Velislava Lyubenova | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Velislava Lyubenova | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Academician at Bulgarian Academy of Science, Institute of Robotics, Bulgaria

Velislava Lyubenova is a distinguished Bulgarian researcher and professor with over 30 years of experience in biotechnological process control, mechatronics, and adaptive systems. She currently serves as the Head of the Mechatronic Bio/technological Systems Section at the Institute of Robotics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), and has held various academic and leadership roles across BAS institutions. She has led more than 10 national and international research projects, participated in numerous European programs, and supervised several PhD students. With over 200 scientific publications, many in high-impact journals, and invited lectures delivered at leading international institutions, she is widely recognized for her scientific contributions. Her expertise includes the development of innovative monitoring and control systems using tools like MATLAB and LABVIEW. An awardee of the “Marin Drinov” prize for young scientists, Lyubenova is also actively involved in academic governance, expert committees, and editorial boards, reflecting her deep commitment to scientific advancement and education.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Velislava Lyubenova holds a strong academic background in technical sciences and engineering. She earned her engineering degree in Radio Electronics from the Technical University of Sofia, followed by a Ph.D. in Automation with a dissertation focused on parameter estimation and biotechnological process monitoring. Her academic journey culminated with a Doctor of Technical Sciences degree from the Institute of System Engineering and Robotics (ISIR) at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), specializing in adaptive control and modeling of complex biotechnological systems. Her education blends deep technical knowledge with applied research capabilities, laying the foundation for a career in both theoretical and experimental domains. Her academic formation reflects a continuous pursuit of knowledge and specialization in interdisciplinary areas, preparing her to work across the fields of electronics, biotechnology, and control systems. This educational path has also enabled her to contribute to curriculum development and mentor future generations of researchers in her field.

Professional Experience

Professor Velislava Lyubenova has built a prolific career at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, progressing from a research fellow to a professor and head of department at the Institute of Robotics. Her early work in adaptive and robust control systems evolved into specialized research in bioengineering and mechatronic systems for biotechnology. She has served as Scientific Secretary at IR-BAS and has been a key figure in national expert commissions and scientific councils. Over her career, she has led and coordinated numerous national and international research projects, many involving cross-disciplinary collaboration. Her leadership roles include project management, supervision of PhD students, and delivery of advanced lecture courses. She also coordinates Erasmus programs and plays a pivotal role in academic exchange and cooperation. Her professional trajectory showcases a blend of scientific innovation, team leadership, and academic mentorship, making her a respected figure in both the Bulgarian and broader European research communities.

Research Interest

Velislava Lyubenova’s research is deeply rooted in the interdisciplinary fields of bioengineering, automation, and mechatronics. Her primary interest lies in the modeling, monitoring, and adaptive control of biotechnological processes, where she develops innovative methodologies to improve efficiency and reliability. She integrates control theory with practical applications using environments like MATLAB and LABVIEW, creating real-time monitoring systems that bridge theoretical concepts with industrial needs. Her work often addresses complex system dynamics in bioprocesses and seeks to optimize process performance through intelligent control algorithms. Additionally, she explores knowledge-based and adaptive systems that contribute to the advancement of next-generation biotechnological platforms. Her collaborative research also extends into European Union projects, educational initiatives, and technology transfer programs, reflecting a holistic approach to scientific inquiry. With a strong focus on experimental validation, her research continues to influence the development of advanced technologies in the fields of bioprocess engineering and industrial automation.

Award and Honor

Throughout her distinguished career, Velislava Lyubenova has received notable recognition for her contributions to science and research. A significant early milestone was her receipt of the “Marin Drinov” Young Scientist Award from the General Assembly of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in 1998—an honor bestowed upon promising researchers demonstrating exceptional scientific potential. She has also been invited to deliver over 15 specialized lectures at prestigious institutions abroad and six within Bulgaria, signifying her international recognition as a subject-matter expert. Her active involvement in over 30 international and national conferences further underscores her scientific engagement. Beyond individual accolades, her roles as a reviewer, jury member, editorial board member, and lecturer reflect a broader institutional and peer recognition of her expertise. These honors represent both her academic excellence and leadership in advancing science and education, and they demonstrate her lasting impact on the Bulgarian and global research landscape.

Conclusion

Velislava Lyubenova stands out as an accomplished and influential researcher in the fields of biotechnological systems and automation. Her extensive education, progressive professional experience, and leadership in multidisciplinary research projects position her as a key contributor to both national and international scientific advancement. Her ability to combine theoretical models with practical applications, mentor young scientists, and contribute to global academic forums speaks to her depth of expertise and dedication. She has earned peer and institutional recognition for her scientific work, making her a respected leader in her field. Her over 200 publications, contributions to prestigious journals, and active engagement in scientific committees demonstrate both productivity and academic integrity. With a strong foundation in research and innovation, and an enduring commitment to education and collaboration, Velislava Lyubenova is exceptionally well-qualified for honors such as the Best Researcher Award. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to the pursuit of scientific excellence and societal impact.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Indirect adaptive linearizing control of a class of bioprocesses–Estimator tuning procedure
    Authors: MN Ignatova, VN Lyubenova, MR García, C Vilas, AA Alonso
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 31

  • Title: Kinetic characteristics of alcohol fermentation in brewing: state of art and control of the fermentation process
    Authors: V Shopska, R Denkova, V Lyubenova, G Kostov
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 21

  • Title: Adaptive control of fed-batch process for poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate production by mixed culture
    Authors: M Ignatova, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 16

  • Title: Control of biotechnological processes-new formalization of kinetics: Theoretical aspects and applications
    Authors: M Ignatova, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Model-based monitoring of biotechnological processes—a review
    Authors: V Lyubenova, G Kostov, R Denkova-Kostova
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Adaptive control of the Simultaneous Saccharification—Fermentation Process from Starch to Ethanol
    Authors: S Ochoa, V Lyubenova, JU Repke, M Ignatova, G Wozny
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 12

  • Title: An efficient hybrid of an ant lion optimizer and genetic algorithm for a model parameter identification problem
    Authors: O Roeva, D Zoteva, G Roeva, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Control of one stage bio ethanol production by recombinant strain
    Authors: V Lyubenova, S Ochoa, J Repke, M Ignatova, G Wozny
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Escherichia coli Cultivation Process Modelling Using ABC-GA Hybrid Algorithm
    Authors: O Roeva, D Zoteva, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 10

  • Title: Reaction rate estimators of fed-batch process for poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) production by mixed culture
    Authors: V Lyubenova, M Ignatova, M Novak, T Patarinska
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 10

  • Title: Dynamics Monitoring of Fed-batch E. coli Fermentation
    Authors: A Zlatkova, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 8

  • Title: Encapsulation of brewing yeast in alginate/chitosan matrix: Kinetic characteristics of the fermentation process at a constant fermentation temperature
    Authors: I Petelkov, V Lyubenova, A Zlatkova, V Shopska, R Denkova, M Kaneva, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 8

  • Title: On-line estimation in a distributed parameter bioreactor: Application to the Gluconic Acid production
    Authors: MR García, C Vilas, E Balsa-Canto, VN Lyubenova, MN Ignatova, …
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 8

  • Title: Metaheuristic algorithms: theory and applications
    Authors: S Ribagin, V Lyubenova
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 7

  • Title: CASCADE SENSOR FOR MONITORING OF DENITRIFICATION IN ACTIVATED SLUDGE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PROCESS
    Authors: V Lyubenova, M Ignatova
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 7

Nasimuddin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nasimuddin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Principal Scientist I2R ASTAR  Singapore

Nasimuddin is a Principal Scientist at the Institute for Infocomm Research (I²R), part of A*STAR in Singapore. With a distinguished career in RF and antenna engineering, he has contributed extensively to the fields of wireless power transmission, sensor design, and advanced antenna systems for a variety of applications including satellite communications and energy harvesting. Nasimuddin’s work bridges industry and academia, evidenced by his collaborations, industry technology transfers, and numerous patents.

profile

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Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Electronic Science (2004): University of Delhi, India
    Thesis: Analysis and design of multilayer slow-wave microstrip structures and multilayered microstrip antennas.
  • M.Tech. in Microwave Electronics (1998): University of Delhi, India
  • M.Sc. in Electronics (1996): Jamia Millia Islamia, India
  • B.Sc. in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry (1994): Jamia Millia Islamia, India

Experience 🏢

Nasimuddin has held various research and teaching roles. Since 2006, he has been part of I²R, A*STAR Singapore, where he currently serves as a Principal Scientist. He was an Honorary Research Associate and Fellow at Macquarie University in Australia (2009–2020) and held a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship under an ARC Discovery Project at Macquarie University (2004–2006). He has also conducted specialized courses in RF energy harvesting applications at NIT Silchar, India.

Research Interests 🔬

Nasimuddin’s research interests include:

  • Advanced antenna engineering for sensor and wireless systems
  • High-gain, compact metamaterial-based antennas
  • Printed and flexible electronics
  • Beam steering antennas and phased array systems
  • RF energy harvesting and wireless power transmission systems
    His research focuses on microwave and millimeter-wave antennas, addressing challenges in satellite communication, RFID, and beamforming technologies.

Awards 🏆

  • Singapore Manufacturing Federation Award (2014): Recognized for contributions to TVWS Transceiver Radio Technology (team award).
  • Dedicated Service Award (2022): Honored for 15 years at I²R, Singapore.
  • Long Service Awards (2012, 2017): For 5 and 10 years at I²R, Singapore.
  • Young Scientist Award (2005): Awarded by the International Union of Radio Science (URSI).
  • M.Tech. Merit Scholarship (1996): University of Delhi, for outstanding academic performance.

Publications Top Notes📚:

Dielectric Resonator Antennas for RF Energy-Harvesting/Wireless Power Transmission Applications: A State-of-the-Art Review – IEEE Antennas and Propagation Magazine, 2024. Cited by 12 articles.

Rectifier Circuits for RF Energy Harvesting and Wireless Power Transfer Applications: A Comprehensive Review Based on Operating Conditions – IEEE Microwave Magazine, 2023. Cited by 18 articles.

5G/Millimeter-Wave Rectenna Systems for RF Energy Harvesting/Wireless Power Transmission Applications: An Overview – IEEE Antennas and Propagation Magazine, 2023. Cited by 25 articles.

A Single-Feed Wideband Circularly Polarized Dielectric Resonator Antenna Using Hybrid Technique with a Thin Metasurface – IEEE Access, 2022. Cited by 10 articles.

Quantifying the Impact of Slow Wave Factor on Closed-Loop Defect-Based WPT Systems – IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement, 2022. Cited by 8 articles.

Štefan Ondočko | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Štefan Ondočko | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professors, Technical University of Košice, Slovakia

Profile

Scopus

Ing. Štefan Ondočko, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Technical University of Košice, specializing in mechanical engineering with a focus on production systems and robotics. His extensive experience spans both academia and industry, contributing to the advancement of robotic technologies.

Education 🎓

Štefan earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Košice (1996–2004), specializing in Instrumentation, Control, and Automation Technology. He later completed his PhD in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on Production Technology, in 2023.

Experience 💼

His professional journey includes roles as an Electrical Designer and I&C Engineer at EnergoControl s.r.o and SMZ Jelšava a.s., along with significant teaching responsibilities at the Technical University of Košice since 2019. Štefan currently focuses on applied research and development in robotic and production technologies.

Research Interests 🔬

Štefan’s research interests lie in the integration of robotics in production systems, particularly in modular robotics and automation technology. He actively engages in grant projects that advance educational tools and methodologies in these fields.

Awards 🏆

In 2023, Štefan received a diploma for the Best Contribution at the 20th International Scientific Conference of Engineering Doctorates of Technical Universities, highlighting his impactful work in mechanical engineering.

Publications Top Notes 📚

  1. Measurement of Maximum Deviation from Roundness Based on the Inverse Kinematics Principle
    Link – 2019, Measurement Science Review, Year 19, Nr. 6.
  2. Inverse Kinematics Data Adaptation to Non-Standard Modular Robotic Arm Consisting of Unique Rotational Modules
    Link – 2021, Applied Sciences, Year 11, Nr. 3.
  3. Comparison of Selected Numerical Methods for the Calculation of Inverse Kinematics of Nonstandard Modular Robotic Arm Consisting of Unique Rotational Modules
    Link – 2021, MM Science Journal, June.
  4. Mapping Robot Singularities Through the Monte Carlo Method
    Link – 2022, Applied Sciences, Year 12, Nr. 16.
  5. Analysis of the Methodology for Experimental Measuring of the Performance Criteria of the Laser-Using Collaborative Robot’s Path Accuracy
    Link – 2024, Applied Sciences, Year 14, Nr. 4.

Tibor Krenicky | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Tibor Krenicky | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Technical University of Košice, Slovakia

Tibor Krenicky is an esteemed Associate Professor at the Faculty of Manufacturing Technologies, Technical University of Košice, Slovakia. With a Ph.D. in Physics, he specializes in technical device design and monitoring, contributing significantly to national and international research projects. His dedication to advancing engineering education and research is complemented by his extensive editorial roles in various scientific journals. 🌟

Publication Profile

ORCID

 

Education

Tibor graduated in Physics from the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics of Comenius University in Bratislava in 1999. He earned his Ph.D. in 2005 from the Institute of Experimental Physics at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, specializing in nanotechnology as a member of the Centre of Excellence NANOSMART. 🎓

Experience

Beginning his teaching career in 2005 at the Technical University of Košice, Tibor has served as Deputy Head of his department for 12 years. He has been actively involved in developing innovative solutions for technical systems and materials through multiparametric monitoring and virtual instrumentation. 🛠️

Research Focus

Tibor’s research focuses on the simulation, determination, and evaluation of operating parameters and the operational status of technical materials and systems. He also designs and implements experimental devices for the diagnostics of technical systems, emphasizing knowledge exchange and international collaboration. 🔍

Awards and Honours

He was part of the research team recognized for “The most important result of the Slovak Academy of Sciences scientific work in 2004” for developing new nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloys suitable for high-temperature applications. 🏆

Publication Top Notes

Tibor has an impressive publication record, with significant contributions to various journals. Here are a few highlights of his work:

“Simulation of Operating Parameters in Technical Systems.” Applied Mechanics and Materials, 866, 221-226. Cited by: 15

“Advanced Techniques in Monitoring Technical Devices.” Management Systems in Production Engineering, 25(3), 13-17. Cited by: 10

“Innovations in Virtual Instrumentation for Technical Diagnostics.” MM Science Journal, 2020, 2310-2314. Cited by: 5

Guglielmo Vaccaro | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Guglielmo Vaccaro | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PHD student, Università degli studi di Firenze, Italy

👤 Guglielmo Vaccaro, born on June 18, 1997, in Florence, is a dedicated researcher in the field of mechanical and energy engineering. With a passion for sustainable technologies, he is currently pursuing his PhD in Industrial Engineering, focusing on eco-friendly refrigeration solutions.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

🎓 Guglielmo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (110/110 cum laude) and a Master’s degree in Energy Engineering with a specialization in machines (110/110 cum laude), both from the University of Florence. His thesis work centered on optimizing fluid systems for improved efficiency and sustainability. He is currently engaged in a PhD program, researching refrigeration with eco-compatible fluids.

Experience

💼 Guglielmo has gained valuable experience through his studies at the CNAM – Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, where he conducted experimental research on a CO2 and DME mixture chiller. His academic journey also includes participation in international conferences and collaborations with industry experts, strengthening his practical and theoretical knowledge.

Research Focus

🔍 Guglielmo’s research focuses on the development of refrigeration systems using eco-friendly fluids. He aims to improve the efficiency of cooling processes through innovative solutions, including the use of CO2-based mixtures, which contribute to reduced environmental impact.

Awards and Honours

🏅 Guglielmo has received recognition for his academic excellence, including honors during his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. His contributions to international conferences reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Guglielmo has authored several publications in peer-reviewed journals and international conferences, showcasing his research on energy systems and refrigeration technology. Below are some highlights:

Vaccaro, G., Milazzo, A., & Talluri, L. (2023). Thermodynamic assessment of trans-critical refrigeration systems utilizing CO2-based mixtures. International Journal of Refrigeration, 147, 61-70.

Pasqui, M., Vaccaro, G., Lubello, P., Milazzo, A., & Carcasci, C. (2023). Heat pumps and thermal energy storages centralised management in a Renewable Energy Community. International Journal of Sustainable Energy Planning and Management, 38, 65-82.

Vaccaro, G., Milazzo, A., & Talluri, L. (2024). A proposal for a non-flammable, fluorine-free, CO2-based mixture as a low TEWI refrigerant. International Journal of Refrigeration, 158, 157-163.

Experimental results on a chiller using a CO2-DME mixture. International Journal of Refrigeration (in publication).

Washington Peres Núñez | Engineering | Brazil

Prof. Washington Peres Núñez | Engineering | Brazil

Doctor at UFRGS, Brazil

Washington Peres Núñez is a distinguished Civil Engineer with a Bachelor’s degree (1981), a Master’s (1991), and a Ph.D. (1997) from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), where he is a Full Professor in the Civil Engineering Department. He specializes in geotechnics with a focus on pavement engineering, particularly in the design, evaluation, and stabilization of flexible and rigid pavements. Washington has authored over 200 technical and scientific articles, received multiple awards for his research, and has been an active mentor for numerous graduate students. His extensive experience includes consulting on significant highway projects in Brazil and collaborating with various international institutions. Additionally, he has served as the coordinator of UFRGS’s Pavement Laboratory and has participated in various academic and professional committees, contributing to the advancement of civil engineering both in Brazil and globally.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Washington Peres Núñez has a solid educational background in civil engineering, beginning with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering obtained in 1981. He further pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1991, followed by a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering in 1997, all from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). His academic journey has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of geotechnics, particularly in pavement engineering, and has laid the foundation for his subsequent contributions to research and teaching as a tenured professor in the Civil Engineering Department at UFRGS.

Professional Experience

Washington Peres Núñez is a highly accomplished Civil Engineer with extensive professional experience in academia and industry. He serves as a Professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, where he has authored over 200 technical and scientific articles, mentored numerous graduate students, and received multiple awards for his research contributions. His expertise lies in geotechnics, particularly in pavement design, soil stabilization, and the recycling of pavements. Washington has played a crucial role as a consultant for major highway projects across Brazil, including significant duplications and expansions of national roads and airports. He has also engaged in international collaborations, providing lectures and consulting services in various countries across Europe and Latin America. His leadership in the Pavement Laboratory at UFRGS further underscores his commitment to advancing research and practice in civil engineering.

Research Interests

Washington Peres Núñez’s research interests primarily focus on geotechnics and pavement engineering, encompassing the design, evaluation, and stabilization of flexible and rigid pavements. He explores critical themes such as soil and aggregate stabilization and the recycling of pavements, aiming to enhance infrastructure sustainability and performance. His work is characterized by a blend of theoretical analysis and practical applications, as demonstrated through his extensive publication record and consulting experience on major highway projects. Washington’s commitment to advancing knowledge in civil engineering is further reflected in his role as a mentor to numerous graduate students, fostering the next generation of engineers while contributing to significant advancements in the field.

Publications

  • Seasonal variations of a subgrade soil resilient modulus in southern Brazil
    • Authors: AJ Ceratti, WYY Gehling, WP Núñez
    • Year: 2004
    • Citations: 70
  • Electric arc furnace steel slag: base material for low-volume roads
    • Authors: L Rohde, W Peres Núñez, J Augusto Pereira Ceratti
    • Year: 2003
    • Citations: 70
  • A study on the resilient modulus of cement-treated mixtures of RAP and aggregates using indirect tensile, triaxial and flexural tests
    • Authors: W Fedrigo, WP Núñez, MAC López, TR Kleinert, JAP Ceratti
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 69
  • Performance evaluation of pervious concrete pavements with recycled concrete aggregate
    • Authors: HL Strieder, VFP Dutra, ÂG Graeff, WP Núñez, FRM Merten
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 57
  • Construction and demolition waste parameters for rational pavement design
    • Authors: L Delongui, M Matuella, WP Núñez, W Fedrigo, LCP da Silva Filho, …
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 54

Conclusion

Washington Peres Núñez is a distinguished researcher with a remarkable track record in civil engineering, particularly in geotechnics and pavement engineering. His extensive publications, international collaborations, and mentorship demonstrate his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. While there are areas where he can expand his research scope and enhance community engagement, his contributions to academia and practical applications of his work make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His achievements not only reflect individual excellence but also positively impact civil engineering and infrastructure development in Brazil and beyond.