Jorge Menezes – Spectroscopy – Best Researcher Award 

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jorge Menezes - Spectroscopy - Best Researcher Award 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jorge Menezes, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia (UFRB), Brazil 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jorge Menezes is a renowned chemist specializing in inorganic chemistry and photoluminescent materials. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of São Paulo and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Aveiro, Portugal. Currently a Professor at the Federal University of Recôncavo da Bahia (UFRB), he has led multiple academic and research initiatives, including coordinating the PIBID/UFRB Chemistry Program (2014–2021) and the GMF Photonic Materials Research Group. His work focuses on luminescent lanthanide complexes for light-converting molecular devices and hybrid photovoltaic systems. Dr. Menezes is also a member of SBQ, SBPC, INCT/CNPq, and serves as CEO of the startup LUMINTECH3.

 

Author Profile

Orcid | Google Scholar | Scopus

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jorge Fernando Silva de Menezes holds an extensive academic background rooted in chemical sciences. He earned his undergraduate degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB) in 1993 and completed a second degree in Licenciatura Plena em Química from Faculdade Oswaldo Cruz in 1999. In the same year, he obtained his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the Universidade de São Paulo (USP), with a dissertation on the photoluminescence of lanthanide tris-thenoyltrifluoroacetonates coordinated with sulfoxides. His doctoral work, supervised by Prof. Dr. Hermi Felinto de Brito, was supported by FAPESP and focused on the spectroscopic behaviors of europium complexes, laying the foundation for his future specialization in lanthanide photophysics. He further expanded his expertise through a postdoctoral fellowship at the Universidade de Aveiro in Portugal, funded by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT), where he deepened his engagement with advanced luminescent materials.

Academic and Professional Experience

Dr. Menezes currently serves as an Associate Professor IV at the Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia (UFRB), as appointed by Portaria 1029 in September 2023. He has played multiple academic leadership roles throughout his career, including serving as Coordinator of the Chemistry Licensure Program (2017–2019), Coordinator of the Innovation and Creation Unit (CINOVA), and leader of the PIBID-UFRB Chemistry program from 2014 to 2021. In parallel, he contributes to academic quality assurance as an evaluator for Brazil’s Ministry of Education since 2006. He is also affiliated with several graduate programs, including PROFQUI-UFRB and the PPGQUIM program at the Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), where he contributes as a permanent faculty member. As the coordinator for the academic field of Chemistry, Technology, and Society at UFRB/CFP for the 2023–2025 biennium, he continues to shape academic policy and innovation. He is also the CEO of the startup LUMINTECH3, reflecting his active role in bridging research with industrial applications.

Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Menezes is widely recognized for his expertise in photoluminescence and coordination chemistry involving lanthanide ions such as europium, terbium, samarium, and gadolinium. His research primarily explores the synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of molecular devices for light conversion, including luminescent complexes designed for photovoltaic cells and trace detection systems. He has significantly contributed to the advancement of light-emitting materials for energy and environmental applications. As the founder and leader of the Grupo de Materiais Fotônicos (GMF), a CNPq-recognized research group, he directs interdisciplinary efforts toward developing novel luminescent and photonic materials. His work spans multiple sectors, from academic research and science outreach to applied technology in nanoscience and energy sustainability.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Menezes has received several prestigious distinctions and opportunities for professional development. These include numerous advanced training programs and workshops in photochemistry, quantum efficiency, fluorescence spectroscopy, medicinal inorganic chemistry, and molecular nanotechnology, often supported by Brazilian scientific societies and governmental institutions. His involvement with national initiatives such as the INCT/CNPq in Energy and Environment highlights his influence in shaping Brazil’s scientific landscape. As an active member of the Sociedade Brasileira de Química (SBQ) and the Sociedade Brasileira para o Progresso da Ciência (SBPC), he maintains strong ties with the broader scientific community. His leadership in both academic and startup environments showcases a rare blend of scholarly depth and entrepreneurial vision, reinforcing his role as a prominent figure in Brazilian inorganic chemistry and materials science.

 Notable Publication

1️⃣Experimental and theoretical emission quantum yield in the compound Eu(thenoyltrifluoroacetonate)₃·2(dibenzyl sulfoxide), Chemical Physics Letters (1998), Citations: 239

2️⃣Luminescence investigation of the Sm(III)-β-diketonates with sulfoxides, phosphine oxides and amides ligands, Journal of Alloys and Compounds (2002), Citations: 138

3️⃣Highly luminescent europium(III) complexes with naphtoiltrifluoroacetone and dimethyl sulphoxide, Molecular Physics (2003), Citations: 120

4️⃣Luminescent properties of diketonates of trivalent europium with dimethyl sulfoxide, Journal of Alloys and Compounds (2000), Citations: 113

5️⃣Emission quantum yield of europium(III) mixed complexes with thenoyltrifluoroacetonate and some aromatic ligands, Journal of Alloys and Compounds ( 2000), Citations: 87

6️⃣Luminescence of the films of europium(III) with thenoyltrifluoroacetonate and macrocyclics, Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids (1999), Citations: 73

7️⃣ Spectroscopic properties of a new light-converting device Eu(thenoyltrifluoroacetonate)₃·2(dibenzyl sulfoxide). A theoretical analysis based on structural data obtained from …, Journal of Luminescence (1997), Citations: 472

Evgeniy Prokhorov – Chemical Physics – Best Researcher Award 

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Prof. Evgeniy Prokhorov demonstrated an early passion for scientific exploration, particularly in the field of physicochemical hydrodynamics. His academic journey led him to pursue advanced studies in combustion and explosion physics, culminating in the defense of his doctoral thesis in 2005. His research on unsteady detonation processes in gases and rarefied gas mixtures laid the foundation for his significant contributions to the field of chemical physics. His rigorous academic training equipped him with the necessary expertise to explore complex physical and chemical interactions in fluid dynamics.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as a leading researcher at the Institute of Hydrodynamics SB RAS, Prof. Prokhorov has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding of combustion, explosion physics, and fluid dynamics. His professional endeavors include extensive research into chemical physics, particularly in the study of detonation processes and rarefied gas mixtures. His work has been instrumental in the development of models that explain the behavior of reacting flows, making critical contributions to both theoretical and applied sciences.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Prokhorov’s research primarily focuses on chemical physics, with a strong emphasis on physicochemical hydrodynamics and detonation phenomena. His work has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of unsteady detonation waves, contributing to both fundamental research and practical applications in energy, defense, and propulsion systems. His extensive publication record, with over 100 scientific papers, reflects his dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in his field. His studies have significantly influenced the understanding of reaction kinetics and combustion stability in gas mixtures.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of Prof. Prokhorov’s work extends beyond academia, influencing industrial applications and technological advancements in detonation-based propulsion and energy systems. His contributions to chemical physics have shaped modern approaches to modeling combustion dynamics and explosion control. As a respected figure in the scientific community, he has collaborated with leading researchers, contributing to the broader understanding of high-energy reactions and their applications.

🏆Academic Cites

With over 100 published scientific papers, Prof. Prokhorov’s research has been widely cited in the fields of physicochemical hydrodynamics, combustion science, and detonation physics. His work has served as a foundation for numerous studies on unsteady detonation, rarefied gas dynamics, and explosion modeling, making a lasting impact on the field of chemical physics. His high citation count reflects the relevance and significance of his contributions to both theoretical research and applied sciences.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Prof. Evgeniy Prokhorov aims to further advance the study of combustion and detonation processes, developing more accurate predictive models for high-energy reactions. His continued research in chemical physics is expected to enhance scientific understanding and practical applications in areas such as aerospace propulsion, safety engineering, and energy production. His legacy as a leading researcher at the Institute of Hydrodynamics SB RAS ensures that his work will inspire future generations of scientists in the field of physicochemical hydrodynamics.

📝Notable Publication

📝Modeling of Detonation Combustion of Carbon Dust

Author: Prokhorov, E.S. (Evgeniy S.)

Journal: Combustion, Explosion and Shock Waves

Year: 2024

Citations: 0

📝Simulation of Gaseous Detonation of Hydrocarbon Fuel under Oxygen Lack

Author: Prokhorov, E.S. (Evgeniy S.)

Journal: Combustion, Explosion and Shock Waves

Year: 2023

Citations: 0

📝Unified Approach to Modeling Equilibrium Flows of Detonating Gases

Author: Prokhorov, E.S. (Evgeniy S.)

Journal: Journal of Engineering Physics and Thermophysics

Year: 2023

Citations: 1

Bienvenu Mbanga | Spectroscopy | Innovation in Atomic Research Award

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Dr. Bienvenu Mbanga | Spectroscopy | Innovation in Atomic Research Award 

Nelson Mandela University | South Africa 

AUTHOR PROFILE

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Bienvenu Mbanga began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Africa in 2013, majoring in Chemistry and Mathematics, with additional studies in Physics, Statistics, and English. He furthered his education with a BSc Honours in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg in 2014, focusing on Analytical Chemistry with a mini dissertation on leachate characterization for pollution assessment. He continued his studies at the University of Johannesburg, earning a Master’s degree in Chemistry in 2016, where he conducted research on the provenance determination of rooibos tea using stable isotope ratio analysis. In 2021, he completed his PhD in Chemistry at the same institution, specializing in the collection and analysis of water samples, development of nanomaterials, and identifying their chemical compositions and properties.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Mbanga’s professional career is marked by several key positions. He currently serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Nelson Mandela University since February 2022. His responsibilities include the collection and analysis of agricultural waste and wastewater samples, preparation and characterization of novel nanomaterials, manuscript writing, lab management, and development of new water treatment techniques. Prior to this, he worked as a teacher at Union High School and a Chemistry Facilitator at Glenvista High School, where he was involved in overseeing academic activities and providing guidance to students. Additionally, he served as a Research Assistant at the University of Johannesburg, where he gained extensive experience in water sample collection, nanomaterial development, and analytical techniques.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Mbanga’s research focuses on the development of nanomaterials and their practical applications, particularly in water treatment. His work involves using spectroscopy to identify the chemical compositions and properties of these materials. His contributions include innovative approaches to avoid secondary pollution in water treatment processes and the preparation of novel nanomaterials. Dr. Mbanga’s research has significant implications for environmental sustainability and pollution control.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Mbanga’s contributions to the field of nanomaterials and water treatment have had a notable impact on environmental science. His expertise in spectroscopy has allowed him to develop advanced methods for analyzing and improving water quality. His work has been recognized with several awards and honors, including being selected as a judge for the third Commonwealth Chemistry poster competition, among the 100 brightest minds in Africa, and a Scimart Africa mentee.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Dr. Mbanga’s research has been widely cited in scientific literature, demonstrating his influence in the field of chemistry and nanomaterials. His work on spectroscopy and its applications in environmental science has been referenced by numerous researchers, reflecting the importance and relevance of his findings.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Mbanga’s legacy lies in his significant contributions to the development of nanomaterials and their applications in environmental science. His future work is expected to continue advancing the field, particularly in the use of spectroscopy for water treatment and pollution control. His dedication to academic excellence and research innovation ensures that his contributions will have a lasting impact on the scientific community and environmental sustainability.

SPECTROSCOPY 

Dr. Mbanga’s research prominently features the keywords spectroscopy, nanomaterials, and water treatment. His focus on spectroscopy techniques is central to his work, highlighting the critical role this concept plays in his research. The integration of these keywords underscores the importance of spectroscopy in advancing our understanding and application of nanomaterials in environmental science.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Tsonko Kolev | Molecular Spectroscopy | Bulgaria 

Published on by AMO Physics

Prof Dr. Tsonko Kolev | Molecular Spectroscopy | Outstanding Scientist Award 

Roumen Tsanev Institute of Molecular Biology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences | Bulgaria

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Tsonko Kolev embarked on his academic journey with a focus on organic chemistry, particularly in the design and synthesis of novel materials with significant nonlinear optical (NLO) and electrooptical (EO) properties. His early research involved spectral and structural elucidation using various spectroscopic techniques and quantum chemical calculations.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout his career, Prof. Kolev has held positions at prominent universities and research institutions, including the University of Plovdiv and Sofia University, where he served as a lecturer in organic chemistry. He also supervised several PhD students and contributed significantly to the field of molecular spectroscopy through his research and publications.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Kolev's research has focused on the synthesis, spectral analysis, and structural elucidation of organic materials with enhanced NLO and EO coefficients. His work includes the investigation of hydrogensquarates, squarates, esteramides of squaric acid, and pyridinio betaines of squaric acid. He has also explored the synthesis of stibazolium salts with enlarged π-conjugated systems and their thin film deposition using pulsed laser deposition (PLD).

Citations

  • Citations      2663
  • h-index        24
  • i10-index     81

Impact and Influence

Prof. Kolev's contributions to molecular spectroscopy and organic materials science have been widely recognized. He has organized international summer schools and collaborated on numerous scientific projects with institutions across Europe. His research has influenced the development of advanced materials with applications in optics, photonics, and beyond.

Academic Citations

Prof. Kolev's publications have received significant attention within the scientific community, with over 1400 citations for the period 1993-2017. His work on the structure and vibrational spectra of curcumin and the synthesis of pyridinium betaines of squaric acid are among the most cited in his field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Over his illustrious career, Prof. Kolev has published over 200 research papers, two books, and contributed chapters to scientific volumes. His legacy in molecular spectroscopy and organic materials science continues to inspire future generations of researchers. As he looks ahead, Prof. Kolev's focus remains on advancing our understanding of molecular structures and properties, with the aim of developing new materials with tailored optical and mechanical characteristics.

Molecular Spectroscopy

Prof. Kolev's research encompasses various aspects of molecular spectroscopy, including infrared, Raman, UV-vis, and fluorescent spectroscopy, as well as single crystal X-ray analysis. His contributions to this field have led to a deeper understanding of molecular structures and their optical properties, paving the way for the development of advanced materials with applications in nonlinear optics and photonics.

Notable Publication