Vassilios Sikavitsas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Vassilios Sikavitsas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Professor at University of Oklahoma, United States

Professor Vassilios I. Sikavitsas is a distinguished researcher and educator in biomedical and chemical engineering at the University of Oklahoma. With a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from SUNY Buffalo and postdoctoral experience at Rice University, his work focuses on tissue engineering, cancer therapeutics, and bioreactor technologies. He has authored numerous high-impact publications and holds patents related to bone tissue engineering and scaffold design. Recognized multiple times as Best Professor by chemical engineering students, he has also mentored award-winning graduate researchers. His research bridges fundamental science and clinical application, notably in cancer exosome-based therapies and dynamic in vitro tumor models. Sikavitsas actively contributes to the scientific community through editorial board service and memberships in leading professional societies such as AIChE, BMES, and TERMIS. His commitment to interdisciplinary innovation, student development, and translational impact positions him as a leading figure in his field and a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

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Scopus Profile

Education

Professor Vassilios I. Sikavitsas holds a strong academic foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Ph.D. (2000) and M.S. (1995) in Chemical Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he built his expertise in biomaterials and tissue engineering. Prior to his graduate studies in the United States, he obtained a Diploma in Chemical Engineering from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, in 1991. His educational trajectory reflects a progressive focus on biomedical applications within engineering, which laid the groundwork for his future research in regenerative medicine and bioreactor technologies. This combination of classical chemical engineering training and biomedical specialization has enabled him to operate at the intersection of engineering and life sciences, a hallmark of his interdisciplinary research. The international scope of his education also contributes to his broad perspective on engineering challenges and biomedical innovation.

Professional Experience

Professor Sikavitsas has built a distinguished academic career at the University of Oklahoma, where he currently serves as a Professor in the School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and is affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology. He joined the university as an Assistant Professor in 2002 and was progressively promoted to Associate Professor in 2008 and Full Professor in 2015. His academic journey began with a postdoctoral research appointment in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University from 2000 to 2002, where he deepened his expertise in tissue engineering. Throughout his academic appointments, he has established a dynamic and productive research laboratory, collaborated across disciplines, and contributed significantly to curriculum development in bioengineering. In addition to his academic duties, he serves on editorial boards and remains active in professional societies, enhancing his engagement with the broader scientific and engineering communities.

Research Interest

Professor Sikavitsas’s research is centered around tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, cancer biology, and bioreactor design. He specializes in the development of 3D biomimetic scaffolds, dynamic in vitro tumor models, and bone tissue constructs using advanced flow perfusion systems. His work investigates the role of mechanical stimulation and surface modifications in cell differentiation and tissue regeneration. In recent years, he has expanded into cutting-edge cancer research, exploring exosome-based drug delivery systems and tumor-immune interactions. His interdisciplinary projects bridge chemical engineering principles with biomedical applications, contributing to both fundamental understanding and clinical translation. Notable innovations include US patents on scaffold technology and tissue construct production. With an emphasis on bioreactor modeling and oxygen transport optimization, his work has practical implications in both regenerative therapies and anti-cancer strategies. His lab’s ability to combine experimental and computational methods distinguishes his contributions in the field of biomedical engineering.

Award and Honor

Professor Sikavitsas has received numerous awards and recognitions that reflect his excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship. He has been honored multiple times as the β€œBest Chemical Engineering Professor” by senior undergraduate students at the University of Oklahoma, recognizing his dedication to teaching and student engagement. As a research advisor, he has mentored students who have won prestigious accolades, including the Biomedical Engineering Society’s Best Dissertation Award and several Best Poster Awards at regional and national conferences. His achievements are further highlighted by multiple editorial board appointments in respected journals like the Journal of Functional Biomaterials and Scientifica (tissue engineering section). Additionally, his professional affiliations with AIChE, BMES, the Biomaterials Society, and TERMIS underscore his standing in the scientific community. These recognitions demonstrate his well-rounded excellence as a researcher, educator, and mentor, making him a strong role model and leader in his academic field.

Conclusion

Professor Vassilios I. Sikavitsas is a highly accomplished researcher and educator whose work bridges chemical engineering and biomedical science. His academic background, combined with over two decades of professional experience, has positioned him as a leader in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and cancer therapeutic research. His innovative work on bioreactors, scaffolds, and cancer exosomes has resulted in numerous peer-reviewed publications, patents, and awards. Equally committed to mentorship and education, he has been recognized for excellence in teaching and for guiding students toward national-level accolades. His involvement in editorial boards and leading scientific societies demonstrates a commitment to the advancement of science and engineering at large. Professor Sikavitsas’s sustained contributions to both research and academic service, along with his interdisciplinary impact, make him a compelling candidate for honors such as the Best Researcher Award. His career reflects a balance of innovation, collaboration, and academic leadership.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Fluid flow increases mineralized matrix deposition in 3D perfusion culture of marrow stromal osteoblasts in a dose-dependent manner
    Authors: GN Bancroft, VI Sikavitsas, J Van Den Dolder, TL Sheffield, CG Ambrose, et al.
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 901

  • Title: Biomaterials and bone mechanotransduction
    Authors: VI Sikavitsas, JS Temenoff, AG Mikos
    Year: 2001
    Citations: 815

  • Title: Mineralized matrix deposition by marrow stromal osteoblasts in 3D perfusion culture increases with increasing fluid shear forces
    Authors: VI Sikavitsas, GN Bancroft, HL Holtorf, JA Jansen, AG Mikos
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 595

  • Title: Formation of three‐dimensional cell/polymer constructs for bone tissue engineering in a spinner flask and a rotating wall vessel bioreactor
    Authors: VI Sikavitsas, GN Bancroft, AG Mikos
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 541

  • Title: Design of a flow perfusion bioreactor system for bone tissue-engineering applications
    Authors: GN Bancroft, VI Sikavitsas, AG Mikos
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 529

  • Title: In vitro generated extracellular matrix and fluid shear stress synergistically enhance 3D osteoblastic differentiation
    Authors: N Datta, QP Pham, U Sharma, VI Sikavitsas, JA Jansen, AG Mikos
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 521

  • Title: Effect of flow perfusion on the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells cultured on starch‐based three‐dimensional scaffolds
    Authors: ME Gomes, VI Sikavitsas, E Behravesh, RL Reis, AG Mikos
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 468

  • Title: Effect of bone extracellular matrix synthesized in vitro on the osteoblastic differentiation of marrow stromal cells
    Authors: N Datta, HL Holtorf, VI Sikavitsas, JA Jansen, AG Mikos
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 388

  • Title: Flow perfusion enhances the calcified matrix deposition of marrow stromal cells in biodegradable nonwoven fiber mesh scaffolds
    Authors: VI Sikavitsas, GN Bancroft, JJ Lemoine, MAK Liebschner, M Dauner, et al.
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 247

  • Title: Flow perfusion culture of marrow stromal osteoblasts in titanium fiber mesh
    Authors: J van den Dolder, GN Bancroft, VI Sikavitsas, PHM Spauwen, JA Jansen, et al.
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 205

  • Title: Pre‐culture period of mesenchymal stem cells in osteogenic media influences their in vivo bone forming potential
    Authors: H Castano‐Izquierdo, J Álvarez‐Barreto, J Dolder, JA Jansen, AG Mikos, et al.
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 203

  • Title: Tuning the biomimetic behavior of scaffolds for regenerative medicine through surface modifications
    Authors: NR Richbourg, NA Peppas, VI Sikavitsas
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 196

  • Title: Flow perfusion improves seeding of tissue engineering scaffolds with different architectures
    Authors: JF Alvarez-Barreto, SM Linehan, RL Shambaugh, VI Sikavitsas
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 171

  • Title: Polypyrrole thin films formed by admicellar polymerization support the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
    Authors: H Castano, EA O’Rear, PS McFetridge, VI Sikavitsas
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 158

  • Title: Influence of the in vitro culture period on the in vivo performance of cell/titanium bone tissue‐engineered constructs using a rat cranial critical size defect model
    Authors: VI Sikavitsas, J Dolder, GN Bancroft, JA Jansen, AG Mikos
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 150

Satyam Naidu Vasireddy | Conversion of CO2 to value-added chemicals and Hydrogenation of perfumery precursor chemicals | Young Scientist Award

Dr Satyam Naidu Vasireddy | Conversion of CO2 to value-added chemicals and Hydrogenation of perfumery precursor chemicals | Young Scientist Award

Dr Satyam Naidu Vasireddy , CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory , India

Dr. Satyam Naidu Vasireddy is a Scientist and Assistant Professor at CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) Pune. With a strong background in chemical engineering, Dr. Vasireddy has contributed significantly to the fields of energy, environment, and chemical process intensification. He has a rich academic and research career, having earned his B.Tech from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, M.Tech from IIT Kharagpur, and Ph.D. from IIT Madras. His research includes CO2 hydrogenation, perfumery chemicals, and renewable fuel technologies. Dr. Vasireddy is recognized for his innovative work and has been involved in multiple high-impact projects and technology transfers.

Publication Profile

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Strengths for the Award

  1. Research Impact and Publications:
    • Dr. Vasireddy has contributed to high-impact research in the areas of CO2 hydrogenation, gasification, pyrolysis, and chemical process design. His work on CO2 conversion and clean fuels is particularly relevant to current global challenges in energy and environmental sustainability.
    • He has a substantial number of publications in reputable journals, including recent articles in β€œChemical Engineering Research and Design,” β€œIndian Chemical Engineer,” and β€œAustin Chemical Engineering,” which demonstrate the high quality and relevance of his research.
  2. Innovative Projects and Patents:
    • Dr. Vasireddy’s involvement in the development of a continuous process for azelaic acid production, along with other technology transfer projects, highlights his practical contributions to industrial applications.
    • His patents related to hydrogenation processes and methane pyrolysis reflect a strong capacity for innovation and a focus on sustainable technologies.
  3. Awards and Recognitions:
    • He has received notable awards, including the Certificate for Successful Development & Licensing of the β€œContinuous Process for Production of Azelaic Acid” and Excellence in Research at IIT Madras. These accolades underscore his recognition by peers and institutions for his contributions.
  4. Leadership and Teamwork:
    • His roles as a Co-PI and key team member in various projects demonstrate effective collaboration and leadership skills, which are essential for managing and executing complex research projects.
  5. Educational Background:
    • With advanced degrees from prestigious institutions (IIT Madras and IIT Kharagpur) and high academic rankings, Dr. Vasireddy has a solid academic foundation supporting his research endeavors.
  6. Diverse Experience:
    • His professional experience spans from academic roles to industry positions, providing him with a broad perspective and practical expertise in chemical engineering.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Outreach:
    • While Dr. Vasireddy’s research is impactful, increasing visibility through more extensive outreach activities, such as participating in public science communication or policy discussions, could enhance the broader societal impact of his work.
  2. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration:
    • Expanding collaborations with researchers in complementary fields or exploring interdisciplinary research could provide new perspectives and enhance the innovation potential of his projects.
  3. Research Continuity and Funding:
    • Securing larger and more diverse funding sources for ongoing and future projects would be beneficial. This might include applying for international grants or collaborating with industry partners to ensure sustained research activity.
  4. Mentorship and Student Involvement:
    • Increasing involvement in mentoring young researchers or students could enhance his profile as a leading figure in the scientific community and contribute to the development of future talent in the field.

Education

Dr. Satyam Naidu Vasireddy completed his B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, with a CGPA of 77.82% and ranked 2nd in his class. He pursued his M.Tech at IIT Kharagpur, achieving a CGPA of 9.04 and ranking 10th. He obtained his Ph.D. from IIT Madras with a CGPA of 9.06, ranking 3rd. His educational background has laid a strong foundation for his expertise in chemical engineering and research.

Experience

Dr. Vasireddy’s professional journey includes roles as a Project Officer and Senior Project Officer at IIT Madras, Ad-hoc Faculty at NIT Andhra Pradesh, Research Associate at HPCL Green R&D Centre, and currently as a Scientist at CSIR-NCL Pune. His experience spans research, process development, and technology transfer, reflecting his extensive expertise in chemical engineering. His work at NCL focuses on developing and scaling up chemical processes related to energy and environment.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Vasireddy has received several accolades, including the Certificate for Successful Development and Licensing of a continuous process for azelaic acid production at CSIR-NCL in 2022. He was honored with Excellence in Research for the year 2013-14 at IIT Madras and awarded a Silver Medal for being the 2nd topper in his B.Tech program. Other honors include 2nd prize in a national-level presentation on plasma waste conversion and a merit certificate in a mathematical Olympiad.

Research Focus

Dr. Vasireddy’s research focuses on applying chemical engineering principles to enhance chemical processes related to energy and environment. His work includes CO2 hydrogenation to produce value-added chemicals, hydrogenation of perfumery chemicals, and the development of clean fuels through gasification and pyrolysis. He aims to improve process efficiency and facilitate the transition from lab-scale innovations to industrial applications.

Publications Top Notes

  • Synergetic and inhibition effects in carbon dioxide gasification of blends of coals and biomass fuels of Indian origin πŸŒ±πŸ“
  • Evaluation of CO2 gasification kinetics for low-rank Indian coals and biomass fuels πŸ”¬πŸ“
  • Improving efficiency of CCS-enabled IGCC power plant through the use of recycle flue gas for coal gasification πŸŒπŸ”§
  • Tuning the selectivity of CO2 hydrogenation using ceramic hollow fiber catalytic modules πŸ§ͺβš™οΈ
  • Sensitivity analysis of performance of coal-fired power plants to steam, coal and environmental parameters πŸŒ‘οΈπŸ“Š
  • Evaluation of reaction kinetics for chemoselective hydrogenation of citral for intensification of citral intermediates using copper-based catalysts πŸŒΊπŸ”¬
  • Experimental and kinetic modelling studies for the design of fixed bed methanol reactor over CuZA catalyst πŸ§‘β€πŸ”¬πŸ”§
  • Environmental Impact Analysis of Home Care and Personal Hygiene Products – A Review πŸŒΏπŸ“–
  • Modelling Studies for Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide to Methanol πŸ”„πŸ’§
  • Effect of Pressure on In-situ Catalytic Hydropyrolysis of Rice Straw πŸŒΎπŸ”¬
  • Design and scale-up of wiped film evaporator (WFE) for an API πŸ§ͺπŸ“ˆ
  • Fluidized Bed Reactor Configuration for Ilmenite Based Chemical Looping Combustor πŸŒ‹πŸ”„
  • Analysis of IGCC power generation with carbon capture using high ash Indian coal 🌍πŸ”₯
  • Integrated gasification combined gasification cycle (IGCC) power generation with recycle flue gas using coal/biomass as blend fuel ♻️πŸ”₯

Conclusion

Dr. Satyam Naidu Vasireddy is a strong candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. His significant research contributions, innovative projects, awards, and diverse experience establish him as a prominent scientist in his field. Addressing areas for improvement, particularly in increasing the broader impact of his work and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations, could further strengthen his candidacy and overall impact in the scientific community.

 

Yvette JIOKAP NONO | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yvette JIOKAP NONO | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Academic Researcher, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon

Profile

Scopus

Strengths:

  1. Extensive Academic Background:
    • PhD in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering with high honors, showcasing a solid foundation in her field.
    • Additional degrees in Biotechnology, Food Process Engineering, and Agricultural and Food Industries demonstrate a broad and deep academic background.
  2. Diverse Research Experience:
    • Significant research internships and collaborations, including work in France and Cameroon, illustrate her active involvement in both international and local research communities.
    • Research themes focus on value chains of local resources, sustainable development, and innovative methods for food preservation and transformation, which are highly relevant and impactful.
  3. Publication Record:
    • One patent, six books, nineteen peer-reviewed journal articles, fifteen international conference articles, and numerous conference communications indicate a prolific output and significant contributions to her field.
    • Research articles cover a range of topics from food dehydration to energy optimization, demonstrating versatility and depth.
  4. Professional Experience:
    • Teaching roles span various levels, including doctoral, engineering, and technician cycles, showing her ability to educate and mentor students at multiple levels.
    • Leadership roles in research teams and involvement in developing practical work for students reflect strong leadership and educational impact.
  5. Administrative and Organizational Contributions:
    • Extensive experience in administrative roles, including heading the Initial Training Division, highlights her ability to manage and revise training programs effectively.
    • Organization of international conferences and contributions to the academic community further underscore her commitment to advancing her field.
  6. International and National Collaborations:
    • Established collaborations with multiple institutions both in France and Africa demonstrate her ability to build and maintain strong professional networks.
  7. Industry Experience and Expertise:
    • Managerial roles in industry and support for young entrepreneurs show her practical expertise and commitment to applying research in real-world contexts.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Research Visibility and Impact:
    • While she has an impressive publication record, increasing the visibility of her work through high-impact journals or more high-profile research collaborations could further enhance her recognition.
  2. Funding and Grants:
    • Although she has received various grants and scholarships, securing more substantial or diverse funding sources could support larger-scale research projects and increase her research’s reach.
  3. Technology Integration:
    • Incorporating newer technologies or methods in research (e.g., advanced computational techniques, emerging analytical tools) could enhance the scope and impact of her work.

Yvette Jiokap Nono is an esteemed Associate Professor in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Environment, IUT, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon. With extensive experience in both academia and industry, she has significantly contributed to research and education in her field.

Yvette JIOKAP NONO is an Associate Professor specializing in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering at the University of Ngaoundere-Cameroon. She has a PhD in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering from the National Polytechnic Institute of Lorraine (INPL), France.

Education πŸŽ“

– PhD in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering, INPL, France, 1997
– Master’s Degree (DEA) in Biotechnology and Food Process Engineering, INPL, France, 1992
– Engineer’s Degree in Agricultural and Food Industries, ENSIA-SIARC, France, 1992
– Diploma of General Studies in Food Industries (DEGIA), ENSIA-SIARC, France, 1991

Experience πŸ“Š

– Research collaborations and internships in France and Cameroon
– Teaching experience at the University of Ngaoundere
– Industry experience in pasta production and supporting young entrepreneurs

Research Interest πŸ”¬

– Value Chains of Local Resources and Sustainable Development
– Conservation, Transformation, and Valorization of Agricultural Resources

Awards πŸ†

– AUF Excellence Scholarship
– Funding from FICU for research projects

Publications πŸ“„

1. TSOPWO ZENA C. and JIOKAP NONO Y., 2024. Investigating intermittent immersion during osmotic dehydration of mango (Mangifera indica L. Moench). Part A: Determination of optimal conditions for mango (Mangifera indica L. Moench) dehydration impregnation by immersion (D2I) and intermittent immersion (D3I), Heliyon 10 (2024) e35808,

2. KENNE MELI V.I., FTATSI MBETMI G.-de-P., MAKA TAGA C. and JIOKAP NONO Y., 2024. Review on water evaporative cooling low-cost devices for tomato fruit preservation. International Journal of Engineering & Technology, 13(2), 272-280.