Kawthar Babatunde | Energy | Young Scientist Award

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Ms. Kawthar Babatunde | Energy | Young Scientist Award

Researcher at Penn state university, United States.

Ms. Kawthar Babatunde is a Ph.D. candidate in Energy and Mineral Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University with a multidisciplinary background in petroleum engineering, data science, and molecular simulation. With research spanning multicomponent gas transport, CO₂/H₂ storage, and shale reservoir behavior, she has developed advanced modeling tools to address energy and environmental challenges. She has held leadership roles in academic and professional societies, and her contributions have been recognized with awards including 1st place at the SPE Ph.D. Student Paper Contest (ENA/Mid-Con Region, 2024) and the prestigious WAAIME Scholarship. Ms. Babatunde is an advocate for interdisciplinary research, data-driven energy solutions, and female representation in STEM.

Publication Profile

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Education

  • Ph.D. in Energy and Mineral Engineering (2022 – 2025, expected)
    The Pennsylvania State University, USA
    GPA: 3.6/4.0
    Thesis: Multicomponent Gas Transport in Organic-Rich Nanoporous Media
    Advisor: Dr. Hamid Emami-Meybodi

  • M.Sc. in Petroleum Engineering (2019 – 2021)
    Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Malaysia
    GPA: 3.7/4.0
    Thesis: Molecular Modeling of Multicomponent Gas Adsorption on Heterogeneous Shale Surface
    Advisor: Dr. Berihun Mamo Negash

  • B.Sc. in Petroleum and Gas Engineering (2013 – 2017)
    University of Lagos, Nigeria
    GPA: 3.48/4.0
    Thesis: Investigation of the Effect of Rice Husk and Cassava Peel on the Rheological Properties of Drilling Mud
    Advisor: Dr. Adegboyega Ehinmowo

Professional Experience

Ms. Kawthar Babatunde is currently a Graduate Research Assistant at The Pennsylvania State University, where she leads research on species-based gas transport in low-permeability unconventional reservoirs. She has developed mathematical models for CO₂ and H₂ injection processes and proposed diffusion-based models for multicomponent gas transport.

Previously, she served as a Data Scientist at Brainiacs STEM and Robotics in Nigeria, where she applied Python-based data analysis techniques to support business decisions and led a data science team. At Universiti Teknologi Petronas, she worked as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, where she conducted molecular dynamics simulations and supported teaching in data science and fluid mechanics. Her early experience includes a Piping Engineering Internship at Ariosh Ltd. in Lagos, where she contributed to pipeline design for the Nigeria LNG Company.

She also has significant teaching experience as a Teaching Assistant at Penn State and UTP, where she assisted in courses ranging from well-logging and production engineering to Python and data science.

Research Interests

  • Unconventional Reservoir Engineering

  • Multicomponent Gas Transport in Nanoporous Media

  • Molecular Modeling and Simulation

  • CO₂ and H₂ Injection Modeling

  • Shale Gas Adsorption Mechanisms

  • Energy Transition Technologies

  • Machine Learning Applications in Reservoir Engineering

Awards:

  • SPE Student Paper Contest (PhD), 1st Place, 2024

  • WAAIME Scholarship, SME (2023, 2024)

  • Penn State University Graduate Fellow, Anne C. Fellow (2022–2023)

  • Outstanding Executive Award, UTP (2021)

  • Student Leader Grant, University of Lagos (2017)

Top Noted Publication

  1. Molecular simulation study of CO₂/CH₄ adsorption on realistic heterogeneous shale surfaces
    K.A. Babatunde, B.M. Negash, M.R. Mojid, T.Y. Ahmed, S.R. Jufar
    Applied Surface Science, Vol. 543, 148789, 2021
    Citations: 71

  • Performed detailed molecular simulations of gas adsorption on heterogeneous shale surfaces.

  • Pioneered a method to capture real mineral surface heterogeneity in adsorption studies.

  1. Adsorption of gases on heterogeneous shale surfaces: A review
    K.A. Babatunde, B.M. Negash, S.R. Jufar, T.Y. Ahmed, M.R. Mojid
    Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, Vol. 208, 109466, 2022
    Citations: 65

  • Comprehensive review of gas adsorption mechanisms in shale.

  • Identified challenges and prospects in modeling gas-solid interactions in shale formations.

  1. Species-based modeling of binary gas mixture transport in nanoporous media with adsorption
    K. Babatunde, H. Emami-Meybodi
    Energy & Fuels, Vol. 38 (21), pp. 20515–20534, 2024
    Citations: 3

  • Developed a novel species-specific diffusion model incorporating adsorption dynamics.

  • Applied to CO₂ and CH₄ binary gas systems in organic-rich nanoporous shale.

  1. A state-of-the-art review on waterless gas shale fracturing technologies
    M.R. Mojid, B.M. Negash, H. Abdulelah, S.R. Jufar, B.K. Adewumi
    Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, Vol. 196, 108048, 2021
    Citations: 94

  • Ms. Babatunde contributed conceptually and through molecular analysis to the team.

  • Focused on CO₂-based and surfactant-enhanced alternatives for waterless fracking.

  1. Effects of a viscoelastic surfactant on supercritical carbon dioxide thickening for gas shale fracturing
    M.R. Mojid, B.M. Negash, K.A. Babatunde, T.Y. Ahmed, S.R. Jufar
    Energy & Fuels, Vol. 35 (19), pp. 15842–15855, 2021
    Citations: 6

  • Investigated the use of viscoelastic surfactants to improve CO₂ viscosity for hydraulic fracturing.

  • Ms. Babatunde contributed to simulation and modeling aspects of the study.

Conclusion

Ms. Kawthar Babatunde clearly exemplifies the qualities of a rising research leader in the energy domain. Her strong publication record, innovative modeling work, and active engagement in both research and advocacy make her a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award.

She is not only contributing to cutting-edge technical knowledge but is also shaping the future of energy through interdisciplinary collaboration and inclusivity.

 

Changzhi Li | Catalytic Biomass Refinery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Changzhi Li | Catalytic Biomass Refinery | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Prof. Changzhi Li is a leading researcher in catalytic biomass conversion at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS. He received his Ph.D. under Prof. Zongbao (Kent) Zhao and later joined Prof. Tao Zhang’s group, where he was promoted to full professor in 2019. His research focuses on biomass catalytic conversion and single-atom catalysis (SAC), pioneering ionic liquid-mediated biomass hydrolysis and novel strategies for selective lignin valorization. He has received prestigious awards, including the Min Enze Energy and Chemical Engineering Award, and has been named a Highly Cited Chinese Researcher (2020-2023).

Prof. Li has published over 90 papers in international journals, with ~8,700 citations (Google Scholar). He has filed ~50 patents, with 40 granted in China. He serves as Associate Editor of Frontiers in Chemical Engineering (Catalytic Engineering) and holds editorial roles in several journals, including the Chinese Journal of Catalysis and Catalysts.

Publication Profile

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Educational Details

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry – Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), 2009
  • M.S. in Organic Chemistry – Hunan Normal University, 2005
  • B.S. in Chemistry Education – Hunan Normal University, 2002

Professional Experience

  • Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2019 – Present)
  • Associate Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2012 – 2019)
  • Assistant Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2009 – 2012)

Research Interest

  • Advanced catalytic materials for biomass conversion, particularly lignin valorization
  • New catalytic routes for converting biomass into value-added chemicals, fuels, and materials
  • Green solvents for biomass conversion

Top Noted Publication

  • Catalytic transformation of lignin for the production of chemicals and fuels
    Authors: C. Li, X. Zhao, A. Wang, G. W. Huber, T. Zhang
    Journal: Chemical Reviews 115 (21), 11559-11624 (2015)
    Citations: 2,805
    Summary: A comprehensive review on lignin valorization strategies, covering catalytic pathways for producing high-value chemicals and fuels.

  • Acid in ionic liquid: An efficient system for hydrolysis of lignocellulose
    Authors: C. Li, Q. Wang, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Green Chemistry 10 (2), 177-182 (2008)
    Citations: 586
    Summary: Demonstrates the use of acidic ionic liquids for efficient lignocellulose hydrolysis, laying the foundation for biomass-to-chemical conversion.

  • Efficient acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose in ionic liquid
    Authors: C. Li, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis 349 (11‐12), 1847-1850 (2007)
    Citations: 463
    Summary: Reports a breakthrough in cellulose hydrolysis using acidic ionic liquids, enabling direct biomass conversion with high efficiency.

  • Catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into chemicals and fuels
    Authors: W. Deng, Y. Feng, J. Fu, H. Guo, Y. Guo, B. Han, Z. Jiang, L. Kong, C. Li, H. Liu, et al.
    Journal: Green Energy & Environment 8 (1), 10-114 (2023)
    Citations: 457
    Summary: Explores various catalytic approaches for converting lignocellulosic biomass into value-added chemicals and fuels.

  • One-pot catalytic hydrocracking of raw woody biomass into chemicals over supported carbide catalysts: simultaneous conversion of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin
    Authors: C. Li, M. Zheng, A. Wang, T. Zhang
    Journal: Energy & Environmental Science 5 (4), 6383-6390 (2012)
    Citations: 454
    Summary: Develops a one-pot catalytic process using carbide catalysts for direct biomass conversion, achieving high product yields.

  • Direct conversion of glucose and cellulose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in ionic liquid under microwave irradiation
    Authors: C. Li, Z. Zhang, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Tetrahedron Letters 50 (38), 5403-5405
    Citations: Not provided
    Summary: Introduces an efficient, microwave-assisted process for converting cellulose and glucose into 5-HMF, a key biomass-derived chemical.

Conclusion

Prof. Changzhi Li is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering work in biomass catalysis, high-impact publications, and innovation in catalytic materials. His work has significantly advanced the field of green chemistry and renewable energy. Strengthening global collaborations and industrial applications could further solidify his standing as a top researcher.

Indu Sharma | Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Indu Sharma | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Career Point University, India

Dr. Indu Sharma is an accomplished physicist specializing in nano ferrites, vacuum science, and materials science. With over two decades of research experience and 14 years of teaching expertise, she has significantly contributed to academia and research. Currently an Associate Professor at Career Point University, Hamirpur, she has also served in key leadership roles, including Head of Department and Associate Director of the Center for Green Energy Research. Dr. Sharma’s research endeavors, spanning over 50 publications, 6 book chapters, and 7 patents, focus on innovative applications in physics and sustainable technologies. She is a life member of the Indian Road Congress and the Innovative Science Research Society.

Publication Profile

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Educational Details

  • Ph.D. in Physics (2012): Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India.
  • M.Phil. in Physics (2004-2005): Department of Physics, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, India (First Division).
  • M.Sc. in Physics (2002): Gurukul Kangri University (GKU), Roorkee, Haridwar, India.

Professional Experience

Dr. Indu Sharma has over 20 years of research experience and 14 years of teaching experience in the field of physics. She is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Career Point University (CPU), Hamirpur, where she has been teaching since 2013. Previously, she taught at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Hamirpur, from 2010 to 2012.

She has served in several academic and administrative capacities, including:

  1. Head of Department of Physics (2018–2021)
  2. Public Relations Officer (2014–2018)
  3. Chairperson of Prevention of Sexual Harassment Committee (2015–present)
  4. Associate Director, Center for Green Energy Research (2024–present)
  5. Assistant Dean of Academics (2016–2018)
  6. Member of the Academic Council of CPU (2018–present)

Dr. Sharma has revised the curriculum for B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. programs in physics and contributed to institutional inspections such as NAAC accreditation.

Research Interest

  • Nano Ferrites and their functional properties.
  • Bio Physics and Vedic Physics.
  • Computational Materials Science.
  • Vacuum Science, Cryogenics, and Nuclear Physics.

Author Metrics

  • Publications in Indexed Journals: 50
  • Book Chapters: 6

Publication Top Notes

1. Structural, Magnetic, and Mössbauer Studies of Nd-doped Mg-Mn Ferrite Nanoparticles

  • Authors: I. Sharma, R.K. Kotnala, M. Singh, A. Kumar, P. Dhiman, V.P. Singh, K. Verma, et al.
  • Published In: Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, 2017
  • Citation Count: 47
  • Summary: This study explores the structural, magnetic, and Mössbauer spectroscopy properties of neodymium (Nd)-doped magnesium-manganese (Mg-Mn) ferrite nanoparticles. The research provides valuable insights into the influence of Nd substitution on the magnetic behavior and crystallographic structure of ferrite nanoparticles.

2. Structural, Electrical, and Magnetic Studies of Cu²⁺ Substituted MnFe₂O₄ Nanoferrites Synthesized via Solution Combustion Technique

  • Authors: H.R. Sharma, K.M. Batoo, P. Sharma, S. Bhardwaj, P. Kuchhal, R. Jasrotia, et al.
  • Published In: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 2022
  • Citation Count: 30
  • Summary: This paper examines copper (Cu²⁺)-substituted manganese ferrites (MnFe₂O₄) synthesized using a solution combustion method. It focuses on structural, electrical, and magnetic properties, highlighting the potential applications of these materials in electronics and magnetism.

3. Investigation of Electrical, Magnetic, and Optical Properties of Silver-Substituted Magnesium–Manganese Ferrite Nanoparticles

  • Authors: Somnath, K.M. Batoo, E.H. Raslan, S.F. Adil, I. Sharma, G. Kumar
  • Published In: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 2020
  • Citation Count: 25
  • Summary: This research investigates silver (Ag)-substituted magnesium-manganese ferrite nanoparticles, focusing on their electrical, magnetic, and optical properties. The study presents their potential for use in advanced electronic and photonic applications.

4. Citrate Precursor Route for Y³⁺ Substituted M-type Ba-Hexaferrite: Synthesis, Effect of Doping on Structural, Optical, Magnetic, and Antibacterial Properties

  • Authors: I. Sharma, T. Kumari, N. Thakur, P. Sharma, K.M. Batoo, R. Verma
  • Published In: Materials Chemistry and Physics, 2023
  • Citation Count: 18
  • Summary: Using a citrate precursor method, this study synthesizes yttrium (Y³⁺)-substituted barium hexaferrite. It evaluates the doping effect on structural, optical, magnetic, and antibacterial properties, showcasing its multifaceted applications in materials science.

5. Applications of Multiferroics

  • Authors: R.V. Rohit Jasrotia, Suman, Rohit Khargotra, Indu Sharma
  • Published In: Ferrites and Multiferroics: Fundamentals to Applications, 2021
  • Citation Count: 18*
  • Summary: This book chapter discusses the various applications of multiferroic materials, which exhibit coupled electric, magnetic, and structural order parameters, emphasizing their roles in multifunctional device technologies.

Conclusion

Dr. Indu Sharma is a highly accomplished researcher with a commendable record of contributions to physics and materials science. Her strengths in nano ferrites, extensive publication history, leadership roles, and interdisciplinary expertise make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. To further strengthen her profile, she could focus on enhancing her global research collaborations, increasing the impact of her publications, and exploring commercialization opportunities for her patents.

Given her academic and research achievements, Dr. Sharma is a deserving nominee, reflecting excellence in her field and a commitment to advancing sustainable technologies through innovative research.