Saad A. Aljlil | Water and Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Saad A. Aljlil | Water and Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Chief researcher | King Abdullaziz City for Science and Technology | Saudi Arabia

Prof. Saad A. Aljlil’s research is deeply rooted in sustainability and environmental innovation, focusing on advanced technologies for water treatment, desalination, and resource recovery. His extensive experience at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) includes managing multidisciplinary projects in membrane technology, renewable energy integration, and environmental remediation. Dr. Aljlil has led and contributed to numerous funded projects on polymer and ceramic membrane development, hybrid ion exchange-nanofiltration systems, and adsorption technologies for removing heavy metals and dyes from wastewater. His work on solar desalination, greywater treatment, and lithium extraction from desalination brines demonstrates his commitment to addressing global water and energy challenges through green technologies. He has developed patented innovations in desalination and wastewater purification, particularly focusing on adsorbent synthesis from natural and waste materials to promote circular economy practices. His collaboration with national and international research centers has resulted in high-impact publications and novel applications such as smart water networks, ceramic membrane distillation, and AI-assisted sustainable filtration systems. As Editor-in-Chief of Applied Water Science and a board member in energy and water sustainability programs, he has contributed significantly to advancing environmental policy and technological foresight. His research interests also extend to nanotechnology applications, including the study of nanoplastics' environmental impacts and the integration of metal-organic frameworks in water purification. Through his visionary approach and applied research leadership, Dr. Aljlil has strengthened Saudi Arabia’s role in global sustainability initiatives like the Saudi Green Initiative, emphasizing eco-innovation, renewable resource utilization, and efficient water management systems. His work exemplifies the fusion of scientific excellence with environmental stewardship, creating pathways for sustainable water and energy solutions in future smart cities.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications:

  • Synthesis, cytotoxicity, molecular docking, DFT analysis and ADMET studies of imidazo[1,2-b][1,2,4]triazine based pyrimidine derivatives as PI3Kα selective inhibitors. Journal of Molecular Structure.

  • Antibiotic removal from wastewater via ceramic membrane distillation: Toward clean water and antimicrobial resistance mitigation aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Indonesian Journal of Science and Technology.

  • Biomass-engineered rGO coupled with ytterbium doped cobalt pyrovanadate: A sustainable electrode material for supercapacitor and OER activity. Diamond and Related Materials.

  • Upcycling waste plastics into rGO-Yb@NiFe₂O₄ hybrid electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors and hydrogen evolution. Diamond and Related Materials.

Noor Ahmed Nahyoon – Wastewater Treatment – Best Researcher Award

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Noor Ahmed Nahyoon | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Visiting Faculty | Liaquat University of Medical Health Sciences Jamshoro | Pakistan

Noor Ahmed Nahyoon is a dedicated environmental professional currently serving as Field Supervisor (BPS-16) at the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency, Government of Sindh, Pakistan, where responsibilities extend to monitoring, planning, reviewing environmental impact assessments, initial environmental examinations, and environmental management plans, alongside proposal writing, awareness activities, coordination with agencies, and capacity building initiatives. With an MPhil in Environmental Sciences from the University of Sindh, complemented by MSc and BSc degrees in Chemistry, the academic foundation provides a strong base for applied research and professional contributions. Since 2009, extensive government service has been enriched with teaching experience as Visiting Faculty at Liaqat University of Health and Sciences, Jamshoro, where lectures on environmental forensics and quality management systems are delivered. Research contributions are remarkable, with publications in internationally recognized journals covering photocatalytic degradation, wastewater treatment, renewable energy generation through photocatalytic fuel cells, and nanomaterial-based environmental solutions, many of which carry significant impact factors. The ability to integrate scientific innovation with practical environmental management reflects a commitment to sustainable development and pollution control. Recognized with SIE Student Star awards in 2018 and 2019 for outstanding research performance at Dalian University of Technology, China, achievements highlight both academic and professional excellence. Skills extend to training and mentoring new staff, providing technical assistance in environmental law, and conducting workshops on water quality management, risk assessment, pollution remediation, and human rights, supported by international exposure through training sessions in collaboration with institutions in China, USA, and Japan. Proficiency in English, Urdu, Sindhi, and Chinese, along with publications, conference presentations, and active participation in capacity-building programs, demonstrate a profile combining academic rigor, professional service, and international collaboration, making Noor Ahmed Nahyoon a versatile contributor to advancing environmental sustainability and scientific innovation.

Profile: Google scholar | Scopus

Publications

  1. Iqbal, M., Ali, A., Nahyoon, N. A., Majeed, A., Pothu, R., Phulpoto, S., & Thebo, K. H. (2019). Photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant with nanosized cadmium sulfide. Materials Science for Energy Technologies, 2(1), 41–45. Cited by 136

  2. Nahyoon, N. A., Liu, L., Rabe, K., Thebo, K. H., Yuan, L., Sun, J., & Yang, F. (2018). Significant photocatalytic degradation and electricity generation in the photocatalytic fuel cell (PFC) using novel anodic nanocomposite of Fe, graphene oxide, and titanium. Electrochimica Acta, 271, 41–48. Cited by 95

  3. Meher-Un-Nisa Khilji, N. H., Nahyoon, N. A., Mehdi, M., & Hussain, K. (2023). Synthesis of novel visible light driven MgO@GO nanocomposite photocatalyst for degradation of Rhodamine 6G. Optical Materials, 135, 113260. Cited by 65

  4. Rabé, K., Liu, L., Nahyoon, N. A., Zhang, Y., & Idris, A. M. (2019). Enhanced Rhodamine B and coking wastewater degradation and simultaneous electricity generation via anodic g-C3N4/Fe0 (1%)/TiO2 and cathodic WO3 in photocatalytic fuel cell. Electrochimica Acta, 298, 430–439. Cited by 41

  5. Sekyerebea Diko, S. F. C., Qu, Y., Henglin, Z., Li, Z., & Nahyoon, N. A. (2020). Biosynthesis and characterization of lead selenide semiconductor nanoparticles (PbSe NPs) and its antioxidant and photocatalytic activity. Arabian Journal of Chemistry. Cited by 39

Cao Ying – Industrial wastewater treatment – Best Researcher Award

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Cao Ying - Industrial wastewater treatment - Best Researcher Award

Zhengzhou University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🧬 SUMMARY

CAO YING is an emerging environmental scientist and geochemist, currently serving as a Lecturer at the School of Ecology and Environment, Zhengzhou University. With a solid academic foundation and a passion for addressing ecological and geochemical challenges, her work has contributed to understanding and mitigating heavy metal pollution through microbial and geochemical approaches. Her research spans environmental science, earth sciences, and pollution remediation, with involvement in several national-level scientific projects. Her publications and project roles illustrate an interdisciplinary approach, combining fundamental science with real-world applications in ecological protection, sustainable development, and the remediation of contaminated mining sites.

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

CAO YING began her academic journey in 2011 at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), majoring in Geology. Her curiosity for Earth's systems led her to pursue a Master’s in Geology at the State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology. During this period, she developed a strong interest in environmental geochemistry, setting the stage for advanced interdisciplinary research. Her early participation in fieldwork and academic conferences enriched her practical and theoretical understanding. Her academic achievements and awards, such as the Outstanding Graduate honor in 2018, underscored her strong scholarly foundation and dedication to scientific excellence.

🏞️ PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Following her master's studies, CAO YING joined the Second Geological Brigade under the Henan Nonferrous Metals Geology and Mineral Resources Bureau, where she applied her skills to real-world environmental assessments. Between 2018 and 2020, she contributed to projects on ecological protection and restoration across Henan Province. In 2020, she began her PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering at the China University of Geosciences (Beijing), focusing on advanced pollution remediation techniques. As of September 2024, she transitioned to a lecturer role at Zhengzhou University, where she integrates research, teaching, and policy-relevant environmental science to drive innovation and sustainability.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Her research primarily addresses the microbial geochemical mechanisms of pollution remediation in non-ferrous metal mining areas. She has played key roles in national R&D plans and NSF-funded projects, focusing on bioremediation technologies and Fenton-based catalytic systems. Through innovative use of waste materials and chemical processes, she explores sustainable solutions for heavy metal and organic pollutant degradation. Her papers detail advanced degradation pathways of toxic substances such as BPA and salicylhydroxamic acid. CAO YING’s work aims to bridge the gap between environmental chemistry and practical engineering applications in contaminated soil and water remediation.

🏅 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

CAO YING’s excellence has been consistently recognized through prestigious awards. These include the Henan Nonferrous Metals Geology Bureau Science and Technology Special Award (2020) and multiple honors from China University of Geosciences, such as the Third Prize in the Science and Technology Paper Report Conference (2017) and Outstanding Graduate recognition (2018). She also served as an Outstanding Volunteer during the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Science and Technology Innovation Achievements Tour in 2019. These accolades highlight both her scientific contributions and commitment to community engagement in promoting science and sustainability.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her work impacts both scientific research and environmental policy. By contributing to provincial standards like the “Supervision Specification for Ecological Protection and Restoration,” she has helped shape best practices in ecological conservation. Her active participation in field-based projects and collaboration with government bodies ensures that her research translates into tangible improvements in environmental management. Moreover, her interdisciplinary approach has fostered collaboration across microbiology, geology, and environmental engineering, positioning her as a young thought leader in remediation science and sustainability efforts within China’s mining-impacted regions.

PUBLICATION

Degradation of aniline via microbial treated post Fe(II) or Co(II)/PMS advanced oxidation processes

Authors: Junjie Zhu, Jun Yao, Ying Cao, Wancheng Pang, Jianli Liu, and others (total six authors)
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Publication Date: November 2024 (appeared online ahead of print, cited as 2025) ablesci.com

Combined modified montmorillonite and microbial consortium enhanced the remediation effect of As and Cd‑contaminated soil in a smelting area

Authors: Chenchen Zhao, Jun Yao, Tatjana Šolević Knudsen, Wenkai Hu, Ying Cao (total five authors)
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
Volume/Article: Volume 501: Article 145329
Publication Date: March 2025

🔮 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, CAO YING aims to expand the frontiers of environmental geochemistry by exploring smart biotechnological interventions for site-specific pollution challenges. As a lecturer, she also seeks to mentor the next generation of environmental scientists, promoting innovation and ecological responsibility. Her ongoing projects, including a major National Natural Science Foundation key initiative, will likely lead to breakthroughs in multi-pollutant remediation. Through continued publication, collaboration, and education, she is committed to leaving a legacy defined by sustainable development, scientific rigor, and actionable environmental change in both regional and global contexts.

Xiaoyu Zhao | Utilization of Sea Brine Resources | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Prof Xiaoyu Zhao | Utilization of Sea Brine Resources | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, China

Xiaoyu Zhao is a distinguished researcher at Tianjin University of Science and Technology, specializing in electrochemical energy storage, lithium extraction, and advanced materials. He is affiliated with the State Key Laboratory of Bio-based Fiber Materials and other prestigious research centers. As a highly cited scientist, his work has made significant contributions to sustainable energy and environmental technologies. Recognized among the World’s Top 2% Scientists, he has earned multiple accolades, including the China’s 30 Outstanding Talents in Patent Commercialization and Utilization. His interdisciplinary research spans from lithium-ion batteries to electrochemical desalination, with an emphasis on green energy solutions. Zhao’s prolific research output has been published in high-impact journals, reflecting his expertise in nanomaterials and energy conversion systems. His work continues to influence the future of sustainable energy storage and environmental remediation.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Google Scholar

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

  1. Outstanding Research Impact – Xiaoyu Zhao has a strong academic presence with numerous highly cited publications across environmental science, electrochemical energy storage, and lithium extraction. His work has received significant recognition, with multiple publications exceeding 100 citations, demonstrating strong influence in his research fields.
  2. Multidisciplinary Expertise – His research spans multiple domains, including electrochemical lithium extraction, capacitive deionization, supercapacitors, desalination, and environmental electrochemistry, showcasing his ability to integrate various scientific disciplines.
  3. Recognition and Honors – Zhao has received prestigious recognitions such as the World’s Top 2% Scientists, China’s 30 Outstanding Talents in Patent Commercialization and Utilization, and participation in key talent programs like the Tianjin Young and Middle-aged Key Innovation Talent Training Program. These accolades highlight his leadership and contribution to scientific advancements.
  4. High Research Productivity – He has published numerous impactful papers in reputable journals like Environmental Science & Technology, Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Desalination, and ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. His ability to consistently contribute high-quality research demonstrates excellence.
  5. International Collaboration & Experience – His experience as a CSC Visiting Scholar and recipient of the Japanese Government Scholarship signifies his global research engagement and collaboration, strengthening his academic profile.
  6. Practical Application of Research – His focus on lithium extraction and electrochemical energy storage technologies is crucial for sustainable energy solutions, making his work highly relevant to industrial applications and real-world problem-solving.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  1. Industry Engagement & Commercialization – While he has received recognition for patent commercialization, further emphasis on translating his research into commercial technologies, start-ups, or industry collaborations could enhance his impact beyond academia.
  2. Leadership in Scientific Communities – Although he is recognized as a Young Scholar of the International Society of Salt Lake Research, taking on more leadership roles in international conferences, scientific organizations, or editorial boards could further solidify his standing as a top researcher.
  3. Public Outreach & Science Communication – Engaging more in public science communication through keynote speeches, popular science writing, or media outreach could broaden the societal impact of his work.

EDUCATION 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Electrochemical Engineering – Tianjin University of Science and Technology, China
  • Master’s in Materials Science – Tianjin University, China
  • Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering – Tianjin University of Science and Technology, China

Throughout his academic journey, Zhao focused on advanced energy materials, electrochemical processes, and sustainable energy solutions. His doctoral research pioneered novel electrode materials for capacitive deionization and lithium extraction. During his studies, he was awarded the Japanese Government Scholarship and served as a CSC Visiting Scholar abroad, enhancing his global research experience. His interdisciplinary education laid the foundation for his innovations in energy storage, nanomaterials, and green chemistry.

EXPERIENCE 💼

  • Professor, Tianjin University of Science and Technology – Leading research on electrochemical energy storage and advanced materials.
  • Principal Investigator, Tianjin Marine Chemical Engineering Technology Center – Focusing on lithium extraction and desalination technologies.
  • Senior Researcher, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Brine Chemical Engineering and Resource Eco-utilization – Conducting studies on ion-selective membranes and sustainable resource utilization.
  • Visiting Scholar, International Research Institutes – Collaborated with global experts on green energy technologies.
  • Editorial Board Member, Leading Scientific Journals – Contributing as a peer reviewer and editorial advisor in energy and environmental fields.

His extensive experience bridges academia and industry, driving breakthroughs in sustainable energy solutions and advanced nanomaterials.

HONORS AND AWARDS 🏆

  • 🌍 World’s Top 2% Scientists
  • 🇨🇳 China’s 30 Outstanding Talents in Patent Commercialization and Utilization
  • 🎖️ Tianjin Young and Middle-aged Key Innovation Talent Training Program
  • 🏅 Second-tier in Tianjin 131 Innovative Talents Project
  • 🔬 Young Scholar of the International Society of Salt Lake Research
  • 🌟 High-level Talent in Binhai New Area, Tianjin
  • 🎓 CSC Visiting Scholar
  • 🇯🇵 Japanese Government Scholarship

His awards highlight his impact in energy research, innovation, and academic excellence on a global scale.

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Xiaoyu Zhao’s research revolves around electrochemical energy storage, lithium extraction, and sustainable materials. His primary focus includes:

  • Electrode Materials for Capacitive Deionization – Enhancing desalination and resource recovery.
  • Lithium Extraction Technologies – Developing advanced electrochemical methods for extracting lithium from seawater and brine.
  • Sustainable Battery Technologies – Investigating high-performance lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries.
  • Energy Conversion & Storage – Exploring self-powered energy storage systems and novel hybrid capacitors.
  • Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Applications – Designing materials for supercapacitors, desalination, and electrochemical sensors.

His work pioneers cutting-edge green energy and sustainable resource utilization.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📚

  • Defect Sites in Ultrathin Pd Nanowires Facilitate the Highly Efficient Electrochemical Hydrodechlorination of Pollutants by H*ads
  • Review on the Electrochemical Extraction of Lithium from Seawater/Brine
  • Electrode Materials for Capacitive Deionization: A Review
  • Energy Conversion Technologies Towards Self-Powered Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems: The State of the Art and Perspectives
  • Lithium Extraction from Brine in an Ionic Selective Desalination Battery
  • Efficient Lithium Extraction from Brine Using a Three-Dimensional Nanostructured Hybrid Inorganic-Gel Framework Electrode
  • Prepared MnO₂ with Different Crystal Forms as Electrode Materials for Supercapacitors: Experimental Research from Hydrothermal Crystallization Process to Electrochemical Properties
  • Enhancement of the Water Solubility and Antioxidant Activity of Hesperidin by Chitooligosaccharide
  • Semi-Continuous Electrochemical Extraction of Lithium from Brine Using CF-NMMO/AC Asymmetric Hybrid Capacitors
  • Recent Progress on Key Materials and Technical Approaches for Electrochemical Lithium Extraction Processes
  • Coronaviruses Exploit a Host Cysteine-Aspartic Protease for Replication
  • Human Intestinal Organoids Recapitulate Enteric Infections of Enterovirus and Coronavirus
  • Human Coronavirus Dependency on Host Heat Shock Protein 90 Reveals an Antiviral Target
  • Decoration of Graphene with 2-Aminoethanethiol Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles for Molecular Imprinted Sensing of Erythrosine
  • Pulsed Electric Field Controlled Lithium Extraction Process by LMO/MXene Composite Electrode from Brines
  • Rapid and Sensitive Determination of Tartrazine Using a Molecularly Imprinted Copolymer Modified Carbon Electrode (MIP-PmDB/PoPD-GCE)
  • Lithium Extraction from Brine by an Asymmetric Hybrid Capacitor Composed of Heterostructured Lithium-Rich Cathode and Nano-Bismuth Anode
  • Battery‐Type Electrode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Capacitors
  • Core-Shell Self-Doped Polyaniline Coated Metal-Organic-Framework (SPAN@ UIO-66-NH₂) Screen Printed Electrochemical Sensor for Cd²⁺ Ions
  • A New Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP)‐Based Electrochemical Sensor for Monitoring Cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) in the Serum

CONCLUSION

Xiaoyu Zhao is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his prolific publication record, high citation impact, multidisciplinary expertise, and recognition in national and international talent programs. His contributions to lithium extraction, electrochemical energy storage, and desalination have substantial scientific and industrial significance. While further expanding his leadership roles and industry impact could strengthen his profile, his current achievements make him a strong and deserving nominee for this honor.