Ms. Nihan Atak | microfluidics | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Nihan Atak | Microfluidics | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nihan Atak , JOANNEUM RESEARCH – MATERIALS , Austria.

Ms. Nihan Atak is a dedicated and innovative PhD candidate in Bioengineering with over 5 years of research experience in microfluidics and neuron-on-chip technologies πŸ§ πŸ”¬. Currently pursuing her PhD at Joanneum Research and TU Wien in Austria πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ή, she specializes in the design and analysis of foil-based microfluidic devices and neural cell behavior under electrical stimulation. Her collaborative mindset, strong problem-solving skills, and passion for advancing neurobiological research make her a valuable contributor to interdisciplinary teams πŸ€πŸ’‘. With international research experience in Spain and the Netherlands, Nihan combines technical excellence with global scientific exposure πŸŒπŸ“Š.

Professional Profile

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Education & Experience

πŸŽ“ Education:

  • πŸŽ“ Master Thesis Student | BIOS Lab-on-a-Chip, University of Twente (2018–2019)

  • πŸŽ“ Research Master Student | Biomimetics Group, Izmir Institute of Technology (2017)

  • πŸŽ“ Undergraduate Researcher | Izmir Institute of Technology (2015–2016)

πŸ§ͺ Experience:

  • πŸ“š PhD Candidate | Joanneum Research and TU Wien, Graz & Vienna (2021–Present)

  • 🌍 Guest Researcher | Innoprot, Bilbao, Spain (Feb 2024)

  • 🌍 Guest Researcher | Tecnalia, San Sebastian, Spain (Apr–May 2023)

Summary Suitability

Nihan Atak is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, recognized for her groundbreaking work in bioengineering, particularly in microfluidic chip design for neuron-on-chip applications. As a PhD candidate at Joanneum Research and TU Wien, she has demonstrated scientific leadership and innovation in developing scalable, high-precision platforms for in vitro neuronal studies. With over five years of hands-on research experience across Austria, the Netherlands, Turkey, and Spain, Nihan combines advanced fabrication techniques with neurobiological insight, contributing significantly to brain-on-chip technologies and electrical stimulation studies.

Professional DevelopmentΒ 

Ms. Nihan Atak’s professional journey is shaped by hands-on training in photolithography, nanoimprinting, and soft lithography techniques for microfluidics fabrication πŸ§ͺπŸ› οΈ. Her involvement in cutting-edge neural chip models and primary cell isolation has enhanced her skills in experimental neuroscience and biomedical device validation βš™οΈπŸ”. She thrives in both independent research and dynamic team settings, showing adaptability, multitasking, and calmness under pressure πŸ’ΌπŸŒŸ. Nihan also leverages image analysis tools to quantify neuron responses, contributing to advanced diagnostics and therapeutic innovation πŸŽ―πŸ“‰. Her global exposure through guest researcher roles continues to enrich her professional and cross-cultural competencies πŸŒπŸ’‘.

Research FocusΒ 

Nihan’s research focuses on neuro bioengineering and microfluidic technology πŸ§ πŸ”¬. Her work bridges microdevice fabrication with neuronal cell behavior analysis, particularly in neuron-on-chip platforms. She develops and validates miniaturized systems to study neural responses to stimuli like electrical currents ⚑🧫. By working with glioblastoma lines and primary embryonic brain cells, her research supports advancements in neural interface development and brain disease modeling 🧬πŸ§ͺ. This interdisciplinary field merges bioengineering, neurobiology, and material science, aiming for innovative solutions in personalized medicine and brain-on-chip technologies πŸ§‰πŸ› οΈ. Her work holds promise for neurological disease modeling and drug testing platforms πŸš€πŸ’Š.

πŸ… Awards and HonorsΒ 

  • πŸ… Guest Research Fellowship | Innoprot, Spain

  • πŸ… Guest Research Fellowship | Tecnalia, Spain

  • πŸ… International Research Collaboration | University of Twente, Netherlands

  • πŸ… Research Excellence Acknowledgement | Joanneum Research Projects

Publication Top Notes

  1. πŸ“ Conference Paper
    Title: Development of Neuronal Junction Chamber via High-Precision Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Manufacturing
    Event: 2024 MicroTAS Book of Abstracts
    Date: 2024-10-07
    DOI: 10.70477/qzff6707
    Contributor: Nihan Atak

  2. 🧾 Conference Poster
    Title: Microfluidic Chip for In Vitro Neuronal Cell Culture under Electrical Stimulation
    Event: World Congress on Electrical Engineering and Computer Systems and Science (WCEECSS)
    Date: 2024-08
    DOI: 10.11159/icbes24.163
    ISSN: 2369-811X
    Contributors: Ana Ayerdi, Nihan Atak, Meritxell Roura, Lea Tomasova, Alvaro Alvaro, Conor O’Sullivan, Mirko Lohse, Janine Brommert, Andoni Rodriguez, Rodriguez Mora et al.

  3. 🧾 Conference Poster
    Title: Development of Neuronal Junction Chamber via High-Precision Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Manufacturing
    Event: EUROoCs 2024
    Date: 2024-07-03
    DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.15197886
    Contributor: Nihan Atak

  4. 🎀 Conference Presentation
    Title: Large-Scale Manufacturing of Foil-Based Microfluidic Chips
    Event: Millstatt Tech Forum
    Date: 2024-06-04
    DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.15198052
    Contributor: Nihan Atak

  5. 🧾 Conference Poster
    Title: Large-Scale Manufacturing of Foil-Based Microfluidic Chips for Neuron Cell Culture and Axon Outgrowth Monitoring
    Event: ΞΌTAS 2023
    Date: 2023-10-15
    DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.15198318
    Contributor: Nihan Atak

  6. 🎀 Conference Presentation
    Title: Manufacturing of Foil-Based Microfluidic Chips for Neuron Cell Culture and Axon Outgrowth Monitoring
    Event: SelectBIO
    Date: 2023-06-20
    DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.15198145
    Contributor: Nihan Atak

πŸ“– Journal Articles

  1. πŸ“„ Journal Article
    Title: Cost-effective and Rapid Prototyping of PMMA Microfluidic Device via Polymer-Assisted Bonding
    Journal: Microfluidics and Nanofluidics
    Date: 2021-08
    DOI: 10.1007/s10404-021-02466-3
    ISSN: 1613-4982 / 1613-4990
    Contributors: Alper Baran SΓΆzmen, Ahu Arslan YΔ±ldΔ±z

  2. πŸ“„ Journal Article
    Title: Flow-Free Microfluidic Device for Quantifying Chemotaxis in Spermatozoa
    Journal: Analytical Chemistry
    Date: 2020-02-18
    DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b05183
    ISSN: 0003-2700 / 1520-6882
    Contributors: J.T.W. Berendsen, Stella A. Kruit, Nihan Atak, Ellen Willink, Loes I. Segerink

Conclusion

Nihan Atak’s research excellence, international collaboration, and novel contributions to microfluidics and neurobiology make her a highly deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award. Her interdisciplinary expertise and ability to translate complex engineering solutions into impactful biological tools place her at the forefront of innovation in bioengineering. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also has practical implications for neuroscience, disease modeling, and lab-on-chip development.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin DURGUN | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin DURGUN | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin DURGUN , BartΔ±n University , Turkey.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin DURGUN πŸŽ“ is a dedicated civil engineering researcher specializing in construction materials. He earned his Ph.D. from Istanbul Technical University in 2017, focusing on nano-silica in self-compacting concrete. With 21 SCI-indexed journal publications πŸ“š, he has made significant contributions in cement, concrete rheology, and sustainable materials. He has participated in over 10 research projects and reviewed 150+ papers for reputed journals πŸ§ͺ. Currently serving at BartΔ±n University, Dr. Durgun continues to guide graduate students, publish scholarly work, and advance innovations in durable, high-performance concrete technologies πŸ—οΈ.

Professional Profile

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Education and Experience

  • πŸ“˜ B.Sc. in Civil Engineering – 2007

  • πŸ§ͺ M.Sc. in Construction Materials – 2011

  • πŸŽ“ Ph.D. in Construction Materials (Nano-Silica in SCC) – 2017

  • πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Research Assistant, Istanbul Technical University – 2008–2017

  • πŸ‘¨β€πŸ« Assistant Professor, BartΔ±n University – 2018–2021

  • πŸŽ–οΈ Associate Professor, BartΔ±n University – 2021–Present

Suitability Summary

Associate Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin Durgun is a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of his extensive contributions to the field of civil engineering materials and concrete technology. With a robust academic foundation, Dr. Durgun earned his Ph.D. from Istanbul Technical University, where he explored the role of nano-silica in enhancing the rheological behavior of self-compacting concreteβ€”a subject that remains highly relevant to sustainable construction practices.

Professional DevelopmentΒ 

Dr. Durgun has cultivated a robust academic and professional portfolio through his engagement in multidisciplinary concrete technology research 🧱. His work explores fresh concrete rheology, rebar corrosion, alkali-activated binders, and geopolymer development 🌍. He has supervised graduate theses, delivered advanced courses πŸ§‘β€πŸŽ“, authored 6 book chapters, and presented in 39 international conferences 🌐. Actively involved in reviewing top-tier SCI-indexed journal submissions πŸ“‘, he remains a respected peer reviewer and academic contributor. A member of ACI (American Concrete Institute) πŸ›οΈ, he consistently expands his professional network while advancing the understanding of durable and eco-friendly construction solutions.

Research FocusΒ 

Dr. Muhammed Yasin DURGUN focuses on sustainable and high-performance civil engineering materials πŸ—οΈ. His key interests include cement chemistry, fresh and hardened concrete behavior, self-consolidating concrete, and rheology of cementitious systems. He explores the use of nano-materials, blast furnace slag, geopolymers, and alkali-activated binders to enhance durability, workability, and structural integrity πŸ’§. His research also investigates rebar corrosion, microstructural analysis, and the integration of industrial by-products into concrete mixes ♻️. These studies aim to improve concrete’s sustainability and performance under varied environmental conditions, supporting green construction practices and infrastructure longevity 🌱.

Awards and Honors

  • πŸ₯‡ Completed TUBITAK 1001-funded project on Nano-Silica in SCC

  • πŸ§ͺ Researcher in multiple nationally funded materials science projects

  • πŸ“š Reviewer for 150+ SCI-indexed journal articles

  • πŸ—οΈ 21 SCI-indexed journal publications in top international journals

  • 🎀 39 international conference presentations

  • πŸ“– 6 book chapters in civil and materials engineering

  • πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Supervised multiple graduate theses (M.Sc. and Ph.D.)

  • πŸŽ“ Delivered 18 courses in undergraduate and graduate education

  • πŸ›οΈ Member of American Concrete Institute (ACI)

Publication Top Notes

  • High temperature resistance of concretes with GGBFS, waste glass powder, and colemanite ore wastes after different cooling conditions
    πŸ“Œ Authors: MY Durgun, AH SevinΓ§
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 196, pp. 66–81, 2019
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 73
    πŸ” Focus: Evaluates thermal resistance and residual mechanical properties of concrete containing GGBFS, glass powder, and colemanite after exposure to high temperatures and varying cooling regimes.

  • Investigation of durability properties of concrete pipes incorporating blast furnace slag and ground basaltic pumice as fine aggregates
    πŸ“Œ Authors: H BΔ±nΔ±ci, MY Durgun, T RΔ±zaoğlu, M KoluΓ§olak
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Scientia Iranica, Vol. 19, No. 3, pp. 366–372, 2012
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 72
    πŸ” Focus: Examines the durability performance of concrete pipes using alternative fine aggregates like slag and pumice.

  • Rheological and fresh properties of reduced fine content self-compacting concretes produced with different particle sizes of nano SiOβ‚‚
    πŸ“Œ Authors: MY Durgun, HN Atahan
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 142, pp. 431–443, 2017
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 57
    πŸ” Focus: Investigates how nano-silica particle size affects rheology and fresh behavior in self-compacting concrete with low fine content.

  • A Taguchi approach for investigating the engineering properties of concretes incorporating barite, colemanite, basaltic pumice and ground blast furnace slag
    πŸ“Œ Authors: AH Sevinc, MY Durgun, M Eken
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 135, pp. 343–351, 2017
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 52
    πŸ” Focus: Utilizes Taguchi statistical methods to evaluate mechanical and durability properties of concrete with multiple industrial waste additions.

  • Effect of high temperature on polypropylene fiber-reinforced mortars containing colemanite wastes
    πŸ“Œ Authors: MY Durgun, S Γ–zen, K Karakuzu, V Kobya, SH Bayqra, et al.
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 316, Article ID 125827, 2022
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 50
    πŸ” Focus: Studies thermal stability and post-fire performance of polypropylene fiber-enhanced mortars with colemanite.

  • Strength, elastic and microstructural properties of SCCs with colloidal nano silica addition
    πŸ“Œ Authors: MY Durgun, HN Atahan
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 158, pp. 295–307, 2018
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 42
    πŸ” Focus: Explores how colloidal nano-silica modifies strength, elasticity, and microstructure in self-compacting concretes.

  • Corrosion of basaltic pumice, colemanite, barite and blast furnace slag coated rebars in concretes
    πŸ“Œ Authors: H Binici, O Aksogan, MY Durgun
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 37, pp. 629–637, 2012
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 42
    πŸ” Focus: Assesses corrosion behavior of rebars coated with industrial waste materials in various concrete matrices.

  • Properties of high-calcium fly ash-based geopolymer concretes improved with high-silica sources
    πŸ“Œ Authors: AH SevinΓ§, MY Durgun
    πŸ“Œ Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 261, Article ID 120014, 2020
    πŸ“Œ Citations: 38
    πŸ” Focus: This study explores the performance of geopolymer concretes produced from high-calcium fly ash, enhanced with high-silica materials such as silica fume and nano-silica. Results show improved mechanical strength, workability, and microstructure, contributing to sustainable binder development and reducing reliance on Portland cement.

Conclusion

With a strong record of scholarly excellence, impactful research, and dedicated mentorship, Associate Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasin Durgun exemplifies the ideals of a leading academic in civil engineering. His continued contributions to the advancement of sustainable and high-performance construction materials make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Dr. Zhi Li | Electromagnetics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhi Li | Electromagnetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhi Li , China Electronics Standardization Institute , China.

Dr. Zhi Li πŸ“‘ is a specialist in computational electromagnetics and antenna engineering at the China Electronics Standardization Institute πŸ‡¨πŸ‡³. With a PhD from the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications πŸŽ“, he focuses on metamaterials, metasurfaces, and advanced RF front-end systems including reflector and lens antennas πŸ›°οΈ. His research has led to innovations in terahertz tri-reflector CATRs and E-band packaging structures βš™οΈ. Dr. Li’s peer-reviewed work in journals like Micromachines and Electronics highlights his impact in high-frequency technology and electromagnetic measurement πŸš€.

Professional Profile

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Education & Experience

  • πŸŽ“ Doctoral Degree

  • πŸ›οΈ Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (School of Electronic Engineering)
    πŸ“… September 2019 – June 2023

  • πŸ§ͺ Technician / Assistant Researcher

  • 🏒 China Electronics Standardization Institute, Beijing
    πŸ“… July 2023 – Present

  • πŸ‘¨β€πŸ« Research/Academic Involvement

  • 🏫 Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (Employment role during PhD)

Summary Suitability

Dr. Zhi Li, currently serving at the China Electronics Standardization Institute, stands out as a deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award for his groundbreaking contributions to high-frequency antenna design, metamaterials, and computational electromagnetics. With a focused and impactful research trajectory, Dr. Li has demonstrated excellence in both theoretical innovation and practical engineering, particularly in developing next-generation RF technologies and compact antenna test systems

Professional DevelopmentΒ 

Dr. Zhi Li’s professional journey blends rigorous academic training with real-world research in high-frequency electromagnetic systems ⚑. During his PhD at BUPT, he investigated metamaterial antennas, low cross-polarization techniques, and waveguide systems πŸ”¬. Post-graduation, he joined the China Electronics Standardization Institute, where he supports national projects and technology standardization 🏒. His development includes contributions to tri-reflector CATRs, E-band RF packaging, and compact antenna testing πŸ“‘. Dr. Li also actively publishes in indexed journals, demonstrating a commitment to both scientific advancement and engineering application πŸ“˜.

Research FocusΒ 

Dr. Zhi Li’s research lies in Antenna Systems and Computational Electromagnetics πŸ›°οΈ. His work is particularly impactful in the design of metamaterials and metasurfaces, where he enhances electromagnetic wave control at high frequencies πŸ”. He specializes in reflector and lens antennas, metamaterial-based antenna arrays, and compact antenna test range (CATR) technologies tailored for terahertz and E-band systems βš™οΈ. These innovations are critical to advancing 5G/6G, satellite communication, and next-gen RF testing systems πŸš€. Dr. Li’s contributions bridge theoretical modeling with experimental validation for real-world applications 🌐.

Awards and HonorsΒ 

  • πŸ₯‡ Doctoral Research Recognition – Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (πŸŽ“)
    (Earned for outstanding research contributions during doctoral studies in electronic engineering)

  • 🌟 Early Career Researcher – China Electronics Standardization Institute
    (Acknowledged as an emerging expert in RF front-end system design and electromagnetic testing)

Publication Top Notes

A Back-to-Back Gap Waveguide-Based Packaging Structure for E-Band Radio Frequency Front-End

πŸ—žοΈ Micromachines
πŸ“… Published: 28 May 2025
πŸ”— DOI: 10.3390/mi16060644
πŸ‘₯ Contributors: Tao Xiu, Zhi Li, Lei Wang, Peng Lin
πŸ“Œ Summary: This work proposes a gap waveguide-based structure for RF front-end packaging in the E-band, enabling efficient and compact high-frequency design solutions.

Design of Low Cross-Polarization Tri-Reflector CATR with Standard Quadric Surfaces Working in Terahertz

πŸ—žοΈ Electronics
πŸ“… Published: July 2021
πŸ”— DOI: 10.3390/electronics10141727
πŸ‘₯ Contributors: Zhi Li, Yuan Yao, Tianyang Chen, Junsheng Yu, Xiaodong Chen
πŸ“Œ Summary: Introduces a novel design method for tri-reflector compact antenna test ranges (CATR) in the terahertz frequency band with low cross-polarization and enhanced measurement accuracy.

The Research on a Method for Measuring Harmonic Emission of Millimeter Radar by Compact Range

πŸ“… Publication Year: Not specified
πŸ”— Full text access: Currently disabled
πŸ‘₯ Contributors: Zhe Liu, Lihua Cai, Zhi Li, Meishuang Chen, Chang Ye
πŸ“Œ Summary: Discusses a measurement method for evaluating harmonic emissions from millimeter-wave radar using a compact range setup, improving precision in electromagnetic compatibility testing.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhi Li exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier researcher: intellectual rigor, innovative thinking, and a strong commitment to solving real-world engineering challenges. His work not only enriches the academic literature but also delivers measurable advances in RF engineering and electromagnetic measurement. These accomplishments make him exceptionally well-suited for the Best Researcher Award, recognizing both his early-career excellence and long-term potential in shaping the future of antenna systems and metamaterial technologies.