Silvia Morales de la Rosa | biomass valorization | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Silvia Morales de la Rosa | biomass valorization | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Silvia Morales de la Rosa, Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica – CSIC, Spain

Silvia Morales de la Rosa 🎓🧪 is a dedicated chemist and researcher at the Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica (CSIC) in Spain 🇪🇸. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Madrid Autonomous University (2015) and over 15 years of experience, her expertise lies in biomass valorization, heterogeneous catalysis, and biofuels 🌿⚗️. Silvia leads European projects like HE FUELGAE and FUELPHORIA 🌍💡, has authored 24 scientific papers 📚, and holds 3 patents. Passionate about sustainable energy and circular economy 🔄🌱, she mentors Ph.D. students and collaborates internationally to drive innovation in renewable fuel technologies 🚀.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Suitability Summary

✅ Key Strengths

  • Research Excellence: With 24 peer-reviewed publications and 3 patents, Silvia has made impactful contributions to biomass valorization and catalysis.

  • Leadership in European Projects: As PI and Coordinator of multimillion-euro Horizon Europe projects (HE FUELPHORIA – €11M and HE FUELGAE – €5M), she has demonstrated strategic and technical leadership at the European level.

  • Innovative Techniques: Her work spans heterogeneous catalysis, MOFs, tandem catalysis, and flow systems for converting biomass to high-value chemicals like HMF, furfural, and ethanol.

  • Academic Mentorship: She actively mentors Ph.D. and MSc students, shaping the next generation of chemists with excellence in both academic and applied research.

  • Resilience & Dedication: Overcame medical challenges (including cancer treatments) while maintaining a productive and influential research career.

Education and Experience 

  • 🎓 Education:

    • 🎓 PhD in Chemistry – Madrid Autonomous University, Spain (2015)

    • 🎓 Graduate in Chemical Sciences – Valladolid University, Spain (2001)

    💼 Experience:

    • 🧪 Researcher at CSIC’s ICP (2008–Present)

    • 🧪 R&D roles in ANALIZAGUA S.L., AQM Laboratorios, and Ministry of Industry projects (2004–2008)

    • 🔬 Fellowship on chemical research with Repsol & Valladolid University (2001–2003)

    • 🤕 Medical interruptions due to cancer treatment (2004, 2012, 2016–2017)

Professional Development 

Silvia has continuously enhanced her professional development through hands-on industrial research collaborations 🔬🏭, specialization fellowships, and leadership in high-level European projects 🌍📊. She has led project writing, technical-economic planning, and partner engagement for Horizon Europe proposals 📑🤝. Her role as Track Co-Lead at the upcoming NAM29 conference 🧑‍🔬🌎 underscores her active participation in international scientific forums. She mentors Ph.D. candidates and supervises academic theses 📘👩‍🎓, contributing to the academic and practical growth of upcoming scientists. Her work merges lab research with scalable industrial applications, bridging the gap between discovery and deployment ⚗️⚙️.

Research Focus 

Silvia’s research is centered on sustainable energy and green chemistry 🌱⚗️. Her work targets biomass valorization, microalgae processing, and the production of advanced biofuels and e-fuels 🔬🌿. She develops heterogeneous catalytic systems for hydrotreatment, hydrogenation, and selective oxidation processes 🔥🧪. Her innovations aim to convert waste biomass into valuable bio-products under mild, eco-friendly conditions ♻️. With significant achievements like pilot plant construction and patents, Silvia’s focus lies at the intersection of renewable energy, circular economy, and industrial catalysis 🚀🏭. Her projects aim to accelerate the transition toward sustainable fuel alternatives and reduced carbon emissions 🌍💧.

Awards and Honors 

  • 🏆 Magna “Cum Laude” Ph.D. distinction – Madrid Autonomous University

  • 🏅 Track Co-Lead – Biomass & Waste Valorization, NAM29 Conference (2025)

  • 📘 Honors – MSc Thesis Supervision (Marta Lara Serrano, UNED, 2018)

  • 🎖️ PI of CSIC in €11M HE FUELPHORIA project

  • 🌍 Coordinator of €5M Horizon Europe HE FUELGAE project

  • 🧪 Supervised multiple MSc & Ph.D. theses with academic excellence ratings

Publication Top Notes:

1. Lara-Serrano, M.; Morales-delaRosa, S. (AC); Campos-Martín, J.M.; Romero, I.; Castro, E.; Oliva, J. M.; Manzanares, P. (2024)

Title: OrganoCat fractionation of vine shoots for coproduction of bioethanol, furfural, and lignin
Journal: Fuel
Status: Manuscript Under Review

🔍 Summary:
This study explores the OrganoCat process for fractionating vine shoots into three value-added products: bioethanol, furfural, and lignin. The method combines organic acid catalysis and biphasic extraction to enhance product yields. The paper demonstrates a sustainable approach to biomass valorization with significant potential for biorefinery integration.

2. Sboiu, D. M.; Márquez-Medina, M.D.; Lara-Serrano, M.; Campos-Martin, J.M.; Morales-delaRosa, S. (AC) (2024)

Title: Catalytic conversion into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and furfural by heterogeneous sulfonic acid catalysis in a flowing acetone-water system
Journal: Fuel
Status: Manuscript in Press

🔍 Summary:
This paper presents a continuous-flow system using heterogeneous sulfonic acid catalysts to convert sugars into HMF and furfural, key bio-based platform chemicals. The use of an acetone-water solvent system significantly enhances selectivity and stability. The findings support advances in flow chemistry for biomass-derived chemicals.

3. Cardoza, D.; Contreras, M. Mar; Lara-Serrano, M.; Morales-delaRosa, S.; Campos-Martín, J.M.; Romero, I. (AC); Castro, E. (2024)

Title: Sustainable vine shoots-to-ethanol valorisation by a sequential acid/organosolv pretreatment
Journal: Process Safety and Environmental Protection
Volume: 183
Date: March 2024
Pages: 1059–1070
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2024.01.063

🔍 Summary:
This study proposes a two-step pretreatment (acid followed by organosolv) to efficiently convert vine shoot biomass into ethanol. The process enhances hemicellulose and lignin removal, improving cellulose accessibility. Results contribute to low-impact, high-efficiency bioethanol production strategies.

4. Lara-Serrano, M.; Sboiu, D. M.; Morales-delaRosa, S. (AC); Campos-Martin J.M. (AC) (2023)

Title: Selective Fragmentation of Lignocellulosic Biomass with ZnCl₂·4H₂O Using a Dissolution/Precipitation Method
Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)
Volume: 13, Issue 5
Article Number: 2953
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/app13052953
Citations: 2
Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI): 1.30

🔍 Summary:
The article presents a novel ZnCl₂·4H₂O-based strategy for selectively fragmenting lignocellulosic biomass. Using a dissolution/precipitation process, it facilitates the isolation of key biomass components under mild conditions. This offers a new pathway for biomass deconstruction in green chemistry applications.

5. Lara-Serrano, M.; Morales-delaRosa, S.; Campos-Martin, J.M. (AC); Abdelkader-Fernández, V.K.; Cunha-Silva, L.; Balula, S.S. (2022)

Title: One-Pot Conversion of Glucose into 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural using MOFs and Brønsted-Acid Tandem Catalysts
Journal: Advanced Sustainable Systems
Volume: 6, Issue 5
Article Number: 2100444
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/adsu.202100444
Back Cover Highlight: Cover link
Citations: 10
FWCI: 1.28

Conclusion:

Dr. Silvia Morales de la Rosa represents the ideal profile of a Best Researcher Award recipient: a scientist whose work not only advances theoretical understanding but also provides practical, scalable solutions to global sustainability challenges. Her innovative methodologies, strong leadership, and commitment to mentoring make her an outstanding figure in renewable fuel technologies and circular economy research.

Dr.R. Karthick| solar-water-energy | Best Research Award

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Dr.R. Karthick| solar-water-energy | Best Research Award

Dr.R. Karthick , KGiSL Institute of Technology, India

R. Karthick is a seasoned Research Scientist specializing in photoelectrochemistry, solar-water-energy nexus, and sustainable desalination technologies. With over 13 years of research experience, he has pioneered innovations in solar-assisted water splitting, CO₂ reduction, and photo-rechargeable desalination systems. His academic journey spans from a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences at CSIR–CECRI, India, to roles in Poland, China, and India, contributing significantly to next-gen solar devices and electrodes. 📚🔬🌊☀️ He currently serves as a Research Scientist at KGiSL Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, and is actively involved in high-impact publications, editorial duties, and international collaborations. 🌍🔋💡

professional profile:

scopus

Google scholar

🏅 Summary of Suitability:

Dr. R. Karthick stands out as a top-tier researcher with an impactful career dedicated to the solar-water-energy  nexus, sustainable desalination, and photoelectrochemical systems. With over 13 years of continuous research experience across India, China, and Poland, he has demonstrated exceptional capability in innovating practical solutions for clean energy and water purification. His work on solar-assisted hydrogen generation, CO₂ reduction, and photo-rechargeable desalination devices contributes directly to solving global environmental and energy challenges. His publication record, editorial roles, and funded projects highlight his leadership in the field.

🎓 Education & Experience :

🎓 Education:

  • 🧪 Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences – CSIR–CECRI / AcSIR, India (2013–2018)

  • 🌱 M.Sc. in Environmental Science – Bharathiar University (2009–2011)

  • ⚗️ B.Sc. in Chemistry – Bharathiar University (2004–2007)

  • 📘 HSS (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Comp. Sci.) – Sacred Heart Hr. Sec. School (2002–2004)

  • 🏫 Matriculation – Defence Employees Matric. School (2002)

🧪 Professional Experience:

  • 🧑‍🔬 Research Scientist – KGiSL Institute of Technology, Coimbatore (2024–Present)

  • 👨‍🏫 Assistant Professor – University of Warsaw, Poland (2023–2024)

  • 🔬 Research Professor – South China Normal University, China (2020–2022)

  • 🧪 Postdoctoral Researcher – SCNU, China (2018–2020)

  • 👨‍🔬 Doctoral Researcher – CSIR–CECRI, India (2013–2017)

  • 👨‍🔧 Project Assistant–III – CSIR–CECRI, India (2012–2016)

  • 🔧 Project Assistant–I – CSIR–CECRI, India (2010–2011)

🌟 Professional Development :

Dr. Karthick has actively shaped the future of clean energy through rigorous research and innovation. 🚀 As an Editorial Board Member of Scientific Reports and Co-Guest Editor at Polymers, MDPI, he contributes to scientific discourse globally. 📝 He has also reviewed for international journals and participated in specialized schools such as ECS USA on Photochemistry. 📚💡 His cross-border research spans India 🇮🇳, China 🇨🇳, and Poland 🇵🇱, supported by prestigious grants like the China National Foreign Youth Talent Program. 🌐 His technical toolbox includes advanced synthesis, electrochemical testing, and fabrication of next-gen solar energy devices. 🔬⚙️🧑‍💻

🔍 Research Focus Area:

Dr. Karthick’s research is centered on solar-driven clean water and energy technologies. 🔆💧 He explores photoelectrochemical (PEC) desalination, solar-assisted hydrogen production, CO₂ reduction, and the development of photo-rechargeable battery systems. 🔋 His work integrates graphene-based materials, transparent conducting electrodes, and catalytic electrodes to enable cost-effective and energy-efficient devices. ⚡🌱 He contributes to tackling water scarcity and climate change by merging nanomaterials with PEC techniques, enabling real-world applications for sustainable development. 🌍 His expertise in material synthesis, device fabrication, and hybrid solar technologies positions him as a key player in solar-water-energy nexus innovation. ☀️🧪🌊

🏅 Awards & Honors :

  • 🥉 Third Prize, S.A.E.S.T. (2012) – Graphene Transparent Conductive Films

  • 🎤 Oral/Poster Presentations at IUPAC NMS XIII (2018), SCICON (2016), Energy Science Conf. (2016), TAPSUN (2013)

  • 🧪 Participant, ECS School USA (2015) – “Photochemistry – Fundamentals to Applications”

  • 🇨🇳 China National Project – Foreign Youth Talent Program (2021–2022)

    • 📌 Grant Title: Photo-Battery Desalination for Solar-Water-Energy Nexus

    • 📄 Grant No: QN202130004L

Publication Top Note:

 

 

 

Dr. Martin Masuelli | Biopolymers Awards | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Martin Masuelli | Biopolymers Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Martin Masuelli, National University of San Luis, Argentina

Alberto Martin Masuelli, an accomplished Argentine chemist,  he currently serves as a Research Associate at the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) and is a faculty member at the Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL). With a robust academic background in chemistry, he has contributed significantly to studies on surface science, porous media, and polymer chemistry. His expertise spans hydrodynamics, material science, and membrane technology, focusing on novel membrane design for environmental applications. Over the years, Masuelli has published extensively in prestigious journals, earning recognition for his research on polymer biophysics and material characterization. Known for his dedication to scientific advancement, he has made impactful strides in his field, particularly in developing membranes for wastewater treatment, which has solidified his position as a respected researcher and educator in Argentine science.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for the Award:

Dr. Alberto Martin Masuelli stands out as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research contributions in the fields of chemistry, polymer science, and environmental applications, particularly in wastewater treatment.

🎓Education :

Alberto Masuelli’s educational journey reflects a steadfast commitment to chemistry and material sciences. He began his foundational studies at Dean Abel Balmaceda School, graduating in 1985, and later attended the Industrial Domingo F. Sarmiento School, where he completed a secondary education focused on chemical technology. His higher education took place at the Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), where he achieved both a Chemist degree (1998) and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (1999). Masuelli furthered his expertise with a Master of Science in Surfaces and Porous Media (2003), a degree recognized for excellence by the Argentine National Accreditation Commission (CONEAU). He concluded his academic training with a Doctorate in Chemistry from UNSL in 2007, again categorized as “A” by CONEAU, underscoring his academic distinction and his focus on advanced research in surface science, material physics, and membrane technology.

🏢Experience:

Alberto Masuelli’s career in research and academia is marked by impactful roles, primarily under the Argentine National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET). In 2010, he began his affiliation with CONICET as an internal postgraduate scholar, transitioning to a Research Assistant role in 2011. By 2017, he advanced to the position of Research Associate, an acknowledgment of his contributions and expertise. At the Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Masuelli has been pivotal in academic research, particularly in polymer science, hydrodynamics, and membrane technologies. His work has been instrumental in developing charged ion-exchange and ultrafiltration membranes aimed at mitigating industrial pollution and advancing sustainable chemistry applications. His research collaborations and teaching roles reflect his commitment to both scientific inquiry and mentoring emerging talent in chemistry and material sciences, enhancing the academic landscape in Argentina.

🏅Awards and Honors :

Alberto Masuelli’s contributions to chemistry have been recognized with various honors and awards throughout his career. His work with CONICET, a prestigious scientific institution in Argentina, underscores his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in chemistry and materials science. His Master’s and Doctorate, both rated “A” by CONEAU, exemplify his excellence in research and academia. Additionally, his publications in high-impact journals, such as the Journal of Membrane Science and International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, reflect his esteemed reputation in the scientific community. Masuelli’s work on ultrafiltration membranes and polymer biophysics has attracted international attention, positioning him as a leading researcher in membrane technology. His research contributions continue to receive acclaim, highlighting his dedication to addressing environmental challenges through science and innovation.

🔬Research Focus :

Alberto Masuelli’s research focuses on material science, polymer chemistry, and hydrodynamics, with an emphasis on creating innovative solutions for environmental challenges. His studies delve into the characteristics of polymers and biopolymers, exploring their hydrodynamic properties and behavior under varying conditions. A significant part of his work centers on membrane technologies, specifically ultrafiltration and ion-exchange membranes, which have applications in wastewater treatment and pollutant removal. Masuelli’s research aims to enhance membrane efficacy and durability, making them more adaptable to industrial needs. His studies in viscometry and rheology of natural gums and biopolymers expand understanding of these materials, contributing to their industrial applicability. By addressing issues such as fouling resistance and ion-exchange capacities in membranes, Masuelli’s work provides sustainable and efficient alternatives for waste management, aligning with global environmental goals.

PUblication Top Notes:

  • Title: Gum tragacanth hydrogels for high methylene blue adsorption
    • Citations: 1
  • Title: Rheology of aqueous solutions of brea gum: Bimodal flow curves and (apparent) negative activation energies
    • Citations: 1
  • Title: Advanced Pharmacy (Book)
  • Title: Intrinsic viscosity methods in natural polymer as pharmaceutical excipients (Book Chapter)
  • Title: Synthesis and Characterization of Chanar Gum Films
    • Citations: 3

 

 

Mr. Nadir Murtaza | Computational Nanotechnology Awards | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Nadir Murtaza | Computational Nanotechnology Awards | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Nadir Murtaza | Computational Nanotechnology Awards | Best Researcher Award

Nadir Murtaza, born on April 20, 1998, in Karak, Pakistan, is a dedicated civil engineer specializing in water resource and irrigation engineering. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Taxila, his research focuses on innovative solutions in hydraulic engineering, specifically targeting flood risk management and erosion control. Nadir brings an impressive track record of academic and research accomplishments, having completed both his M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from UET Taxila. With a proactive approach to learning, he has contributed significantly to experimental studies in fluid dynamics and sediment transport. He currently serves as a lecturer and heads multiple committees at the Swedish College of Engineering and Technology in Wah Cantt. Nadir’s work aims to bridge practical civil engineering applications with sustainable environmental management solutions, making him a valuable asset in hydraulic and environmental engineering

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Suitability of Nadir Murtaza for the Best Researcher Award:

Nadir Murtaza is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the field of civil engineering with a specialization in water resource and hydraulic engineering. His academic achievements, including a B.Sc. and M.Sc. from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Taxila, demonstrate a strong foundational knowledge and commitment to advancing the discipline. Currently pursuing a Ph.D., Nadir’s research focuses on innovative flood risk management and erosion control solutions, which are crucial areas of study in an era of increasing climate change challenges.

🎓Education:

Nadir Murtaza is advancing his education in civil engineering with a Ph.D. at UET Taxila, focusing on water resource management and sustainable hydraulic solutions. He holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from UET Taxila, where his coursework included specialized subjects like hydraulic structures, groundwater hydrology, and river engineering. His M.Sc. thesis centered on optimizing hybrid defense systems for hill torrent management, showcasing his expertise in experimental hydraulic research. Prior to this, he earned a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from UET Taxila, with a thesis investigating local scouring at broad-crested trapezoidal weirs. His foundational courses covered diverse topics such as structural analysis, environmental engineering, and fluid mechanics, providing him with comprehensive knowledge across civil engineering disciplines. His academic journey is supported by the Higher Education Commission’s Need-Based Scholarship, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and professional growth in water resources and civil engineering.

🏢Professional Experience:

Nadir Murtaza has a robust professional background in civil engineering, encompassing both academia and industry. Currently, he serves as a lecturer at the Swedish College of Engineering and Technology in Wah Cantt, Pakistan, where he also heads the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialization, Industrial Advisory Board, and Departmental Quality Assurance Committee. Previously, he worked as a Site Engineer at SKB in Pindigheb, where he gained valuable field experience. In his teaching role, Nadir actively contributes to student mentorship through various committees, including the Final Year Project Committee and the Students Counseling Committee. His professional focus on quality assurance and student engagement underscores his commitment to advancing engineering education and practice. Nadir’s dual experience in teaching and fieldwork enhances his comprehensive understanding of civil engineering applications, enabling him to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, real-world projects in water resources and hydraulic engineering.

🏅Honors and Awards:

Nadir Murtaza has been recognized for his academic dedication and commitment to civil engineering. He was awarded the esteemed Higher Education Commission (HEC) Need-Based Scholarship during his B.Sc. studies at UET Taxila, reflecting both his academic merit and financial need. This scholarship underscored his potential to excel in civil engineering, providing him the support to pursue a rigorous academic program. Nadir has also actively participated in professional conferences, presenting research at events like the 2nd International Conference on Advances in Civil and Environmental Engineering (ICACEE) held at UET Taxila in 2023. These honors not only highlight his dedication to academic growth but also affirm his contributions to the field of hydraulic engineering. Nadir’s achievements are a testament to his commitment to innovative research and sustainable engineering solutions, further enhancing his professional profile in the civil engineering community.

🔬Research Focus :

Nadir Murtaza’s research is primarily focused on hydraulic engineering with an emphasis on sustainable water management practices. His key areas of interest include flood risk management, sediment transport, hydraulic structures, and the integration of artificial intelligence in hydraulic engineering. His research explores innovative techniques to mitigate scouring around bridge abutments and improve fluid dynamics in open channels, particularly in response to extreme flood conditions. Nadir’s work on utilizing vegetation and industrial by-products as eco-friendly countermeasures exemplifies his commitment to environmentally sustainable engineering practices. Through experimental approaches and computational analysis, he aims to optimize hydraulic structures to withstand adverse conditions while minimizing ecological impact. His research not only contributes valuable insights into fluid mechanics but also offers practical solutions for infrastructure resilience and environmental preservation, positioning him as an emerging expert in civil and hydraulic engineering.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Advanced Prediction Models for Scouring Around Bridge Abutments: A Comparative Study of Empirical and AI Techniques
  2. Impact of Dyke and Vegetation on Fluid Force and Moment Reduction Under Sub and Supercritical Flow Conditions
  3. Effectiveness of Collars and Hooked-Collars in Mitigating Scour around Different Abutment Shapes
  4. Computational Analysis of Fluid Dynamics in Open Channel with the Vegetated Spur Dike
  5. Analysis of Hydraulic Jump and Energy Dissipation in Flow Through Emergent Vegetation Under Varying Froude Numbers