Manença Cristiano Nhanga| Materiais| Excellence in Research Award

Posted on 17/02/202517/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Mr.Manença Cristiano Nhanga |Materiais| Excellencein Research Award

Researcher staff at Púnguè University,Mozambique.

Manença Cristiano Nhanga is a researcher and staff member at Púnguè University, Mozambique. His academic and research interests focus on areas related to engineering, environmental sciences, and sustainable development. With a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation, he actively contributes to research projects and academic initiatives at the university.

professional profiles

Education

Púnguè University, Mozambique (2020 – 2024)Degree: Bachelor’s in Physics Teaching with a focus on Renewable Energy.Distinction: Best student in the Faculty of Exact and Technological Sciences with an average of 15/20.University of Minho, Portugal (Feb – June 2024)Conducted a research project on “Evaluation of Heavy Metals Content in Plastic Bags Used as Part of Food Cooking Containers by the Mozambican Community” under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Maria Dulce Geraldo, Prof. Dr. Manuel Filipe Costa, and Prof. Dr. Sérgio Nhapulo.Global Inclusive Society, Brazil (2023)Certified in International Relations, Cooperativism, Geopolitics, and Public Speaking.Mopeia Secondary School, Zambezia (2014-2018)Achieved the best academic performance and was exempted from the national examination in 10th grade.

work Experience

University of Minho, Portugal (Feb – June 2024)Poster Presentation at VII ETCAQ: Evaluation of Zn in Plastic Bags used as Food Containers in Mozambique.Book Chapter Author: Science Education and Sustainability in Hands-On Science 2024.Article Author: Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Plastic Bags used as Improvised Food Cooking Covers: A Case Study from Mozambique (Sustainability Journal 2025, 17, 964).Conference Participation:VII Meeting of Chemical Characterization and Analysis Techniques (June 7, 2024)Catalysis in Industry Lecture by Prof. Pham Thanh Huyen from Hanoi University of Science and Technology (June 20, 2024)Science Fair Jury Member at Colégio do Minho (May 23, 2024)Oral Presentation at the 21st Annual International Hands-On Science Conference 2024 in Goiás, Brazil.Electro Expresso, Lda [Assistant]Worked in service, maintenance, and logistics.Global Inclusive Society [Assistant Teacher] (2023)Taught English at intermediate and pre-advanced levels.EISA-JOINT Mozambique [Election Representative, Luabo] (2019)

Research Focus

Nhanga’s research primarily explores:Environmental Sustainability and Heavy Metal ContaminationRenewable Energy Applications in Physics EducationScience Education and Sustainable DevelopmentMaterial Safety in Food PackagingHis work addresses societal challenges in Mozambique, particularly regarding food safety, environmental impact, and education in underdeveloped regions.

Awards & Honors🏆

Best Student in Physics Course – Púnguè University (2024)
🏆 Best Academic Performance – University of Minho (ERASMUS+ ICM, 2024)
🏆 Best Academic Performance in Secondary School – Mopeia Secondary School (2018)

Conclusion

Nhanga, M. C., Geraldo, D., Nhapulo, S. L., João, A. F., Carneiro, J., & Costa, M. F. M. (2025). Evaluation of Heavy Metal Content in Plastic Bags Used as Improvised Food Cooking Covers: A Case Study from the Mozambican Community. Sustainability, 17, 964.
Nhanga, M. C. (2024). Evaluation of Heavy Metal Content in Plastic Bags Used as Part of Food Cooking Containers: A Socio-educational Sustainability Perspective in Mozambique. In Science Education and Sustainability (pp. XX-XX). ISBN 978-84-8158-971-9.

Heng Zhang | Biomedical Research | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 14/02/202514/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Dr. Heng Zhang | Biomedical Research | Best Researcher Award

Research Scientist at Versiti Blood Research Institute, United States

Dr. Heng Zhang is a Research Scientist specializing in integrin structure and signaling at the Blood Research Institute, Versiti, U.S. His expertise spans biochemical and structural biology, molecular genetics, and biotechnology. With a strong academic background from Waikato University and Shandong Normal University, he has contributed significantly to the fields of virology, protein interactions, and blood-related research. His work includes pioneering studies on integrins, viral receptors, and hemophilia mutations. Dr. Zhang has received numerous prestigious awards and serves as a reviewer for scientific journals. His research has led to patents and publications in high-impact journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing biomedical science.

professional profiles

Scopus Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Zhang earned his Ph.D. in Biochemical and Structural Biology from Waikato University, New Zealand, in 2019, where he focused on protein structure and function, particularly in relation to bovine salivary proteins and microbial interactions. Before that, he obtained an M.Sc. in Molecular Genetics with First-Class Honors from Waikato University, specializing in genetic and biochemical approaches to understanding molecular pathways. His academic journey began at Shandong Normal University, China, where he completed a B.Sc. in Biotechnology in 2009, gaining foundational knowledge in biotechnology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering.

work Experience

Currently, Dr. Zhang serves as a Research Scientist at the Blood Research Institute, Versiti, where he investigates integrin structure and signaling. Previously, he worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the same institute from 2019 to 2023, focusing on molecular mechanisms in virology and blood coagulation. His experience also includes teaching molecular biology and biochemistry as a Teaching Assistant at Waikato University from 2013 to 2019, where he mentored students and supported laboratory research. Additionally, he worked as a Research Technologist at Waikato University from 2013 to 2014, conducting laboratory experiments related to protein structure and microbial interactions.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhang has received multiple accolades throughout his career. In 2024, he was honored with the Education Committee Award from Versiti Blood Research Institute. During his graduate studies, he earned the DairyNZ Graduate Student Award from AgResearch Ltd (2015-2019) and multiple internal awards from Waikato University in 2014 and 2012. His academic excellence was recognized early on with First and Second Class Scholarships from Shandong Normal University (2005-2009) and a Second Prize award in the China High School Biology Olympiad in 2003.

Skills

Dr. Zhang is highly skilled in structural biology, with expertise in X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and protein modeling. He has strong computational biology skills, using tools such as AlphaFold and molecular dynamics simulations. His biochemical expertise includes protein purification, enzyme kinetics, and cellular assays, while his genetic engineering experience covers CRISPR, recombinant protein expression, and cloning. As an active contributor to the scientific community, he serves as a reviewer for Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine and has been involved in patent development for antiviral receptor-based technologies.

Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research revolves around integrin structure and signaling, exploring mechanisms of cell adhesion and immune response regulation. He has made significant contributions to understanding hemophilia and blood disorders, utilizing computational modeling to study coagulation factors. His work in virology includes investigating cell-attachable viral receptors for infectious disease control. Additionally, he applies structural biology techniques, including cryo-EM and AlphaFold-based predictions, to study protein interactions. His research extends to biomedical engineering and drug development, with a focus on innovative therapeutic approaches for blood-related diseases.

Conclusion

Publications to Noted

Predicting the effects of single pathological mutations in Hemophilia A and Type 2N Von Willebrand Diseases using AlphaFold2‐multimer and AlphaFold3

Authors: Not provided

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2025

Facilitating and restraining virus infection using cell‐attachable soluble viral receptors

Authors: Not provided

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2024

Integrin α 5 β 1 contributes to cell fusion and inflammation mediated by SARS‐CoV‐2 spike via RGD‐independent interaction

Authors: Not provided

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2023

Family‐wide analysis of integrin structures predicted by AlphaFold2.

Authors: Heng Zhang (assumed)

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2023

Intracellular tPA–PAI-1 interaction determines VLDL assembly in hepatocytes

Authors: Not provided

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2023

Coagulopathy in COVID‐19 and anticoagulation clinical trials

Authors: Not provided

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2022

The three dimensional structure of Bovine Salivary Protein 30b (BSP30b) and its interaction with specific rumen bacteria.

Authors: Heng Zhang (assumed)

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2019

A new method to extract and purify DNA from allophanic soils and paleosols, and potential for paleoenvironmental reconstruction and other applications

Authors: Heng Zhang (assumed)

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2016

What can the geographic distribution of mtDNA haplotypes tell us about the invasion of New Zealand by house mice Mus musculus?

Authors: Heng Zhang (assumed)

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2016

DNA adsorption by nanocrystalline allophane spherules and nanoaggregates, and implications for carbon sequestration in Andisols

Authors: Heng Zhang (assumed)

Citations: Not provided

Year: 2016

Alexander Djerdjev | Interfacial Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 13/02/202513/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Dr. Alexander Djerdjev | Interfacial Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Associate at The University of Sydney, Australia

Dr. Alexander Masato Djerdjev is a pioneering postdoctoral research associate at The University of Sydney, School of Chemistry. He earned his PhD in Science (Chemistry) from The University of Sydney, where he demonstrated exceptional expertise in physical chemistry and interface science. With a strong track record of innovative research, Dr. Djerdjev has contributed to the development of advanced electroacoustic techniques for measuring zeta potential and particle size in concentrated dispersions. His work with industry partners, including Dyno Nobel, has led to two patents in the field of emulsion explosives, addressing challenges in hot and reactive grounds. Notably, his experimental studies have substantiated the mechanism by which hydrophobic-water interfaces acquire a negative charge through hydroxide ion adsorption, paving the way for novel applications in water catalysis. With an impressive citation index and numerous high-impact publications, he is recognized as a leading scientist whose research continues to drive progress in chemical innovation.

professional profiles

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education

Dr. Alexander Djerdjev completed his advanced studies at The University of Sydney, where he earned a PhD in Science (Chemistry). His doctoral research focused on the physical chemistry of interfaces, leading to breakthroughs in understanding hydrophobic-water interactions and the development of innovative electroacoustic techniques. Throughout his academic journey, he was deeply involved in both theoretical and experimental aspects of chemical research, which laid the foundation for his contributions to the field. His rigorous academic training provided him with a robust grasp of complex chemical phenomena, empowering him to tackle challenging problems in emulsions and zeta potential characterization. Dr. Djerdjev’s education combined cutting-edge research with comprehensive coursework in physical chemistry, instrumentation, and materials science, equipping him with the analytical skills and technical proficiency required to excel in his field. His academic achievements reflect his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation in chemistry. This education continues to inspire his research.

work Experience

Dr. Alexander Djerdjev currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at The University of Sydney, School of Chemistry, where he leads innovative research projects in physical chemistry and interface science. Over the course of his career, he has successfully managed nine research projects and collaborated on five industry-based consultancy initiatives. His work involves developing advanced electroacoustic methods for measuring zeta potential and particle size in concentrated dispersions, contributing to significant breakthroughs in understanding hydrophobic-water interfaces. Dr. Djerdjev has played an instrumental role in the development of two patents in emulsion explosives technology in collaboration with Dyno Nobel. His practical experience extends to comprehensive experimental design, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaborations with industry partners, including Colloidal Dynamics Inc. With an impressive citation index (H-index 15) and over 1,600 citations, his professional experience underscores a commitment to scientific innovation, bridging academia and industry to solve complex chemical challenges effectively with outstanding success.

Skills

Dr. Alexander Djerdjev possesses a diverse array of skills that underpin his success in advancing chemical research and innovation. He is highly proficient in designing and executing complex experiments involving electroacoustic measurements, zeta potential analysis, and particle size determination in concentrated dispersions. His technical expertise extends to ultrasonic attenuation, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and impedance spectroscopy, allowing for comprehensive characterization of interfacial phenomena. Dr. Djerdjev is adept at data analysis and interpretation, leveraging sophisticated statistical tools and software to derive meaningful insights from experimental results. His strong problem-solving abilities enable him to overcome technical challenges and optimize research methodologies effectively. Additionally, he demonstrates excellent communication skills, both in writing high-impact publications and in presenting complex concepts to diverse audiences. His collaborative nature and experience working with industry partners enhance his interdisciplinary capabilities, making him a leader in the field of physical chemistry and a valuable asset to any research team.

Research Focus

Dr. Alexander Djerdjev’s research focuses on the physical chemistry of interfaces, particularly the behavior of hydrophobic-water boundaries. His work investigates the mechanisms by which hydrophobic surfaces acquire negative charge through hydroxide ion adsorption, a discovery that has far-reaching implications in water catalysis and surface science. Utilizing advanced electroacoustic techniques, he measures zeta potential and particle size in concentrated dispersions, thereby providing critical insights into colloidal stability and emulsion behavior. His research also encompasses ultrasonic attenuation, SAXS, and impedance spectroscopy, which together enable a comprehensive analysis of interfacial phenomena. By bridging experimental findings with theoretical models, Dr. Djerdjev’s work has not only advanced fundamental science but also spurred innovations in industrial applications, such as the development of emulsion explosives. His interdisciplinary approach and collaboration with industry partners highlight his commitment to translating scientific discoveries into practical, transformative technologies. His research continues to shape the future of interface science and industrial innovation.

Conclusion

Publications to Noted

The pristine oil/water interface: Surfactant‐free hydroxide‐charged emulsions

Authors: JK Beattie, AM Djerdjev

Citations: 423

Year: 2004

The surface of neat water is basic

Authors: JK Beattie, AM Djerdjev, GG Warr

Citations: 365

Year: 2009

Strong specific hydroxide ion binding at the pristine oil/water and air/water interfaces

Authors: P Creux, J Lachaise, A Graciaa, JK Beattie, AM Djerdjev

Citations: 296

Year: 2009

pH and the surface tension of water

Authors: JK Beattie, AM Djerdjev, A Gray-Weale, N Kallay, J Lützenkirchen, …

Citations: 137

Year: 2014

Absence of specific cation or anion effects at low salt concentrations on the charge at the oil/water interface

Authors: GV Franks, AM Djerdjev, JK Beattie

Citations: 68

Year: 2005

Rapid electroacoustic method for monitoring dispersion: zeta potential titration of alumina with ammonium poly (methacrylate)

Authors: JK Beattie, A Djerdjev

Citations: 42

Year: 2000

The mechanism of the spontaneous detonation of ammonium nitrate in reactive grounds

Authors: AM Djerdjev, P Priyananda, J Gore, JK Beattie, C Neto, BS Hawkett

Citations: 40

Year: 2018

Dipolar anions are not preferentially attracted to the oil/water interface

Authors: JK Beattie, AM Djerdjev, GV Franks, GG Warr

Citations: 39

Year: 2005

Nanoparticle adsorption and stabilisation of surfactant-free emulsions

Authors: CP Whitby, AM Djerdjev, JK Beattie, GG Warr

Citations: 37

Year: 2006

Enhancement of Ostwald ripening by depletion flocculation

Authors: AM Djerdjev, JK Beattie

Citations: 36

Year: 2008

Nicola McGunnigle | Cross-disciplinary | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 12/02/202512/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle | Cross-disciplinary | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at The University of Adelaide, Australia

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle is a dedicated scholar and community development advocate who empowers marginalized communities through innovative research and development programs. With a passion for bridging the gap between academic insights and practical solutions, she coordinates cross-disciplinary projects addressing interactions among human, natural, and built environments. Her expertise encompasses climate and environmental risk assessments, workshop facilitation, and effective environmental stewardship. A committed leader, Dr. McGunnigle has served as a Board Director of INF Australia since 2017, ensuring governance compliance and strategic direction for supporting health and community programs in disadvantaged regions of Nepal. Sensitive to cultural differences, she prioritizes local voices and sustainable practices. Her published work emphasizes the importance of spending time with communities to understand stakeholder perceptions and foster grassroots development. Dr. McGunnigle is recognized for her unwavering commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability, consistently inspiring transformative change across diverse sectors. Her leadership drives lasting community impact.

professional profiles

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle earned her Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Adelaide in 2024, completing a thesis on the benefits and challenges of regenerating forests on abandoned agricultural land for sustainable development in the middle hills of Nepal. Prior to her doctoral studies, she achieved a Master of Science with first-class honours from the University of Waikato in 1994, which deepened her understanding of environmental and earth sciences. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences from the University of Waikato in 1992, laying the groundwork for her future academic pursuits. This comprehensive education has provided Dr. McGunnigle with robust research skills, critical analytical capabilities, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Her academic journey reflects a blend of rigorous scientific training and practical insights, empowering her to address complex challenges in sustainable community development and environmental stewardship effectively. Her passion for learning fuels continuous global impact.

work Experience

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle has amassed extensive experience in environmental science, climate change advisory, and sustainable community development across various sectors. As a Climate Change Advisor for International Nepal Fellowship Australia since May 2024, she has provided strategic guidance and coordinated cross-disciplinary projects to mitigate climate risks. Concurrently, she serves as a Senior Project Officer with the Department of Environment and Water since November 2023, focusing on integrated environmental management and policy compliance. Her academic tenure as a PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide from July 2020 to 2024 has refined her research skills and deepened her expertise in sustainable development. Additionally, Dr. McGunnigle has contributed to higher education as a lecturer and tutor in climate change at the University of Adelaide. Previously, she held roles as a Principal Environmental Scientist at AECOM Australia (2016–2020) and Environmental Scientist at URS Australia (2006–2015), honing her exceptional leadership skills in environmental projects.

Skills

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle possesses a diverse skill set that underpins her success in sustainable community development and environmental research. Her analytical skills are demonstrated through robust data analysis and evaluation techniques, ensuring accurate interpretation of complex environmental data. As a strong communicator, she excels in academic writing, reviewing, and delivering engaging presentations. Her independent enquiry and critical thinking enable her to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Dr. McGunnigle is highly adept at understanding legislative and policy frameworks, allowing her to navigate regulatory environments effectively. Her cultural sensitivity and adaptability ensure that she works harmoniously with diverse communities and stakeholders. Additionally, she is resourceful and a problem solver, skilled in project management, workshop facilitation, and climate risk assessment. Her ability to coordinate cross-disciplinary projects and engage with partners further enhances her effectiveness. These competencies empower her to drive research and foster sustainable practices in community development and environmental stewardship remarkably.

Research Focus

Dr. Nicola McGunnigle’s research focuses on sustainable community development and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the integration of human, natural, and built environments. Her work explores climate and environmental risk assessments, highlighting the benefits of engaging directly with marginalized communities to understand local needs and stakeholder perceptions. By spending significant time with communities, she develops grassroots strategies that empower individuals and promote resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Dr. McGunnigle investigates how environmental policies can be effectively integrated with community development programs to enhance sustainability and foster long-term growth. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges academic research and practical application, facilitating capacity-building workshops and collaborative projects. Her studies contribute to developing innovative frameworks that improve access to knowledge, resources, and sustainable practices. Through her research, she aims to create actionable solutions that address climate change risks, support local voices, and promote a future of environmental and social equity, driving transformative change in communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Nicola McGunnigle is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her passion for sustainable development, combined with her extensive interdisciplinary research and community-driven projects, demonstrates her commitment to advancing environmental stewardship and social equity. Her proven track record in integrating scientific research with practical applications, along with her leadership in policy development and capacity building, makes her a transformative force in the field. With targeted improvements in global collaboration and academic publication, she is poised to further elevate her already significant contributions. Dr. McGunnigle’s blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and empathetic community engagement makes her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award, symbolizing excellence and innovation in research.

Publications to Noted

Intermediate levels of socio-ecological disturbance drive higher biodiversity in naturally regenerating forests: A case study from Nepal

Authors:

N. McGunnigle (Nicola McGunnigle)

D.K. Bardsley (Douglas K. Bardsley)

I.K. Nuberg (Ian K. Nuberg)

E.D. Cedamon (Edwin D. Cedamon)

B.H. Pandit (Bishnu Hari Pandit)

Year: 2025

Wen-Pei Sung | Environmental Science | Best Faculty Award

Posted on 10/02/202510/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Prof. Dr. Wen-Pei Sung | Environmental Science | Best Faculty Award

Lifetime Distinguished Professor at National Chin-Yi University of Technology , Taiwan

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung is a distinguished academic and engineering expert, currently serving as a Lifetime Distinguished Professor at National Chin-Yi University of Technology in Taiwan. He has also held leadership roles including Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Dean of the College of Humanities and Creativity, and Department Chair. Dr. Sung’s contributions to civil, structural, and environmental engineering are significant, especially in the areas of vocational education, structural dynamics, earthquake engineering, and green technologies. He has received numerous honors, including fellowships from prestigious organizations like IET, IETI, APTSA, and ICDM. Dr. Sung is known for his expertise in sustainable urban planning, climate adaptation, and structural safety, with extensive involvement in research and international collaborations. His groundbreaking work has had a substantial impact on environmental resilience and infrastructure development.

professional profiles

Orcid

Education

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung has a robust academic background, including advanced studies and qualifications in civil, structural, and environmental engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Structural Engineering and has pursued additional specialized certifications that have helped shape his exceptional career. Dr. Sung has dedicated himself to fostering a sustainable engineering ecosystem and has designed and contributed to various educational programs, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge in structural dynamics and earthquake engineering. His passion for integrating green technologies into engineering curricula has made him a respected figure in academic circles. He has lectured widely on topics such as smart infrastructure and sustainable urban development.

work Experience

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung brings extensive experience to both academia and industry. He has held numerous leadership roles at National Chin-Yi University of Technology, including serving as Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Dean, and Department Chair. Dr. Sung’s research interests include structural control mechanisms, green technologies, and urban resilience, specifically in earthquake engineering and environmental sustainability. His applied work has spanned across various projects focused on sustainable infrastructure, adaptive design, and structural health monitoring. Dr. Sung has been a government consultant, serving on committees related to urban planning, low-carbon technology, and geological sensitivity. His involvement in the Resilient Taiwan Project highlights his practical contributions to disaster resilience and climate adaptation. Additionally, he has advised various industry projects, focusing on green building technologies and sustainable urban planning.

Research Focus

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung’s research focuses on enhancing infrastructure sustainability, efficiency, and resilience. He has conducted groundbreaking work in structural control for buildings to improve their stability, incorporating seismic technologies to create earthquake-resistant structures. Dr. Sung’s research extends to sustainable environmental management practices, with a focus on green technologies for energy-saving in buildings and urban environments. His work includes the design and implementation of smart bridges using the Neutral Equilibrium Mechanism, structural health monitoring systems, and the application of permeable pavement systems for urban water management. He has also explored adaptive design concepts for urban flood retention spaces and green buildings. His ongoing projects, funded by Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council, investigate ways to integrate ecological and technological systems for urban disaster resilience and climate adaptation.

Conclusion

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung’s remarkable achievements in research, teaching, and industry consultancy make him a strong candidate for the Best Faculty Award. His contributions to structural engineering, sustainable urban development, and green technologies have established him as a leader in his field. His commitment to excellence in education and interdisciplinary research, coupled with his significant influence in the global engineering community, makes him deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Publications to Noted

Evaluating the Impact of Vertical Green Systems on Building Temperature Regulation: Effects of Shading Density and Proximity