Dr. Nelson Oshogwue Etafo | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Education 

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo holds a Ph.D. in Material Science from the Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila (2023), where he investigated the luminescent properties of BaLaAlO4:Eu3+ and SrLaAlO4:Tm3+, Yb3+. He also completed post-doctoral studies in Material and Metallurgical Science at Tecnológico Nacional de México, Saltillo Campus (2023–2024), focusing on developing an energy-saving battery through the recovery of lithium from leached solutions. Dr. Etafo obtained a Master’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria (2011–2015), studying the properties of vulcanizates. His academic foundation began with a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the same university (2006–2010). Dr. Etafo also gained experience as a Graduate Visiting Student at Instituto Postino Investigacion Cientifica y Tecnologica (IPICYT), Mexico (2021), under the guidance of Dr. Jorge Oliva Uc. His education reflects a diverse and global approach to material science and chemistry.

Experience 

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo has a strong blend of academic and industrial experience. His industrial experience includes serving as an industrial trainee at YALOGS Paints, Nigeria (2009), where he conducted analyses of paint constituents, determined paint density, and performed toxicity and safety tests. He contributed to quality control and cost analysis during this role. In academia, Dr. Etafo has taught and coordinated chemistry programs across various levels. He served as a Chemistry Tutor and Cambridge Programs Coordinator at Cambridge Standard Institute, Nigeria (2014–2021), where he guided students in preparing for international exams. He also taught at THE BRIDGE College, Nigeria, preparing students for the West African Senior Secondary Examination (WASSCE). Dr. Etafo was an Assistant Examiner for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and has held leadership roles in educational and volunteer organizations, further enhancing his skills in management and coordination.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo’s outstanding academic and professional contributions have earned him several prestigious awards and honors. In 2024, he participated in the Concurso a la Mejor Tesis de Investigación, a competition for the best research thesis at Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila. He was also a panelist at the “Festival de Lenguas del Mundo. Continente Africano” (2022). Dr. Etafo was recognized as a CONACHYT Fellow by Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila in 2021 for his significant contributions to research in Material Science. He received commendation letters for his invaluable role at Cambridge Standard Institute and The Bridge College, Nigeria, in 2021, and twice won the Best Teacher Award at Dreamers College (2012, 2013). Furthermore, he received a Certificate of Merit from the Health Community Development Service Group (2011). These awards reflect his dedication to research, teaching, and leadership in his field.

Research Focus 

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo’s research focuses on the development and application of advanced materials with a particular interest in energy-efficient and sustainable technologies. His doctoral research at the Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila explored the luminescent properties of specific compounds, such as BaLaAlO4:Eu3+ and SrLaAlO4:Tm3+, Yb3+. These materials have applications in optoelectronics and lighting. As a post-doctoral researcher at Tecnológico Nacional de México, Dr. Etafo is working on a groundbreaking project involving the recovery of lithium from leached solutions of lepidolite using electrocoagulation processes, aiming to develop an energy-saving battery. His research combines innovative approaches in material synthesis, characterization, and environmental sustainability. Dr. Etafo’s work aligns with global trends in material science, addressing challenges in renewable energy, resource recovery, and material performance enhancement. His interdisciplinary research bridges material engineering, environmental science, and energy technology, contributing to the next generation of sustainable materials.