Mr. Ngutor Simon Akiiga | Bioprobe | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ngutor Simon Akiiga | Bioprobe | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Ngutor Simon Akiiga, Egypt Japan University of Science and Technology, Egypt

Ngutor Simon Akiiga is a dedicated researcher and educator specializing in microfabrication of electrochemical and optical sensing devices. He is currently pursuing an MSc in Nanoscience at the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (E-JUST), where his research focuses on graphene-based printable sensors for health monitoring and room temperature sensors under the supervision of Professor Ahmed Abdelmoneim. His expertise includes 2D and 3D printable electrochemical sensors, integrated microfluidic devices, and nanomaterials for smart coatings and fuel cell applications. He has received multiple awards, including the E-JUST TICAD7 Scholarship and the African Material Research Society Award. Additionally, he has experience as a Research Assistant at E-JUST and as a Graduate Assistant at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria. His teaching background includes roles at African Model College and Makasi School of Health Technology in Nigeria.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Ngutor Simon Akiiga has a strong research background in nanoscience, microfabrication, and electrochemical and optical sensing devices. His expertise in graphene-based printable sensors, microfluidic devices, and nanomaterials for energy and health applications aligns well with cutting-edge research in materials science and sensor technology.

🎓 Education

  • MSc in Nanoscience (Feb. 2023 – Present)
    Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, Egypt

    • Thesis: Graphene-Based Printable Sensors for Monitoring Sweat Metabolites (Glucose, Lactase) and Room Temperature Sensors
    • Advisor: Professor Ahmed Abdelmoneim
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) (Apr. 2016 – 2017)
    National Teachers Institute, Bauchi State, Nigeria

    • Thesis: Primary Causes of Early Pregnancy among Youths
  • BSc in Industrial Physics (Aug. 2010 – 2014)
    Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria

    • Thesis: The Effect of Organic Additives (Rice Husk and Groundnut Shell) on the Compressive Strength of Clay Bricks
    • Advisor: Professor Iorkyaa Ahemen

🏢 Work Experience

  • Research Assistant (2023 – Present)
    Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, Egypt

    • Graphene-Based Electrochemical Biosensors for Health and Energy Applications
    • Supervisor: Professor Ahmed Abdelmoneim
    • Key contributions:
      • Developed multi-layered graphene via liquid-phase exfoliation
      • Designed and fabricated paper-based microfluidic devices
      • Created a novel microfluidic paper using ES-1B Photoacid generator
      • Worked on 2D nanomaterials for smart coated windows and biofuel cells
      • Carried out training on 2D, 3D, and Gravure Printing
  • Graduate Assistant (2010 – 2015)
    Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria

    • Molecular characterization of the light response in Alternaria alternata
    • Supervisor: Professor Ahemen Iorkyaa
    • Key contributions:
      • Synthesized rare-earth doped Na₃ₓGd₂₋ₓZr₂O₇: kEr³⁺ thermographic phosphors
      • Investigated temperature-sensing properties of phosphors
      • Used XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, Raman, EDS, XPS, UV-Vis for characterization
      • Supervised undergraduate students and marked exam scripts
  • Class Teacher (Physics) (Jan. 2021 – Present)
    African Model College, Ugba, Nigeria

    • Taught PHY 141 (Electricity and Magnetism) to 50 students
  • Seasonal Course Instructor (Aug. 2018 – 2020)
    Makasi School of Health Technology, Ugba, Nigeria

    • Taught Environmental Health Science

🏆 Honors & Awards

  • 📜 Certificate of Reviewing (Apr. 2024)
    • Results in Engineering, Elsevier
  • 🥇 ARUA CoE-MEN Award (Oct. 2023)
    • Winner of Team Project: Nano-Based Chip for Rapid Detection of Sepsis
  • 🏅 Biophysics in Africa Conference (Sept. 2023)
    • African Light Source and African Physical Society
  • 🎖️ Certificate of Participation (Nov. 2023)
    • African Light Source and African Physical Society
  • 🏆 Certificate of Award (June 2023)
    • Key Performance Indicators for Government Effectiveness in Africa, Egypt
  • 🎓 E-JUST TICAD7 Scholarship Award (Feb. 2023 – Present)
    • Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology
  • 🥇 African Material Research Society Award (Aug. 2021)
    • Winner of Team Project: Theranostics Nanoformulation for TB Therapy & Monitoring
  • 📜 Digital Pedagogy Training (Apr. 2021)
    • Certificate of Participation, FUAM

Publication Top Notes:

Enhanced photoelectrochemical transient photoresponse properties of molybdenum oxide film deposited on black silicon

CITED:17

Elemental composition of dust particles and influence of dust addition on photovoltaic module performance

CITED:4

The analysis of dielectric constant, loss factor and Q-factor of selected fruits at microwave frequency range

CITED:2

Effects of Repeated Frying on Physical Properties of Cooking Oil obtained from Local Markets in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria.

CITED:1

Enzyme-Free glucose detection in sweat using 2D inkjet-printed cobalt sulfide anchored on graphene in a paper-based microfluidic device

CITED:0

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sourav Chattaraj | Agriculture Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sourav Chattaraj | Agriculture Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sourav Chattaraj, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, India

Dr. Sourav Chattaraj is an Assistant Professor (Research) at the Centre for Industrial Biotechnology Research, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar. He holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Raiganj University, with his doctoral research focusing on the formulation of fish feed using brewery waste, freshwater algae, and probiotic bacteria for the cultivation of Cirrhinus reba. His academic journey includes an M.Sc. in Applied Microbiology from Vellore Institute of Technology and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology from the University of Burdwan. Dr. Chattaraj specializes in aquaculture, agriculture, biochemistry, emulsion technology, feed technology, fermentation technology, genetics, immunology, metagenomics, medical microbiology, molecular biology, nanotechnology, oncology, phycology, and probiotics. His research contributions have been recognized globally, with 263 citations, an h-index of 11, and an i10-index of 12. He has also earned a position in the World Scientist and University Rankings 2023 by AD Scientific Index, ranking 19th at Raiganj University and 59,525th in India.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award  

Dr. Sourav Chattaraj is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in Microbiology, Aquaculture, Agriculture, Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology. His impressive research output, high citation metrics, and diverse expertise make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in MicrobiologyRaiganj University (2024) 🏅 Thesis: Formulation of fish feed with brewery waste, freshwater algae, and probiotic bacteria for the cultivation of Cirrhinus reba.
  • M.Sc. in Applied MicrobiologyVellore Institute of Technology (2019) 🎖️ (88.8% – First Class)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in MicrobiologyUniversity of Burdwan (2017) 🏆 (65.25% – First Class)
  • Higher Secondary (12th)WBCHSE (2014) 📖 (65.6% – First Class)
  • Secondary (10th)WBBSE (2012) 🎓 (82.85% – First Class)

👨‍💼 Work Experience

  • Assistant Professor (Research)Centre for Industrial Biotechnology Research, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 📚 (Present)
  • Postdoctoral FellowCentre for Biotechnology, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed University, Bhubaneswar 🧪
  • Training Coordinator – Trained UG students at Bankura Sammilani College in Mushroom Cultivation and Enriched Vermicompost Preparation 🍄🌱
  • Guest Lecturer – Delivered invited lectures at Department of Microbiology, Bankura Sammilani College 🎤

🏆 Awards & Achievements

  • World Scientist and University Rankings 2023 by AD Scientific Index 🌍
    • Ranked #19 (Raiganj University), #59525 (Country), #1248884 (World)
    • ID: 4843136
  • Google Scholar Citation263 📊
  • h-index: 11 🔬
  • i10-index: 12 🏅
  • GENBANK Sequence Submissions – Contributed valuable microbiological sequences to global databases 🧬

Publication Top Notes:

Immunostimulatory and antagonistic potential of the methanolic extract of Oedogonium intermedium SCB in Cirrhinus reba challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila

Enzymes-mediated solid waste management: A sustainable practice for recycling

 

Prof. Gerald Thouand | Bioprocess | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Gerald Thouand | Bioprocess | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Gerald Thouand, Nantes Université, France

Gérald Thouand, aged 58, is a distinguished university professor in microbiology, holding an Exceptional Class position at Nantes University’s Technological Institute of La Roche sur Yon. A knight of the French Academic Palms, he has made significant contributions to microbial engineering through his leadership of a research team at the UMR CNRS GEPEA for 24 years. His research focuses on integrating microbiology with analytical physics and data processing to advance biodegradation measurement, pollutant identification, and microbiological quality monitoring in the food industry. Thouand has been an influential figure in the field, serving as president of the International Society for Bioluminescence and Chemiluminescence from 2018 to 2022 and holding editorial roles in several prestigious journals. With over 300 communications, 11 patents, and substantial national and international recognition, including awards and honors, his expertise extends to numerous national and international committees and collaborations.

Professional Profile:

 

Academic and Professional Background

  • 2008: Auditor at the Institute For Higher Studies on Sciences and Technologies (IHEST), Paris 📚
  • 2009-2018: Deputy Regional Delegate for Research and Technology of Pays de la Loire 🌐
  • 2019-Present: Expert in Public Innovation Policy at the Pays de la Loire Region 🏛️

Research Focus

Gérald Thouand led a research team within UMR CNRS GEPEA for 24 years. His work is oriented towards microbial engineering, integrating microbiology, analytical physics, and data processing. He develops innovative methods for measuring biodegradation and identifying pollutants using biosensors and spectroscopic techniques in the food industry 🧪🔬. His research blends applied science with technological innovation to address industrial and societal needs.

Professional Roles and Contributions

  • President: International Society for Bioluminescence and Chemiluminescence (2018-2022) 🌟
  • Editor: Environmental Science and Pollution Research (ESPR, Springer), Sensors 📖
  • Patents and Publications: 11 patents/software, ~300 communications including national and international conferences 📜
  • Citations: 2639, H-Factor: 27, I-10: 54 📈

Awards and Honors

  • Knight of the Order of Academic Palms (Chevalier des Palmes Académiques) 🏅
  • Auditor Appointment: Institute of Higher Studies for Science and Technology (IHEST), Paris 👨‍🎓
  • Winner: National competition for creating an innovative technology company 🏆

Editorial Responsibilities

  • Associate Editor: Frontiers in Microbiology (Nature open access journal) 🧫
  • Editor: ESPR (Environmental Science and Pollution Research), Sensors 📚
  • Guest Editor: Analytical Bioanalytical Chemistry, ESPR, Sensors 📘

Publication top Notes:

Development and application of an automated Raman sensor for bioprocess monitoring: From the laboratory to an algae production platform

CITED:2

Automatic recognition of food bacteria using Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics: a comparative study of multivariate models

CITED:2

Toward the future of OECD/ISO biodegradability testing-new approaches and developments

CITED:17

Raman Spectroscopy Application in Food Waste Analysis: A Step towards a Portable Food Quality-Warning System

CITED:17

Handbook of Cell Biosensors

CITED:12

 

 

 

Dr. Enoch Joel | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Enoch Joel | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Enoch Joel, University of Jos, Nigeria

Enoch Banbilbwa JOEL is a distinguished biochemist and lecturer at the Department of Biochemistry, University of Jos. Born on February 20, 1985, in Gyangyang, Plateau State, Nigeria, Enoch has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing biochemical research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin in 2023, with prior degrees including an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin and University of Jos, respectively. His academic journey is complemented by significant international experience, including roles as a visiting researcher at Liverpool John Moores University and participation in prestigious leadership programs such as the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and the World Youth Forum. Enoch has actively contributed to the field through various workshops and short courses, focusing on molecular docking, cryo-EM, and energy sector strategies. His professional experience spans roles as a Lecturer I at the University of Jos, a volunteer researcher with Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, and a local coordinator for Students for Liberty. His commitment to community engagement is reflected in his mentorship roles and involvement in peacebuilding and youth initiatives. With a strong background in data analysis, communication, and teamwork, Enoch is dedicated to addressing complex biochemical challenges and driving impactful research.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

 

Education

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of Ilorin (Jointly supervised with Liverpool John Moores University, UK) | 2017-2023
  • M.Sc. in Biochemistry, University of Ilorin | 2012-2014
  • B.Sc. in Biochemistry (Upper Division), University of Jos | 2003-2008
  • Private GCE [WASSCE] | 2011
  • Testimonial | 2002
  • First School Leaving Certificate | 1997

International Leadership Opportunities

  • World Youth Forum, Sham El Sheik, Egypt | Nov. 2017
    • Panelist on “Observing the Leaders of the Future”
  • YEE Turkish Summer Cultural Exchange Programme, Istanbul, Turkey | July-Aug. 2018
  • Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Centre (RLC) (West Africa), Accra, Ghana | Aug. 2019-Mar. 2020

Workshops

  • Molecular Docking Workshop, Baze University | Sept. 2023
  • Cryo-EM and CryoVR Augmented Workshop, Jaris Computational Biology Centre | Jan. 2024

Work Experience

  • Lecturer I, University of Jos | Oct. 2022-Present
  • Lecturer II, University of Jos | Oct. 2019-Oct. 2022
  • Volunteer Researcher, Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) | Mar. 2022-Present
  • Local Coordinator, Students for Liberty (SFL) | Jan. 2019-Present
  • Visiting Researcher, Department of Biotechnology, Liverpool John Moores University, UK | Feb. 2019-Jun. 2019
  • Assistant Lecturer, University of Jos | Sept. 2014-Oct. 2019
  • Graduate Assistant, University of Jos | June 2012-Sept. 2014
  • Graduate Assistant, Bauchi State University, Gadau | Jan. 2012-Aug. 2012
  • Laboratory Scientist, Army Hospital, 1BAD, Nig. Army, Gusau | June 2009-July 2010
  • Part-time Lecturer, College of Health Science and Technology, Tsafe | Sept. 2009-Dec. 2010

Skills and Competences

  • Research
  • Data Analysis: SPSS, Microsoft Excel
  • Communication: Conference Presentations, Published Papers
  • Teamwork: Contributed as team lead or member in research and community projects

Achievements

  • Recognized for leadership and contributions in the field of biochemistry and community development. 🏆🌍

 

Publication top Notes:

Role of the C-Terminal β Sandwich of Thermoanaerobacter tengcongensis Thermophilic Esterase in Hydrolysis of Long-Chain Acyl Substrates

Thermophilic PHP Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases (Cap8C and Wzb) from Mesophilic Bacteria

Role of the C-terminal β Sandwich of <em>Thermoanaerobacter tengcongensis</em> Thermophilic Esterase in Hydrolysis of Long Chain Acyl Substrates

Thermophilic PHP Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases (Cap8C and Wzb) from Mesophilic Bacteria