Aya Chelh | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aya Chelh | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Mohammed V University | Morocco

Dr. Aya Chelh is a PhD candidate in Materials Science at University Mohammed V, Rabat, specializing in first-principles computational modeling with expertise in density functional theory (DFT). Her research focuses on investigating structural, electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and hydrogen storage properties of advanced materials, with applications in photovoltaics, spintronics, and sustainable energy technologies. She has contributed significantly to the field through publications in reputed journals such as International Journal of Computational Materials Science and Engineering, Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, Solid State Communications, and Advanced Theory and Simulations. Her studies provide valuable insights into optoelectronic, photocatalytic, and thermodynamic behaviors of perovskites, phosphides, and doped oxides, contributing to renewable energy innovations. With presentations at national and international conferences, Dr. Chelh has actively disseminated her findings to the academic community. She has authored six peer-reviewed journal articles, garnering 25 citations, with an h-index of 3, reflecting the growing impact of her research in computational materials science. Beyond her academic achievements, she has also collaborated on interdisciplinary projects bridging theoretical modeling with experimental synthesis and characterization. Through her innovative work, Dr. Chelh continues to advance sustainable materials design, supporting the global shift toward renewable energy and environmentally friendly technologies.

Profiles : Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"DFT investigation of the structural, optoelectronic, thermoelectric, and thermodynamic properties of metal phosphides MP2 (M= Co, Rh, and Ir)"

"First-principles calculations to investigate photovoltaic, photocatalytic, and spintronic properties of Fe-doped and alloyed MgSiO3 perovskite"

"Ab-initio study of the structural, electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of chalcogenide-doped Sr2UZnO6"

"First-Principles Study of the Stability, Physical Properties, and Molecular Dynamics in KSrZH6 (Z= Rh, Ir) for Hydrogen Storage Applications"

"Impact of complete sulfur substitution by selenium and tellurium on the structural, electronic, optical, and photocatalytic properties of CaAl2S4: A DFT investigation"

"Compressive strain effects on the photocatalytic and optoelectronic properties of CsInBr3 for efficient hydrogen production: A DFT study"

Tolasa Tamasgen | Physics and Astronomy | Editorial Board Member

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen | Physics and Astronomy | Editorial Board Member

Bonga University | Ethiopia

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen's academic foundation is both robust and diverse. He began his journey in the physical sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Mizan-Teppi University. He then deepened his expertise through a Master of Science in Physics from Jimma University, where he nurtured his interest in materials science. Demonstrating his commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, he went on to earn a Master of Arts in Project Management from Rift Valley University. His academic journey culminated with a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from Addis Ababa University , one of Ethiopia's top institutions. His education has also been complemented by certifications in online teaching, data analysis, and artificial intelligence, reflecting his embrace of digital tools in academia.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Tolasa has been serving as a Professional Academic Advisor at Bonga University, where he has played a critical role in guiding undergraduate and graduate students through their academic journeys. His work goes beyond counseling—he designs and delivers academic success workshops, collaborates with faculty on student development strategies, and leverages data analytics to improve institutional retention and graduation rates. Parallel to his advisory role, he has also been a Graduate Research Assistant, actively conducting advanced research in Condensed Matter Physics with a focus on nanocomposites, thin films, and novel material systems.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Tolasa’s research is deeply rooted in Condensed Matter Physics, with an emphasis on nanomaterials, optical properties, and thin film synthesis. His investigations explore core-shell nanocomposites, optical bistability, and enhancement factors in metal/dielectric interfaces. His work is recognized through multiple peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals, including:

  • Optical and structural studies of PbS thin films

  • Electronic and optical simulations of AlxGa1−xN structures using Density Functional Theory

  • Fault-tolerant control models for asynchronous machines

  • Studies on local field enhancement and optical bistability in nanocomposites

These contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also offer implications for materials science, energy devices, and nanotechnology.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Tolasa has been recognized for his scholarly depth and interdisciplinary skill set. His certifications from prestigious platforms such as Udacity (in AI and Data Analysis) and Open edX (from the Ethiopian Ministry of Education) on digital pedagogy highlight his dedication to continuous learning. As a mentor, advisor, and published researcher, he has earned respect within academic and scientific communities for his leadership, innovation, and research integrity.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his multifaceted role at Bonga University, Dr. Tolasa has significantly shaped student development and academic culture. His advising work has directly impacted student retention and success, while his research mentoring has inspired many undergraduate students to pursue careers in science and research. He effectively bridges academic advising and research, creating a nurturing, data-informed environment where students thrive both academically and personally.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Tolasa envisions expanding his work at the intersection of physics, project management, and AI technologies. He is particularly interested in transforming theoretical frameworks into practical, scalable solutions within project management and scientific research. His commitment to both education reform and materials innovation positions him as a visionary leader. As he continues to contribute to academia and applied science, his legacy will be one of empowering students, advancing knowledge, and building bridges between disciplines.

Publications


📄 Investigation of the Electronic and Optical Properties of Bulk and Monolayer AlₓGa₁₋ₓN Structure Using Density Functional Theory

 Journal: Scientific African
 Year: September 2025
 Authors: Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, Gamachis Sakata Gurmesa, Belayneh Mesfin Ali, Genene Shiferaw Aga


📄 Active Fault-Tolerant Control for Asynchronous Machines Using EKF-Based Fault Estimation and 3-H-Bridge Inverter Mitigation of ITSCs

 Journal: AIP Advances
 Year: August 2024
 Authors: Badreddine Bellali, Salim Makhloufi, Tahar Belbekri, Mohammed Ayad Alkhafaji, Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, Ismaïl Khalil Bousserhane, Younes Menni


📄 Investigation of Optical Bistability in Spheroidal Core–Shell Nanocomposites with Passive and Active Dielectric Cores

 Journal: AIP Advances
 Year: January 2024
 Authors: Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, Garoma Dhaba Bergaga, Belayneh Mesfin Ali, Sisay Shewamare Gebre


📄 Local Field Enhancement Factor of Spheroidal Core–Shell Nanocomposites with Passive and Active Dielectric Cores

 Journal: Materials Research Express
 Year: April 2023
 Authors: Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, Garoma Dhaba Bergaga, Belayneh Mesfin Ali, Sisay Shewamare Gebre


Arkaprava Das | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arkaprava Das | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Tuebingen | Germany

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Arkaprava Das embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Malda College, followed by a Master's in Condensed Matter Physics from the University of Burdwan. His pursuit of knowledge led him to complete his Ph.D. in Materials Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University, where he delved into the intricate study of phase transformation in cadmium oxide-based thin films and nanocomposites.

Professional Endeavors

Arkaprava's professional journey spans across esteemed institutions globally. He has served as a post-doctoral fellow at the Institute for Plasma Research, India, and the University of Mons, Belgium, where he contributed significantly to research in magnetic nanoparticles and phase transformation studies for gas sensing applications. Currently, he holds a post-doctoral position at the University of Tubingen, Germany, focusing on the spins of radical thin films.

Contributions and Research Focus

Arkaprava's research is characterized by a multifaceted approach encompassing thin film synthesis, nanomaterials, and phase transition studies. His expertise lies in utilizing various experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations to investigate structural and electronic properties. His doctoral thesis explored phase transformation phenomena in thin films and nanocomposites, contributing valuable insights to optoelectronic applications.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and research career, Dr. Das has been recognized for his outstanding contributions. He has received prestigious awards and fellowships, including the Junior Research Fellowship from CSIR and post-doctoral scholarships from institutions like Wallonie-Bruxelles International. His research endeavors have been further supported by grants and scholarships, affirming his commitment to scientific excellence.

Impact and Influence

Arkaprava's research has left a significant impact on the field of materials science and nanotechnology. His contributions to understanding phase transitions and thin film properties have implications for various technological applications, ranging from gas sensing to optoelectronics. Moreover, his mentorship and collaboration efforts have fostered a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Das continues to advance in his academic and research journey, his legacy is poised to inspire future generations of scientists. His pioneering work in thin film synthesis and characterization lays the groundwork for further advancements in materials science and nanotechnology. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation, he remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and making meaningful contributions to society.

Notable Publications

Evolution of structural phase transition from hexagonal wurtzite ZnO to cubic rocksalt NiO in Ni doped ZnO thin films and their electronic structures 2023

Antiviral Properties against SARS-CoV-2 of Nanostructured ZnO Obtained by Green Combustion Synthesis and Coated in Waterborne Acrylic Coatings 2022 (3)

Defect engineered blue photoluminescence in ZnO:Al/TiO2 heterostructures 2022

Spin and valence variation in cobalt doped barium strontium titanate ceramics 2022

Synthesis and Characterization of Ag/ZnO Nanoparticles for Bacteria Disinfection in Water 2022(18)