Jianbin Chen | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Mr. Jianbin Chen | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Chief Technology Officer | Guangdong Titans Intelligent Power Company Ltd | China

Mr. Jianbin Chen is a distinguished engineering professional with more than 11 years of expertise in digital signal design, iterative coding, data storage and communication systems, and the integration of power and wireless communication technologies in the Internet of Things (IoT). He currently serves as the Executive Vice President and R&D Director at Guangdong Titan Intelligent Power Co., Ltd., in addition to holding roles as a Senior Engineer, IEEE member, off-campus master’s mentor at Nanchang Institute of Technology, and Visiting Associate Professor at Guangdong Polytechnic of Science and Technology. Mr. Chen earned his bachelor’s degree from North Central University in 2011 and completed his Ph.D. at the University of Macau in 2021. Throughout his career, he has led and executed numerous high-impact projects, including intelligent air conditioning energy control systems, IoT-based smart street lighting systems, and advanced energy consumption control platforms for major infrastructure. He has overseen several provincial and municipal innovation programs, demonstrating strong leadership in research and technology development. Mr. Chen has secured 30 patents and 28 software copyrights, with many of his innovations being successfully commercialized and widely recognized. His outstanding contributions have earned him multiple prestigious honors such as the Zhuhai Talent Program, the Best Software Technology Innovation Product Awards, and national innovation competition prizes. Academically, he has published influential research papers and a book, with his work featured in SCI-indexed journals, covering topics like power electronics, intelligent control systems, and smart cities. His ability to combine advanced research with industrial applications has significantly contributed to the development of smart energy and IoT technologies in China. Mr. Chen’s visionary leadership, technical excellence, and dedication to innovation position him as a key figure in advancing intelligent infrastructure and sustainable technology solutions for the future.

Profile: ORCID
Featured Publications

  1. Chen, J., Yang, C., Zou, J., & Chen, K. (2025). Multiplier operated controller for CCM boost PFC converter with regulated input impedance and improved power factor. IEEE Access. DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3548096

  2. Chen, J., Yang, C., & Zou, J. (2025). Optimization control strategy of wide ZVS range and automatic Euler angle for bi-directional wireless power transfer system by TPS. International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijepes.2025.111133

  3. Chen, J., Yang, C., & Zou, J. (2022). Robust enhanced voltage range control for industrial robot chargers. IEEE Access. DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2022.3229688

  4. Chen, J., Yang, C., Tang, S., & Zou, J. (2021). A high power interleaved parallel topology full-bridge LLC converter for off-board charger. IEEE Access. DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2021.3130051

  5. Chen, J. (2017). SMT物料种类与标准. 电子工业出版社. ISBN: 978-7-121-31740-8

Julio Pino | Engineering | Lifetime Achievement Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Prof. Dr. Julio Pino | Engineering | Lifetime Achievement Award 

Professor | Universidad Estatal del Sur de Manabí | Ecuador

Dr. Julio Cesar Pino Tarragó is a distinguished mechanical engineer and Senior Professor I with a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, Spain (2008), and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Universidad de Holguín “Oscar Lucero Moya” (1993). With extensive experience in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, he has delivered courses in strength of materials, theoretical mechanics, mechanical design, physics, statistics, operation and maintenance of agricultural machinery, design of experiments, ergonomics, and reliability of mechanical systems, among others. He has supervised numerous master’s and doctoral theses focused on tribology, agricultural machinery performance, biodigesters, and advanced manufacturing techniques, while also leading significant research projects internationally, including in Cuba, Spain, and Ecuador. His research interests encompass mechanical design, tribology, agricultural machinery, renewable energy, process optimization, and educational technologies using artificial intelligence. Dr. Pino Tarragó has an extensive publication record, including Scopus-indexed Q1-Q3 journals, peer-reviewed books on structural steel design, experimental methods, and engineering education, and articles in Latindex and SciELO journals, reflecting his scholarly impact with 207 citations, H-index 6, and i10-index 5. He has contributed to community-oriented projects, such as sustainable energy solutions for rural areas and constructivist teaching methodologies supported by AI, and has actively engaged in mentorship, leadership, and educational innovation. His awards and honors recognize his commitment to teaching excellence, research leadership, and societal impact in engineering and education. Overall, Dr. Pino Tarragó represents a highly accomplished professional whose expertise, research achievements, and leadership have significantly advanced mechanical engineering and educational practices, positioning him as an influential figure capable of shaping future innovations and mentoring the next generation of engineers globally.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID | LinkedIn | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Pino Tarragó, J. C.,. (2025). Artificial intelligence and soft skills in civil engineering education: A Latin American curriculum gap with global implications. Research in Globalization, 100307.
    Citations: 20 | H-index: 6

  2. Pino Tarragó, J. C. (2025). Technology and innovative pedagogical strategies in foreign language teaching: Experience at UNESUM. Revista Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología, Q3.
    Citations: 15 | H-index: 6

  3. Pino Tarragó, J. C. (2025). Technology and Gamification in English Teaching for Civil Engineering: A Quasi-Experimental Study. Revista Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología, Q3.
    Citations: 12 | H-index: 6

  4. Pino Tarragó, J. C. (2024). Integrated Wastewater Treatment Technology: Efficiency of Lime and Eichhornia crassipes for Agricultural Irrigation. Revista Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología, Q3.
    Citations: 10 | H-index: 6

  5. Pino Tarragó, J. C. (2024). NEUROTIC in the process of teaching-learning in higher education. Revista Electrónica Formación y Calidad Educativa (REFCalE), 12(3).
    Citations: 8 | H-index: 6

Xingyu Zhou | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Prof. Dr. Xingyu Zhou | Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | Beijing Institute of Technology | China

Dr. Zhou Xingyu, Assistant Professor at the Beijing Institute of Technology, is an accomplished researcher specializing in renewable energy and electric vehicles. He earned his Ph.D. in Vehicle Engineering from Chongqing University in 2020, following a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation from the same institution. Dr. Zhou has extensive professional experience, including his current role as Assistant Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering and Vehicle Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology since March 2023, and a postdoctoral fellowship at the same institute from 2020 to 2023, where he contributed to the National Engineering Research Center for Electric Vehicles. His research interests focus on vehicle powertrain optimization, intelligent energy management, stochastic and data-driven modeling, and electric vehicle motion planning for enhanced energy efficiency. He has demonstrated expertise in multi-objective optimization, machine learning applications for powertrain design, and integration of fuel cell and hybrid electric vehicle systems. Dr. Zhou has led and participated in multiple high-impact research projects, including a National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Project and key provincial and national projects on electric vehicle energy optimization and system integration. He has published 27 Scopus-indexed documents with 448 citations and an h-index of 11, in reputed journals such as Applied Energy, Journal of Power Sources, Journal of Cleaner Production, and IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, serving frequently as corresponding author. His awards and honors include the Best Student Paper Award at the 2018 Italian Conference on Machines and Mechanisms. In addition, he contributes to the academic community as a reviewer for top journals and Guest Editor of Sustainability. Dr. Zhou Xingyu’s strong technical expertise, leadership in research projects, international collaborations, and commitment to sustainable innovation make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting both outstanding academic achievements and meaningful contributions to advancing green mobility and energy-efficient transportation solutions globally.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Sun, C., Zhang, C., Sun, F., & Zhou, X. (2022). Stochastic co-optimization of speed planning and powertrain control with dynamic probabilistic constraints for safe and ecological driving. Applied Energy, 35, 119874.

Zhou, X., Sun, C., Sun, F., & Zhang, C. (2022). Commuting-pattern-oriented optimal sizing of electric vehicle powertrain based on stochastic optimization. Journal of Power Sources, 545, 23178.

Zhou, X., Sun, F., Zhang, C., & Sun, C. (2022). Stochastically predictive co-optimization of speed planning and powertrain controls for electric vehicles driving in random traffic environment safely and efficiently. Journal of Power Sources, 528, 231200.

Zhou, X., Sun, F., Sun, C., & Zhang, C. (2022). Predictive co-optimization of speed planning and powertrain energy management for electric vehicles driving in traffic scenarios: Combining strengths of simultaneous and hierarchical methods. Journal of Power Sources, 523, 230910.

Zhou, X., Sun, F., & Sun, C. (2021). Machine learning aided methods for reducing the dimensionality of the comprehensive energy economy optimization of fuel cell powertrains. Journal of Cleaner Production, 327, 129250.

Shima Sadaf | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shima Sadaf | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award |

Assistant Professor at King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Shima Sadaf 🎓 is an accomplished Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at King Faisal University, with a Ph.D. (Distinction & Gold Medal) from Qatar University. Her impactful research spans digital twins, AI-driven power electronics ⚡, micro/nano-grids, and sustainable energy solutions 🌱. With 31 publications, two patents—including a US patent—and multiple awards 🏆 such as the LEWAS 2024 Academic Achievement Award, she demonstrates innovation and leadership. Her industry experience with Hyundai and ETA enriches her applied research. A dedicated mentor, active reviewer for top IEEE journals 📚, and certified LEED AP BD+C and PMP® professional, Dr. Sadaf combines advanced research with practical solutions for modern power systems. Her work continues to bridge academia, industry, and sustainability, driving real-world impact and inspiring future engineers.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid Profile

📚 Education

Dr. Shima Sadaf holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering 🎓 with Distinction and a Gold Medal from Qatar University (2022), specializing in power electronics and nanogrid applications. She earned her M.Tech with Honors in Power Systems & Drives (2007) and B.Tech in Electrical Engineering (2004) from Aligarh Muslim University, India. Her strong academic foundation blends advanced theory, practical design, and cutting-edge technologies ⚡. Her thesis focused on high-gain DC-DC converters for nanogrids, laying a robust base for sustainable energy research. Committed to continuous learning, she has also achieved professional certifications like LEED AP BD+C and PMP® 🏅, enhancing her expertise in sustainable design and project management. Dr. Sadaf’s educational journey reflects a balance of academic rigor, innovation, and practical relevance.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Shima Sadaf’s career integrates academia and industry seamlessly. Currently an Assistant Professor 👩‍🏫 at King Faisal University, she actively develops curricula, mentors students, leads accreditation processes, and designs innovative programs in electrical engineering. Previously, she served as a Graduate Teaching Research Assistant at Qatar University, contributing significantly to teaching and laboratory innovation. Before academia, Dr. Sadaf spent nearly a decade in industry 🏗️ as an Electrical Design Engineer with Hyundai Engineering & Construction and ETA M&E, delivering complex, multimillion-dollar projects like the iconic National Museum of Qatar. Her diverse roles included technical design, project coordination, stakeholder engagement, and mentoring junior engineers. This rich blend of industry and academic experience empowers her to deliver research with strong practical impact and relevance ⚙️.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Shima Sadaf’s research focuses on shaping the future of sustainable and intelligent power systems. Her work explores digital twins and AI for converter design 🤖, cybersecurity for power electronics, smart grids, integrated micro/nano-grids, and renewable energy for net-zero goals 🌍. She is especially known for AI-driven design optimization of high-gain DC-DC converters and advanced electric vehicle charging systems 🚗⚡. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates power electronics, machine learning, and grid modernization, addressing urgent global challenges like clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and energy efficiency. With a vision to bridge theory and application, Dr. Sadaf’s research not only advances academic knowledge but also provides scalable solutions for the energy transition, industry innovation, and smarter cities of tomorrow 🔋🏙️.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Shima Sadaf’s dedication and impact are recognized with prestigious awards 🥇. She received the “Academic Achievement – University Professor Award_LEWAS 2024” for her outstanding contributions to engineering education and research. She also earned the “Best Researcher Award” and “Outstanding Leadership Award” for her influence in innovative research and academic leadership 👏. Her doctoral distinction, recognized with a Gold Medal and a special honor by the Amir of Qatar’s wife, underscores her academic excellence. Additional accolades include the “Women Researcher Award” by ScienceFather and multiple best paper awards at top conferences 📜. These honors reflect not only her scholarly productivity but her commitment to inspiring women in STEM and driving real-world solutions through impactful research.

🧩 Research Skills

Dr. Shima Sadaf combines deep theoretical expertise with practical skills across modern tools and methodologies 🔍. She is proficient in MATLAB/Simulink, PowerWorld Simulator, FPGA with system generator, Arduino IDE, Multisim, and PCB design tools 🖥️. Her robust skill set supports complex modeling, simulation, and implementation of high-gain DC-DC converters, smart grids, and AI-based power systems. She holds two patents, including a US patent, evidencing her innovation in practical technologies ⚡. As a reviewer for IEEE Transactions, IET Power Electronics, and other top journals, she upholds high standards in scientific rigor 📚. Her leadership in workshops and expert talks further highlights her ability to transfer knowledge and inspire emerging researchers and engineers 🌟.

Publications Top Note 📝

Title: ON/OFF Switchable Smart Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) Based Hybrid Nanocatalyst for the Response Surface Methodology Based Catalytic Reduction of 2‐Nitroaniline
Authors: M. W. Alam, S. M. Usman, S. Naeem, N. Zaidi, Shima Sadaf, K. Naseem
Year: 2025
Source: ChemistrySelect
Citation: ChemistrySelect 10 (8), Feb. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202404485

Title: Multifunctional ZrO₂/NiO/RGO Ternary Nanocomposites for Degradation of Organic Pollutants, H₂ Production and Antioxidant Property
Authors: S. R. Bavaji, A. Jafar Ahamed, M. W. Alam, G. M. Alsulaim, S. Sadaf
Year: 2025
Source: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Citation: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10904-025-03630-w

Title: Insight into NaSiCl₃: A Lead-Free Perovskite for the Next Generation Revealed by DFT and SCAPS-1D
Authors: S. Rabhi, et al.
Year: 2025
Source: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Citation: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1039/d5cp01747e

Title: Improved Ni₃V₂O₈ Supercapacitive Performance via Urea-Driven Morphological Alteration
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2025
Source: Ceramics International
Citation: Ceramics International 51 (10), 13430–13442, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2025.01.187

Title: Enhanced UV Photodetector Based on WO₃/SnO₂ Heterostructure Nanowire
Authors: M. W. Alam, I. Ao, S. Sadaf, E. R. Singh
Year: 2024
Source: Applied Physics A
Citation: Applied Physics A 131 (1), Dec. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00339-024-08177-0

Title: Bio-Genic Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanodots (NDCNDs) Using Aristolochia bractealata for MO Catalytic Activity and Security Ink
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2024
Source: Waste and Biomass Valorization
Citation: Waste and Biomass Valorization, Dec. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12649-024-02859-9

Title: Hydrothermal Synthesis of rGO-Decorated NiMn₂O₄ Nanoneedles for High-Performance Positive Electrode in Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: J. Jothi, M. Parthibavarman, K. L. Meghanathan, B. Souayeh, M. W. Alam, S. Sadaf
Year: 2024
Source: Diamond and Related Materials
Citation: Diamond and Related Materials 150, Nov. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diamond.2024.111764

Title: Controlled Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization of Co₃V₂O₈ Hexagonal Sheets for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: M. A. Yewale, D. K. Shin, M. W. Alam, A. M. Teli, S. Nabi, S. A. Ansari, S. Sadaf, A. A. AlKahtani
Year: 2024
Source: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Citation: Colloids and Surfaces A, Aug. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfa.2024.135180

Title: Advancements in Green-Synthesized Transition Metal/Metal-Oxide Nanoparticles for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2024
Source: Materials Research Express
Citation: Materials Research Express 11 (10), Oct. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/ad86a4

Title: Bipolar Resistive Switching Behavior of Bilayer β-Ga₂O₃/WO₃ Thin Film Memristor Device
Authors: M. W. Alam, A. Jamir, B. Longkumer, B. Souayeh, S. Sadaf, B. Moirangthem
Year: 2024
Source: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Citation: Journal of Alloys and Compounds 1010, Oct. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2024.177032

✅ Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Shima Sadaf is an outstanding researcher, educator, and innovator who exemplifies research excellence and impactful leadership ✨. Her career unites advanced technical expertise, high-quality publications 📑, patents, industry experience, and dedication to sustainability 🌱. Recognized globally for her contributions and leadership, she empowers the next generation of engineers through active mentorship, curriculum innovation, and outreach. With her strong interdisciplinary focus and commitment to solving real-world energy challenges ⚙️, Dr. Sadaf stands out as a role model in modern power electronics and sustainable energy systems. Her work continues to bridge academia, industry, and society, driving progress towards smarter, greener, and more resilient energy solutions for the future ⚡🌍.

 

Margarida Soares | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Dr. Margarida Soares | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Margarida Soares at CVR- CENTRO PARA A VALORIZAÇÃO DE RESÍDUOS, Portugal

Dr. Margarida Reis Soares is a multidisciplinary researcher specializing in the valorization of industrial and organic waste and the integration of circular economy principles. She holds a Master’s degree in Biological Engineering with a specialization in Technology in Chemical and Food Processing from the Universidade do Minho, Portugal. Currently, she serves as an investigator at the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia and the Centro para a Valorização de Resíduos (CVR). Over the years, Dr. Soares has contributed to numerous European Union-funded projects, addressing eco-innovation, green technologies, and sustainability. Her research emphasizes creating environmentally friendly solutions for waste recovery and fostering green growth in industries.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Educational Details

Master’s Degree in Biological Engineering (Integrated Master’s Program)

  • Specialization: Technology in Chemical and Food Processing
  • Institution: Universidade do Minho, Portugal
  • Completion: November 2016
  • Thesis: “Estudo da Viabilidade da Diminuição das Temperaturas de Pasteurização Aplicadas aos Preparados Elaborados na Decorgel”
  • Graduation Grade: 17.07/20

Professional Experience

  • Investigator
    • Institution: Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia / Centro para a Valorização de Resíduos (CVR), Portugal
    • Duration: November 2023 – Present
  • Researcher
    • Institution: Centro para a Valorização de Resíduos (CVR), Universidade do Minho, Portugal
    • Roles:
      • Investigated sustainable waste recovery and circular economy initiatives.
      • Collaborated on European Union-funded projects focused on eco-innovation and green technologies.
    • Duration: January 2017 – Present
  • Quality Control Laboratory Technician
    • Employer: Prozis, Portugal
    • Duration: July 2019 – July 2020

Research Interest

  • Valorization of industrial and organic waste.
  • Circular economy and sustainability strategies.
  • Development of eco-innovative materials using waste recovery.
  • Integration of bio-based processes in chemical and food engineering.
  • Technological solutions for green growth and environmental impact reduction.

Selected Research Projects

  • BioShoes4All (2023–Present): Innovation in sustainable bioeconomy for the footwear industry.
  • Mission2GG (2023–Present): Strategies for green growth, circularity, and eco-innovation.
  • RENew (2020–Present): Circular economy solutions for reintroducing construction waste.
  • VALORMAR (2017–Present): Valorization of marine resources through innovation.
  • EcoSustainable Rail (2016–Present): Development of eco-sustainable railway sleepers using mixed plastics.
  • UpCycle4Biz (2021–2023): Materials upcycling for promoting a circular economy.
  • Res2ValHum (2016–Present): Recovery of organic waste for humic substance production.

Publication Top Notes

“Peach processing wastes stabilization: Effect on the physical-chemical and microbiological properties”

  • Authors: Ribeiro, A., Soares, M., Valerio, N., Vilarinho, C., Carvalho, J.
  • Source: WASTES: Solutions, Treatments, and Opportunities IV – Selected Papers from the 6th International Conference Wastes, 2023, 2024, pp. 452–457.
  • Abstract and related documents: Disabled.

“Pig meat processing wastes stabilization: Effect on the microbiological properties”

  • Authors: Ribeiro, A., Soares, M., Valerio, N., Vilarinho, C., Carvalho, J.
  • Source: WASTES: Solutions, Treatments, and Opportunities IV – Selected Papers from the 6th International Conference Wastes, 2023, 2024, pp. 458–464.
  • Abstract and related documents: Disabled.

“An Experimental Setup for Plasma Gasification of Sewage Sludge”

  • Authors: Pacheco, N., Barbosa, F.V., Ribeiro, A., Teixeira, J.C.F., Vilarinho, C.
  • Source: Proceedings of the Thermal and Fluids Engineering Summer Conference, 2023, 2023-March, pp. 543–557.
  • Abstract and related documents: Disabled.
  • Citations: 2.

“Challenges of Digital Waste Marketplace—The Upvalue Platform”

  • Authors: Soares, M., Ribeiro, A., Vasconcelos, T., Vilarinho, C., Carvalho, J.
  • Source: Sustainability (Switzerland), 2023, 15(14), 11235.
  • Abstract and related documents: Disabled.
  • Citations: 2.

“Diving into Fish Valorisation: Review Opportunities and Analyzing Azorean Fish Data”

  • Authors: Valério, N., Soares, M., Vilarinho, C., Correia, M., Carvalho, J.
  • Source: Processes, 2023, 11(7), 1998.
  • Abstract and related documents: Disabled.
  • Citations: 5.

Conclusion

Dr. Margarida Soares is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the context of applied sustainability and circular economy research. Her work addresses global environmental challenges through innovative, practical solutions, and her involvement in EU-funded projects showcases her ability to collaborate on high-impact initiatives. However, to strengthen her candidacy further, she should focus on increasing her publication output, pursuing patents, and expanding her international footprint.