Sasikumar Kuppusamy | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sasikumar Kuppusamy | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sasikumar Kuppusamy | Chemistry | Sacred Heart College Autonomous | India

Dr. Kuppusamy Sasikumar, Ph.D., is a dedicated researcher in the Department of Chemistry at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), affiliated with Thiruvalluvar University, Tamil Nadu, India. With a strong academic foundation and extensive research expertise, he specializes in renewable energy, nanostructured materials, dye-sensitized solar cells, photocatalytic hydrogen production, and environmental chemistry. His doctoral work, “Tailoring Nanostructured Materials for Enhanced Performance in Renewable Energy Applications,” focuses on advanced material design for energy conversion and storage. He has collaborated with premier research institutes such as IIT Palakkad, NCL Pune, and Madurai Kamaraj University, gaining exposure to cutting-edge scientific techniques. Dr. Sasikumar has published impactful research in international journals and presented at prestigious conferences, earning recognition for his innovative approaches. A mentor to budding scholars, he has supervised multiple postgraduate and MPhil students. His vision is to harness chemistry-driven innovation to address global energy and environmental challenges, contributing to sustainable scientific progress.

Author Profiles

Orcid | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Kuppusamy Sasikumar’s educational journey reflects his deep commitment to chemistry and interdisciplinary research. He began with a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Thiruvalluvar University, followed by an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Periyar University, Salem, India, where he developed strong foundations in analytical and materials chemistry. He advanced to an M.Phil. in Chemistry at Thiruvalluvar University, focusing on applied nanostructured materials. His doctoral studies at Sacred Heart College, under Thiruvalluvar University, further elevated his expertise. His Ph.D. thesis, “Tailoring Nanostructured Materials for Enhanced Performance in Renewable Energy Applications,” explores vanadium-doped ZnO and silver-based nanocomposites for solar cells, supercapacitors, and photocatalysis. He also underwent advanced training in thin-film and DSSC fabrication at the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune with Prof. C.S. Gopinath, broadening his technical proficiency. This educational progression has equipped him with both theoretical knowledge and experimental skills, shaping him into a capable scientist in sustainable energy and material science.

Experience

Dr. Sasikumar has gained rich experience in advanced material synthesis, energy applications, and academic mentorship. During his Ph.D. research at Sacred Heart College (2019–2025), he specialized in synthesizing and characterizing nanostructured materials, including vanadium-doped ZnO and silver-based composites for solar and photocatalytic applications. His hands-on expertise spans solution combustion, sol-gel, hydrothermal methods, and thin-film fabrication techniques such as spray coating, spin coating, and doctor blade methods. He has worked on several funded research projects, including UGC Minor Research Project, Don Bosco Research Grant, and Fr. Carreno Research Grant, contributing significantly to energy material innovations. As a mentor, he guided postgraduate and MPhil students in renewable energy-focused projects, fostering research leadership. He has presented findings at national and international conferences, winning recognition such as Best Poster Award at ICCSN 2019 (VIT, Vellore). His collaborations with IIT Palakkad, NCL Pune, and other reputed institutions highlight his engagement with interdisciplinary and applied scientific research.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and research career, Dr. Kuppusamy Sasikumar has received recognition for his outstanding contributions in chemistry and renewable energy research. He has been awarded multiple institutional research grants, including the UGC Minor Research Project, Don Bosco Research Grants, and the Fr. Carreno Research Grant, reflecting trust in his innovative scientific pursuits. His research presentations have been acknowledged at international platforms, notably with the Best Poster Award at the International Conference on Chemical Sciences and Nanomaterials (ICCSN-2019) at VIT, Vellore. His participation in prestigious conferences, including ICETC 2020, IC-RAAM 2019, and SMART 2020, demonstrates his active engagement in global scientific discussions. In addition, his collaborative projects with premier institutes such as IIT Palakkad and NCL Pune underline his contribution to interdisciplinary research. These honors highlight his potential as a rising researcher in chemistry, committed to impactful scientific solutions addressing energy and environmental challenges.

Research Focus

Dr. Sasikumar’s research is centered on renewable energy materials, nanotechnology, and environmental chemistry. His work explores the synthesis and application of nanostructured materials for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), supercapacitors, and photocatalytic hydrogen production. He focuses on tailoring the structural, electronic, and optical properties of advanced materials such as vanadium-doped ZnO, silver-based composites, and perovskite oxides, enhancing their efficiency for energy conversion and storage. He has developed expertise in thin-film fabrication for photo- and electrocatalytic applications, contributing to sustainable clean energy technologies. His research further extends to photo(electro) catalysis and environmental remediation, with innovations in hazardous dye degradation and water splitting for green hydrogen generation. His collaborations with IIT Palakkad, NCL Pune, and other reputed institutes have strengthened his interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Sasikumar’s long-term vision is to advance affordable, scalable, and environmentally friendly energy solutions through material science, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and societal applications.

Publications

  1. Fuel Influenced Nanorod to Nanosphere Transformation of Vanadium doped ZnO for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.

  2. Natural Carbon Template on Ag-ZnO Nanocomposites for Supercapacitor, Hydrogen Production & Antifungal Activity.

  3. Structure Directing Amine Mediated Synthesis of Mn Doped ZnO Microrods for Dye Degradation.

  4. Tuning Structural & Magnetic Properties of SrSnO3 Nanorods for Enhanced DSSC Performance.

  5. Influence of Blocking Layer on Hf and V Doped Perovskite SrSnO3 for DSSCs.

  6. 3D CoMoO4 Nanoflake Arrays for Enzyme-less Electrochemical Glucose Sensors.

  7. Scalable Thin-Film TiO2 Membranes for Hydrogen Production via Water Splitting (Under Construction).

Conclusion

Dr. Kuppusamy Sasikumar is an emerging researcher whose work in chemistry bridges renewable energy, nanomaterials, and environmental sustainability. His academic background, practical expertise, and impactful publications highlight his ability to contribute to global energy solutions. With a commitment to mentoring and interdisciplinary collaboration, he represents the next generation of scientists driving sustainable innovation.

USMAN ZAHID | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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

Google Scholar

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