Ms. Yossra Ounis Dkhil | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Yossra Ounis Dkhil | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Yossra Ounis Dkhil, Faculty of Sciences of Gabes, University of Gabes, Tunisia

Yossra Ounis Dkhil, is a dedicated PhD candidate specializing in catalysis and nanomaterials for environmental applications. Currently affiliated with the Catalysis and Materials for the Environment and Processes Research Laboratory at the University of Gabes, Yossra has been a guest researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT) in Germany, where she explored ZnO nanomaterials for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. With publications in renowned journals, she exemplifies excellence in green synthesis and advanced characterization techniques. Beyond her academic pursuits, Yossra enjoys reading, traveling, and gaming. 🌱📚🌍🎮

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for the Best Researcher Award

Yossra Ounis Dkhil stands as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her outstanding contributions to catalysis and nanomaterials for environmental applications. Her interdisciplinary expertise, commitment to sustainability, and active engagement in both research and professional development distinguish her as a leader in her field.

Education and Experience 

🎓 Education

  • PhD (2021 – Present): Catalysis and Materials for Environment, University of Gabes
  • Master’s (2018 – 2020): Materials and Environmental Chemistry, University of Gabes, with honors
  • Bachelor’s (2014 – 2017): Chemistry, University of Gabes, with comprehensive training in analytical and organic chemistry

đź’Ľ Experience

  • Guest PhD Researcher (2023 – 2024): Leibniz Institute for Catalysis, Germany
  • Dental Assistant (2018): Gabes, Tunisia
  • Internships (2015 – 2018): Laboratory-based roles in medical analysis, quality control, and biological testing

Professional Development 

Yossra Ounis Dkhil actively participates in professional development activities to enhance her expertise in catalysis and nanomaterials. She attended international conferences such as the SPASEC-25 🌞 and 57th Jahrestreffen Deutscher Katalytiker 🔬. She has undertaken specialized training in Raman spectroscopy 🎥, ISO standards 📏, and photovoltaic systems ⚡. Yossra’s academic engagement extends to workshops on advanced oxidation technologies 🌊 and Springer training sessions 📚. These experiences have deepened her understanding of environmental challenges and strengthened her skills in green synthesis, photocatalysis, and material characterization, aligning her with global sustainability goals. 🌍🧪

Research Focus 

Yossra Ounis Dkhil focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials for environmental remediation 🌱. Her PhD research emphasizes green synthesis methods for ZnO nanoparticles, leveraging natural extracts like chia seeds 🌿 to achieve sustainable solutions. She investigates photocatalytic degradation mechanisms for pharmaceuticals and organic pollutants 🌊, aiming to mitigate their environmental impact. Additionally, Yossra explores advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis 🔬 to understand material properties. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, environmental science, and nanotechnology, contributing to cleaner, greener technologies. 🌍🧪

Awards and Honors 

  • 🏆 2024: Presenter at the 57th Jahrestreffen Deutscher Katalytiker Conference
  • 🌞 2022: Participant in the SPASEC-25 and AOTs-26 International Conferences
  • 📚 2021: Recognition for excellence during Raman Spectroscopy training, University of Gabes
  • 🔬 2021: Participation in the International Colloquium on Arts, Sciences, and Technologies, Gabes
  • 🎓 2020: Honored for completing Springer and CABI doctoral training programs

Publication Top Notes:

Green Synthesis of Photocatalytically Active ZnO Nanoparticles Using Chia Seed Extract and Mechanistic Elucidation of the Photodegradation of Diclofenac and <i>p</i>-Nitrophenol
X-Ray Diffraction Analysis by Modified Scherrer, Williamson–Hall and Size–Strain Plot Methods of ZnO Nanocrystals Synthesized by Oxalate Route: A Potential Antimicrobial Candidate Against Foodborne Pathogens

 

Dr. Amy Lewis | Nanomaterials Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Amy Lewis | Nanomaterials Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Amy Lewis , Oklahoma State University , United States

Dr. Amy King-Lewis is an Assistant Professor of Construction Engineering Technology at Oklahoma State University, with a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the same institution. Her research focuses on diversity and inclusion, particularly the participation and persistence of women in the construction industry. Dr. King-Lewis has extensive teaching experience, including courses on construction law, scheduling, and business practices. She has a robust industry background, having served in leadership roles at various construction and engineering firms. Additionally, Dr. King-Lewis is actively involved in outreach, mentoring, and presenting at national and international conferences.

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

The individual under consideration has demonstrated exceptional qualifications for the Best Researcher Award in the field of construction engineering, with a particular emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the industry.

🎓Education:

Dr. Amy King-Lewis earned her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Oklahoma State University in December 2020, where she conducted research under the guidance of Dr. Yongwei Shan, focusing on the diversity and inclusion of women in the construction industry. Prior to this, she completed a Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MST) from Texas State University in May 2006, with a concentration in Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship Studies. Dr. King-Lewis began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Engineering Technology from Oklahoma State University, graduating in May 1991.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Amy King-Lewis is currently an Assistant Professor of Construction Engineering Technology at Oklahoma State University, a position she has held since January 2021. In this role, she teaches various courses, including Construction Law, Introduction to Construction, Construction Scheduling, Mechanical and Electrical Systems of Buildings, and Business Practices. Alongside her academic career, Dr. King-Lewis serves as Vice President of R & J Lewis Oil Company, a position she has held since August 2017. Prior to her current roles, she worked as a Project Manager at Oklahoma State University from March 2016 to January 2021, where she managed construction projects for Long Range Facilities Management. Dr. King-Lewis also has entrepreneurial experience as the Co-Founder and CEO of Ontrack Texas Scheduling, a construction scheduling firm she led from June 2011 to June 2016, scaling the company to 12 employees. Earlier in her career, she served as Business Development Director for Sundt and Satterfield & Pontikes Construction in San Antonio from April 2008 to June 2011 and as a Project Manager at Brown & Root – A Halliburton Company in Houston, where she managed new construction, shutdowns, and turnarounds in refinery and chemical plants for major clients like Shell, Exxon, and Phillips 66, from May 1990 to June 2003.

🏆Awards and Grants:

Dr. Amy King-Lewis has received multiple travel grants and awards throughout her academic career, demonstrating her commitment to professional development and student mentorship. In June 2023, she was awarded a $2,500 travel grant by MEAC to attend the Mechanical and Electrical Faculty Boot Camp in Milwaukee, WI. Earlier in March 2023, she secured a $7,500 CMAB matching grant to attend the AGC National Convention. In December 2022, Dr. King-Lewis received a $7,500 travel grant from the TEXO Foundation. She had previously been awarded MEAC travel grants for the same Boot Camp in June 2022 and August 2021, both amounting to $2,500 each. Additionally, in February 2022, she was recognized as the faculty sponsor for the team that won 1st Place in the Commercial Building Division at the TEXO Foundation Region 5 Student Competition, with a prize of $1,000.

Publication Top Notes:

  • “A Systematic Approach to Developing Sustainable Post-Disaster Shelters in the Southern Region of the United States”
  • “Persistence of Women in the Construction Industry”
  • “Student Perceptions of Bias in University Construction Programs”
  • “Gender Bias and Its Impact on Self-Concept in Undergraduate and Graduate Construction Education Programs in the United States”
  • “Influencing Factors on Recruitment and Retention of Women in Construction Education: A Literature Review”