Behnam Rezvani | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Behnam Rezvani | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Laboratory Operator from University of Tehran, Iran 

Behnam (Benjamin) Rezvani is a promising chemical engineer whose academic and research credentials place him among the top emerging scientists in the field of sustainable energy and environmental engineering. With a strong foundation in chemical engineering from Hakim Sabzevari University and advanced specialization in separation processes from the University of Tehran—Iran’s top-ranked university—Rezvani has built an interdisciplinary research portfolio that integrates bio-oil production, biodiesel synthesis, and wastewater treatment technologies. His ability to blend experimental proficiency with software modeling and data-driven methods such as machine learning demonstrates his versatility and innovation in tackling global environmental challenges. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals and presented research at international congresses. His projects span from catalyst optimization to advanced adsorption techniques using biochar, emphasizing his commitment to sustainable and scalable chemical engineering solutions. Beyond research, he has served as a teaching assistant in various laboratory courses and holds editorial and review positions in reputable scientific platforms. With awards from national competitions and a growing number of publications, Rezvani stands out as a dynamic contributor to scientific advancement. His passion for clean energy and sustainable technologies marks him as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Behnam Rezvani’s educational journey reflects a progressive commitment to excellence in chemical engineering, particularly in areas tied to sustainability, green chemistry, and process optimization. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Hakim Sabzevari University, where he developed a solid foundation in core chemical engineering principles. He then pursued his Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Separation Processes at the prestigious University of Tehran, Iran’s leading academic institution. During his graduate studies, he maintained a commendable GPA of 3.65/4.00 and undertook significant research, including his thesis on the removal of Alizarine Red S from wastewater using a biochar composite derived from rice husk and sewage sludge pyrolysis. His advanced education involved both experimental and computational modeling, allowing him to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills. In addition to core engineering courses, he engaged in interdisciplinary projects incorporating design of experiments, process simulation, and environmental remediation. His language proficiency, demonstrated by an IELTS score of 7, further qualifies him for international collaboration and academic endeavors. This robust academic background, enriched by hands-on lab work and innovative research, has positioned Rezvani as a capable and globally aware chemical engineering researcher.

Professional Experience

Behnam Rezvani has amassed a diverse range of professional experiences that reflect his technical acumen, interdisciplinary expertise, and proactive engagement with industry challenges. He served as a teaching assistant at the University of Tehran in courses such as Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer Laboratory, Processes Control Laboratory, and Unit Operations Laboratory. These roles underscore his hands-on proficiency and teaching capabilities in key engineering disciplines. Additionally, Rezvani has contributed to research and development initiatives across several companies, including AMPER INNOVATION Center, Pishgam Rooyesh Espadana Company, Payafan Yakhteh Alborz Company, and Arfa Iron and Steel Company. His work has spanned a variety of applied domains, from interface thermal materials and fertilizer development to wastewater treatment system design for industrial facilities. He has also served as a laboratory specialist at Gemizdar Petrorefinery, reinforcing his practical skills in a petrochemical setting. His experience with simulation software such as HYSYS, MATLAB, and Design-Expert, alongside programming in Python and C++, has enabled him to lead data-driven and computational modeling projects. Whether designing biodiesel production processes, simulating complex chemical reactions, or developing machine learning models for medical applications, Rezvani consistently demonstrates an ability to integrate scientific innovation with real-world solutions.

Research Interests

Behnam Rezvani’s research interests center around sustainable energy technologies, environmental remediation, and advanced chemical process engineering. His academic and experimental focus lies in bio-oil and biodiesel production through pyrolysis and transesterification, particularly using agricultural and industrial waste biomass. He is keenly interested in developing innovative adsorbents from biochar and activated carbon for water treatment and pollution mitigation, employing chemical modifications and modern pyrolysis techniques to enhance efficiency. His research also explores catalytic systems for oxidation processes and eco-friendly indigo dye synthesis, indicating a broader commitment to green chemistry. Rezvani’s interest in adsorption and biosorption extends to electrospun bio-nanocomposites, such as chitosan/Chlorella vulgaris, for heavy metal removal from wastewater. Additionally, he is invested in techno-economic analyses and design of experiments (DOE), aiming to bridge laboratory innovation with industrial scalability. His emerging work in machine learning, particularly in predicting medical outcomes from biochemical data, adds a computational edge to his experimental profile. Through these multidisciplinary interests, Rezvani seeks to develop sustainable, cost-effective, and technologically advanced solutions for global environmental challenges. His ongoing research contributions not only address critical environmental concerns but also aim to advance circular economy principles and resource recovery from waste materials.

Research Skills

Behnam Rezvani possesses a wide range of research skills that make him a well-rounded and capable chemical engineering researcher. His expertise spans both experimental and computational methodologies, allowing him to bridge theory and practice effectively. In the laboratory, he has conducted extensive work on pyrolysis for bio-oil and biochar production, biodiesel synthesis from halophytic plants, catalyst development, and wastewater treatment through biosorption and advanced adsorption methods. He is proficient in various analytical and fabrication techniques, including electrospinning, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM imaging. Rezvani is also skilled in using MATLAB for modeling partial differential equations and performing advanced statistical analyses via Minitab and Design-Expert for experimental optimization. His software skills include HYSYS for chemical process simulations, ChemDraw for chemical structure design, and Python for machine learning applications, achieving high-accuracy predictive models in healthcare analytics. Additionally, he has conducted techno-economic assessments and scaling feasibility studies to ensure practical applicability of his research. His strong technical communication is evidenced by published journal articles, conference presentations, and experience as an editor and reviewer for scientific journals. These combined skills equip him to tackle complex, interdisciplinary problems in chemical engineering, particularly in the pursuit of cleaner energy, efficient resource recovery, and sustainable industrial processes.

Awards and Honors

Behnam Rezvani has earned numerous distinctions that highlight his scientific excellence, innovation, and leadership in chemical engineering. His notable achievements include securing 1st place in the prestigious Rah Neshan National Competition in Iran by proposing a novel indigo synthesis method using a microflow reactor—an innovative take on the traditional Heumann & Pfleger process. He also placed 3rd in the Rahisho National Competition for a pioneering wastewater treatment and reuse proposal tailored to steel manufacturing processes. Rezvani’s editorial contributions further exemplify his leadership; he served as an editor and editorial board member of the student-led ‘Farayand’ scientific journal for over two years, promoting scientific literacy in chemical engineering. His academic engagement extended internationally through his role as a peer reviewer for the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules (IF: 7.7), demonstrating his analytical acumen and contribution to global research. Additionally, his published research in high-impact journals like Bioresource Technology Reports, Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, and Journal of the Energy Institute has garnered professional recognition. With several accepted conference papers, under-review articles, and two registered inventions, Rezvani’s award record showcases his innovation, productivity, and impact on sustainable technologies and environmental remediation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Behnam Rezvani exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, innovative, and impactful researcher. With a multidisciplinary approach rooted in chemical engineering and sustainability, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to convert complex scientific ideas into practical and scalable solutions. His contributions to bio-oil and biodiesel production, waste-to-resource conversion, and water treatment technologies address some of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. He skillfully integrates experimental research with computational modeling, simulation, and data analysis, embodying a modern and systems-thinking perspective. His achievements, including national awards, editorial roles, and international publications, reflect his commitment to excellence and advancement in his field. Furthermore, his engagement in teaching, industry collaboration, and ongoing innovation—through registered inventions and cutting-edge research—underscores his leadership potential. Behnam Rezvani’s well-rounded profile, global mindset, and dedication to sustainable development make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued support and recognition, he is poised to make lasting contributions to science, industry, and society at large.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Enhanced bio-oil production from Co-pyrolysis of cotton seed and polystyrene waste; fuel upgrading by metal-doped activated carbon catalysts
    Authors: Mahshid Vaghar Mousavi, Behnam Rezvani, Ahmad Hallajisani
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Super-effective biochar adsorbents from Co-pyrolysis of rice husk and sewage sludge: Adsorption performance, advanced regeneration, and economic analysis
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani, Ahmad Hallajisani, Omid Tavakoli
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Novel techniques in bio‐oil production through catalytic pyrolysis of waste biomass: Effective parameters, innovations, and techno‐economic analysis
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani
    Year: 2025

  4. Title: Canola, Camelina, and Linseed Biodiesel: A Sustainable Pathway for Renewable Energy
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani
    Year: 2024

  5. Title: Exploring the Potential of Biosorption By Algae: A Sustainable Solution for Water Treatment
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani
    Year: 2024

  6. Title: Mercury Removal by Biochar and Activated Carbon: An Effective Approach for Environmental Remediation
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani
    Year: 2024

  7. Title: Safflower, Moringa, and Salicornia Biodiesel: A Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Fuel Alternatives
    Authors: Behnam Rezvani
    Year: 2024

 

 

Dan Yang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dan Yang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, China

Dan Yang is an accomplished associate professor at Nanjing Tech University, specializing in chemistry and molecular engineering. With a strong academic foundation and extensive research experience, she focuses on the synthesis of metal nanoclusters and their applications in photoelectrocatalysis and electrocatalysis. Her research aims to develop innovative solutions for CO2 reduction and biomass conversion, contributing to sustainable chemical processes. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the field, authoring multiple high-impact publications in renowned scientific journals. Dan Yang has successfully secured competitive research grants, demonstrating her expertise in securing funding for cutting-edge projects. With her deep-rooted knowledge in physical chemistry and material science, she continues to make impactful strides in catalysis research, earning recognition and respect in her field.

Professional Profile

ORCID Profile

Education

Dan Yang has an extensive academic background in chemistry and material science. She earned her doctoral degree in physical chemistry from Nanjing University (2017–2020) under the supervision of Professors Weiping Ding and Yan Zhu. During her doctoral studies, she focused on the catalytic conversion of C1 molecules using metal clusters. Prior to this, she obtained a master’s degree in material science from Sun Yat-sen University (2012–2014), where she worked under Professor Yuezhong Meng, specializing in the development of advanced materials. Her educational journey began at Northwest Normal University, where she completed her bachelor’s degree in chemistry (2008–2012), building a strong foundation in chemical principles and laboratory techniques. This diverse and robust educational background has equipped Dan Yang with the expertise to conduct innovative research in electrocatalysis and sustainable chemical processes.

Professional Experience

Dan Yang’s professional career reflects her dedication to advancing chemical research. She is currently an associate professor at Nanjing Tech University (2023–present), where she leads research on metal nanocluster synthesis and their applications in photoelectrocatalysis and electrocatalysis of C1 molecules and biomass conversion. Prior to her current role, she served as a postdoctoral researcher at the same university (2021–2022), where she worked on electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR) and the conversion of biomass derivatives into valuable chemical products. From 2014 to 2016, she was an assistant research fellow at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences. There, she contributed to the development of fine chemicals, including phase-change materials, epoxide plasticizers, and bio-based polyols. Her diverse professional experience underscores her expertise in catalysis, sustainable chemical synthesis, and material science.

Research Interests

Dan Yang’s research interests revolve around catalysis and sustainable chemistry. She specializes in the synthesis of metal nanoclusters and their catalytic applications in photoelectrocatalysis and electrocatalysis. Her current focus includes CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR) to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and formic acid (HCOOH), offering potential solutions for carbon capture and utilization. She also explores the electrocatalytic transformation of biomass-derived molecules, such as glycerol and glucose, into valuable carboxylic acid products. Additionally, her work investigates the evolution of metal-ligand interfaces in nanoclusters and their impact on catalytic performance. Through her research, Dan Yang aims to develop efficient and sustainable catalytic systems that address environmental challenges and promote green chemical processes.

Research Skills

Dan Yang possesses a diverse set of research skills in the fields of catalysis and material science. She is highly proficient in the synthesis and characterization of metal nanoclusters, utilizing techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to analyze cluster structures. Her expertise extends to electrochemical methods, including cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry, for evaluating catalytic performance. Additionally, she has experience in biomass conversion processes, utilizing electrocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis techniques. Her analytical skills include advanced data interpretation and the use of computational tools for modeling catalytic reactions. Dan Yang’s technical proficiency enables her to design and optimize catalytic systems for efficient and selective chemical transformations.

Awards and Honors

Dan Yang has received several prestigious awards and research grants in recognition of her contributions to catalysis research. She was awarded the Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) for her project on the evolution of metal-ligand interfaces in gold clusters for CO2 reduction (2025–2027). She also leads a sub-project of the NSFC International Cooperation and Exchanges Program, focusing on new catalysts and materials for CO2 capture and conversion (2024–2026). Additionally, she secured funding from the Jiangsu Natural Science Foundation of China for her work on glycerol carbonate synthesis through electrochemical CO2 conversion (2023–2026). Dan Yang previously received support from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation for her research on electrolyte-regulated CO2RR using gold clusters (2022–2023). These accolades highlight her innovative research and scientific impact.

Conclusion

Dan Yang is a distinguished researcher and associate professor with a profound expertise in catalysis, material science, and sustainable chemical processes. Her academic journey, spanning from physical chemistry to material science, has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex challenges in CO2 reduction and biomass conversion. With a prolific publication record and multiple research grants, she continues to make significant contributions to the field. Her commitment to advancing sustainable catalytic processes reflects her dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Through her innovative research, Dan Yang remains at the forefront of scientific discovery, driving advancements in electrocatalysis and green chemistry.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Metal-ligand interfaces for well-defined gold nanoclusters
    Authors: Yang, Dan; Wu, Yating; Yuan, Zhaotong; Zhou, Chunmei; Dai, Yihu; Wan, Xiaoyue; Zhu, Yan; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: Science China Chemistry
  2. Atomically Precise Water-Soluble Gold Nanoclusters: Synthesis and Biomedical Application
    Authors: Yan, Qian; Yuan, Zhaotong; Wu, Yating; Zhou, Chunmei; Dai, Yihu; Wan, Xiaoyue; Yang, Dan; Liu, Xu; Xue, Nianhua; Zhu, Yan
    Journal: Precision Chemistry

  3. Direct dehydrogenation of propane over Co@silicalite-1 zeolite: Steaming-induced restructuring of Co2+ active sites
    Authors: Long, Jiangping; Tian, Suyang; Wei, Sheng; Lin, Hongqiao; Shi, Guiwen; Zong, Xupeng; Yang, Yanhui; Yang, Dan; Tang, Yu; Dai, Yihu
    Journal: Applied Surface Science

  4. Metal-carbonate interface promoted activity of Ag/MgCO3 catalyst for aqueous-phase formaldehyde reforming into hydrogen
    Authors: Wang, Qiaojuan; Wang, Jianyue; Rui, Wenjuan; Yang, Dan; Wan, Xiaoyue; Zhou, Chunmei; Li, Renhong; Liu, Wen; Dai, Yihu; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: Fuel

  5. Nonoxidative propane dehydrogenation by isolated Co2+ in BEA zeolite: Dealumination-determined key steps of propane C-H activation and propylene desorption
    Authors: Wei, Sheng; Dai, Hua; Long, Jiangping; Lin, Hongqiao; Gu, Junkun; Zong, Xupeng; Yang, Dan; Tang, Yu; Yang, Yanhui; Dai, Yihu
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

  6. Investigation into the coking-related key reaction steps in dry reforming of methane over NiMgOx catalyst
    Authors: Wang, Jianyue; Wang, Jiawei; Wei, Sheng; Zhang, Yiwen; Tian, Fuhou; Yang, Dan; Kustov, Leonid M.; Yang, Yanhui; Dai, Yihu
    Journal: Molecular Catalysis

  7. Ball-milling-induced phase transition of ZrO2 promotes selective oxidation of glycerol to dihydroxyacetone over supported PtBi bimetal catalyst
    Authors: Luo, Pan; Wang, Jianyue; Rui, Wenjuan; Xu, Ruilin; Kuai, Zhiyuan; Yang, Dan; Wan, Xiaoyue; Zhou, Chunmei; Yang, Yanhui; Dai, Yihu
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

  8. Catalytic Conversion of C1 Molecules on Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters (vol 4, pg 66, 2022)
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: CCS Chemistry

  9. Non-oxidative propane dehydrogenation over Co/Ti-ZSM-5 catalysts: Ti species-tuned Co state and surface acidity
    Authors: Wu, Yueqi; Long, Jiangping; Wei, Sheng; Gao, Yating; Yang, Dan; Dai, Yihu; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials

  10. On the effect of zeolite acid property and reaction pathway in Pd-catalyzed hydrogenation of furfural to cyclopentanone
    Authors: Gao, Xing; Ding, Yingying; Peng, Lilin; Yang, Dan; Wan, Xiaoyue; Zhou, Chunmei; Liu, Wen; Dai, Yihu; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: Fuel

  11. Research Progress in Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction Reaction over Gold Clusters
    Authors: Yang, Dan; Liu, Xu; Dai, Yihu; Zhu, Yan; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: Chemical Journal of Chinese Universities

  12. Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction over Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters Protected by Organic Ligands
    Authors: Yang, Dan; Wang, Jiawei; Wang, Qiaojuan; Yuan, Zhaotong; Dai, Yihu; Zhou, Chunmei; Wan, Xiaoyue; Zhang, Qichun; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: ACS Nano

  13. Chemoselective Oxidation of Glycerol over Platinum‐Based Catalysts: Toward the Role of Oxide Promoter
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: ChemCatChem

  14. Catalytic Conversion of C1 Molecules on Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: CCS Chemistry

  15. Distinct chemical fixation of CO2 enabled by exotic gold nanoclusters
    Authors: Yang, Dan; Song, Yu; Yang, Fang; Sun, Yongnan; Li, Shuohao; Liu, Xu; Zhu, Yan; Yang, Yanhui
    Journal: The Journal of Chemical Physics

  16. A survey of recent progress on novel catalytic materials with precise crystalline structures for oxidation/hydrogenation of key biomass platform chemicals
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: EcoMat

  17. Selective CO2 conversion tuned by periodicities in Au8n+4(TBBT)4n+8 nanoclusters
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: Nano Research

  18. Evolution of catalytic activity driven by structural fusion of icosahedral gold cluster cores
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: Chinese Journal of Catalysis

  19. Ligand-protected Au4Ru2 and Au5Ru2 nanoclusters: distinct structures and implications for site-cooperation catalysis
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: Chemical Communications

  20. Structural Relaxation Enabled by Internal Vacancy Available in a 24-Atom Gold Cluster Reinforces Catalytic Reactivity
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: Journal of the American Chemical Society

  21. Controllable Conversion of CO2 on Non‐Metallic Gold Clusters
    Authors: Not listed
    Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition

  22. Sequence isomerism-dependent self-assembly of glycopeptide mimetics with switchable antibiofilm properties
    Authors: Chen, Limin; Feng, Jie; Yang, Dan; Tian, Falin; Ye, Xiaomin; Qian, Qiuping; Wei, Shuai; Zhou, Yunlong
    Journal: Chemical Science

  23. Switchable modulation of bacterial growth and biofilm formation based on supramolecular tripeptide amphiphiles
    Authors: Chen, Limin; Yang, Dan; Feng, Jie; Zhang, Min; Qian, Qiuping; Zhou, Yunlong
    Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry B

  24. The Evolution in Catalytic Activity Driven by Periodic Transformation in the Inner Sites of Gold Clusters
    Authors: Sun, Yongnan; Wang, Endong; Ren, Yujing; Xiao, Kang; Liu, Xu; Yang, Dan; Gao, Yi; Ding, Weiping; Zhu, Yan
    Journal: Advanced Functional Materials