TING ZHU | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. TING ZHU | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Yunnan Normal University, China

Assoc/Prof. Ting Zhu is an accomplished academic in the field of materials science, specializing in energy storage and conversion. His research focuses on the design and synthesis of nanostructured functional materials, with a strong emphasis on applications like supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, and photocatalytic hydrogen production. Over the years, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the field, with over 80 peer-reviewed publications, a significant citation index, and a strong research footprint in high-impact journals. His innovative contributions have garnered widespread recognition, including prestigious awards and fellowships. Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s academic service, including editorial roles and review positions for renowned journals, further highlights his influence in the scientific community. With his deep expertise and innovative research, he continues to advance solutions to global energy challenges.

Professional Profile

Education

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s academic journey began at Sichuan University, China, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Materials of Chemistry in 2007, followed by a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering in 2009. He furthered his education at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, where he earned a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering in 2013. His solid educational foundation provided him with the necessary skills and knowledge to specialize in energy-related materials science. This combination of materials science and biomedical engineering has uniquely shaped his multidisciplinary approach to research, giving him an edge in addressing energy storage and conversion challenges through novel material design.

Professional Experience

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s professional career spans prestigious institutions across China and Singapore. He currently serves as a Professor at Yunnan Normal University (YNNU), China, a position he has held since July 2024. Prior to this, he was an Associate Professor at YNNU from December 2021 to July 2024. He also held a tenure-track professorship at Central South University, China, from January 2017 to December 2021. His international exposure includes a research fellowship at the National University of Singapore from 2013 to 2017 and an internship at Amperex Technology Limited in 2013. These experiences have honed his expertise and solidified his position as a leader in his field, enabling him to contribute to groundbreaking research in energy materials.

Research Interests

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s primary research interests are in the design and synthesis of nanostructured functional materials for energy storage and conversion. His work focuses on applications such as supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, photocatalytic hydrogen production, and electrocatalytic water splitting. He is particularly interested in the development of materials that enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. His research bridges the gap between fundamental material design and real-world energy applications, emphasizing innovation in nanotechnology to address global energy challenges. By exploring novel material combinations and their behavior under various conditions, Assoc/Prof. Zhu aims to contribute to the development of next-generation energy storage systems that are both efficient and environmentally friendly.

Research Skills

Assoc/Prof. Zhu possesses a wide range of research skills essential for his work in materials science and energy applications. His expertise includes advanced materials synthesis techniques, characterization of nanostructures, and the application of these materials in energy storage and conversion devices. He is highly skilled in electrochemical testing, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and other characterization methods essential for understanding the properties of nanomaterials. Furthermore, he has significant experience in the design of functionalized nanomaterials and the study of their properties in real-world energy systems, such as batteries and supercapacitors. His interdisciplinary knowledge, combining chemistry, materials science, and engineering, positions him as a leading researcher in his field.

Awards and Honors

Assoc/Prof. Zhu has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, reflecting his outstanding contributions to research. Notably, he was awarded the IAAM Medal at the 30th International Assembly of Advanced Materials Congress in 2019. He also received the Best Poster Award at the 3rd International Conference for 2D Materials in 2017 and the Excellent Poster Award at the 1st Seminar for Materials Chemistry of Energy in 2016. His achievements also include prestigious research scholarships, such as the one from Nanyang Technological University. These recognitions highlight his expertise and the significant impact of his work in the field of materials science. Additionally, his editorial roles and academic service further underscore his influence in advancing research in energy and materials science.

Conclusion:

Assoc/Prof. Ting Zhu is a highly accomplished researcher, whose significant contributions to energy storage, nanomaterials, and electrocatalysis have had a notable impact on the scientific community. His extensive publication record, awards, and leadership roles in academia position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By enhancing his industry collaborations, broadening his research areas, and engaging more with the public, Assoc/Prof. Zhu could further elevate his already impressive career and continue to make impactful strides in the global scientific landscape.

Publication Top Notes

  • Spirituality and treatment choices by South and East Asian women with serious mental illness
    Authors: L Chiu, M Morrow, S Ganesan, N Clark
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 81
  • Pilot study and evaluation of postgraduate course on “the interface between spirituality, religion and psychiatry”
    Authors: A Grabovac, N Clark, M McKenna
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 72
  • Applying intersectionality with constructive grounded theory as an innovative research approach for studying complex populations: Demonstrating congruency
    Authors: S Kassam, L Marcellus, N Clark, J O’Mahony
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 53
  • Religion and spirituality in the context of bipolar disorder: A literature review
    Authors: B Pesut, N Clark, V Maxwell, EE Michalak
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 51
  • Immigrant women and mental health care: Findings from an environmental scan
    Authors: J O’Mahony, N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 46
  • Exploring community capacity: Karen refugee women’s mental health
    Author: N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 42
  • Applying critical race feminism and intersectionality to narrative inquiry: A point of resistance for Muslim nurses donning a hijab
    Authors: N Clark, N Saleh
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 39
  • Understanding how self-management interventions work for disadvantaged populations living with chronic conditions: Protocol for a realist synthesis
    Authors: SL Mills, J Pumarino, N Clark, S Carroll, S Dennis, S Koehn, T Yu, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 30
  • Exploring intersectionality as a policy tool for gender-based policy analysis: Implications for language and health literacy as key determinants of integration
    Authors: N Clark, B Vissandjée
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 15
  • Themes for evaluating the quality of initiatives to engage patients and family caregivers in decision-making in healthcare systems: A scoping review
    Authors: CB Hamilton, M Dehnadi, ME Snow, N Clark, M Lui, J McLean, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12

 

Michaela Holubová | Fish Ecology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Michaela Holubová | Fish Ecology | Women Researcher Award

Ceske Budejovice at Biological Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i., Czech Republic.

Michel Mutabaruka is a dedicated educator and civil engineer specializing in health safety, environmental engineering, and technical education. With a career spanning over a decade, Michel serves as an assistant lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College and a trainer at Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute, where he plays an influential role in shaping the next generation of technical professionals. His experience in civil engineering education includes teaching a wide array of subjects such as construction safety, materials strength, and structural analysis. Michel is deeply committed to improving technical education standards in Rwanda, actively preparing students for their careers through practical training, supervision of final-year projects, and rigorous academic evaluations. His comprehensive background and teaching expertise make him a valuable contributor to Rwanda’s education and engineering landscape.

Professional Profile

Education

Michel holds a Master’s in Health Safety and Environment Engineering from Chandigarh University (2021-2023) and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from the National University of Rwanda (2006-2010). Complementing his formal education, Michel earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Technical Education (2012-2013) from Kenya Technical Teachers College, enhancing his pedagogical skills in civil engineering. Additionally, he obtained a certificate in National TVET Training from Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute in 2016, underscoring his dedication to technical education. Michel’s education began with a secondary school certificate in Biology-Chemistry (A2) from Byimana School of Sciences (2000-2003), and an English Language Certificate in 2005 from the National University of Rwanda, which strengthened his communication skills essential for an academic career.

Professional Experience

Michel’s professional experience centers on technical education, spanning more than 13 years as an assistant lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College, where he teaches diverse engineering subjects, including Health Safety in Construction, Technical Drawing, and Building Services. His role also involves supervising final-year projects, assessing student work, and designing curricula for technical courses. Since 2018, he has also served at Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute, where he coordinates and administers district-level entrance exams and training programs. Michel’s early experience includes a teaching position at Institut Secondaire d’Enseignement Technique et Artistique de Runda (2010-2011), where he focused on wood treatment, technical drawing, and entrepreneurship education. His roles across institutions highlight his dedication to Rwanda’s technical education, mentoring students and empowering them with skills for successful engineering careers.

Research Interest

Michel’s research interests lie in health safety and environmental engineering within the civil engineering context. His focus includes developing innovative construction safety practices, analyzing sustainable materials, and exploring cost-effective structural solutions for emerging economies. With a strong background in technical education, he is also interested in research methodologies that enhance vocational training and curriculum development for engineering education, especially in health safety compliance. He seeks to contribute to advancements in construction safety standards and explore the environmental impact of engineering practices. Michel’s interest in research aims to bridge practical education with contemporary industry needs, ensuring that future engineers are equipped to face challenges in health safety and sustainability within the construction sector.

Research Skills

Michel possesses a versatile skill set centered around technical education and civil engineering, with particular strengths in course development, student supervision, and curriculum evaluation. He has honed his skills in analyzing engineering materials and cost estimation, critical to construction safety and structural integrity. His experience in preparing and administering assessments has strengthened his analytical skills, and his role in supervising projects allows him to guide research initiatives. Michel’s proficiency in technical drawing and his ability to conduct structured analyses of structures contribute to his practical approach to engineering education. He continues to develop his expertise in environmental and health safety engineering, building a foundation that supports applied research in sustainable and safe construction practices.

Awards and Honors

Although his CV does not mention specific awards, Michel’s long-standing contributions to technical education and civil engineering reflect a professional recognition in his field. His roles at Rwanda Polytechnic and Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute signify a trusted reputation as an educator dedicated to advancing engineering education in Rwanda. Michel’s commitment to academic excellence is further highlighted by his participation in various educational institutions and his contribution to Rwanda’s vocational training sector. Through his service, he has likely garnered appreciation from his colleagues and students, strengthening his influence as an educator. Future research publications and contributions to industry standards may pave the way for formal recognitions, further enhancing his professional profile.

Conclusion

Michel Mutabaruka demonstrates notable strengths as an educator with extensive expertise in health safety, civil engineering, and technical training. His career reflects dedication to advancing technical education in Rwanda, making a positive impact in the field. However, for the Best Researcher Award, a stronger emphasis on original research contributions and active engagement in civil engineering or health safety research would be needed to fully support his candidacy. Pursuing and documenting research publications, industry collaborations, or applied projects would significantly enhance his suitability for this award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Collapse of the native ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernua) population in the Biesbosch lakes (the Netherlands) owing to round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) invasion
    • Authors: T. Jůza, P. Blabolil, R. Baran, D. Bartoň, M. Čech, V. Draštík, J. Frouzová, …
    • Journal: Biological Invasions
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 37
  • Contrasting structural complexity differentiate hunting strategy in an ambush apex predator
    • Authors: M. Říha, K.Ø. Gjelland, V. Děd, A.P. Eloranta, R. Rabaneda-Bueno, H. Baktoft, …
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 24
  • Ontogenetic and interpopulation differences in otolith shape of the European perch (Perca fluviatilis)
    • Authors: A.T. Souza, K. Soukalová, V. Děd, M. Šmejkal, P. Blabolil, M. Říha, T. Jůza, …
    • Journal: Fisheries Research
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 22
  • Seasonal habitat use of three predatory fishes in a freshwater ecosystem
    • Authors: M. Říha, R. Rabaneda-Bueno, I. Jarić, A.T. Souza, L. Vejřík, V. Draštík, …
    • Journal: Hydrobiologia
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 13
  • Density dependent attributes of fish aggregative behaviour
    • Authors: M. Holubová, M. Čech, M. Vašek, J. Peterka
    • Journal: PeerJ
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 13
  • Species‐specific schooling behaviour of fish in the freshwater pelagic habitat: an observational study
    • Authors: M. Holubová, P. Blabolil, M. Čech, M. Vašek, J. Peterka
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 12
  • Invasive round goby Neogobius melanostomus has sex‐dependent locomotor activity and is under‐represented in catches from passive fishing gear
    • Authors: J. Žák, T. Jůza, P. Blabolil, R. Baran, D. Bartoň, V. Draštík, J. Frouzová, …
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 12
  • Some like it deep: Intraspecific niche segregation in ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernua)
    • Authors: A.P. Eloranta, I. Vejříková, M. Čech, L. Vejřík, M. Holubová, M. Šmejkal, …
    • Journal: Freshwater Biology
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 12
  • Assessment of burbot Lota lota (L. 1758) population sustainability in central European reservoirs
    • Authors: P. Blabolil, J. Duras, T. Jůza, L. Kočvara, J. Matěna, M. Muška, M. Říha, …
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 11
  • Less is more–Basic quantitative indices for fish can be achieved with reduced gillnet sampling
    • Authors: P. Blabolil, M. Čech, V. Draštík, M. Holubová, L. Kočvara, J. Kubečka, …
    • Journal: Fisheries Research
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 9