Lykourgos Magafas | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 30/06/202530/06/2025 by Engineering Scientist

Prof. Dr. Lykourgos Magafas | Materials Science
| Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr . Lykourgos Magafasat at Democritus University of Thrace, Greece.

Professor Lykourgos Magafas is a distinguished physicist and academic with over three decades of experience in electrical engineering, informatics, and applied physics. He currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Informatics at Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. Holding a Ph.D. from the same university, he has held professorial roles across several prominent Greek institutions. With a profound dedication to interdisciplinary research, Professor Magafas has led numerous international and national projects in complex systems, energy, and environmental monitoring. His scholarly contributions include high-impact publications and academic program development, notably in Economic Physics. His leadership and innovation continue to influence policy and academic research, marking him as a pioneering figure in modern applied science and technology in Greece.

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🏆 Suitability for the Best Researcher Award :

Professor Lykourgos Magafas is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to his impactful, sustained, and interdisciplinary research contributions across physics, informatics, and engineering. With over 16 major research projects, including seven as coordinator, he has demonstrated leadership in complex system modeling, sustainable technologies, and applied informatics. His research has influenced both academic advancements and practical implementations in environmental and technological domains. His dedication to mentoring, teaching, and building international collaborations further reflects his commitment to excellence in research and academic service. Recognized for bridging theoretical and applied science, Professor Magafas stands out as a visionary researcher whose work continues to shape innovative approaches in physics-based systems and computational intelligence.

🎓 Education :

Professor Magafas began his academic journey with a degree in Physics from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 1987. He later earned his Ph.D. in 1992 from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Democritus University of Thrace. His doctoral thesis focused on “Deposition Properties and Applications of Amorphous Semiconductors,” laying the foundation for his interdisciplinary research in electronics, materials science, and computational physics. This strong educational foundation equipped him with deep analytical and experimental skills, enabling him to contribute significantly to both theoretical and applied scientific domains. His academic training spans both pure and applied sciences, making him a versatile educator and innovative researcher in physics and informatics.

🏢 Work Experience :

Professor Lykourgos Magafas has over 30 years of academic and research experience. He began his career as a Research Fellow at the Technological Institute of Kavala (1992–2005). He held academic appointments at Democritus University and Kavala Institute of Technology, progressing from Lecturer to Associate Professor. From 2010 to 2019, he was a full Professor at the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Institute of Technology. He then served at the International Hellenic University before returning to Democritus University in 2025 as a Professor of Informatics. His diverse appointments highlight a strong record of research supervision, project leadership, and academic governance. He has also coordinated M.Sc. programs, demonstrating a strong commitment to interdisciplinary education and institutional development.

🏅Awards and Honors

Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Magafas has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to science and education. While specific named awards are not detailed in the provided record, his leadership as coordinator of major EU and national projects such as ASPIDA and GREEN PUMB demonstrates a high level of trust and acknowledgment from funding bodies and scientific institutions. He has served as coordinator for 7 out of 16 major projects, reflecting his respected standing in the research community. Additionally, his academic appointments at leading institutions and his role in curriculum development, such as the MSc in Economic Physics, highlight professional esteem and peer recognition. These accomplishments collectively attest to his reputation as a leading scientific and academic figure.

🔬 Research Focus :

Professor Magafas’ research spans applied physics, complex systems, computational intelligence, and informatics. He focuses on the integration of physics-based methods with real-world applications, particularly in environmental monitoring, energy systems, and economic modeling. His coordination of projects like ASPIDA and GREEN PUMB showcases expertise in autonomous monitoring systems and groundwater resource management. He is also active in developing algorithms for complex network analysis, with applications ranging from public health policy (e.g., COVID-19 analysis) to electrostatics and system modeling. His interdisciplinary approach blends theoretical physics with modern computational techniques, contributing to smart systems, sustainability, and decision-making frameworks. He also leads academic initiatives in Economic Physics, merging physics methodologies with financial forecasting and socio-economic dynamics.

📊 Publication Top Notes:

📊 Modeling and forecasting the COVID-19 temporal spread in Greece: An exploratory approach based on complex network defined splines – Cited by 81 – 🗓️ 2020

🔌 Electrical properties of a-SiC/c-Si (p) heterojunctions – Cited by 53 – 🗓️ 1992

🌀 Chaotic behaviour of a fourth-order autonomous electric circuit – Cited by 48 – 🗓️ 2003

🧪 Cost estimation of polymeric adsorbents – Cited by 47 – 🗓️ 2019

🦠 The effect of anti-COVID-19 policies on the evolution of the disease: A complex network analysis of the successful case of Greece – Cited by 45 – 🗓️ 2020

📡 Digital chaotic synchronized communication system – Cited by 42 – 🗓️ 2009

📘 The Papadopoulos – Cited by 28 – 🗓️ 2006

📈 The use of scaling properties to detect relevant changes in financial time series: A new visual warning tool – Cited by 26 – 🗓️ 2021

🔬 Optical properties of α-SiC:H thin films grown by rf sputtering – Cited by 25 – 🗓️ 1994

⚡ The influence of metal work function on electrical properties of metal/a-SiC:H Schottky diodes – Cited by 23 – 🗓️ 1997

Fareeha Fatima | Materials Science | Young Scientist Award

Published on 19/05/202519/05/2025 by Engineering Scientist

Ms. Fareeha Fatima| Materials Science
|Young Scientist Award

Visiting Lecturer at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur,,Pakistan.

Fareeha Fatima is a passionate young physicist from Bahawalnagar, Pakistan, known for her academic excellence and early-career contributions to scientific research. With a strong foundation in theoretical and applied physics, she has pursued advanced studies at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, where she recently completed her M.Phil with distinction. Her research in density functional theory and nanocomposites showcases her analytical depth and commitment to innovation. Fareeha also possesses practical teaching experience and a strong grasp of digital tools essential for modern scientific work. With exceptional communication and collaboration skills, she stands out as a motivated and promising young scientist. Her work ethic, enthusiasm, and dedication to knowledge advancement make her an ideal candidate for the Young Scientist Award.

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🏆 Suitability for the Young Scientist Award

Fareeha Fatima exemplifies the spirit of the Young Scientist Award through her academic brilliance, research potential, and proactive engagement in the scientific community. Her M.Phil research applying advanced DFT techniques to novel LiZnZ compounds, and her M.Sc work on nanocomposite applications in theragnostics, reflect an impressive breadth and depth of understanding. At a young age, she has combined strong theoretical knowledge with practical teaching and laboratory skills. Her active participation in academic environments and strong interpersonal abilities further highlight her leadership qualities. Fareeha demonstrates innovation, discipline, and a forward-thinking approach that are critical for impactful scientific progress. She represents the future of physics research in Pakistan and is a deserving nominee for the Young Scientist Award.

🎓 Education

Fareeha Fatima has consistently excelled in her academic journey, marked by high achievements in physics. She completed her M.Phil in Physics (2022–2024) at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur with a CGPA of 3.88, conducting advanced theoretical research on LiZnZ (Z = Sb, Bi) compounds using GGA, WC, and mBJ methods. Her M.Sc in Physics (2019–2021), also from the same university with a CGPA of 3.68, involved exploring bismuth-based nanocomposites for theragnostic applications. Her B.Sc (2017–2019) established a strong scientific base. She previously completed her F.Sc (Pre-Engineering) and Matriculation with distinction. Her education reflects a consistent commitment to excellence and a growing focus on computational and materials science in the context of physics.

🏢 Work Experience

Fareeha Fatima has gained valuable experience in both academic and educational settings. She served as a Teaching Assistant at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar Campus (Jan–May 2023), where she assisted in delivering lectures, managing student queries, and supporting practical sessions. Earlier, she worked as a science teacher at First Moon Kindergarten School and Pioneer Science Academy (Nov 2021–May 2022), demonstrating her ability to communicate scientific concepts effectively at different academic levels. These roles have enhanced her capabilities in team collaboration, time management, and active listening—key skills for any researcher. Her hands-on exposure to both theoretical instruction and practical demonstration underlines her readiness for more advanced research roles and makes her a well-rounded young academic professional.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Fareeha Fatima’s academic achievements speak volumes about her dedication and potential. While still early in her career, she has earned distinction through outstanding CGPAs in both her M.Phil (3.88) and M.Sc (3.68) programs. Her performance has consistently placed her among the top students in her department. She has been commended by faculty for her critical thinking, dedication to research, and strong academic ethics. Her work has attracted attention for its innovative approach to theoretical materials science and nanotechnology. Though formal national awards are still forthcoming, she is widely regarded by her peers and mentors as a future leader in physics research. Her academic accomplishments and potential make her a strong candidate for prestigious recognitions like the Young Scientist Award.

🔬 Research Focus

Fareeha Fatima’s research centers on theoretical condensed matter physics, particularly using Density Functional Theory (DFT) to study the structural and electronic properties of emerging compounds. Her M.Phil thesis focuses on LiZnZ (Z = Sb, Bi) semiconducting materials analyzed using GGA, WC, and mBJ schemes, offering insights relevant to next-generation electronic applications. Earlier, her M.Sc research explored bismuth-based nanocomposites for dual-use in medical diagnostics and therapy—highlighting an interdisciplinary approach that blends physics with nanomedicine. Fareeha is also proficient in digital tools like Origin Lab and MS Office for data analysis and scientific reporting. Her focus on simulation-driven prediction of material behaviors aligns with global research trends, making her contributions timely, impactful, and promising for future scientific development.

📊 Publication Top Notes:

Fatima, F., & Co-authors. (2024). Exploring the physical attributes of NaCaX (X = As, Sb) semiconductors by first principles calculations. The European Physical Journal Plus, W Category Journal.
Fatima, F., & Co-authors. (2024). Detailed DFT based exploration on spin-gapless features of IrCoNbX (X = Al, Ga, In) alloys. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, W Category Journal.
Fatima, F., & Co-authors. (2024). Unveiling the robustness of half-metallicity under strain effects of CoVYZ (Z = Si, Ge, Sn) alloys. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, W Category Journal.
Fatima, F., & Co-authors. (2024). Comparative Density Functional Theory Based Study of LiZnZ (Z = Sb, Bi) Compounds via GGA, WC and mBJ Schemes. Indian Journal of Physics, W Category Journal.

Karin Larsson | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 23/04/202523/04/2025 by Engineering Scientist

Prof. Dr. Karin Larsson | Materials Science |Best Researcher Award

Professor at Uppsala University, Sweden .

Professor Karin Larsson is a Professor Emerita at the Department of Chemistry, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University. With a distinguished career in inorganic and materials chemistry, she has made profound contributions to theoretical surface studies and materials design. Holding a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Uppsala University (1988), she has supervised numerous Ph.D. students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering academic excellence across generations. Her research, rooted in both theoretical and applied chemistry, has positioned her as a leader in materials innovation. Professor Larsson’s dedication to teaching, curriculum development, and international collaboration underscores her holistic approach to science, making her a respected figure in the global scientific community.

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🏆 Suitability for the Best Researcher Award

Professor Karin Larsson is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her decades-long contribution to inorganic and materials chemistry. Her pioneering work in theoretical surface chemistry has opened new avenues in materials design, corrosion studies, and surface science. Beyond her research, she has shaped the future of chemistry through curriculum development and mentorship of numerous Ph.D. scholars. Her interdisciplinary approach and impactful publications underscore her standing as a thought leader. With global academic recognition, including visiting professorships and active supervision roles, she continues to elevate the standards of scientific inquiry. Her combination of innovation, leadership, and educational impact makes her a model recipient for this prestigious award.

🎓 Education

Professor Karin Larsson’s academic journey began at Uppsala University, where she earned her M.Sc. in Chemistry/Mathematics in 1981. She proceeded to earn her Ph.Lic. in Inorganic Chemistry in 1986, followed by a Ph.D. in 1988 from the same institution. In 1997, she was awarded the qualifications required for appointment as a docent (Associate Professor) in Inorganic Chemistry. Her educational background is marked by a deep integration of chemical theory and mathematical principles, providing a strong foundation for her future research in materials and surface chemistry. Her lifelong association with Uppsala University highlights her academic consistency and excellence.

🏢 Work Experience

Professor Larsson has had a long and distinguished academic career. Starting as a Ph.D. student at Uppsala University in 1981, she progressed through roles as researcher, junior lecturer, and senior lecturer. She was appointed as a full professor of inorganic chemistry in 2004 and served as Director for Undergraduate Studies in Materials Chemistry (2007–2011). She has held a visiting professorship at the University of Science and Technology Liaoning, China (2012), and has supervised numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers. Her professional path reflects her depth in theoretical surface chemistry, passion for academic leadership, and sustained commitment to scientific development.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Although specific awards are not listed, Professor Karin Larsson’s distinguished roles and international engagements point to high recognition in her field. Her appointment as a Professor Emerita, visiting professorship in China, and long-standing leadership in curriculum development at Uppsala University all underscore her career excellence. Her legacy is further marked by the successful supervision of over a dozen Ph.D. students and several postdoctoral researchers. The impact of her educational contributions and international collaborations stands as evidence of the esteem with which she is regarded in the global scientific community.

🔬 Research Focus

Professor Larsson’s research focuses on theoretical surface chemistry, materials design, and inorganic surface studies. She applies quantum chemical methods and modeling to understand surface interactions and develop advanced materials with tailored properties. Her work encompasses corrosion science, catalytic surface reactions, and the molecular-level design of new functional materials. This foundational research supports a wide range of applications including sustainable materials development, semiconductor processing, and corrosion protection. By bridging theoretical chemistry with material innovation, her work enables the design of smarter, more durable, and application-specific materials, making substantial contributions to both academic theory and industrial applications.

📊 Publication Top Notes:

Mattsson, A., Leideborg, M., Larsson, K., Westin, G., & Österlund, L. (2006). Adsorption and Solar Light Decomposition of Acetone on Anatase TiO₂ and Niobium Doped TiO₂ Thin Films. The Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 110(3), 1210–1220.
Hultman, L., Bareño, J., Flink, A., Söderberg, H., Larsson, K., Petrova, V., Odén, M., … (2007). Interface structure in superhard TiN-SiN nanolaminates and nanocomposites: Film growth experiments and ab initio calculations. Physical Review B, 75(15), 155437.
Steinmüller-Nethl, D., Kloss, F.R., Najam-Ul-Haq, M., Rainer, M., Larsson, K., … (2006). Strong binding of bioactive BMP-2 to nanocrystalline diamond by physisorption. Biomaterials, 27(26), 4547–4556.
Kloss, F.R., Gassner, R., Preiner, J., Ebner, A., Larsson, K., Hächl, O., Tuli, T., … (2008). The role of oxygen termination of nanocrystalline diamond on immobilisation of BMP-2 and subsequent bone formation. Biomaterials, 29(16), 2433–2442.
Schneider, J.M., Larsson, K., Lu, J., Olsson, E., Hjörvarsson, B. (2002). Role of hydrogen for the elastic properties of alumina thin films. Applied Physics Letters, 80(7), 1144–1146.
Yakimova, R., Virojanadara, C., Gogova, D., Syväjärvi, M., Siche, D., Larsson, K., … (2010). Analysis of the formation conditions for large area epitaxial graphene on SiC substrates. Materials Science Forum, 645, 565–568.
Petrini, D., Larsson, K. (2007). A theoretical study of the energetic stability and geometry of hydrogen-and oxygen-terminated diamond (100) surfaces. The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 111(2), 795–801.
Mårlid, B., Ottosson, M., Pettersson, U., Larsson, K., Carlsson, J.O. (2002). Atomic layer deposition of BN thin films. Thin Solid Films, 402(1-2), 167–171.
Ziming, Z., Larsson, F., Larsson, K. (2014). Effect of CVD diamond growth by doping with nitrogen. Theoretical Chemistry Accounts, 133(2), 1432.
Steenackers, M., Sharp, I.D., Larsson, K., Hutter, N.A., Stutzmann, M., Jordan, R. (2010). Structured polymer brushes on silicon carbide. Chemistry of Materials, 22(1), 272–278.

Daniel Macharia |Materials Science |Outstanding Contribution Award

Published on 22/04/202522/04/2025 by Engineering Scientist

Dr. Daniel Macharia| Materials Science| Outstanding Contribution Award

Postdoctoral research scientist at Donghua university, China .

Dr. Daniel K. Macharia is a pioneering postdoctoral researcher at Donghua University, recognized for groundbreaking innovations in reversible, color-switching smart materials. His research bridges material science and functional nanotechnology, enabling real-world applications such as adaptive wearables, smart coatings, and redox-sensitive inks. He has led multiple high-impact projects, invented novel fiber and film systems, and published widely in top-tier journals. His leadership, creativity, and technical excellence have resulted in transformative advancements in semiconductor catalysis and stimuli-responsive materials, making him a standout candidate for the Outstanding Contribution Award.

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🏆 Suitability for the Outstanding Contribution Award

🎓 Education

Dr. Macharia earned his Doctor of Engineering in Materials Science from Donghua University (2016–2022), with top grades in both coursework and thesis. His Ph.D. focused on designing semiconductor nanomaterials with photocatalytic and photothermal properties for photoreversible color-switching. He also holds a Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering from Donghua University (2012–2015), where he researched photothermal nanoagents for cancer therapy. His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial and Textile Engineering from Moi University, Kenya (2006–2011), graduating with Second Class Upper Division honors. His undergraduate thesis explored electronic waste management in Kenya. Across all academic levels, Dr. Macharia consistently demonstrated academic excellence and a strong commitment to innovative research.

🏢 Work Experience

Since 2022, Dr. Macharia has served as a postdoctoral fellow at Donghua University, leading a sub-group on color-switching materials. He has overseen postgraduate student projects and spearheaded innovations in dual-light responsive nanomaterials, redox-sensitive inks, and smart fibers. His contributions include inventing wet-spun color-switching fibers, developing multi-responsive films, and designing adaptive, chameleon-like materials using Prussian blue analogues. His work has led to first-author publications, national and international research grants, and multiple patents. He has presented his research at international conferences and co-authored over ten papers. With hands-on leadership and a knack for material innovation, Dr. Macharia has significantly advanced the field of smart materials and wearable technologies.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Macharia’s contributions to material science have earned him significant accolades. He received a prestigious National Science Foundation of China grant (Grant No. 52350410455) worth over USD 55,000 for his work on semiconductor-based nanomaterials with dual-light responses. Additionally, he secured an international cooperation grant, bringing total research funding to USD 100,000. He has published first-author and corresponding-author papers in top journals like Advanced Optical Materials and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. His patented inventions and leadership in cutting-edge smart color-switching materials have been recognized both nationally and internationally. These honors reflect his innovative spirit, deep expertise, and contributions that bridge academia and practical industry applications.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Macharia’s research centers on stimuli-responsive smart materials, particularly reversible color-switching systems using semiconductor nanomaterials. His work integrates photocatalysis, photothermal effects, and redox chemistry to create advanced fibers, inks, films, and coatings. His key innovations include wet-spun, dual-light responsive fibers, multi-color switching inks, and thermochromic and hydrochromic dyes for adaptive applications. He explores the mechanisms behind nanomaterial-driven color transitions and light-induced molecular assembly, aiming to develop intelligent materials for next-generation textiles, displays, and environmental sensing. His interdisciplinary approach spans materials science, nanotechnology, and engineering—positioning him at the forefront of functional material innovation for smart wearables and beyond.

📊 Publication Top Notes:

Wen, Z., Yang, X., Macharia, D. K., Feng, Q., Lv, H., Wen, M., Yu, N., & Chen, Z. (2024). Photo-sensitive Bi-doped TiO₂ nanocrystals with reversible single and multi-mode color transformations for rewritable printing. Advanced Optical Materials, 2024, 2402793.
Macharia, D. K., Liu, M., Wen, Z., Feng, Q., Yang, X.*, & Chen, Z. (2024). On-demand green/red light-responsive self-doped SnO₂ nanoparticles for single/multi-color transitioning fabrics. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 2024, 678, 534–544.
Liu, M., Liu, Z., Wen, Z., Yu, N., Macharia, D. K., Zhu, M., & Chen, Z. (2024). N-Doped Carbon-Quantum-Dot-Integrated Colorimetric System for Visible Photoprinting and Oxygen Sensing. Advanced Optical Materials, 2024, 12, 2302787.
Macharia, D. K., Sarker, S., Liu, M., Wen, Z., Yu, N., Zhu, M., & Chen, Z.* (2023). Constructing on-demand single/multi-color transitioning fabrics with photocatalysis/photothermal-armed deficient semiconductors. Nano Research, 2023, 17, 3633.
Macharia, D. K., Ahmed, S., Sarker, S., Zhu, Y., Geng, P., Yu, N., & Chen, Z.* (2022). Ag decorated CeO₂₋ₓ nanojunctions with plasmon-enhanced catalytic performance for mono/multi-color switching. Chemical Engineering Journal, 2022, 431, 133996.
Macharia, D. K., Sarker, S., Zhu, B., Zhang, Y., Liu, Z., Yu, N., & Chen, Z. (2021). Constructing On-demand Photoreversible Mono/Multi-color Switching Fabrics with Plasmonic In-doped ZnO Catalyzed Systems. Chemical Engineering Journal, 2021, 425, 130638.
Macharia, D. K., Ahmed, S., Zhu, B., Liu, Z., Wang, Z., Mwasiagi, J. I., Chen, Z., & Zhu, M. (2019). UV/NIR-Light Triggered Rapid and Reversible Color Switching for Rewritable Smart Fabrics. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 2019, 11, 13370–13379.