Sajida Nawaz | Nanoscale Characterization | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sajida Nawaz | Nanoscale Characterization | Best Researcher Award

PHD Scholar | University of Engineering and Technology (UET) | Pakistan

Ms. Sajida Nawaz is a Ph.D. scholar in Physics (Nanoscience and Nanotechnology) at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, Pakistan. Her research focuses on nanotechnology, biomaterials, and material sciences, emphasizing the synthesis and application of nanostructured materials for biomedical, environmental, and energy-related innovations. She has made notable contributions to the development of nanomedicines, nanofibers, and nanoparticles through advanced techniques such as electrospinning, electrospraying, and laser–matter interaction studies. Her doctoral research investigates the physicochemical properties of essential oil–loaded nanoparticles designed for biocontrol and therapeutic applications against ixodid ticks, integrating eco-friendly and sustainable nanotechnology approaches. She has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed journal articles, including studies on the biocompatibility of doped magnetite nanoparticles for magnetic hyperthermia, the biocontrol potential of nanoencapsulated essential oils crosslinked with chitosan, and laser surface modification of polymeric materials. Her works are published in reputable journals such as Applied Physics A and Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects. Ms. Sajida Nawaz has presented her research at international conferences and workshops, including events organized by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and UET Lahore. Her research excellence has been recognized through the Higher Education Commission’s International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP), under which she conducted collaborative research at the National University of Singapore’s Center for Nanotechnology & Sustainability.With 7 citations, 3 indexed documents, and an h-index of 2 on Scopus, Ms. Sajida Nawaz continues to advance interdisciplinary research in nanobiotechnology, sustainable material design, and surface engineering. Her future work aims to expand innovative nanomaterial formulations for healthcare and environmental sustainability, contributing to the growing field of applied nanoscience and green nanotechnology.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Nawaz, S., Shamaila, S., Oneeb, M., Hassan, J. U., Ahmad, S., & Ramakarshina, S. (2025). Biocontrol potential of nano-encapsulated essential oil crosslinked with chitosan nanoparticles against tick-borne diseases. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 720, 137166.

2. Hassan, J. U., Shahzadi, S., Waheed, F., Nawaz, S., Sharif, R., Riaz, S., & Ban, D. (2024). Synthesis, characterization, and biocompatibility of pure and doped magnetite nanoparticles for magnetic hyperthermia in cancer treatment. Applied Physics A, 130(9), 635.

3. Nawaz, S., Shahzadi, S., Hassan, J. U., Zhao, H., Sharif, R., & Ban, D. (2025). Nanosecond laser processing of common industrial polymers: Surface characterization and morphological changes. Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms.

4. Ahmad, M. O. S., Lateef, M., Ijaz, M., Siddique, M. I., & Nawaz, S. (2025). Larvicidal and repellent effects of nano-encapsulated Mentha piperita essential oil against Rhipicephalus microplus. Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases (TTBDs).

5. Niamat, M. N. T., Azeem, W., Imtiaz, S., Nawaz, S., & Ilyas, K. (2024). ITSM applications within selected logistics and transport. Pakistan Journal of Scientific Research (PJOSR), 4.

Subhash Somkuwar | Characterization and Bioapplications | Excellence in Innovation Award

Dr. Subhash Somkuwar | Characterization & Bioapplications | Excellence in Innovation Award

Associate Professor & Head of Dr. Ambedkar College Deekshabhoomi Nagpur, India

Dr. Subhash R. Somkuwar, M.Phil., NET (ICAR), NET-JRF (CSIR), SET, Ph.D., is the Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Dr. Ambedkar College, Nagpur, India. With a strong academic foundation in Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, and Plant Biotechnology, Dr. Somkuwar has over 15 years of experience in teaching and research. His Ph.D. research focused on the ecology and experimental biology of Byttneria herbacea, a threatened plant species, including landmark discoveries of two new medicinal plant species. He is actively engaged in phytochemistry, ethnobotany, and conservation of RET taxa, with several national and international lectures, workshops, and conferences organized under his leadership. A passionate educator and administrator, Dr. Somkuwar contributes significantly to curriculum development, environmental studies, and NET/SET coaching, nurturing scientific thinking and environmental awareness among students.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

ORCID

🏆 Summary: Suitability for Research for Excellence in Innovation Award – Dr. Subhash Somkuwar

Dr. Subhash Somkuwar stands as an exemplary candidate for the Research for Excellence in Innovation Award for his pioneering contributions in botanical sciences, plant biotechnology, and conservation biology. His academic excellence, innovative research projects, and commitment to ecological sustainability make him a distinguished innovator in life sciences.

👨‍🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Botany – RTMNU, Nagpur (2019) 🎓
    Thesis: “Monographic Study and Experimental Biology of Byttneria herbacea Roxb.”

  • M.Phil. in Botany – SGB Amravati University (2008) 📘
    Thesis: “Phytonutrient analysis in some plants of Melghat Forest.”

  • NET-JRF (CSIR-UGC) – Life Sciences (2007, 2013) ✅

  • NET (ICAR) – Agriculture Biotechnology (2014) 🌱

  • SET (SGB Pune University) – Life Sciences (2014) 🧪

  • PG Diploma in Biodiversity – Mumbai University (2009) 🌿
    Dissertation: Study of medicinal and ecologically important plants in Savantwadi Region

  • M.Sc. in Botany – RTMNU, Nagpur (2007) 🧬
    Specialization: Molecular Biology & Plant Biotechnology

  • B.Sc. in Botany, Zoology, Chemistry – RTMNU, Nagpur (2005) 🧫

  • H.S.C. & S.S.C. – Maharashtra State Board, Pune (2002, 2000) 📚

👨‍🏫 Work Experience

  • Associate Professor & Head (2021–Present)
    Dept. of Botany, Dr. Ambedkar College, Nagpur 🏛️

    • Teaching, lab coordination, mentoring, NAAC activities, organizing national/international events

  • Assistant Professor (2010–2021)
    Dr. Ambedkar College, Nagpur 🧑‍🏫

    • Involved in student evaluation, curriculum development, and college administration

  • Lecturer (2008–2010)
    Shri. Pancham Khemraj College, Savantwadi, Mumbai University 📘

    • Undergraduate teaching in Botany, organizing practicals and evaluations

  • Visiting Faculty (Various PG Departments)

    • RTMNU & DBT-RGBC, Nagpur (2010–2024)

    • Conducted NET/SET coaching and M.Sc. teaching in Life Sciences and Biotechnology 🎤

🏆 Achievements & Recognition

  • 🔬 Discovered two new medicinal plant species: Murdania ugemugei and Amorphophallus shyamsalilianum 🌺🧪

  • 🧬 Authenticated ITS DNA sequence of Byttneria herbacea (submitted to NCBI GenBank) 📊

  • 🌿 Developed protocols for callus induction & in-vitro seed germination 🌱

  • 📈 Successfully organized over 30+ guest lectures, national/international conferences, workshops & webinars

  • 🧑‍🔬 Set up Plant Tissue Culture Labs and coordinated skill-oriented courses in Phytochemistry & Tissue Culture

  • 📑 Supervised 324+ EVS student projects

  • 👨‍🏫 Conducted NET/SET coaching for Life Sciences aspirants

  • 🎯 Served as Co-Convener & Convenor for several national and international science forums and farmer meets

🥇 Honors & Awards

  • 🏅 Organizer & Speaker in UGC, ICAR, ISCA, DBT, and ISRO-associated academic events

  • 🏵️ Instrumental in Dr. Ambedkar College achieving NAAC “A+” Grade (2011, 2017, 2023)

  • 🌍 Invited speaker for international webinars and conferences (Hungary, Sweden, Argentina, Tunisia, Qatar, Thailand, Nepal)

📚Publication Top Notes

Biosynthesis of microrubble-shaped nanoporous Co3O4/rGO NCs using leaves extract of Neolamarckia cadamba and its antibacterial/antioxidant performance

Novel extraction and characterization methods for phytochemicals

Phyto-derived metal nanoparticles: Prominent tool for biomedical applications

Nanoparticles for sustainable agriculture: innovative potential with current and future perspectives

Nanopolymer: Overview, Innovation and Applications