Muhammad Sarfraz | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Sarfraz | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | University of Engeineering and Technology | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Sarfraz is an accomplished researcher and Associate Professor in Polymer and Process Engineering, with extensive experience in membrane technologies and polymeric materials. He has led the design and fabrication of advanced laboratory setups, contributed to curriculum development, and actively mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students. His research focuses on innovative solutions for carbon dioxide separation, polymer composites, and advanced membrane processes, addressing both industrial and environmental challenges. He has participated in numerous international conferences, workshops, and training programs, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination. Dr. Sarfraz’s work reflects a strong integration of experimental expertise and applied research, producing practical outcomes while advancing fundamental understanding in his field. His scholarly contributions are significant, as reflected in Scopus, showcasing measurable research impact: 2,525 citations, 167 documents, and an h-index of 29.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. M. Sarfraz, “Synergistic effect of adding graphene oxide and ZIF-301 to polysulfone to develop high performance mixed matrix membranes for selective carbon dioxide separation from post …,” Journal of Membrane Science, vol. 514, pp. 35–43, 2016.

2. M. Sarfraz, “Synergistic effect of incorporating ZIF-302 and graphene oxide to polysulfone to develop highly selective mixed-matrix membranes for carbon dioxide separation from wet post …,” Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, vol. 36, pp. 154–162, 2016.

3. M. Sarfraz, “A novel zeolitic imidazolate framework based mixed-matrix membrane for efficient CO2 separation under wet conditions,” Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers, vol. 65, pp. 427–436, 2016.

4. M. Sarfraz, “Combined Effect of CNTs with ZIF-302 into Polysulfone to Fabricate MMMs for Enhanced CO2 Separation from Flue Gases,” Arabian Journal of Science and Engineering, vol. 41, pp. 2573–2582, 2016.

5. A. Sohail, M. Sarfraz, S. Nawaz, Z. Tahir, “Enhancing carbon capture efficiency of zeolite-embedded polyether sulfone mixed-matrix membranes via annealing process,” Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 399, 136617, 2023.

Francisco Carrasco-Marin l Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Francisco Carrasco-Marin l Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Full Prof at University of Granada, Spain

Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín, a Full Professor at the University of Granada, is a leading researcher in advanced carbon materials, heterogeneous catalysis, and environmental technologies. With over 236 publications (70% in Q1 journals), two international patents, and an h-index of 51 (Scopus), his work has attracted more than 10,000 citations, reflecting strong scientific impact. He has supervised 19 Ph.D. theses and coordinated numerous international collaborations, hosting researchers from around the world. His research focuses on sustainable materials for energy storage, water purification, and CO₂ conversion. Prof. Carrasco-Marín has led or participated in 50 research projects, significantly contributing to innovation and application-driven science. A dedicated academic leader, he has served as Ph.D. program coordinator and president of the Doctoral School Management Committee at the University of Granada. His achievements, leadership in scientific societies, and international outreach position him as a distinguished figure in the field of inorganic and environmental chemistry.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín completed his degree in Chemical Sciences at the University of Granada in 1984 and earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences from the same institution in 1988, graduating with the highest distinction, “Cum Laude,” and receiving the Extraordinary Doctorate Award. His early academic excellence was further strengthened by a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at Pennsylvania State University (USA) from 1989 to 1990, where he specialized in materials science and engineering. His education reflects a strong foundation in chemistry, advanced materials, and research methodology, preparing him for a distinguished academic and research career. Throughout his academic training, he consistently focused on the development and application of carbon-based materials, catalysis, and environmental technologies. His educational journey has been instrumental in shaping his interdisciplinary expertise across chemistry, materials science, and environmental applications, which continues to influence his ongoing research and professional contributions.

Professional Experience

Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín has built an impressive professional trajectory spanning over three decades. After his postdoctoral training, he became an Associate Professor at the University of Jaén in 1993 before joining the University of Granada in 1994, where he was promoted to Full Professor in 2009. He has been an active member and, later, Chair of the UGR-Carbon Research Group, contributing to pioneering work in polyfunctional carbon-based materials. He has coordinated major national and international research projects, evaluated research proposals for organizations across Spain, Argentina, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia, and organized significant international scientific events. His leadership extends to academic administration, serving as Coordinator of the Ph.D. Program in Chemistry and President of the Doctoral School Management Committee. Additionally, he has mentored numerous international scholars, fostering strong global collaborations. His professional experience showcases a perfect blend of teaching, research, leadership, and innovation.

Research Interest

Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín’s research interests lie primarily in the fields of advanced carbon materials, heterogeneous catalysis, environmental decontamination, and electrochemical energy storage. His work explores the design and synthesis of carbon aerogels and xerogels, 3D-printed catalytic materials, and eco-friendly adsorbents derived from agricultural waste. In recent years, his research has pivoted towards sustainable technologies, including the photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ into hydrocarbons and the development of supercapacitor electrodes. His interdisciplinary approach integrates materials chemistry, nanotechnology, and environmental engineering to solve pressing challenges in clean energy and water purification. Additionally, he has advanced the use of artificial intelligence in adsorption processes and pioneered novel microreactors for wastewater treatment. His research has both theoretical depth and practical application, positioning him as a leader in sustainable material science and environmental remediation technologies, and contributing significantly to the global effort toward green technologies.

Award and Honor

Throughout his distinguished career, Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to science and academia. Early in his career, he received the Extraordinary Doctorate Award from the University of Granada, recognizing his outstanding doctoral work. He has been consistently ranked among the top researchers at the University of Granada, notably occupying the 56th global position at the university and third in Inorganic Chemistry as of 2020. His leadership roles in scientific societies, such as Vice President of the Spanish Carbon Group and board member of the Royal Spanish Society of Chemistry’s Specialized Adsorption Group, highlight the esteem of his peers. He has also been invited to evaluate research projects for prestigious international organizations like FONCyT, Colciencias, ANEP, and CONACYT. His awards and honors reflect his excellence in research, mentorship, and international collaboration, consolidating his reputation as a highly respected figure in the global scientific community.

Conclusion

Prof. Francisco Carrasco-Marín’s career reflects a profound commitment to research excellence, education, and scientific innovation. With a robust academic background, extensive professional experience, impactful research contributions, and numerous accolades, he stands out as a leader in materials chemistry and environmental technology. His interdisciplinary research, spanning advanced carbon materials to sustainable energy solutions, addresses some of the most critical challenges of our time. His mentorship of young researchers and leadership in international collaborations demonstrate his dedication to nurturing future generations of scientists. Prof. Carrasco-Marín’s achievements make him a highly deserving candidate for any recognition, including a Best Researcher Award. His career embodies a rare combination of scientific rigor, practical innovation, and academic leadership, contributing significantly to the advancement of chemistry and environmental science globally.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Chemometric modeling of the adsorption mechanism of Cu(II) in aqueous solution onto functionalized materials: Integrating artificial neural networks and porous structure characterization
    Authors: Warren-Vega, W.M.; Cornejo-León, S.; Zárate-Guzmán, A.I.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Romero-Cano, L.A.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Bifunctional catalysts based on carbon-coated manganese microspheres applied in the heterogeneous electro-fenton process for tetracycline degradation
    Authors: Fajardo-Puerto, E.; Elmouwahidi, A.; Amaro-Gahete, J.; Pérez-Cadenas, A.F.; Carrasco-Marín, F.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Biobased Carbon-Fungus Materials for Remediation of Produced Water in Unconventional Oil Reservoirs
    Authors: Zapata, K.; Rosales, S.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Franco, C.A.; Cortés, F.B.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Chemical and structural changes of asphaltenes during oxygen chemisorption at low and high-pressure
    Authors: Médina, O.E.; Moncayo-Riascos, I.; Heidari, S.; Cortés, F.B.; Franco, C.A.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Synthesis of porous carbon xerogel adsorbents with tailored hierarchical porosity and morphology for the selective removal of sulfamethoxazole from water
    Authors: Ortiz-Ramos, U.; Bailón-García, E.; Pérez-Cadenas, A.F.; Leyva-Ramos, R.; Carrasco-Marín, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Corrigendum to ‘3D printing in photocatalysis: methods and capabilities for the improved performance’
    Authors: Aguirre-Cortés, J.M.; Moral-Rodríguez, A.I.; Bailón-García, E.; Pérez-Cadenas, A.F.; Carrasco-Marín, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Optimization of hydrochar synthesis conditions for enhanced Cd(II) and Pb(II) adsorption in mono and multimetallic systems
    Authors: González-Fernández, L.A.; Medellín-Castillo, N.A.; Navarro-Frómeta, A.E.; Sanchez-Polo, M.; Carrasco-Marín, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Enhanced Photodegradation of Sulfamethoxazole Through Cutting-Edge Titania-Zirconia-Based Materials
    Authors: Bensmaine, Z.; El-Korso, S.; Moral-Rodríguez, A.I.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Bailón-García, E.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Size-miniaturization of TiO2-ZrO2 coupled semiconductors to develop highly efficient visible-driven photocatalysts for the degradation of drugs in wastewater
    Authors: Aguirre-Cortés, J.M.; Munguía-Ubierna, Á.; Moral-Rodríguez, A.I.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Bailón-García, E.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Transforming Petrochemical Processes: Cutting-Edge Advances in Kaolin Catalyst Fabrication (Review Article)
    Authors: Al-Ameri, O.B.; Alzuhairi, M.A.; Bailón-García, E.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Amaro-Gahete, J.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

Andre Pereira | Materials Science | Emerging Scientist Excellence Award

Assist Prof Dr. Andre Pereira | Materials Science | Emerging Scientist Excellence Award

Professor Auxiliar at Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Portugal

Dr. André Miguel Trindade Pereira is an accomplished physicist with a PhD from the University of Porto and extensive teaching experience as an Assistant Professor in the Physics and Astronomy Department. His research focuses on thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting and refrigeration, with notable stints at prestigious institutions like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Imperial College London. Dr. Pereira’s commitment to education is evident through his diverse course offerings, including nanotechnologies and advanced laboratory techniques. He has actively participated in various international research projects, showcasing his collaborative spirit and dedication to advancing knowledge in his field. With a strong academic foundation and significant contributions to physics research, Dr. Pereira is a compelling candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Profile:

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Educational Background: Dr. Pereira holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Porto, supported by a Master’s in Computational Methods and a Bachelor’s in Physics. This strong foundation in both theoretical and applied physics is indicative of his capability in advanced research.
  2. Extensive Teaching Experience: As an Assistant Professor at the Physics and Astronomy Department, he has taught a variety of courses ranging from Nanotechnologies to Advanced Laboratory techniques. His ability to teach and communicate complex concepts demonstrates his deep understanding of the subject matter and commitment to education.
  3. Significant Research Contributions: Dr. Pereira has a diverse research background, having worked at prestigious institutions such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Imperial College London. His focus on thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting and refrigeration shows his commitment to addressing real-world problems through innovative research.
  4. International Collaborations: His experience as an academic visitor at Imperial College London and collaborations across institutions highlight his ability to work in international research environments, enhancing his research’s relevance and impact.
  5. Active in Research Projects: His involvement in multiple research projects, including European initiatives, indicates a proactive approach to advancing knowledge in his field. This engagement also reflects his ability to secure funding and collaborate effectively with peers.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Publication Record: While the CV does not explicitly list his publications, enhancing visibility in top-tier journals could strengthen his profile. Increasing the number of high-impact publications would also boost his recognition in the scientific community.
  2. Community Engagement: Greater involvement in outreach or community science initiatives could enhance his public profile. Engaging with broader audiences can help bridge the gap between academia and the public, showcasing the importance of physics research.
  3. Leadership Roles: Pursuing leadership positions within research projects or academic committees could further demonstrate his capabilities. Taking on more significant roles could lead to new opportunities for mentorship and influence in shaping research directions.

Education:

Dr. André Miguel Trindade Pereira has a robust educational background in the field of physics. He earned his PhD in Physics from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto in 2010, following his Master’s degree in Computational Methods in Science and Engineering from the Faculty of Engineering at the same university, which he completed in 2006 with a classification of “Very Good.” Earlier, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto in 2004, achieving an average grade of 13/20. This comprehensive education has provided him with a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of physics, equipping him for a successful academic and research career.

Experience:

Dr. André Miguel Trindade Pereira is an accomplished physicist with a robust academic and research background. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Porto, complemented by a Master’s in Computational Methods and a Bachelor’s in Physics. Since 2016, he has served as an Assistant Professor in the Physics and Astronomy Department at the University of Porto, where he teaches a diverse range of courses, including Nanotechnologies and Advanced Laboratory Techniques. His research experience is extensive, having worked as a Post-Doctoral Researcher at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and a Research Associate at Imperial College London, focusing on thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting and refrigeration. Additionally, Dr. Pereira has collaborated on significant European research projects and engaged in international academic exchanges, enhancing his contributions to the field. His commitment to education, research, and collaboration positions him as a leading figure in his area of expertise.

Research Focus:

Dr. André Miguel Trindade Pereira’s research focuses on advanced materials, particularly in the realms of nanotechnology and magnetism. His work explores rare-earth nanostratified compounds and their novel applications in refrigeration and magnetic sensors, emphasizing thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting and micro-refrigeration. By employing computational methods and experimental techniques, he aims to enhance the functionality and efficiency of these materials in practical applications. Dr. Pereira’s interdisciplinary approach, combining physics, engineering, and nanoscience, positions him at the forefront of innovative solutions to pressing technological challenges, particularly in energy sustainability and materials characterization.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Multifunctional Nanoparticles with Superparamagnetic Mn(II) Ferrite and Luminescent Gold Nanoclusters for Multimodal Imaging
    • Authors: Casteleiro, B., Rocha, M., Sousa, A.R., Pereira, C., Farinha, J.P.S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  • A Photo-Thermoelectric Twist to Wireless Energy Transfer: Radial Flexible Thermoelectric Device Powered by a High-Power Laser Beam
    • Authors: Maia, M., Pires, A.L., Rocha, M., Auguste, J.-L., Pereira, A.M.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  • Tailoring the Electron Trapping Effect of a Biocompatible Triboelectric Hydrogel by Graphene Oxide Incorporation towards Self-Powered Medical Electronics
    • Authors: Pereira, A.T., Rodrigues, C.R.S., Silva, A.C., Gonçalves, I.C., Pereira, A.M.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  • Landau theory-based relaxational modeling of first-order magnetic transition dynamics in magnetocaloric materials
    • Authors: Costa, R.M., Lovell, E., Almeida, R., Araújo, J.P., Belo, J.H.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 5
  • Development of pH-Sensitive Magnetoliposomes Containing Shape Anisotropic Nanoparticles for Potential Application in Combined Cancer Therapy
    • Authors: Pacheco, A.R.F., Cardoso, B.D., Pires, A., Rodrigues, A.R.O., Castanheira, E.M.S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 6

Conclusion:

Dr. André Miguel Trindade Pereira exemplifies the qualities of a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His robust educational background, extensive teaching experience, and significant research contributions set him apart. By addressing areas such as publication visibility and community engagement, he could further enhance his profile. Overall, Dr. Pereira’s dedication to physics and his collaborative spirit make him a deserving candidate for this award.