sustainable energy and sensing technologies

    Authors: Not listed (author names truncated or missing)

    Journal: Not specified

    Year: 2025

    Citations: 0

    2. Title: Study on performance improvement of zinc oxide gas sensor with silver nanoparticles surface modification

    Authors: Not listed (author names truncated or missing)

    Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

    Year: 2025

    Citations: 0

    3. Title: Enhanced energy harvesting through lubricant-water interaction on a superoleophobic stainless steel@cellulose ester nanogenerator

    Authors: Not listed (author names truncated or missing)

    Journal: Nano Energy

    Year: 2025

    Citations: 0

    4. Title: A highly-ordered close-packed metallic nanotube array for surface-enhanced Raman scattering

    Authors: Not listed (author names truncated or missing)

    Journal: Nanoscale

    Year: 2025

    Citations: 0

    5. Title: A slippery and icephobic surface based on lubricant-infused metallic glass nanotube array

    Authors: Not listed (author names truncated or missing)

    Journal: Applied Surface Science

    Year: 2025

    Citations: 0

 

 

🏁conclusion:

Dr. Jinn P. Chu is exceptionally qualified for the Research for Best Academic Researcher Award. His body of work not only exemplifies academic excellence but also reflects innovation with real-world impact. His leadership roles and editorial influence further elevate his suitability. With minor enhancements in international mentorship visibility, he could serve as a global benchmark in academic research excellence.

Sergio Gonzalez Sanchez| Metallurgy | Best Scholar Award

Dr Sergio Gonzalez Sanchez| Metallurgy | Best Scholar Award

Beatriz Galindo Distinguished Senior Researcher,University Charles III of Madrid,Spain

Dr. Sergio González Sánchez is a highly accomplished and respected researcher in materials science and mechanical engineering, with significant contributions to both academic theory and practical applications. His multidisciplinary expertise, leadership in education, and international collaborations make him an ideal candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His work has had a profound impact on the development of sustainable materials for transport and healthcare, and he is recognized globally for his contributions to both academia and industry.

Publication Profile

Education :

  • Ph.D. in Materials Physics (October 3, 2008)
    Complutense University of Madrid (Spain)
    Research conducted at the National Center for Metallurgical Research (CENIM-CSIC) as an FPI Fellow (Spain).

  • B.S. in Materials Engineering (1999-2003)
    Polytechnic University of Madrid (Spain)

  • Student Researcher Experience:

    • Institute of Ceramic and Glass (ICV-CSIC) (Spain): Project on the design and building of ceramic layers and monoliths using the EPD technique, including thermal and mechanical characterization (2002-2003).
    • Institute of Polymer Science and Technology (ICTP-CSIC) (Spain): Project on the morphology of thermoplastics molded by injection (2001-2002).

Experience:

  • Distinguished Researcher ‘Beatriz Galindo’ Senior Professor
    Carlos III University of Madrid (Spain)
    December 2024 – Present

  • Visiting Scientist
    University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB) (China)
    January 2024

  • Visiting Scientist
    Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon and DESY (Germany)
    July 2023

  • Visiting Scientist
    Erich Schmid Institute of Materials Science (Austria)
    May 2023
    Invited by Prof. Jürgen Eckert

  • Sabbatical Researcher
    Diamond Light Source (UK)
    February 2022

  • Senior Lecturer/Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering
    Northumbria University (UK)
    2018 – 2024

  • Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering and Programme Leader for the Engineering Foundation Year
    Northumbria University (UK)
    2015 – 2018

  • Postdoctoral Research Associate
    University of Manchester (UK)
    2013 – 2014
    Project: “Sensitization of aluminium alloys” within the LATEST2 (Light Alloys Towards Environmentally Sustainable Transport: 2nd Generation) project in the School of Materials.

  • Juan de la Cierva Fellow
    Autonomous University of Barcelona (Spain)
    2011 – 2013
    Project: “New metallic alloys for biomedical applications”

  • Postdoctoral Research Associate
    Tohoku University, WPI – Advanced Institute for Materials Research (Japan)
    2008 – 2010

  • Visiting Researcher
    University of Sheffield (UK)
    2006 – 2007
    Project: Mg-based bulk metallic glasses with high glass-forming ability (GFA).

Awards:

  • FHEA (Fellow of the Higher Education Academy)
  • CSci (Chartered Scientist)
  • CEng (Chartered Engineer)
  • MIScT (Member of the Institute of Science and Technology)
  • FIMMM (Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining)
  • MIET (Member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology)
  • MICME (Member of the International Center for Mechanical Engineering)
  • MIMechE (Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers)
  • MIMMM (Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining)

Research Focus:

Dr. Sergio González Sánchez’s research lies at the intersection of materials science and engineering, with particular emphasis on the development of new metallic alloys for sustainable technologies. His work involves the design and characterization of advanced materials, focusing on applications in the fields of biomedical engineering, sustainable transportation, and the high-performance materials used in structural applications.

His most recent projects have centered on sensitization phenomena in aluminium alloys and the creation of new alloy systems for medical implants. His global research collaborations, spanning institutions in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, contribute to advancements in the environmental sustainability of metallic materials used in engineering, biomedical, and transportation applications.

 

Skills:

  • Materials Characterization
  • Alloy Design and Fabrication
  • Mechanical Testing and Performance Analysis
  • Materials for Biomedical Applications
  • High-Temperature Materials and Corrosion Resistance
  • Research Project Leadership and Management
  • Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Materials Science and Engineering

 

Publication :

    • González, S., Wurster, S., Garay-Reyes, C.G., Hurtado-Macias, A., Ramasamy, P., Oleszak, D., Gammer, C., Prashanth, K.G., Martínez-García, A., Eckert, J., Martínez-Sánchez, R. (2024). Glass formation and mechanical behaviour of the ZrHfTiCuNiCoAl multicomponent system. Mater. Sci. Eng. A (submitted).

    • González, S., Garay-Reyes, C.G., Martínez-García, A., Gokuldoss Prashanth, K., Ruiz-Esparza Rodríguez, M.A., Hurtado-Macias, A., Eckert, J., Martínez-Sánchez, R. (2025). Cooling rate control combined with refractory Mo and/or V addition to enhance the mechanical properties of CoCrFeMnNi alloy. J. Materials Research and Technology, 36, 459-469.

    • González, S., Chen, Z., Kang, J., Xu, X., Wang, X., Wu, Y., Lu, Z. (2024). Tuning the corrosion behavior of CoCrNi medium entropy alloy by addition of Ti and Al. Corrosion Science (submitted).

    • Atanacio-Sánchez, X., Garay-Reyes, C.G., Martínez-García, A., Estrada-Guel, I., Mendoza Duarte, J.M., Guerrero-Seañez, P., González, S., Rocha, E., Rangel, (Year not provided for the citation).

    CONCLUSION:

    Dr. González Sánchez’s research excellence, professional achievements, and leadership in the academic community make him an exemplary candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His ability to integrate cutting-edge research with practical applications, alongside his recognition from peers and institutions worldwide, positions him as a leader in his field. By expanding his efforts in public engagement and broadening his interdisciplinary collaborations, he could further amplify his impact, both within the academic world and in wider societal contexts.

     

Praveen N| Materials| Best Researcher Award

Dr.Praveen N| Materials| Best Researcher Award

Dr , Praveen N, Siddaganga Institute of Technology, India.

Dr. Praveen N is a distinguished academician and researcher at Siddaganga Institute of Technology, India. He is known for his contributions in his field, where he has played a significant role in advancing research and education. With a strong background in engineering and technology, Dr. Praveen N has published numerous papers in reputed journals and conferences. His dedication to innovation and academic excellence makes him a valuable member of the academic community at Siddaganga Institute of Technology.

Summary:

N. Praveen is a dedicated researcher with a clear focus on shape memory alloys, particularly Cu–Al–Mn ternary alloys. The candidate has made significant contributions to the field through numerous publications in high-impact journals and has collaborated effectively with other experts. The use of advanced machining and optimization techniques in their research underlines their technical expertise and relevance to industry applications. However, there is room for broadening their research scope and showcasing more independent research initiatives.

Professional Profiles:

Orcid

🎓 Education :

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Advanced Materials (Shape Memory Alloys),Department of Mechanical Engineering Research Centre, Siddaganga Institute of Technology, Karnataka, VTU Belagavi (2024),Completed a Ph.D. with a focus on the synthesis of Cu-Al-Mn ternary shape memory alloys. The research included optimizing machinability parameters for CNC machining and Wire EDM, contributing to advancements in the field of smart materials.,Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Manufacturing Science and Engineering,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Siddaganga Institute of Technology, Karnataka, VTU Belagavi (2017),Graduated with a CGPA of 9.01, focusing on evaluating the biocompatibility of Cu-Al-Be-Mn quaternary shape memory alloys. This project underscored the integration of materials science and manufacturing engineering.,Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Industrial Engineering and Management,Sri Siddhartha Institute of Technology, Karnataka, SSU Tumakuru (2015),With a CGPA of 8.06, the B.E. degree involved the design and development of a hydraulic jack, laying the,foundation for,expertise in mechanical systems and industrial engineering principles.

🏢 Experience:

Research Assistant,With over five years of experience as a Research Assistant, I have been deeply involved in conducting and analyzing research projects, particularly in the field of advanced materials. I have also mentored undergraduate, postgraduate students, and Ph.D. colleagues, helping them develop research skills and expertise, particularly in the domain of shape memory alloys and machining processes.,Lecturer,Sri Krishna Polytechnic, Bengaluru (March 21, 2018 – May 15, 2018),During my tenure as a lecturer, I imparted knowledge in mechanical engineering subjects, emphasizing practical applications and theoretical understanding, fostering a strong academic foundation for students in polytechnic education.

🛠️ Skills:

Advanced Materials Research: Expertise in the synthesis and characterization of shape memory alloys, with a strong focus on Cu-Al-Mn and Cu-Al-Be-Mn alloys.,Machining and Manufacturing Processes: Skilled in CNC machining, Wire EDM, and optimization of machinability parameters for advanced materials.,Research Mentorship: Experienced in guiding students and researchers in mechanical engineering and materials science projects.,Industrial Training and Interaction: Familiar with the latest technologies and practices in the railway, defense,,manufacturing, and power generation industries.

🏆 Awards:

Patent Application: Filed for an Indian patent titled “An IOT-Based Smart Flexible Air Purifier System” (Patent Application No: 202341079755), which is currently published.,Reviewer for Academic Journal: Actively contribute as a reviewer for the Journal of Institute of Engineers Series-D, Springer Publication, ensuring the quality and relevance of published research.

🔬 Research Focus:

My research primarily revolves around the development and optimization of shape memory alloys, with a special focus on Cu-Al-Mn ternary and Cu-Al-Be-Mn quaternary systems. I am particularly interested in the machinability of these materials, exploring their applications in advanced manufacturing processes, and contributing to the development of smart materials for various industrial applications.

Conclusion:

N. Praveen is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to their specialization in shape memory alloys, prolific publication record, and the industrial relevance of their work. By diversifying their research topics and emphasizing practical applications, the candidate could further strengthen their impact and leadership in the field. Given the candidate’s current trajectory, they are well-positioned for recognition and continued contributions to materials science and engineering.

Publications :

  • Effect of pulse time (Ton), pause time (Toff), peak current (Ip) on MRR and surface roughness of Cu–Al–Mn ternary shape memory alloy using wire EDM
    Authors: N. Praveen, Siddesh Kumar. N. G., C. Durga Prasad, Jayant Giri, Ibrahim Albaijan, U. S. Mallik, T. Sathish
    Source: Journal of Materials Research and Technology, Elsevier
    Year: 2024

 

  • Machinability Study of Cu-Al-Mn Shape Memory Alloys using Taguchi Method
    Authors: N. Praveen, U.S. Mallik, A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, Rajashekhar Hosalli, C. Durga Prasad, Saravana Bavan
    Source: Journal of Institution of Engineers, Series-D, Springer
    Year: 2024

 

  • Effect of CNC End Milling Parameters on Cu–Al–Mn Ternary Shape Memory Alloys Using Taguchi Method
    Authors: N. Praveen, U. S. Mallik, A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, N. Nagabhushana, C. Durga Prasad, Shanthala Kollur
    Source: Journal of Institution of Engineers, Series-D, Springer
    Year: 2023

 

  • Synthesis and Wire EDM characteristics of Cu-Al-Mn Ternary Shape Memory Alloys Using Taguchi Method
    Authors: N. Praveen, U. S. Mallik, A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, R. Suresh, L. Shivaramu, C. Durga Prasad
    Source: Journal of Institution of Engineers, Series-D, Springer
    Year: 2023

 

  • Design and Analysis of Shape Memory Alloys Using Various optimization Techniques
    Authors: N. Praveen, U. S. Mallik, A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, R. Suresh, L. Shivaramu, C. Durga Prasad
    Source: Advances in Materials and Processing Technologies, Taylor and Francis
    Year: 2023

 

  • Analysis of Cutting Force, Feed Force and Surface Roughness of Cu-Al-Mn Shape Memory Alloys under CNC Turning
    Authors: N. Praveen, U.S. Mallik, A.G. Shivasiddaramaiah
    Source: International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials (IJMMM), Inderscience
    Year: 2023

 

  • Study on Effect of Process Parameters on Kerf Width Using Wire Electrical Discharge Machining of Cu-Al-Mn Shape Memory Alloys
    Authors: N. Praveen, U.S. Mallik, A.G. Shivasiddaramaiah
    Source: International Journal of Scientific Research in Science, Engineering and Technology (IJSRSET)
    Year: 2022

 

  • Characterization and Evaluation of Shape Memory Effect of Cu-Zn-Al Shape Memory Alloy
    Authors: N. Lokesh, U. S. Mallik, A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, T. N. Mohith, N. Praveen
    Source: Journal of Mines, Metals and Fuels
    Year: 2022

 

  • A Study on Material Removal Rate of Cu-Al-Mn Shape Memory Alloys in WEDM
    Authors: N. Praveen, U.S. Mallik, A.G. Shivasiddaramaiah, G. N. Narendra Reddy
    Source: Materials Today: Proceedings
    Year: 2021

 

  • Synthesis and Evaluation of Machining Characteristics of Cu-Al-Mn Ternary Shape Memory Alloys using CNC Wire Electric Discharge Machining
    Authors: N. Praveen, U.S. Mallik, Shivaramu.L, A.G. Shivasiddaramaiah, R. Suresh, Prashantha.S
    Source: AIP Conference Proceedings
    Year: 2020

 

  • Evaluation of Biocompatibility of Cu-Al-Be-Mn Quaternary Shape Memory Alloy
    Authors: A. G. Shivasiddaramaiah, U. S. Mallik, S. Prashanth, N. Praveen, C Anupama
    Source: Materials Today Proceedings
    Year: 2018