Jimmy Alade | Research and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jimmy Alade | Research and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jimmy Alade, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa

Dr. Jimmy Alade is a seasoned engineer specializing in energy and coal processing technologies. He earned his B.Sc. in Petroleum and Gas Engineering from the University of Lagos (2011), an M.Sc. in Engineering from the University of Witwatersrand (2021), and a Ph.D. in 2024, focusing on optimizing a novel wind-sifting separator for dry coal beneficiation. Dr. Alade has extensive experience in power generation, coal beneficiation, and renewable energy. He has published impactful research in Fuel and ACS Omega. An award-winning scholar, he received the SACPS Best Student Award (2022). Dr. Alade is committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions. ✨📚

 

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Education 🎓🌍

Dr. Jimmy Alade holds an impressive academic background in engineering and energy systems. He earned his B.Sc. in Petroleum and Gas Engineering from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, in 2011. In 2021, he completed his M.Sc. in Engineering at the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa, where he innovated and designed a dry coal beneficiation separator using air as the separating medium, significantly reducing CAPEX and OPEX costs. He further advanced this research during his Ph.D. at the same university, optimizing the prototype separator in 2024. His journey reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. ⚙️🌟

 

Work Experience ⚙️💼

Dr. Jimmy Alade has gained valuable experience in the power sector, working for four years as a Shift Operations Engineer. He ensured the smooth operation of power generation plants, focusing on national and isolated grid generation. His duties included overseeing axial compressors, gas turbines, and control room operations, as well as routine equipment inspections and troubleshooting. Dr. Alade also gained experience as a Mechanical and Electrical Equipment Maintenance Engineer. Previously, he served as a Graduate Trainee at Egbin Power Plant, managing boiler and steam turbine operations. Additionally, he completed a student internship at NOSDRA, focusing on environmental compliance and oil spill response. 🌱⚡

 

Awards 🏆🎉

Dr. Jimmy Alade was honored with the Certificate of Achievement for Best Student Award in 2021 by the South African Coal Processing Society (SACPS). This prestigious recognition, awarded in 2022, highlighted his outstanding academic performance and contributions to the field of coal processing. Dr. Alade’s innovative research on dry coal beneficiation through the design and optimization of a wind-sifter separator has set him apart as a leader in the energy sector. This accolade underscores his dedication to excellence and his potential to make significant advancements in sustainable energy solutions. 🌟🔬

 

Professional Certifications 📜🔧

Dr. Jimmy Alade holds a National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NGDSP) certification, awarded in 2015, recognizing his proficiency in power generation and related fields. Additionally, he is a registered member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), with the membership number 43,187, granted in 2018. These certifications validate his expertise in energy systems and engineering, further emphasizing his commitment to maintaining high industry standards and advancing his skills in power generation and engineering. Dr. Alade’s certifications reinforce his credibility and readiness to take on complex engineering challenges. ⚡🌍

 

Training & Workshops 🏫⚙️

Dr. Jimmy Alade has enhanced his professional skills through a series of specialized training and workshops. In 2019, he participated in the Fossil Fuel Foundation Professional Development Centre, covering topics like coal production, quality analysis, and beneficiation. He also completed the Grenoble Ecole De Management MOOC course in 2016 on green energy technologies, including solar, hydro, and hydrogen power. Other notable courses include the Institute of French Petroleum (IFP) course on oil and gas exploration and processing, and training in power plant operations, lean six sigma, and project management from various institutions. 🌱⚡

 

Research Focus Areas 🔬🌍

Dr. Jimmy Alade’s research focuses on advanced engineering techniques for the beneficiation of coal and other materials. His work is centered around the design and optimization of innovative separation processes, particularly in dry beneficiation. His significant contributions include developing a dry wind-sifter separator for coal beneficiation, aimed at reducing environmental impacts and operational costs. Dr. Alade also explores wind-sifting separation technologies and their applications in improving coal quality, particularly in high-ash coal. His research falls under the categories of Environmental Engineering, Coal Beneficiation, and Renewable Energy. ⚙️🌿

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Computer-Aided Design and Fabrication of a Dry Wind-Sifter Separator 🌬️, Cited by 4, 2021
  • Wind-Sifting Separation: A Review 🔄, Cited by 3, 2023
  • Beneficiating High Ash Coal Using Wind Sifter ⛏️, Cited by 1, Year not specified
  • Optimized Design and Fabrication of a Wind-Sifter Separator for Enhanced Dry Beneficiation of High-Ash Coal ⚙️, 2025

 

 

 

 

PHILLIP OPIO | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PHILLIP OPIO | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr PHILLIP OPIO, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda

Dr. Akiiki Kazooba holds a PhD in Space Physics from Mbarara University of Science and Technology, with a pending book submission. He earned his Master’s degree in Physics (Space Physics) from Makerere University and a Bachelor’s in Science with Education (Physics and Mathematics) from Kyambogo University. Currently serving as a Lecturer and Head of Department for Physical Sciences at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU), Dr. Kazooba oversees academic guidance, research programs, and departmental budgeting. His responsibilities include teaching, supervising staff, and coordinating research efforts for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. 🌌

Publication profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Michaela Cellina, currently pursuing a PhD in Space Physics at Mbarara University of Science and Technology since 2021, has a robust academic background. She completed her Master of Science in Physics, specializing in space physics, at Makerere University in 2014, following her Bachelor of Science with Education in Physics and Mathematics from Kyambogo University in 2009. Dr. Cellina also holds a Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from Makerere University, obtained in October 2009. Her research interests span cosmic phenomena and the application of physics in space exploration 🌌.

Research Interest

My primary research interest lies in ionospheric studies of low-latitude regions, focusing on understanding dynamic interactions and phenomena within the ionosphere. Specifically, I investigate the impact of solar variability, geomagnetic storms, and the equatorial electrojet on ionospheric dynamics and electron density profiles. Additionally, I aim to explore coupling mechanisms between the neutral atmosphere and ionosphere, and the effects of anthropogenic activities on ionospheric variability. Through my research 🛰️, I aim to deepen our understanding of ionospheric dynamics in low-latitude regions, contributing to improved space weather forecasting, satellite communications, and navigation systems.

Presentations

Dr. PHILLIP OPIO presented significant research findings on ionospheric heights in East Africa at various academic forums. At the 6th annual PhD symposium at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in June 2022, the validation of a 350 km effective ionospheric height for Equatorial and low latitude regions was discussed. This was followed by a presentation on ionospheric observations using ionosondes at Muni University’s Space Weather and Upper Atmospheric data analysis training workshop in Arua, Uganda, in September 2023. Additionally, a new method for determining ionospheric shell height using GNSS receivers was presented at Mountains of the Moon University’s 2nd International Research Conference in an effort to 🌍 advance knowledge in atmospheric science and space weather monitoring.

Research focus

Based on the research publication titled “Characterization of the effective height of the ionosphere using GPS data over East Africa, a low latitude region” by Opio, P., Andima, G., and Jurua, E., published in Advances in Space Research (2023), the primary research focus revolves around ionospheric studies, particularly in the African sector. Their work emphasizes the latitudinal variation of the ionosphere using GPS Total Electron Content (TEC) data. This research contributes to understanding how ionospheric heights vary in low latitude regions like East Africa, crucial for satellite communications, GPS accuracy, and space weather monitoring. 🌍🛰️

Publication top notes

Characterization of the effective height of the ionosphere using GPS data over East Africa, a low latitude region

Latitudinal variation of the ionosphere in the African sector using GPS TEC data

 

 

Muhammad Mubashir | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammad Mubashir | Condensed Matter Physics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammad Mubashir, University of Education Township Lahore, Pakistan

Muhammad Mubashir is a dedicated researcher in computational materials science, specializing in first-principles calculations and simulations. He holds an MS in Physics, focusing on the electronic properties of 2D materials. His expertise spans hydrogen storage materials, low-dimensional structures, and gas sensing materials. Muhammad is proficient in Quantum ESPRESSO and CASTEP, and has contributed significantly to understanding material behaviors through theoretical investigations. With multiple publications and active participation in scientific conferences, he continues to explore advanced energy storage materials and their computational design.

Publication profile

Academic Background 📚

Muhammad completed his MS/MPhil in Physics from the University of Education, Township, Lahore, Pakistan, where his thesis delved into the structural and electronic properties of 1T phase zirconium dioxide via first-principles calculations.

Research Focus 🌱

Muhammad Mubashir’s research primarily centers on computational simulation and first-principles calculations of advanced materials, particularly focusing on hydrogen storage and perovskite-type hydrides. His work spans the investigation of structural, optoelectronic, and thermal properties of various materials using Quantum ESPRESSO and CASTEP. He explores novel strategies such as chemical doping and material tuning to enhance hydrogen storage capabilities. Muhammad’s contributions extend to understanding electronic structures and mechanical stability in materials like fluoroperovskites, essential for applications in solar energy and solid-state technologies. His research underscores a commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions through innovative computational modeling. 🌐

Alicia Prithiraj | Material-life Science Award | Women Researcher Award

Mrs. Alicia Prithiraj | Material-life Science Award | Women Researcher Award

Mrs. Alicia Prithiraj, University of Pretoria, South Africa

Alicia Prithiraj is a seasoned Senior Reliability Engineer and PhD candidate with expertise in chemical engineering, particularly in reliability engineering, data analysis, and risk management. 🛠️ With a background in materials science and environmental engineering, she has made significant contributions to industry, notably in combating biofilm-related corrosion. Alicia’s dedication to solving complex industry challenges is evident in her extensive research, academic publications, and presentations at global conferences. 🌐 Her dynamic approach, coupled with hands-on experience at Sasol Chemicals, reflects her commitment to driving innovation and efficiency in plant operations. 🌱🔬

 

Publication Profile

Education

Alicia Prithiraj’s educational journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and expertise in chemical engineering. 📚 Starting from her secondary education at Hoerskool Secunda, where she excelled academically while actively participating in extramural activities like tennis and science expos. She further honed her skills at Vaal University of Technology, completing a Chemical Engineering Diploma with in-service training. 🎓 Subsequently, she earned a Bachelor’s in Technology and a Master’s degree, graduating with distinction, focusing on materials science, water systems, and microbial corrosion. Currently, she is on the cusp of completing her PhD at the University of Pretoria, specializing in industrial water systems and biofilm-related corrosion. 🌱🔬

 

Professional Experience

Alicia Prithiraj served as a dedicated Reliability Engineer, demonstrating exceptional proficiency and leadership. 🏭 Her responsibilities encompassed a wide array of critical tasks, including the use of monitoring tools to devise effective strategies, managing spares studies, and preparing comprehensive monthly reports on reliability engineering. 📊 Alicia’s expertise extended to asset management, risk-based inspections, and root cause failure analysis, contributing significantly to enhancing plant reliability and operational efficiency. 💼 Additionally, her involvement in chemical engineering tasks, project management, and her groundbreaking PhD work showcases her multifaceted capabilities and commitment to excellence. 🌟

Research Focus

Alicia Prithiraj’s research focus primarily revolves around the intricate interplay between microbiology and materials science in industrial settings, particularly in the context of heat exchangers. 🔬 Her studies delve into multispecies colonization and surface erosion on industry-finished steel, such as A106 GB steel, shedding light on the corrosion mechanisms and metabolic effects of bacterial consortia commonly found in petrochemical processing plants. 🌱 Through her investigations, she aims to develop kinetic growth models, understand corrosion behaviors of various steel types, and propose mitigation strategies to combat biofouling and corrosion, ultimately contributing to the advancement of materials engineering in challenging environments. 🛠️

 

 

Ahmed Abdel Azeiz | Biochemistry | Excellence in Academia Award

Prof. AhmedAbdel Azeiz | Biochemistry | Excellence in Academia Award

Prof. AhmedAbdel Azeiz, Misr University for Science and technology, Egypt

Prof. Ahmed Abdel Azeiz is a distinguished biochemist with a Bs.C., Ms.C., and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Ain Shams University. His research focuses on microbial production of gibberellins and identification of antagonistic compounds against Sclerotium rolfsii. With a career spanning from the Soil, Water, and Environment Research Institute to Misr University for Science and Technology, he has excelled as a chemist, lecturer, and, currently, as the Head of Environmental Biotechnology Department. Achieving the rank of Professor in 2018, he’s been instrumental in advancing biochemistry education and research. An accomplished academic, he served as the Associate President for Research Projects at MUST. 🌱🔬👨‍🔬

Publication Profile:

Scopus 

Orcid

Google Scholar

Qualifications:

Prof. Ahmed Abdel Azeiz is a highly qualified biochemist, earning his Bs.C., Ms.C., and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Ain Shams University in 1995, 2003, and 2007, respectively. His Master’s thesis delved into the innovative use of agricultural wastes for the microbial production of gibberellins, showcasing his commitment to sustainable practices. For his Ph.D., he focused on the identification of antagonistic compounds produced by soil microorganisms to combat Sclerotium rolfsii. With expertise in biochemistry and a dedication to environmentally-friendly research, Prof. Azeiz has made significant contributions to the field. 🌾🔬

Research focus :

Dr. Ahmed Abdel Azeiz is a dedicated researcher with a diverse range of studies in biochemistry and biotechnology. His research spans various fields, including the insecticidal properties of cucurbitacin E glycoside from Citrullus colocynthis against Aphis craccivora, optimization of dye decolorization by fungal species, and the antifungal effects of thymol and thymoquinone. With expertise in microbial degradation of pollutants, his work includes the biodegradation of azo dyes and oils, showcasing a commitment to environmental sustainability. Dr. Azeiz’s focus on bioactive compounds, biosurfactants, and plant molecular biology highlights his versatile contributions to the scientific community. 🌿🔬

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Insecticidal effect of cucurbitacin E glycoside isolated from Citrullus colocynthis against Aphis craccivora
    • Cited by 88 (2009) 🌿🦗
  2. Optimization of conditions for decolorization of azo-based textile dyes by multiple fungal species
    • Cited by 69 (2017) 🎨🍄
  3. ANTIFUNGAL EFFECT OF THYMOL, THYMOQUINONE AND THYMOHYDROQUINONE AGAINST YEASTS, DERMATOPHYTES AND NON-DERMATOPHYTE MOLDS ISOLATED FROM SKIN AND NAILS FUNGAL INFECTIONS.
    • Cited by 45 (2010) 🍯🦠
  4. Silybin content and overexpression of chalcone synthase genes in Silybum marianum L. plants under abiotic elicitation
    • Cited by 42 (2016) 🌿🌼
  5. Identification and characterization of novel bacterial polyaromatic hydrocarbon-degrading enzymes as potential tools for cleaning up hydrocarbon pollutants from different …
    • Cited by 40 (2019) 🦠🛢️
  6. Biodegradation of azo dyes by bacterial or fungal consortium and identification of the biodegradation products
    • Cited by 36 (2021) 🍄🧪
  7. Biodegradation of used lubricating and diesel oils by a new yeast strain Candida viswanathii KA-2011
    • Cited by 25 (2012) 🌱🛢️
  8. Efficacy of thymoquinone against vaginal candidiasis in prednisolone-induced immunosuppressed mice
    • Cited by 14 (2013) 🍯🐭
  9. Identification and characterization of biosurfactants produced by rodococcus equi and bacillus methlyotrophicus
    • Cited by 17 (2013) 🧫🌐
  10. Efficacy of thymoquinone against vaginal candidiasis in prednisolone-induced immunosuppressed mice
    • Cited by 13 (2016) 🍇🔬