CIGDEM CAGLAYAN | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. CIGDEM CAGLAYAN | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at Seoul National University, South Korea

Cigdem Caglayan is an accomplished Aerospace Engineer and a PhD candidate at Seoul National University, specializing in cutting-edge research on dynamic combinational epoxy vitrimers, recyclable carbon fiber vitrimer composites, and self-healing mechano-luminescent (ML) coatings for structural health monitoring (SHM). Her work focuses on developing cost-effective solutions for detecting and visualizing stress distribution in structural components, advancing sustainability through recyclable composite materials. With a strong foundation in polymer science and composite technologies, her research journey spans innovative material design, advanced manufacturing techniques, and extensive collaboration with international institutions. Cigdem is highly skilled in project management, technical reporting, and material characterization, with several publications in high-impact journals. Her global academic contributions and passion for sustainability position her as a leader in the aerospace and materials research domains.

Professional Profile

Education

Cigdem is currently pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Seoul National University, expected in February 2025. Her doctoral research focuses on self-healing epoxy vitrimers and ML coatings. She earned her MSc in Aerospace Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, where her thesis emphasized nano-reinforced polyurethane foams and polymer foam core sandwich composites. She graduated with a GPA of 4.00/4.30 in 2019. Her BSc in Aerospace Engineering, also from Istanbul Technical University, focused on the design and testing of advanced composites, graduating in 2016 with a GPA of 3.69/4.00. Her academic achievements have been supported by prestigious scholarships and her commitment to advancing composite technologies.

Professional Experience

Cigdem has extensive experience as a researcher, starting her career at Istanbul Technical University’s Aerospace Research Center (2016–2019), where she led projects on nano-reinforced polyurethane foams and polymer foam core sandwich composites. Currently, she is a researcher at Seoul National University, where she develops self-healing stress sensors and recyclable carbon fiber composites, contributing to advancements in structural health monitoring and sustainability. Cigdem has been instrumental in laboratory setup and operations, utilizing advanced equipment and techniques. Her teaching experience includes mentoring undergraduate students in subjects like composite materials and aerospace engineering, further showcasing her leadership and technical expertise.

Research Interests

Cigdem’s research interests focus on developing sustainable and innovative materials for aerospace and structural applications. Her work in self-healing mechano-luminescent (ML) coatings and recyclable epoxy vitrimer composites aims to revolutionize structural health monitoring (SHM) by enabling non-contact stress detection and visualization. She is passionate about composite manufacturing techniques, including vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and hot pressing, with a keen focus on enhancing sustainability through recyclable materials. Her interests also extend to understanding material failure under various conditions, making her research pivotal for industries like aerospace and defense.

Research Skills

Cigdem is proficient in advanced composite manufacturing and characterization techniques, including VARTM, hot pressing, and ASTM-standard testing methods like flexural fatigue and impact analysis. Her expertise extends to characterization tools such as FTIR, NMR, and SEM, and she is skilled in data analysis using MATLAB and 3D CAD/CAM software like CATIA. Additionally, she excels in laboratory management, experimental design, and technical reporting, with strong soft skills in teamwork and communication. Cigdem’s ability to innovate and lead makes her a valuable contributor to complex research projects.

Awards and Honors

Cigdem has been recognized globally for her academic and research excellence. She is a recipient of the prestigious Global Korean Scholarship (2019–2023) and has been honored with the Korean Government Invitation Program award for top students. Her outstanding presentation at the International Conference on Active Materials and Soft Mechatronics in 2024 earned her an Excellent Presentation Award. As one of Turkey’s top students, she has also received multiple scholarships and participated in international exchange programs, highlighting her dedication and achievements in aerospace engineering.

Conclusion

Cigdem Caglayan is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to her innovative research, extensive technical expertise, and global academic contributions. Her work in self-healing composites and recyclable materials directly addresses contemporary challenges in sustainability and advanced materials science, aligning with the award’s objectives. By broadening the application of her research and increasing leadership roles in professional communities, she can further enhance her academic and professional impact.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Reprocessable carbon fiber vitrimer composites: Reclamation and reformatting of carbon fibers for second-generation composite materials
    Authors: Sharma, H., Bender, M., Kim, G., Kumar, A., Rana, S.
    Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
    Year: 2024
  2. Epoxy-Based Catalyst-Free Self-Healing Elastomers at Room Temperature Employing Aromatic Disulfide and Hydrogen Bonds
    Authors: Kim, G., Caglayan, C., Yun, G.J.
    Journal: ACS Omega
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 13
  3. CNT-Reinforced Self-Healable Epoxy Dynamic Networks Based on Disulfide Bond Exchange
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Kim, G., Yun, G.J.
    Journal: ACS Omega
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 5
  4. Impact response of shear thickening fluid filled polyurethane foam core sandwich composites
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Osken, I., Ataalp, A., Turkmen, H.S., Cebeci, H.
    Journal: Composite Structures
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 51
  5. The effect of CNT-reinforced polyurethane foam cores to flexural properties of sandwich composites
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Gurkan, I., Gungor, S., Cebeci, H.
    Journal: Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 53
  6. Flexural behaviours of nanophased rigid polyurethane foam core sandwich composites
    Authors: Çağlayan, Ç., Demir, E., Gürkan, İ., Cebeci, H.
    Conference: ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1

 

 

 

Miqin Zhang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Miqin Zhang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dept of materials science and engineering, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON,  United States

Miqin Zhang is a distinguished candidate for the Best Researcher Award, holding the Kyocera Chair Professorship in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Washington and serving as a professor in various medical departments. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley, laying a solid foundation in materials science and biomedical engineering. Zhang’s research focuses on nanoscience and its applications in cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and biosensing, resulting in over 200 publications and more than 43,000 citations. His innovative work, especially in biodegradable hydrogels and targeted drug delivery systems, has significantly advanced therapeutic strategies. Recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher and fellowships from esteemed organizations highlight his influence in the field. Miqin Zhang’s multidisciplinary expertise and substantial contributions to science make him a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award, inspiring future researchers to strive for excellence and innovation in their work.

 

Profile:

Education

Miqin Zhang has an impressive educational background that lays the foundation for his distinguished career in materials science and engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1999. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Victoria in Canada in 1993. His academic journey began at Jiangxi University of Science and Technology in China, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical and Chemical Engineering in 1983. This rigorous training, coupled with research experience as a graduate assistant, equipped Zhang with a robust understanding of materials science principles and their applications in biomedical contexts. His extensive educational background not only demonstrates his commitment to academic excellence but also provides the expertise necessary for his impactful research in nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

 

Professional Experiences 

Miqin Zhang has an extensive professional background in the field of materials science and engineering, currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Washington since 1999. His academic journey includes roles as an Associate Professor and Assistant Professor within the same department, highlighting a progressive career dedicated to research and education. Prior to his tenure at the University of Washington, Zhang gained valuable experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at both the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Victoria, Canada. His early career began in China, where he worked as a Research Assistant and Associate at the Zhejiang Research Institute of Metallurgy, contributing to significant advancements in metallurgical research. This diverse and rich professional experience underscores his expertise in materials science and engineering, positioning him as a prominent figure in interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

 

Research skills 

Miqin Zhang exhibits exceptional research skills in the fields of nanoscience, biomaterials, and tissue engineering. His expertise encompasses the development of innovative nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery, particularly in cancer therapy, showcasing his proficiency in integrating engineering principles with biomedical applications. Zhang’s analytical skills are evident in his ability to conduct complex experimental designs, including the use of biodegradable hydrogels for stem cell delivery and tissue regeneration. His extensive publication record, which includes over 200 peer-reviewed articles with high citation rates, demonstrates not only his capacity for impactful research but also his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. Furthermore, his leadership roles in collaborative projects, coupled with his engagement in interdisciplinary research, reflect his adeptness at fostering teamwork and driving innovation within diverse research environments.

 

Award And Recoginition 

Miqin Zhang is a distinguished candidate for the Best Researcher Award, holding the Kyocera Chair Professorship in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Washington. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, complemented by extensive research experience in nanotechnology and its applications in cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and biosensing. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and more than 43,000 citations, his work significantly impacts the scientific community. Zhang has received numerous accolades, including fellowships in prestigious organizations like The Royal Society of Chemistry and recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher. His innovative research, particularly in developing biodegradable hydrogels and nanomaterials, has revolutionized therapeutic approaches. By awarding him this honor, we not only recognize his exceptional contributions but also inspire future generations to pursue excellence in research and innovation within the fields of materials science and biomedical engineering.

 

Conclusion

 Miqin Zhang exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his exceptional contributions to the fields of materials science and engineering, particularly in nanotechnology and biomedical applications. His extensive academic and professional background, highlighted by his current positions at the University of Washington, reflects his commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovation. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and more than 43,000 citations, Zhang’s work has significantly advanced therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment and tissue engineering. His numerous accolades, including fellowships and recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher, further underscore his influence and leadership in the scientific community. Awarding Zhang this recognition would honor his remarkable achievements and inspire future researchers to pursue excellence and innovation, ultimately contributing to the advancement of science and improved health outcomes. His dedication and impact make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Green synthesis of iron-doped graphene quantum dots: an efficient nanozyme for glucose sensing
    Authors: Xinqi Li, Guanyou Lin, Lijun Zhou, Octavia Prosser, Mohammad H. Malakooti, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2024
    Citation: DOI: 10.1039/D4NH00024B
  • Injectable Biodegradable Chitosan–PEG/PEG–Dialdehyde Hydrogel for Stem Cell Delivery and Cartilage Regeneration
    Authors: Xiaojie Lin, Ruofan Liu, Jacob Beitzel, Yang Zhou, Chloe Lagadon, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2024
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/gels10080508
  • Human Neural Stem Cell Expansion in Natural Polymer Scaffolds Under Chemically Defined Condition
    Authors: Fei‐Chien Chang, Matthew Michael James, Yang Zhou, Yoshiki Ando, Hadi M. Zareie, Jihui Yang, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2024
    Citation: DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400224
  • A Chitosan Scaffold Supports the Enhanced and Prolonged Differentiation of HiPSCs into Nucleus Pulposus-like Cells
    Authors: Yuanzhang Tang, Yang Zhou, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2024
    Citation: DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c06013
  • Advances in nanoparticle-based mRNA delivery for liver cancer and liver-associated infectious diseases
    Authors: Seokhwan Chung, Chan Mi Lee, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1039/D2NH00289B
  • 3D chitosan scaffolds support expansion of human neural stem cells in chemically defined condition
    Authors: Fei-Chien Chang, Matthew Michael James, Abdullah Mohammed Qassab, Yang Zhou, Yoshiki Ando, Min Shi, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.matt.2023.08.014
  • Chitosan Scaffolds as Microcarriers for Dynamic Culture of Human Neural Stem Cells
    Authors: Yoshiki Ando, Fei-Chien Chang, Matthew James, Yang Zhou, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071957
  • Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Mediated mRNA Delivery to Hard-to-Transfect Cancer Cells
    Authors: Jianxi Huang, Guanyou Lin, Taylor Juenke, Seokhwan Chung, Nicholas Lai, Tianxin Zhang, Tianyi Zhang, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071946
  • Enhanced Cell Penetration and Pluripotency Maintenance of hiPSCs in 3D Natural Chitosan Scaffolds
    Authors: Yuanzhang Tang, Yang Zhou, Guanyou Lin, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200460
  • Ligand Chemistry in Antitumor Theranostic Nanoparticles
    Authors: Guanyou Lin, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00151
  • 3D Porous Scaffold-Based High-Throughput Platform for Cancer Drug Screening
    Authors: Yang Zhou, Gillian Pereira, Yuanzhang Tang, Matthew James, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061691
  • Data from Time-Resolved MRI Assessment of Convection-Enhanced Delivery by Targeted and Nontargeted Nanoparticles in a Human Glioblastoma Mouse Model
    Authors: Zachary R. Stephen, Peter A. Chiarelli, Richard A. Revia, Kui Wang, Forrest Kievit, Chris Dayringer, Mike Jeon, Richard Ellenbogen, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.c.6511271
  • Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Decorated with Functional Peptides for a Targeted siRNA Delivery to Glioma Cells
    Authors: Seokhwan Chung, Yutaro Sugimoto, Jianxi Huang, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c17802
  • Electrospun nanofibers for 3-D cancer models, diagnostics, and therapy
    Authors: Ariane Erickson, Peter A. Chiarelli, Jianxi Huang, Sheeny Lan Levengood, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1039/D2NH00328G
  • High-Throughput Dispensing of Viscous Solutions for Biomedical Applications
    Authors: Richard A. Revia, Brandon Wagner, Matthew James, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/mi13101730
  • Enzymatic and Cellular Degradation of Carbon-Based Biconcave Nanodisks
    Authors: Zhiyong Wei, Qingxin Mu, Hui Wang, Guanyou Lin, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/mi13071144
  • Iron oxide nanoparticle-mediated radiation delivery for glioblastoma treatment
    Authors: Peter A. Chiarelli, Richard A. Revia, Zachary R. Stephen, Kui Wang, Forrest M. Kievit, Jordan Sandhu, Meenakshi Upreti, Seokhwan Chung, Richard G. Ellenbogen, Miqin Zhang
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.mattod.2022.04.001

 

Walid AWADI | Engineering | Best Scholar Award

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Mr. Walid AWADI | Engineering | Best Scholar Award 

Professor at Polytechnic Institute of Leiria , Portugal .

Walid Awadi is a mechanical engineering professional with extensive experience in both academia and industry. He is currently a Maitre Technologue in Mechanical Engineering at ISET Jendouba and previously served as the Director of the Higher Institute of Technological Studies in Jendouba from 2010 to 2017. Awadi holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and is pursuing a Ph.D. focusing on the characterization and optimization of thermoplastic polymer welding. He has participated in various training programs and certifications, including SolidWorks, technological transfer, and risk prevention. His career includes contributions to numerous engineering projects, such as the design and fabrication of specialized machinery. Additionally, Awadi has been involved in international collaborations and training sessions in countries such as Spain, France, and Belgium. His work is characterized by a strong emphasis on technological innovation, applied research, and educational development.

Profile

Education

Walid Awadi holds a strong educational background in mechanical engineering, beginning with his Baccalaureate in Technical Studies from Lycée Technique 9 Avril in Jendouba, Tunisia, obtained in 1995 with honors. He pursued his higher education at the National Engineering School of Monastir (ENIM), where he earned his National Engineering Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in 2000. His final project focused on the design and fabrication of a PVC-U pipe grooving machine. Building on this, he completed a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at ENIM from 2000 to 2002, specializing in the numerical simulation of micro-indentation tests. Since 2018, Walid has been pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on the study and characterization of thermoplastic polymer welding using thermo-mechanical processes, under the guidance of Dr. Mondher Zidi (ENIM) and Dr. Redouane Zitoune (Université Toulouse, France). His educational journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing his expertise in mechanical engineering.

Professional Experience

Walid Awadi is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in mechanical engineering and academia. He holds the position of Maître Technologue in Mechanical Engineering at the Higher Institute of Technological Studies (ISET) in Jendouba, Tunisia. From August 2010 to December 2017, he served as the Director of ISET Jendouba, where he played a crucial role in enhancing the institution’s academic programs and infrastructure. Throughout his career, Walid has been deeply involved in both teaching and research, with a focus on mechanical engineering, particularly in thermomechanical processes and polymer welding. His professional journey is marked by his contributions to curriculum development, particularly in adopting competency-based approaches, and his active participation in various international projects and training programs. Walid’s commitment to advancing mechanical engineering education and research has earned him recognition within academic and professional circles, making him a respected figure in his field.

Research Interest

Walid Awadi’s research interests are deeply rooted in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on the study and characterization of thermoplastic polymer welding. His work involves the application of thermomechanical processes to optimize joining parameters, a field critical for enhancing the durability and functionality of engineering materials. Additionally, Awadi is engaged in numerical simulation studies, especially in micro-indentation testing, which further highlights his commitment to precision in material analysis. His research extends to innovative design and fabrication projects, including the development of specialized machinery for PVC-U tube grooving. Awadi’s academic pursuits are complemented by his involvement in advanced manufacturing technologies, such as SolidWorks, where he holds multiple certifications. His research contributions are pivotal in advancing knowledge in mechanical engineering, particularly in the areas of material characterization, process optimization, and the integration of modern simulation tools to enhance engineering outcomes.

Research Skills

Walid Awadi possesses a robust set of research skills, particularly in the field of mechanical engineering. His expertise spans thermoplastic welding, numerical simulation, and mechanical design, with a strong focus on optimizing and characterizing engineering processes. Awadi’s ability to conduct complex simulations, such as micro-indentation testing, demonstrates his proficiency in advanced analytical tools. His experience in SolidWorks, CSWA, and CSWP certifications further highlights his capabilities in computer-aided design and mechanical modeling. Additionally, Awadi has a deep understanding of technology transfer, intellectual property management, and risk prevention in industrial settings, as evidenced by his extensive training and certifications in these areas. His participation in various international workshops and collaborative projects underscores his collaborative and innovative approach to research. Overall, Awadi’s research skills are a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, making him a versatile researcher capable of contributing significantly to advancements in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Recognition

Awadi’s achievements in education and training, including certifications in SolidWorks and his involvement in various international training programs, are commendable. His role as Director of ISET Jendouba also highlights his leadership and recognition in the academic community.

Conclusion

Walid Awadi is a dedicated mechanical engineer with a strong focus on applied research, international collaboration, and education. While his work primarily centers around mechanical engineering, his contributions to the field, coupled with his leadership in academia, make him a commendable candidate for a research award, particularly in categories related to engineering and technology. However, if the award emphasizes environmental health, parasitology, or infectious diseases, other candidates with a stronger focus in those areas might be more suitable.