Sumaira Manzoor | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

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Ms. Sumaira Manzoor | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Student | Institute of chemical sciences, Bahauddin zakariya university, Multan | Pakistan

Sumaira Manzoor is an accomplished researcher specializing in robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on developing advanced frameworks for autonomous systems and intelligent robots. Her work encompasses the design and deployment of edge-based vision models, human-following robots, and real-time inference systems, emphasizing efficiency and practical applicability in dynamic environments. She has made significant contributions to single and multi-object tracking, face mask recognition, semantic environment modeling, and robotic perception, leveraging both traditional machine vision and modern deep learning techniques. Manzoor has also explored ontology-based knowledge representation for cognitive robotic systems, providing comprehensive surveys and frameworks to enhance robot decision-making and interaction capabilities. Her research includes performance evaluations of cutting-edge detection models such as YOLOv3 and YOLOv4 in real-world applications, and she has developed innovative semantic SLAM and autonomous navigation frameworks aimed at high-level interaction and planning in complex environments. Throughout her career, she has published extensively in high-impact journals and presented her findings at leading international conferences, including Sensors, IEEE Access, Applied Sciences, and the International Conference on Control, Automation, and Systems (ICCAS). Her collaborative work with multidisciplinary teams has advanced the integration of AI-driven perception and reasoning in robotic systems, addressing practical challenges in mobile robotics and human-robot interaction. By bridging theoretical research and applied robotics, Manzoor’s contributions support the development of intelligent systems capable of autonomous decision-making, environment understanding, and adaptive interaction, positioning her as a leading figure in the field of AI-enabled robotics and computer vision. Her research not only advances technical knowledge but also has broad implications for real-world applications, including service robots, surveillance, healthcare, and autonomous navigation technologies.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Manzoor, S., An, Y.-C., In, G.-G., Zhang, Y., Kim, S., & Kuc, T.-Y. (2023). SPT: Single pedestrian tracking framework with re-identification-based learning using the Siamese model. Sensors, 23(10), 4906. https://doi.org/10.3390/s23104906

  2. Manzoor, S., Kim, E.-J., Joo, S.-H., Bae, S.-H., In, G.-G., Joo, K.-J., Choi, J.-H., & Kuc, T.-Y. (2022). Edge deployment framework of GuardBot for optimized face mask recognition with real-time inference using deep learning. IEEE Access. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2022.3190538

  3. Manzoor, S., Joo, S.-H., Rocha, Y. G., Bae, S.-H., Kim, E.-J., Joo, K.-J., & Kuc, T.-Y. (2021). Ontology-based knowledge representation in robotic systems: A survey oriented toward applications. Applied Sciences, 11(10), 4324. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11104324

  4. Manzoor, S., Joo, S.-H., Rocha, Y. G., Lee, H.-U., & Kuc, T.-Y. (2019). A novel semantic SLAM framework for humanlike high-level interaction and planning in global environment. CEUR Workshop Proceedings.

  5. Manzoor, S., Joo, S.-H., & Kuc, T.-Y. (2019). Comparison of object recognition approaches using traditional machine vision and modern deep learning techniques for mobile robot. International Conference on Control, Automation and Systems. https://doi.org/10.23919/ICCAS47443.2019.8971680

Sumaira Manzoor’s work advances intelligent robotics and AI-driven perception, enabling autonomous systems to interact safely and efficiently with complex environments. Her research bridges cutting-edge computer vision and real-world applications, driving innovation in robotics, healthcare, surveillance, and autonomous navigation while contributing to global technological progress.

Fyodor Malchik | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

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Assoc Prof. Dr. Fyodor Malchik | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member 

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University | Kazakhstan

Malchik Fyodor is an accomplished electrochemist and materials scientist affiliated with al-Farabi Kazakh National University, with a verified scholarly profile reflecting strong global impact in the fields of electrochemistry, battery technology, and advanced cathode materials. He has accumulated over 850 citations with an h-index of 14 and an i10-index of 19, demonstrating both productivity and sustained influence since 2020. His research centers on next-generation aqueous and hybrid energy storage systems, with particular emphasis on MXene-based electrodes, water-in-salt electrolytes, sodium- and lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and electrochemical reaction mechanisms. His most highly cited works include landmark studies on electrochemical anomalies in titanium carbide MXenes, anion insertion behavior in MXenes, and MXene conductive binders for high-performance sodium-ion anodes, all of which have significantly advanced understanding of ion transport and interfacial phenomena in aqueous electrolytes. He has also made notable contributions to high-voltage aqueous lithium-ion batteries, hybrid energy storage devices, and polyimide-based post-lithium storage systems. Beyond MXenes, his portfolio spans zinc, manganese, and multivalent ion batteries, hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis, flexible microbatteries, and metal hydride electrodes. Malchik’s work integrates in-situ electrochemical characterization, EQCM-D analysis, and materials engineering to bridge fundamental mechanisms with practical device performance. He is an active contributor to high-impact journals such as ACS Nano, Journal of the American Chemical Society, Nano Energy, ACS Energy Letters, and Energy Storage Materials. In recent years, his research has expanded toward sustainability-driven technologies including hydrogen storage, aqueous electrolyte optimization, supercapacitor membranes, and recycling-related electrochemical processes. Through extensive international collaborations and steady publication output across more than a decade, Malchik Fyodor has established himself as a key contributor to modern electrochemical energy storage and conversion science, with growing relevance to both academic research and industrial energy technologies.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Wang, X., Mathis, T. S., Sun, Y., Tsai, W. Y., Shpigel, N., Shao, H., Zhang, D., Malchik, F., Gogotsi, Y., & Aurbach, D. (2021). Titanium carbide MXene shows an electrochemical anomaly in water-in-salt electrolytes. ACS Nano, 15(9), 15274–15284.

Shpigel, N., Chakraborty, A., Malchik, F., Bergman, G., Nimkar, A., Gavriel, B., Levi, M. D., & Aurbach, D. (2021). Can anions be inserted into MXene? Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(32), 12552–12559.

Malchik, F., Shpigel, N., Levi, M. D., Penki, T. R., Gavriel, B., Bergman, G., & Aurbach, D. (2021). MXene conductive binder for improving performance of sodium-ion anodes in water-in-salt electrolyte. Nano Energy, 79, 105433.

Malchik, F., Shpigel, N., Levi, M. D., Mathis, T. S., Mor, A., Gogotsi, Y., & Aurbach, D. (2019). Superfast high-energy storage hybrid device composed of MXene and Chevrel-phase electrodes operated in saturated LiCl electrolyte solution. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 7(34), 19761–19773.

Nimkar, A., Bergman, G., Ballas, E., Tubul, N., Levi, N., Malchik, F., Kukurayeva, I., & Aurbach, D. (2023). Polyimide compounds for post-lithium energy storage applications. Angewandte Chemie, 135(50), e202306904.

Driving the frontier of aqueous and hybrid energy storage, the nominee’s research on MXenes, advanced electrolytes, and next-generation battery materials has reshaped fundamental understanding of ion transport while enabling safer, high-performance energy devices. This work directly supports global transitions toward sustainable electrification, scalable energy storage, and hydrogen technologies with strong industrial and societal impact.

Ulf-Peter Apfel | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

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Prof. Dr. Ulf-Peter Apfel | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member 

Professor | Ruhr University Bochum & Fraunhofer UMSICHT | Germany

Ulf-Peter Apfel is a leading figure in modern electrocatalysis and renewable energy chemistry, with a research career defined by major contributions to bio-inspired catalysis, hydrogen evolution, CO₂ reduction, and sustainable energy conversion. With over 8,300 citations, an h-index of 53, and more than 136 peer-reviewed publications, his work demonstrates both exceptional productivity and enduring scientific impact. His research bridges fundamental inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry with applied electrochemical energy technologies, particularly through the design of molecular and heterogeneous electrocatalysts inspired by natural metalloenzymes such as [FeFe]-hydrogenases. His highly cited studies in journals like Angewandte Chemie, Nature Communications, Chemical Society Reviews, and ACS Catalysis have shaped global understanding of hydrogen generation, oxygen reduction and evolution reactions, and carbon dioxide electroreduction. Notably, his work on enzyme-inspired iron porphyrins, pentlandite-based electrocatalysts, cobalt and manganese corrole complexes, and metal–organic framework supported catalysts has established new benchmarks for efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability in electrocatalysis. His interdisciplinary collaborations span spectroscopy, protein crystallography, materials science, and industrial chemistry, reflecting the broad translational relevance of his research. Beyond laboratory innovation, his scholarship also addresses the critical challenge of scaling fundamental discoveries toward real-world energy applications, as reflected in his influential work on bridging the “valley of death” between basic research and applied electrolysis. As a professor at Ruhr University Bochum and head of electrosynthesis at Fraunhofer UMSICHT, he plays a central role in shaping future directions in green hydrogen, artificial photosynthesis, and carbon-neutral fuel production. Overall, his career represents a powerful integration of molecular design, mechanistic insight, and technological relevance, positioning him as one of the most influential scientists in contemporary renewable energy and electrocatalysis research.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Xie, L., Zhang, X. P., Zhao, B., Li, P., Qi, J., Guo, X., Wang, B., Lei, H., & Zhang, W. (2021). Enzyme-inspired iron porphyrins for improved electrocatalytic oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. Angewandte Chemie, 133(14), 7654–7659.

  2. Kleinhaus, J. T., Wittkamp, F., Yadav, S., Siegmund, D., & Apfel, U.-P. (2021). [FeFe]-hydrogenases: Maturation and reactivity of enzymatic systems and overview of biomimetic models. Chemical Society Reviews, 50(3), 1668–1784.

  3. Liang, Z., Guo, H., Zhou, G., Guo, K., Wang, B., Lei, H., Zhang, W., & Zheng, H. (2021). Metal–organic-framework-supported molecular electrocatalysis for the oxygen reduction reaction. Angewandte Chemie, 133(15), 8553–8557.

  4. Konkena, B., Junge Puring, K., Sinev, I., Piontek, S., Khavryuchenko, O., Dürholt, J. P., Schökel, A., Schuhmann, W., Muhler, M., & Apfel, U.-P. (2016). Pentlandite rocks as sustainable and stable efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen generation. Nature Communications, 7(1), 12269.

  5. Gonglach, S., Paul, S., Haas, M., Pillwein, F., Sreejith, S. S., Barman, S., De, R., Müllegger, S., Apfel, U.-P., & Köller, S. (2019). Molecular cobalt corrole complex for the heterogeneous electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide. Nature Communications, 10(1), 3864.

Ulf-Peter Apfel’s research advances the frontiers of bio-inspired electrocatalysis and sustainable energy conversion, delivering transformative solutions for green hydrogen production and CO₂ utilization. His work directly accelerates the global transition toward carbon-neutral energy technologies by bridging fundamental chemistry with scalable industrial applications.

Xiaofang Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xiaofang Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Shandong University (Qingdao Campus),China

Xiao-Fang Chen is an accomplished Associate Professor 🧪 at Shandong University, Qingdao Campus, with over a decade of expertise in computational chemistry, zeolite catalysis, and molecular simulations. 📚 With 32+ high-impact publications and significant research grants from national bodies like the NSFC and the Ministry of Science and Technology 🇨🇳, Chen has demonstrated consistent scholarly excellence and collaborative leadership. 🔬 Chen’s work advances fundamental understanding and practical applications in material science, catalysis, and reaction mechanisms. Despite holding the Associate Professor title, the sustained research output, diverse collaborations, and funding success position Chen as a strong candidate for top research recognition. 🌟 Continued focus on international exposure and leadership roles will further amplify Chen’s impact and global reputation.

Professional Profile

Orcid Profile

🎓 Education 

Xiao-Fang Chen 🎓 began an extensive academic journey at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, where rigorous training in molecular sciences and computational chemistry laid a strong foundation. With a focus on theoretical chemistry and advanced material studies, Chen’s doctoral and postdoctoral work honed deep expertise in density functional theory (DFT) and molecular simulations. This academic base seamlessly translated into appointments at renowned institutions like Xi’an Modern Chemistry Research Institute and Shandong University’s Qingdao Campus. Throughout, Chen combined rigorous research methods with continuous upskilling to stay at the frontier of molecular science innovations. 📚 Such a solid educational background underpins Chen’s consistent output of high-impact publications and respected contributions to China’s scientific community, proving the critical link between sound academic training and sustained research excellence. 🧑‍🔬✨

💼 Professional Experience

Xiao-Fang Chen has accumulated over 15 years of progressive academic and research experience 🧑‍🏫, advancing from Assistant Professor at Xi’an Modern Chemistry Research Institute to Associate Professor roles at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics and Shandong University – Qingdao Campus. 🏫 This steady growth reflects deep trust in Chen’s scholarly leadership and mentorship capabilities. Throughout these appointments, Chen has led and collaborated on pioneering research in molecular sciences and catalysis, building strong interdisciplinary networks. 📈 Responsibilities have included supervising students, designing advanced research projects, and securing competitive national grants. Chen’s adaptability across prestigious institutions highlights strong professional resilience, strategic collaboration, and commitment to advancing China’s scientific capacity in cutting-edge theoretical chemistry and materials science. 🔬 Such experience cements Chen’s reputation as a dedicated, capable, and impactful researcher and academic leader. 🌟

🔬 Research Interest

Xiao-Fang Chen’s research passion lies at the intersection of computational chemistry, zeolite catalysis, and advanced material simulations. 🧪 Chen is deeply interested in using density functional theory (DFT) and periodic simulation methods to decode complex molecular reaction mechanisms, adsorption processes, and structural dynamics in microporous materials. 🧩 A major focus is on understanding and optimizing zeolite frameworks for catalytic applications, improving CO adsorption, and exploring novel catalytic centers for sustainable chemical reactions. Chen’s work bridges theoretical predictions with real-world applications, contributing insights that advance clean energy, green chemistry, and material design. 🌍 With over 30 significant publications, Chen’s research continually pushes the boundaries of how molecular-level interactions can be accurately modeled and manipulated, providing foundational knowledge vital for future industrial and environmental advancements. ⚛️📈

🏆 Award and Honor

Throughout a dedicated research career, Xiao-Fang Chen has earned recognition through prestigious research grants from national funding bodies such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Science and Technology. 🇨🇳 These competitive grants reflect strong peer recognition of Chen’s impactful contributions to theoretical and applied chemistry. 🧑‍🔬📜 While formal awards like “Best Researcher” may yet be pending, Chen’s sustained record of publishing high-impact papers, securing significant research funds, and collaborating on landmark projects stands as an informal testament to consistent excellence. ✨ Chen’s long-term role as Associate Professor in leading institutes further signifies trust and respect from academic peers and institutional leadership. 🏅 With continued dedication, Chen’s profile is well-positioned to achieve broader recognition and prestigious accolades in the coming years. 🌟

🧰 Research Skill

Xiao-Fang Chen brings a robust suite of research skills 🔍, specializing in advanced computational chemistry, periodic density functional theory (PDFT), and molecular reaction dynamics. Chen is adept at simulating complex crystal structures, acidity distribution, and proton transfer within zeolite frameworks. ⚛️ Expertise extends to designing and interpreting high-precision simulations, modeling adsorption phenomena, and predicting catalytic behaviors under varying conditions. 🧑‍💻 Chen’s skillset includes mastery of leading computational tools, data analysis techniques, and collaborative workflows that integrate theoretical insights with experimental outcomes. 🧬 Additionally, Chen excels in grant writing, interdisciplinary teamwork, and mentoring students in high-level theoretical studies. Such versatile skills ensure Chen’s research remains innovative, accurate, and relevant, contributing valuable knowledge to molecular science, green chemistry, and sustainable material development. 📈🔬

Publications Top Note 📝

Title: Hybrid exchange methods regulate Cu⁺ location on Cu-Y zeolites and improve CO adsorption capacity and selectivity.
Authors: Dequan Fan, Kai Qiao, Shengzhong Zhang, Xiaofang Chen, Hongtao Wang, Ying Zhang, Yanpeng Zhang, Yang Yang, Fangzhou Hu, Yangfeng Wang, et al.
Year: 2024
Source: Separation and Purification Technology
DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2024.127315

Title: High Reactivity of Dimethyl Ether Activated by Zeolite Ferrierite within a Fer Cage: A Prediction Study.
Authors: Xiaofang Chen, Pei Feng, Xiujie Li
Year: 2024
Source: Molecules
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29092000

Title: Simulating Crystal Structure, Acidity, Proton Distribution, and IR Spectra of Acid Zeolite HSAPO-34: A High Accuracy Study.
Authors: Xiaofang Chen, Tie Yu
Year: 2023
Source: Molecules
DOI: 10.3390/molecules28248087

Title: Periodic Density Functional Theory (PDFT) Simulating Crystal Structures with Microporous CHA Framework: An Accuracy and Efficiency Study.
Authors: Xiao-Fang Chen
Year: 2023
Source: Inorganics
DOI: 10.3390/inorganics11050215

Title: Field Dependence of Dissociation and Ionization of NaI in Femtosecond Pump-probe Laser Fields.
Authors: Chen Xiaofang, Lu Xingqiang
Year: 2022
Source: ACTA PHOTONICA SINICA
DOI: 10.3788/gzxb20225112.1214003

Title: A periodic density functional theory study on methanol adsorption in HSAPO-34 zeolites.
Authors: Xiaofang Chen
Year: 2021
Source: Chemical Physics Letters
DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2021.138532

Title: A theoretical study on a series of polycyclic conjugated hydrocarbons—dinaphthobenzo[1,2:4,5]dicyclobutadienes with tunable charge transport properties by controlling [N]phenylenes and (anti)aromaticity.
Authors: Xiaofang Chen
Year: 2019
Source: Journal of Materials Chemistry C
DOI: 10.1039/c9tc01660k

Title: Seed-assisted synthesis of FER/MOR composite zeolite and its specific catalytic application in carbonylation reaction.
Authors: Li Xiujie, Chen Xiaofang, Yang Zhiqiang, Zhu Xiangxue, Xu Shutao, Xie Sujuan, Liu Shenglin, Liu Xuebin, Xu Longya
Year: 2018
Source: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials
DOI: 10.1016/j.micromeso.2017.07.058

Title: Specific zone within 8-membered ring channel as catalytic center for carbonylation of dimethyl ether and methanol over FER zeolite.
Authors: Xiaofang Chen
Year: 2018
Source: Applied Catalysis A: General
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcata.2018.03.018

Title: A theoretical study on the selective adsorption behavior of dimethyl ether and carbon monoxide on H-FER zeolites.
Authors: Feng Pei, Zhang Guanqun, Zang Kailu, Li Xiujie, Xu Longya, Chen Xiaofang
Year: 2017
Source: Chemical Physics Letters
DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2017.07.005

✅ Conclusion

In summary, Xiao-Fang Chen combines solid academic training, extensive professional experience, and a clear, innovative research focus to stand out as a dedicated researcher and mentor. 📚 With strong national funding, impactful publications, and advanced computational skills, Chen’s contributions significantly advance the fields of theoretical chemistry and catalysis. 🧑‍🔬 While already an accomplished Associate Professor, there remains promising potential to expand leadership roles, gain broader international recognition, and secure high-profile research honors. 🌟 With continuous commitment to cutting-edge research, collaborative innovation, and student development, Xiao-Fang Chen is highly deserving of acknowledgment through distinguished research awards and offers substantial promise for shaping the future of molecular sciences and sustainable technology solutions. 🌍✨