Yohannes Shuka Jara | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Published on 18/07/202518/07/2025 by Book of Award

Mr. Yohannes Shuka Jara | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Borana University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Yohannes Shuka Jara’s academic excellence began with a BSc in Chemistry from Dilla University. He later advanced to complete his MSc in Physical Chemistry at Hawassa University. His master's journey was marked by groundbreaking research in green synthesis and environmental chemistry, laying a strong foundation for his research-driven career.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Yohannes embarked on his professional journey as a Senior Lab Technical Assistant at Madda Walabu University (2020–2024), where he nurtured practical learning. By 2024, he rose to become the Chief Laboratory Chemist and Researcher at the same institution. In parallel, he was appointed as a Lecturer of Physical Chemistry at Borana University, where he continues to inspire and educate budding chemists with passion and precision.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Yohannes has demonstrated a sharp research acumen in nanoscience, catalysis, environmental remediation, and green energy technologies. His thematic research interests span:

➤Green Nanoparticle Synthesis: Innovating photocatalysts for dye degradation using CuO, ZnO, and biosynthesized polyaniline composites.

➤Green Energy Solutions: Improving microbial fuel cell efficiency with coated nanocomposites like Fe₃O₄ and Co₃O₄.

➤Environmental Clean-Up: Developing activated carbon from local biomaterials like Vernonia amygdalina and Lippia adoensis for wastewater treatment.

➤Biosensor Innovation: Designing nano-biosensors for pharmaceutical pollutant detection in water, such as paracetamol.

He has published extensively in reputed journals such as Scientific Reports, Next Materials, and the American Journal of Applied Chemistry, with over six peer-reviewed publications and growing citations.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Yohannes's remarkable contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and certifications:

➤ Best Researcher Award (2025) in Metallurgical Engineering by Scifax Company Group.

➤ Presidential Award from Hawassa University for outstanding academic and research excellence during his master's program (2024).

➤ Recognized for his contribution to global science communities as a Scientific Committee Member at the Annual International Congress on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Oxford University (2025).

➤ Certified in a variety of international and national academic training programs focused on teaching pedagogy, online education, scientific communication, and lab safety.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond publications, Mr. Yohannes has extended his influence by serving as:

➤Peer Reviewer for international journals including the International Journal of Scientific Research and Innovation and Physical Science International Journal.

➤Author of the book Nutritional Values Analysis of Acidic Fruits, translated into five languages, and multiple laboratory manuals published by Madda Walabu University.

➤Science Communicator and active contributor on platforms such as Google Scholar, ORCID, ResearchGate, LinkedIn, and YouTube, making his work accessible to researchers and the public alike.

➤Community Servant, providing lab setup and training to secondary school educators and contributing to public health efforts like COVID-19 sanitizer production.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mr. Yohannes Shuka Jara represents a new generation of African scientists committed to sustainable, locally-driven scientific advancement. His work is shaping cleaner technologies, enhancing educational infrastructure, and building scientific capacity across Ethiopia. With ongoing research in green chemistry and nanotechnology, an expanding publication portfolio, and an unwavering dedication to education, Mr. Yohannes is poised to be a lasting force in transforming science for social good.

Publications

📄 Biosynthesized pure CuO, N-CuO, Zn-CuO, and N-Zn-CuO nanoparticles for photocatalytic activity: Enhanced optical properties through bandgap engineering
Authors: Yohannes Shuka Jara, Endale Tsegaye Mohammed, Tilahun Tumiso Mekiso
Journal: Next Materials
Year: 2025

📄 Investigation of Energy Efficiency in a Zeolite-Water Adsorption Solar Cooling System Utilizing Locally Sourced Materials for the Conservation Chamber
Author: Yohannes Shuka
Journal: Physical Science International Journal
Year: 2025

📄 Green Energy: Power Generation Improvement in Microbial Fuel Cells Using Bio‐Synthesized Polyaniline‐Coated Co₃O₄ Nanocomposite
Authors: Tesfahun Eyoel, Yohannes Shuka, Sisay Tadesse, Tekalign Tesfaye, Mesele Mengesha, Suha Orçun MERT
Journal: International Journal of Energy Research
Year: 2025

📄 Improving the power production efficiency of microbial fuel cell by using biosynthesized polyanaline coated Fe₃O₄ as pencil graphite anode modifier
Authors: Tekalign Tesfaye, Yohannes Shuka, Sisay Tadesse, Tesfahun Eyoel, Mesele Mengesha
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2025

📄 Highly efficient catalytic degradation of organic dyes using iron nanoparticles synthesized with Vernonia Amygdalina leaf extract
Authors: Yohannes Shuka Jara, Tilahun Tumiso Mekiso, Alemayhu Pawulos Washe
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2024

Nega Belay | Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

Published on 21/05/202521/05/2025 by Book of Award

Mr. Nega Belay | Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

Bahir Dar University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Nega Belay began his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Debre Markos University, Ethiopia, graduating with a commendable CGPA of 3.34/4.0 in 2016. Driven by a passion for innovation and research, he pursued dual Master's degrees at Bahir Dar University: one in Materials Science and Engineering and the other in Electromechanical Engineering. He excelled academically with CGPAs of 3.53 and 3.55 respectively, showcasing a strong foundation in interdisciplinary engineering domains.

🧑‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Belay’s professional journey spans across quality control, inspection, and calibration engineering roles at AMIMTDE - Bahir Dar General Flexible and Foundry Factory. His responsibilities included developing inspection protocols, conducting precise calibrations, ensuring compliance with quality standards, and implementing advanced product testing methods. Earlier, he served as a Quality Control Engineer at the Amhara Metal Industry and Machine Technology Development Enterprise, where he led quality assurance initiatives and liaised with international machinery specifications.

He also gained valuable commercial experience as a sales agent at Ayat Share Company and technical insights through maintenance and design activities at the Bishoftu Automotive Industry, further enriching his multidisciplinary expertise.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Belay’s research contributions reflect his commitment to sustainability and innovation in material science. His focus areas include:

🔹 Synthesis and characterization of materials for energy applications
🔹 Nanomaterials and polymers for additive manufacturing and 3D printing
🔹 Waste plastic pyrolysis for clean fuel production
🔹 Recycling of fabric waste into lightweight composite materials
🔹 Application of catalysts in environmentally friendly fuel generation

He is proficient in advanced tools and techniques like ANSYS, MATLAB, SolidWorks, and has programming experience in Python and Fortran, enabling him to integrate computational models with practical engineering solutions.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Belay’s scholarly work has earned significant recognition. He was honored as a Gates Master's Scholar in Materials Science and Engineering and received multiple certificates of achievement from AMIMTDE for excellence in quality control. Most notably, he was appointed as an Editorial Board Member and received an award at the 6th Edition of the International Analytical Chemistry Awards in March 2025 for his distinguished contributions to scientific research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Belay's research has real-world impact, addressing global challenges such as energy sustainability, plastic waste reduction, and material reusability. His publications in top-tier journals — including Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, Energy, and Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science — have advanced the understanding of catalytic processes, green energy sources, and circular economy principles. His interdisciplinary approach links material science with electromechanical systems, influencing both academic research and industrial applications.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Mr. Belay aims to pioneer intelligent autonomous systems powered by advanced materials, contributing to fields such as robotics, biomaterials, and semiconductor technologies. His long-term vision includes developing energy-efficient, eco-friendly solutions using cutting-edge materials synthesis and real-time performance optimization of engineering systems. With a solid academic foundation, a robust research portfolio, and a growing influence in the scientific community, Mr. Nega Belay is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of materials science and engineering.

Publications

📄 Pyrolysis Liquid Fuel Production from Waste Plastics Using Spherical-Shape Zeolite Catalyst

Authors: Misganaw Alemu Zeleke, Nega Chanie Belay, Urška Lavrenčič Štangar, Witold Kwapinski, Kibret Mequanint
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
Year: 2025

📄 Performance Evaluation of Liquid Fuel Derived from Waste Plastics for Diesel Engine Applications and Emissions Characteristics

Authors: Nega Chanie Belay, Birhanu Adisie Fentaw, Ramesh Babu Nallamothu, Melese Shiferaw Kebede
Journal: Energy
Year: 2025

📄 Recycling Fabric Waste into Composite Materials for the Applications of Lightweight Vehicle Body & Circular Economy

Authors: Melese Shiferaw Kebede, Nega Chanie Belay
Journal: Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science
Year: 2025

Guldem Utkan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on 21/05/202421/05/2024 by Book of Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Guldem Utkan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

SUNUM, Sabanci University | Turkey

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Guldem Utkan's journey in academia began with her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey, in 1989. She further pursued her education in the United States, obtaining two Master’s degrees. The first, in Materials Science and Engineering, was from Lehigh University, Bethlehem, U.S.A., in 1992, where her thesis focused on the "Chemical Etching Technique for Porous and Fine Grain YBa2Cu3O7-x Superconductors with or without Silver Addition." She continued her studies at Lehigh University, earning another M.Sc. in Polymer Science and Engineering in 1997, with a thesis on "Shear Band Propagations in Different Crosslinked Epoxies." Her academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey, in 2006, with a dissertation on the synthesis and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles and their nucleic acid applications.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Utkan has had an illustrious career spanning several prestigious institutions. She began as a Research Assistant at Lehigh University from 1996 to 1998 and later at Hacettepe University from 1998 to 2007. She then served as Chief Researcher at the TUBITAK Marmara Research Center’s Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Institute from 2008 to 2018. She continued her academic career as an Associate Professor at Marmara University, Faculty of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Department, from 2018 to 2022. Currently, she is a part-time researcher at SUNUM, Sabancı University, in Istanbul, Turkey.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Utkan's research has significantly impacted various fields, particularly in the synthesis and application of nanoparticles and nanotechnology in chemical engineering. Her projects include the TUBITAK 1004 "LignoNANO" project, focusing on sustainable circular economy and advanced nanotechnological materials. She has also led and participated in numerous other projects, such as investigating the effect of biologically produced reduced graphene oxide on wound dressing materials and the development of DNA purification kits based on magnetically loaded polymeric nanoparticles.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Utkan's contributions to science have been recognized through several awards and honors. Notably, she received the Turkish Ministry of National Education Scholarship for her graduate studies in the U.S.A. and a High Honor Student award during her undergraduate years at M.E.T.U. Her membership in various prestigious societies, including the World Controlled Release Society and the Turkish Biochemistry Society, further attests to her esteemed position in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Utkan's work has had a profound influence on both academic research and practical applications. Her research on magnetic nanoparticles and their use in biotechnology has paved the way for advancements in DNA purification and medical applications. Her contributions as a reviewer and editorial board member for several high-impact journals, including the Journal of Nanomedicine and the Journal of Biomedical Engineering, underscore her influence in shaping contemporary research in her fields of expertise.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Utkan continues her work at SUNUM, Sabancı University, she remains committed to advancing her research and contributing to the scientific community. Her future endeavors are likely to build on her extensive background in nanotechnology and chemical engineering, driving innovations that could lead to significant breakthroughs in medical and industrial applications.

Notable Publications

Production of Reduced Graphene Oxide by Using Three Different Microorganisms and Investigation of Their Cell Interactions 2023 (4)

Microbial Reduction of Graphene Oxide by Lactobacillus Plantarum 2019 (13)

Role of biomaterials in prevention of in-stent restenosis 2014 (4)

Velibor Spalevic | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 11/03/202411/03/2024 by Book of Award

Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Montenegro | Montenegro

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic was born on July 1, 1970, in Ivangrad, Montenegro. He completed his elementary and high school education in Berane, Montenegro, receiving exceptional recognition for his academic achievements. In June 1995, he graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Belgrade, specializing in Soil Conservation. His academic journey continued with postgraduate studies at the same institution, culminating in a master's degree in April 1999. Subsequently, he pursued doctoral studies at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, focusing on Soil Conservation and physical-geographic research of the Polimlje Region in Montenegro, successfully defending his doctoral thesis in July 2011.

Professional Endeavors

Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic embarked on a distinguished career marked by diverse roles and significant contributions. He commenced his professional journey in September 1995, serving in the administration of the Municipality of Berane, Montenegro. Later, he joined the Biotechnical Institute of the University of Montenegro, where he was elected as a senior researcher in 1999. Over the years, he held various positions at esteemed institutions such as the European Commission, where he managed numerous projects in agriculture and environmental sectors. Notably, he served as the coordinator and director of the UN International Fund for Agricultural Development office for Montenegro, focusing on rural development and infrastructure enhancement.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic's research interests encompass a wide array of topics within biotechnical and geosciences, environmental protection, and project management. He has made significant contributions to soil conservation, physical geography, erosion, and sustainable agricultural practices. His innovative solutions, such as the "IntErO" model for calculating erosion intensity, have been adopted for practical use and recognized internationally. Additionally, he has mentored numerous students and actively participated in international scientific associations, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and academic collaboration.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic has received numerous accolades and recognition for his exceptional contributions. He has been awarded prestigious honors from the University of Montenegro and international organizations, acknowledging his outstanding achievements in scientific research, education, and project management. Notably, he was recognized for his role in the development of higher education at the International Education Fair "Pathways" and received special recognition for his contributions to the scientific and research work of the University of Montenegro.

Impact and Influence

Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic's impact extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his involvement in international projects and collaborations. His work has contributed to the sustainable development of rural areas, enhancement of agricultural practices, and improvement of environmental management strategies. Through his leadership roles and innovative research, he has influenced policies and practices in Montenegro and beyond, fostering resilience, and promoting inclusive growth in rural communities.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a respected academician and seasoned professional, Prof Dr. Velibor Spalevic's legacy is characterized by his dedication to excellence, innovation, and collaboration. His contributions to soil conservation, rural development, and environmental sustainability have laid a solid foundation for future generations of researchers and practitioners. Moving forward, he is poised to continue his impactful work, shaping the discourse on sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and rural transformation, both regionally and globally.

Notable Publications

The contribution of the frequency ratio model and the prediction rate for the analysis of landslide risk in the Tizi N'tichka area on the national road (RN9) linking Marrakech and Ouarzazate 2023 (7)

Soil Erosion Assessment Using the Intensity of Erosion and Outflow Model by Estimating Sediment Yield: Case Study in River Basins with Different Characteristics from Cluj County, Romania 2023 (2)

Feasibility study for estimating optimal substrate parameters for sustainable green roof in Sri Lanka 2022 (7)

Binega Derebe | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Published on 31/01/202431/01/2024 by Book of Award

Mr. Binega Derebe | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Injibara University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Binega Derebe Asmare, an Ethiopian national born on September 26, 1992, embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Natural Resource Management from the University of Gondar. His commitment to environmental sciences led him to pursue a Master's degree in Wildlife Conservation and Ecotourism Management at Bahir Dar University.

Professional Endeavors

Since July 2018, Binega has been actively engaged as a Lecturer and Researcher at Injibara University, Ethiopia. In this role, he imparts knowledge through lectures, conducts impactful research, and serves as an academic and senior research advisor for undergraduate students.

Contributions and Research Focus

Binega's research contributions span diverse areas, with a particular emphasis on wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and ecotourism. His publications showcase a keen interest in avifauna, medium and large mammals, and the intricate relationships between human activities and wildlife.

Accolades and Recognition

His notable publications, including articles in journals like Heliyon, Anthropocene Science, PLoS ONE, and the International Journal of Zoology, demonstrate Binega's scholarly impact. His work on species diversity, mammal populations, and human-wildlife conflict has garnered attention and recognition.

Impact and Influence

Binega's research outputs contribute significantly to the scientific understanding of Ethiopia's ecosystems. By exploring the diversity, abundance, and habitat associations of various species, he enriches the knowledge base in wildlife management and conservation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Binega Derebe Asmare's legacy lies in his dedication to advancing environmental sciences and wildlife conservation in Ethiopia. His ongoing role as a Lecturer and Researcher positions him to continue inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. As he expands his research horizons, his future contributions are poised to further shape sustainable practices in biodiversity conservation and ecotourism.

Notable Publications

Composition, Relative Abundance, and Diversity of Medium and Large Mammals in Tirba Lake Awi Zone, Ethiopia 2023

Population status of the Hamadryas baboon in and around Simien Mountains National Park (SMNP), Ethiopia 2023

Deresse Daka | Immunology and Microbiology | Editorial Board Member

Published on 30/01/202430/01/2024 by Book of Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Deresse Daka | Immunology and Microbiology | Editorial Board Member

Hawassa University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Deresse Daka Gidebo embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences from Jimma University in 2006. His passion for learning extended to a Diploma in Computer Sciences from Debub University Dilla College, followed by a Certificate Diploma in Bible Correspondence Study from Canada IBC College in 2005.

Professional Endeavors

With a solid foundation, Deresse pursued a Master's in Medical Microbiology at Addis Ababa University, Black Lion, graduating in 2011. Currently, he is committed to academic excellence as a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Gondar since 2021.

Contributions and Research Focus

Deresse Daka's research endeavors encompass various critical health aspects. His ongoing studies explore the prevalence, drug resistance patterns, and associated factors of M. tuberculosis among prisoners. Additionally, he investigates the antibacterial effects of Alchemilla Abyssinica extract and assesses the impact of water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions on intestinal parasites among school children in Sidama Zone.

Accolades and Recognition

Deresse has made significant contributions to education, co-authoring the Revised Community-Based Education (CBE) Implementation Guideline for Hawassa University in February 2019 and an earlier version in January 2015. Furthermore, he authored a book titled "Introduction to Immunology and Serology, Diagnostic Tool" in 2010.

Impact and Influence

Deresse's research on tuberculosis, antibacterial effects, and hygiene interventions directly addresses public health challenges. His academic contributions, including the CBE guidelines, showcase his influence on medical education methodologies.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Deresse Daka's legacy lies in bridging academia and practical healthcare. His focus on infectious diseases and community health positions him to leave a lasting impact on medical research and education. His commitment to ongoing studies and publications promises continued valuable contributions to the field.

Notable Publications

Knowledge, attitude and practice on prevention and control of pulmonary tuberculosis index cases family in Shebedino District, Sidama Region, Ethiopia 2023

Ayomide Afolabi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Published on 30/01/202430/01/2024 by Book of Award

Mr. Ayomide Afolabi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Jovah Farm | Nigeria

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Ayomide Afolabi, born on March 28, 1996, is a Nigerian advocate of Climate-Smart Agriculture, demonstrating dedication and efficiency in his academic and professional journey. He believes in the sustainability of Climate-Smart Agriculture for enhancing agricultural productivity and achieving food security.

Professional Endeavors

Ayomide has been actively involved in the agriculture sector, managing and producing various crops such as Cucumbers, Kales, Watermelons, Bell peppers, and Tomatoes. His expertise spans open-field and controlled-environment cultivation, seedling management, pest control, and the formulation of nutritional guidelines. Additionally, he engages in sustainable practices, incorporating Gliricidia sepium and Tithonia diversifolia for soil improvement.

Contributions and Research Focus

With a background in Plant Physiology and Crop Production, Ayomide's academic journey at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, reflects his commitment to understanding the effects of integrated nutrient management on lowland rice varieties. His work extends beyond conventional farming, embracing hydroponics, aquaculture, and cutting-edge technologies like nano-biotechnological products.

Accolades and Recognition

Ayomide's dedication and academic excellence have been acknowledged with honors like the Senate annual prize for first-class honors graduating students at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

Impact and Influence

Ayomide's impact extends to the global community through initiatives such as the ICTforAg conference and his involvement in advocacy programs like the Zero Food Waste Initiative. He actively contributes to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Ayomide envisions a legacy of promoting sustainable agriculture and addressing global food security challenges. His multifaceted expertise, from traditional farming to cutting-edge technologies, positions him as a catalyst for positive change in the agricultural landscape. In the future, Ayomide aims to continue his impactful contributions, advancing agriculture with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

Notable Publications

Response of lowland rice varieties to integrated nutrient management in a derived Savannah agro-ecology 2023

The Application of Microbial Inoculants as a Green Tool towards Achieving Sustainable Agriculture 2023