Menard Kilumile | Construction materials | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Menard Kilumile | Construction materials | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Lecturer at University of Dar es Salaam,Tanzania.

Menard Bonphace Kilumile is a Tanzanian civil engineer and academic specializing in structural engineering. He currently serves as an Assistant Lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam. A registered Professional Engineer, Kilumile holds an M.Sc. in Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions from UMinho (Portugal) and UPC (Spain), and a B.Sc. in Civil and Structural Engineering from UDSM. He is pursuing his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Cape Town. Kilumile has significant consulting experience in structural assessment, building design, and supervision. His professional journey includes collaborations with BICO and Saifee Structural Engineers. His strong research, field experience, and commitment to engineering education make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🌍 Professional Profile:

Google scholar

ORCID

🎓 Education 

Menard Bonphace Kilumile’s educational background is robust and international. He earned a B.Sc. in Civil and Structural Engineering from the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in 2013, graduating as the Best Male Engineering Student recognized by ERB. In 2016, he completed an Advanced Master’s (M.Sc.) in Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions through a joint program at the University of Minho (Portugal) and the Technical University of Catalonia (Spain). Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Cape Town. His education combines strong theoretical knowledge with international exposure, equipping him with a deep understanding of structural dynamics, heritage conservation, and modern construction engineering practices.

🏢 Work Experience 

Kilumile has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. Since 2013, he has served at the University of Dar es Salaam, advancing from Tutorial Assistant to Assistant Lecturer. Concurrently, he has worked as a structural engineer on numerous significant projects including commercial buildings, residential apartments, institutional facilities, and heritage site assessments. His consultancy experience includes roles with Bureau for Industrial Cooperation (BICO), Saifee Structural Engineers, and direct clients like CITI Bank, NCAA, and Geita Gold Mining Ltd. His expertise spans structural assessments, non-destructive testing, design optimization, construction supervision, and structural rehabilitation. His diverse portfolio demonstrates strong technical skills, leadership in project execution, and a deep commitment to bridging academic knowledge with industry practice.

🏅 Awards and Honors 

Menard Kilumile has been recognized for his academic and professional excellence throughout his career. He received the Best Male Graduating Engineering Student Prize in 2013 from the Engineers Registration Board (ERB) of Tanzania, a prestigious acknowledgment of his top-tier academic performance at the University of Dar es Salaam. In addition to this, Kilumile has participated in several specialized workshops and training sessions, enhancing his research and engineering skills. These include programs organized by the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK) and the Institution of Engineers Tanzania, focusing on topics like outcome-based curricula, project management, and structural design using Eurocodes. These honors reflect Kilumile’s dedication to lifelong learning and his continual pursuit of engineering excellence.

🔬 Research Focus 

Menard Kilumile’s research focus lies in structural engineering, particularly structural assessment, rehabilitation of existing structures, and the analysis of historical constructions. His work integrates advanced methods like non-destructive testing, structural health monitoring, and the application of Eurocodes in modern design practices. As part of his doctoral research, he delves into enhancing the safety, sustainability, and resilience of civil infrastructure, especially in resource-constrained environments. Kilumile is also interested in bridging gaps between academia and industry through outcome-based education strategies in engineering. His research aims to contribute to safer, more durable buildings while preserving historical architecture. His interdisciplinary approach underlines a strong commitment to advancing both the scientific understanding and practical implementation of civil engineering solutions.

đź“Š Publication Top Notes:

 

Citation:
Sanga, R., Kilumile, M., & Mohamed, F. (2022). Alternative clay bricks inspired from termite mound biomimicry. Case Studies in Construction Materials, 16, e00977.

Authors: R. Sanga, M. Kilumile, F. Mohamed

Year: 2022

Citation:
Kilumile, M., Barra, M., Mohamed, F., & Aponte, D. (2025). Use of Recycled Aggregates in Lime Mortars for Conservation of Historical Buildings. Construction Materials, 5(2), 28. https://doi.org/10.3390/constrmater5020028

Authors: M. Kilumile, M. Barra, F. Mohamed, D. Aponte

Year: 2025

https://doi.org/10.32438//IJET.203015

Karin Larsson | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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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, Ă…ngström 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.

🌍 Professional Profile:

Google scholar

Scopus

🏆 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.

đź“Š Publication Top Notes:

  • Mattsson, A., Leideborg, M., Larsson, K., Westin, G., & Ă–sterlund, L. (2006). Adsorption and Solar Light Decomposition of Acetone on Anatase TiOâ‚‚ and Niobium Doped TiOâ‚‚ Thin Films. The Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 110(3), 1210–1220.

  • Hultman, L., Bareño, J., Flink, A., Söderberg, H., Larsson, K., Petrova, V., OdĂ©n, M., … (2007). Interface structure in superhard TiN-SiN nanolaminates and nanocomposites: Film growth experiments and ab initio calculations. Physical Review B, 75(15), 155437.

  • SteinmĂĽller-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.

  • MĂĄrlid, 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

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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.

🌍 Professional Profile:

Orcid 

Scopus

🏆 Suitability for the Outstanding Contribution Award

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.

🎓 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.

đź“Š 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 TiOâ‚‚ 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 SnOâ‚‚ 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 CeOâ‚‚â‚‹â‚“ 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.