Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Mr. Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Wollo University, Ethiopia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Kedir Derbie Mekonnen embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2011-2016) from Wollo University, Kombolcha Institute of Technology, Ethiopia, completing a project on bio-ethanol production from corn cob. His academic endeavors culminated in a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Process Engineering) from Bahir Dar University in 2020. His thesis, Synthesis and Characterization of Biodiesel from Desert Date (Balanites Aegyptiaca) Seed Kernel Oil, reflects his dedication to renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Kedir’s professional career began in December 2016 as a Production Chemist at Kombolcha Tannery PLC. Here, he gained hands-on experience in leather production, waste management, and chemical formulation. Transitioning to academia in 2017, he served as an Assistant Lecturer at Wollo University, later advancing to the position of Lecturer in 2020. His role includes teaching, mentoring students, conducting research, and leading laboratory sessions.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Kedir’s research focuses on biodiesel production, catalysis, and renewable energy. His Master's thesis demonstrates innovative approaches to utilizing desert date seed kernel oil for biodiesel synthesis, addressing global energy challenges. As a lecturer, he actively reviews and conducts research, contributing to Ethiopia’s knowledge base in process engineering.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his work in academia and industry, Kedir has impacted the fields of chemical engineering and renewable energy. His efforts in biodiesel production and waste management have practical implications for sustainable development in Ethiopia. He has also played a vital role in shaping future engineers through his teaching and mentorship at Wollo University.

📖 Academic Cites

Kedir’s academic contributions are recognized in scholarly circles, with publications and research work cited by peers. His focus on biodiesel production and environmental sustainability has garnered attention in the field of chemical engineering.

💻 Technical Skills

Kedir possesses a robust set of technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, SPSS, Design Expert, E-Draw Max, LINGO, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, and MATLAB. These tools empower him to conduct sophisticated simulations, data analyses, and process designs, enhancing his research and teaching capabilities.

🎓 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer at Wollo University, Kedir has enriched the learning experiences of countless students. His responsibilities include preparing and delivering lectures, designing laboratory sessions, advising on student projects, and crafting curriculum materials. His Higher Diploma in Higher Education Teaching further underscores his commitment to educational excellence.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Kedir envisions a future where renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s development. His work in biodiesel research and education aims to inspire innovation in chemical engineering. By mentoring students and contributing to groundbreaking research, he is leaving a lasting legacy that will shape the next generation of engineers and scientists.

🌟 Key Highlights

  • Innovative Research: Focus on renewable energy through biodiesel production.
  • Industrial Experience: Expertise in leather production and waste management as a Production Chemist.
  • Teaching Excellence: Significant contributions to student learning and mentorship.
  • Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of industry-standard software and tools.
  • Sustainability Advocate: Dedication to environmental sustainability through research and practice.

📖Notable Publications

 

João Gomes Oliveira Neto | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Dr. João Gomes Oliveira Neto | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), Brazil

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

João Gomes de Oliveira Neto began his academic journey with a Technical Education in Agroindustry at the Maria Cavalcante Costa State School of Professional Education. His exceptional abilities were recognized early on, winning First Place in the Science Fair in the category of Environmental Sciences. This foundational experience ignited his passion for chemistry and scientific inquiry. He pursued his Bachelor's in Chemistry at the Federal Institute of Ceará (IFCE), focusing on the synthesis and characterization of microspheres doped with iron and nickel for environmental applications. This work underscored his commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovative chemical solutions.

🏫 Professional and Research Endeavors

João's professional journey includes roles as a monitor and research fellow at IFCE, contributing to analytical chemistry projects and working on galactomannan extractions for microsphere synthesis. He furthered his expertise with a Master’s in Materials Science (2017–2019) and a Ph.D. in Materials Science (2019–2022) from the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA). His doctoral research, under the guidance of Adenilson Oliveira dos Santos, focused on the development of sulfated double salts for optical and thermochemical devices, showcasing his proficiency in advanced material synthesis and characterization. João currently serves as a visiting professor and researcher in the Postgraduate Program in Materials Science at UFMA, contributing to cutting-edge studies in crystallography and molecular structures.

💡 Research Focus and Contributions

João’s research spans a diverse range of areas: Environmental Chemistry: Designing alginate and chitosan microspheres for heavy metal removal and synthetic fuel purification, Materials Science: Investigating organic and inorganic crystals, biopolymers, and their applications in optical devices and cancer treatment, Biochemistry: Evaluating the chemical and biological properties of natural compounds like Euterpe oleracea (açaí). His notable contributions include a 3rd place award at the ICAIC International Conference for his work on the structural and thermal properties of crystal catena compounds.

📖 Impact and Influence

João’s academic output has garnered significant recognition, with publications in high-impact journals and multiple awards, including the prestigious CAPES scholarships during his master’s and doctoral studies. His research findings have been presented at international platforms, influencing both academia and industry.

🛠️ Technical Skills

João is skilled in: Advanced crystallography techniques and X-ray diffraction, Biopolymer synthesis and environmental chemistry applications, Characterization of materials for biomedical and optical uses.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a monitor during his undergraduate studies and now as a visiting professor, João has shown a strong commitment to mentoring students. His dedication to education is evident in his roles as a guide for analytical chemistry and material science research projects.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

João aims to continue bridging gaps between academic research and practical applications. His work in developing sustainable solutions and advancing material science sets the stage for impactful contributions in environmental protection, biochemistry, and optical technologies. João’s journey from a passionate student in Quixadá to an accomplished researcher and educator highlights his unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and its real-world applications.

📖Notable Publications