USMAN ZAHID | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. USMAN ZAHID | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. USMAN ZAHID, UNIVERSITI BRUNEI DARUSSALAM, Brunei Darrussalam

Usman Zahid is an emerging scholar in the field of material science and chemistry, currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s Centre for Advanced Material and Energy Sciences (CAMES). With a strong foundation in chemistry through his BS from University of the Punjab and MPhil from Quaid-i-Azam University, Usman has built an impressive academic and research profile. He specializes in nanomaterials, perovskite quantum dots, and sustainable catalytic processes. His drive to innovate is reflected in his international publications and active participation in global conferences. Apart from his research, Usman has demonstrated leadership as Chief Coordinator of Sports and Secretary of the Blood Donor Society during his academic tenure. A multilingual communicator and team-oriented researcher, he is passionate about solving environmental challenges through chemistry. Usman’s work reflects a commitment to scientific excellence and sustainable advancement, making him a promising contributor to the global scientific community.

Professional Profile

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Suitability Summary for Research for Best Researcher Award: Usman Zahid

Usman Zahid demonstrates a strong and well-rounded research profile in the field of material science and chemistry, making him a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His academic journey showcases a progressive and dedicated path, starting with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of the Punjab, followed by an M.Phil from Quaid-i-Azam University, and currently pursuing a PhD in Material Science at Universiti Brunei Darussalam. This progression reflects a deepening expertise and commitment to research.

Professionally, Usman has gained valuable hands-on experience as a Research Associate and Research Fellow, focusing on cutting-edge topics such as environmentally friendly perovskite quantum dots, Pb-free double perovskites, and nanomaterials catalysis. His work on sustainable materials and fuel desulfurization aligns well with global priorities on environmental safety and clean energy, highlighting his research’s societal relevance.

🎓 Education 

Usman Zahid’s academic journey is rooted in excellence and specialization. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Material Science at the Centre for Advanced Material and Energy Sciences (CAMES), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (EQF Level 8), focusing on lead-free perovskite materials and their photophysical behavior. Prior to this, he completed his MPhil in Chemistry from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, where his research emphasized catalysis and nanomaterials development. His undergraduate degree, a BS in Chemistry from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, laid a strong foundation in analytical and organic chemistry. Usman has attended specialized training in advanced material characterization and nanotechnology through ASEAN workshops and global symposiums. His academic record showcases an integration of theoretical knowledge and practical research competencies. With strong mentorship from distinguished faculty and a rigorous academic environment, Usman has developed a robust scientific outlook, well-suited for impactful contributions in the field of chemistry and sustainable material development.

💼 Professional Experience 

Usman Zahid has gained diverse experience in research and laboratory practices across top institutions. As a Research Associate at Quaid-i-Azam University, he led the synthesis and characterization of eco-friendly perovskite quantum dots (QDs) and worked on lead-free alternatives, contributing to sustainable material science. His earlier role as Research Fellow Chemist in a HEC/PSF-funded project involved desulfurization of fuel oil, nanomaterials synthesis, and project management. He demonstrated strong command over instrumental analysis techniques including FTIR, UV-VIS, TGA-DTG, DLS, XRD, and cyclic voltammetry. Usman’s professional path is defined by multidisciplinary collaborations, effective scientific communication, and applied research. He also contributes as an event participant in various international scientific forums and symposiums. His experience blends hands-on laboratory expertise with research leadership and analytical skill. His commitment to innovation and sustainability through chemistry makes him an asset in academic and industrial research settings alike.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Usman Zahid has consistently demonstrated leadership and service alongside academic excellence. During his undergraduate years, he was honored as the Chief Coordinator of Sports at University of the Punjab and later became Secretary of the Blood Donor Society at Quaid-i-Azam University. His research excellence has been recognized with active participation and presentation at prestigious international conferences such as Nano Boston 2021, EuroNanoForum 2021, and the ASEAN Workshop on Advanced Materials Characterization. He is currently contributing as a doctoral researcher under the supervision of prominent scholars at Universiti Brunei Darussalam. His publications in leading journals like Journal of Luminescence and RSC Sustainability highlight the impact and innovation of his work. With extensive collaborations and commendations from mentors and co-authors, Usman has carved a unique space in materials chemistry, catalysis, and sustainability research. His ongoing achievements reflect a promising trajectory toward leadership in global chemical research.

🌍 Research Skills On Chemistry

Usman Zahid possesses a multifaceted skill set in materials chemistry, catalysis, and nanotechnology. He specializes in the synthesis and characterization of perovskite quantum dots, with expertise in Pb-free double perovskites and fluorescence dynamics. Usman is proficient in a wide array of instrumentation: FTIR, UV-Vis, SEM, XRD, DLS, GC-MS, HPLC, and cyclic voltammetry, to name a few. His software proficiency includes ChemDraw, HyperChem, and reference managers like Zotero, EndNote, and Mendeley. He also has experience in LIMS and advanced chromatographic techniques. Notably, Usman excels in experimental design, data analysis, and project management. His work on desulfurization processes and catalysis reflects both applied and theoretical research capabilities. Fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi, he’s an excellent communicator with strong teamwork and decision-making skills. Usman’s adaptability in research environments and drive for sustainability make him a well-rounded scientist capable of leading interdisciplinary research in chemistry.

📖  Publication Top Notes

  • Green and eco-friendly adsorption of dyes with organoclay: isothermal, kinetic and thermodynamic studies
    Authors: S Tariq, M Saeed, U Zahid, M Munir, A Intisar, M Asad Riaz, A Riaz, …
    Journal: Toxin Reviews, Volume 41, Issue 4, Pages 1105-1114
    Citations: 19
    Year: 2022

  • Hazardous effects of cadmium contaminated water on biological characteristics of fish; a review
    Author: F Hameed
    Journal: RHAZES: Green and Applied Chemistry, Volume 6, Pages 01-10
    Citations: 11
    Year: 2019

  • Polyoxometalates for carbon dioxide activation: Current progress and perspective
    Authors: H Ahsan, M Saeed, W Ahmad, A Rehman, A Haseeb Bashir, V Aiman, …
    Journal: Journal of the Chinese Chemical Society, Volume 71, Issue 6, Pages 526-549
    Citations: 2
    Year: 2024

  • Band Gap Tuning in Mercaptoacetic Acid Capped Mixed Halides Perovskites and Effect of Solvents on Their Fluorescence Dynamics: A Potential Sensor for Polarity
    Authors: MA Riaz, U Zahid, M Mukhtar, MA Khalid, M Mubeen, A Iqbal
    Journal: Journal of Fluorescence, Pages 1-9
    Citations: 1
    Year: 2025

  • CeNiO3 perovskite nanoparticles synthesized using gelatin as a chelating agent for CO2 dry reforming of methane
    Authors: U Zahid, WS Sarifuddin, AH Mahadi, D Prasetyoko, H Bahruji
    Journal: RSC Sustainability, Volume 2, Issue 12, Pages 3806-3816
    Citations: 1
    Year: 2024

  • Effect of MAAc Capping on the Enhanced Photophysical and Photoluminescence Properties of Pb-free Cs2SnCl6 Double Perovskites
    Authors: U Zahid, MA Riaz, A Iqbal
    Journal: Journal of Luminescence, Article 121306
    Year: 2025

HoYoung Yoon | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. HoYoung Yoon | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. HoYoung Yoon, Åbo Akademi University, Finland

Dr. Ho Young Yoon is a dedicated researcher in the field of Chemical Engineering, specializing in natural materials and environmental sustainability. Currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Åbo Akademi University, Finland, he focuses on innovative materials derived from biological sources. With a Ph.D. from Gyeongsang National University, South Korea, he has made significant contributions to applied microbiology and biomaterials. His research explores novel approaches to wastewater treatment, bio-based fertilizers, and circular economy solutions. Dr. Yoon has been instrumental in pioneering smart fertilizers and sustainable material innovations, securing major research grants and patents. Recognized globally, he has participated in prestigious scientific summits and collaborated with international institutions. His groundbreaking work has led to several high-impact publications, highlighting his expertise in biotechnological applications. Passionate about eco-friendly engineering solutions, Dr. Yoon continues to push the boundaries of sustainable science to address critical environmental challenges.

Professional Profile

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Evaluation of Dr. Ho Young Yoon for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ho Young Yoon is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in natural materials technology, applied microbiology, and biomaterials. His academic journey spans prestigious institutions such as Åbo Akademi University in Finland and Gyeongsang National University in South Korea, where he has excelled in research related to sustainable materials, environmental chemistry, and bio-based innovations. His diverse expertise is evident in his postdoctoral and doctoral work, which focuses on developing eco-friendly technologies for agricultural and industrial applications.

A key strength of Dr. Yoon’s research is his ability to secure competitive funding, including grants from the National Research Foundation of Korea and the Korea Water Resources Corporation. These grants have supported groundbreaking projects such as developing mycelium-based bricks for pollutant removal and creating slow-release fertilizers using wastewater sludge. His leadership in these projects underscores his ability to conduct impactful, real-world research that bridges academia and industry.

🎓 Education

Dr. Ho Young Yoon’s academic journey is rooted in excellence and innovation. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Life Science from Gyeongsang National University (2020-2024) under the mentorship of Prof. Jong-Rok Jeon. His doctoral research focused on advanced bio-based materials and environmental applications, particularly in wastewater treatment and sustainable fertilizers. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Applied Life Chemistry at the same university (2013-2020), where he developed a strong foundation in biochemistry and material science. Currently, Dr. Yoon is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Åbo Akademi University in Finland, specializing in Natural Materials Technology under Prof. Chunlin Xu. His education has been enriched by competitive fellowships and research grants, including the prestigious National Research Foundation of Korea Ph.D. fellowship. His interdisciplinary training in chemistry, microbiology, and material engineering equips him to develop groundbreaking solutions for environmental and industrial challenges.

💼 Professional Experience 

Dr. Ho Young Yoon’s professional experience reflects his expertise in Chemical Engineering and sustainable technology. Since 2024, he has been a Postdoctoral Fellow at Åbo Akademi University, focusing on bio-based material innovations. Earlier, he was a Visiting Researcher at the same institution (Jan-Apr 2024), collaborating on advanced natural material applications. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he played a key role in technology transfer projects, including the development of a natural hair dye composition ($74,000 contract) and a nano-coated smart phosphorus fertilizer (European patent). Additionally, he was an official Korean participant at the Global Young Scientist Summit in Singapore (2024), where he engaged with top international researchers. Dr. Yoon’s research projects, funded by leading organizations, have addressed critical environmental concerns, from micropollutant removal to sustainable agriculture. His industry collaborations and pioneering patents highlight his commitment to bridging scientific discovery with real-world impact.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Ho Young Yoon has received numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to Chemical Engineering and environmental sustainability. He was awarded the prestigious Ph.D. fellowship from the National Research Foundation of Korea ($16,000), supporting his innovative work on bio-based slow-release fertilizers. His research was also funded by the Korea Water Resources Corporation’s Open Innovation R&D program ($8,000), acknowledging his groundbreaking work in wastewater treatment. His patented smart fertilizer technology led to a significant industry collaboration with Recover Ingredients in Italy, securing licensing rights with ongoing revenue. Additionally, his research has been featured as a front cover article in Advanced Sustainable Systems. His participation in the Global Young Scientist Summit (2024) further solidified his reputation as an emerging leader in sustainable engineering. Through his work, Dr. Yoon continues to make a lasting impact in academia and industry, driving forward eco-friendly material innovations.

🌍 Research Skills On Chemical Engineering

Dr. Ho Young Yoon possesses a diverse range of research skills, specializing in biopolymer engineering, nanotechnology, and environmental sustainability. He has extensive experience in developing smart fertilizers, bio-based adsorbents, and eco-friendly composite materials. His expertise in wastewater treatment includes advanced methods for removing micropollutants using mycelium-based bio-materials. Dr. Yoon is proficient in structural analysis of natural polymers, employing techniques such as FTIR, SEM, and XRD. His ability to synthesize bio-functionalized nanoparticles has led to patented innovations in agricultural and cosmetic industries. He is skilled in technology transfer, having successfully commercialized multiple sustainable materials. His research approach integrates multidisciplinary knowledge from microbiology, chemistry, and engineering, enabling him to design circular economy solutions. With a strong publication record and collaborations across academia and industry, Dr. Yoon continues to drive innovation in environmental biotechnology, creating scalable solutions for real-world applications.

 📖 Publication Top Notes

Recycling tempura powder debris derived from the fried food industry as a binder for 3-dimensional biodegradable composites: A novel circular economy alternative to low-performance plastics.

Authors: M., Oh, Minseung, H., Yoon, Ho-young, N., Thanh Phong, Nguyen, … K., Kim, Kang-soo, J., Jeon, Jong-rok

year: 2024