Anietie Etim | Clean Fuels | Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges Award

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Dr Anietie Etim | Clean Fuels | Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges Award

Durban University of Technology, South Africa

Dr. Anietie Okon Etim is a distinguished Chemical Engineer specializing in renewable energy, sustainable fuels, and green catalysis. With a PhD from Durban University of Technology (2018-2022), an MSc from Obafemi Awolowo University (2013-2015), and a BSc from Nnamdi Azikiwe University (2004-2009), he has built a robust academic foundation. His research focuses on biomass conversion, waste recycling, and environmental sustainability. Dr. Etim is a postdoctoral researcher at Durban University of Technology, contributing to clean energy and biomass valorization. He is a member of prestigious organizations like SAICHE, NSE, and WSSET, and has received numerous awards, including the NRF postdoctoral fellowship. A prolific researcher, he has published extensively and presented at international conferences.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Scopus

Education 🎓

  • PhD Chemical Engineering, Durban University of Technology, South Africa (2018-2022)
  • MSc Chemical Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria (2013-2015)
  • BSc Chemical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria (2004-2009)

Dr. Etim’s academic journey reflects his dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions through innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Experience 💼

  • Postdoctoral Researcher, Durban University of Technology (2023–Present): Leading clean energy research, biomass valorization, and co-supervising students.
  • Research Assistant, Durban University of Technology (2020–2021): Conducted research on waste cooking oil decolorization.
  • Doctoral Researcher, Durban University of Technology (2018–2022): Explored advanced biomass liquid fuels and feedstock hybridization.
  • Master’s Researcher, Obafemi Awolowo University (2012–2015): Optimized biodiesel synthesis using heterogeneous catalysts.

His expertise spans green catalysis, process optimization, and bioenergy systems.

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • NRF Postdoctoral Fellowship Award (2023)
  • DUT Doctoral Training/Support Award (2022)
  • S&F-NRF-TWAS African Renaissance PhD Fellowship (2018–2021)
  • Invited speaker at global conferences like GSPEE2024, Catalysis Expo-2022, and Biofuels Meet 2022.

These accolades highlight his contributions to sustainable energy and environmental research.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Etim’s research focuses on:

  • Renewable energy and sustainable fuels 🌱
  • Biomass conversion to fuels and petrochemicals ⚙️
  • Waste recycling and bioenergy ♻️
  • Green catalysis and biosorbents �
  • Wastewater treatment and environmental pollution control 💧
  • Simulation, modeling, and optimization of bio-processing systems 📊

His work aims to address climate change and promote sustainable development.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Sustainable biodiesel production via biogenic catalyzed transesterification of baobab oil methyl ester and optimization process.
  2. Synthesis of a highly efficient mesoporous green catalyst from waste avocado peels for biodiesel production.
  3. Recursive Neural Network–Particle Swarm optimization of biodiesel from Hevea brasiliensis.
  4. A novel green bio-composite catalyst for linseed-marula oil blend methyl ester production.
  5. Evaluation of in-situ and ex-situ hybridization in transesterification of vegetable oils.
  6. Optimization of flaxseed oil methyl ester synthesis using bio-alkaline catalyst.
  7. Green heterogeneous catalyst from bicomponent biowaste for linseed oil methyl ester.
  8. Potential of Carica papaya peels in transesterification of used vegetable oil.
  9. Transesterification and optimization of marula seed oil methyl ester synthesis.
  10. Effectiveness of biogenic waste-derived catalysts in biodiesel production.
  11. Application of agricultural waste-based catalysts in biodiesel synthesis.
  12. Potential of ripe plantain peels as an eco-friendly catalyst for biodiesel synthesis.

Conclusion 🌍

Dr. Anietie Okon Etim is a leading researcher in renewable energy and sustainable chemical engineering. His innovative work in biomass conversion, green catalysis, and waste valorization has significantly contributed to environmental sustainability. With numerous publications, awards, and international recognitions, Dr. Etim continues to drive advancements in clean energy and climate change mitigation. His dedication to research and education inspires future generations to pursue sustainable solutions for a greener planet.

Alex Tro-Cabrera | Energy Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Alex Tro-Cabrera | Energy Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain

Alex Tro-Cabrera is a researcher in training at the Universidad del País Vasco (UPV/EHU) in the Department of Electronic Technology. He holds a degree in Renewable Energy Engineering (2021) and a master’s in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability (2022). His doctoral research, under the EHUkhi project, focuses on photovoltaic potential in buildings, community energy models, and sustainability financing. He has worked at the Instituto de Ingeniería Energética (UPV) and DEBEGESA, contributing to thermal energy systems and microgrid feasibility studies. He is a member of EKOPOL, a multidisciplinary research group on political economy and ecology.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Orcid

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

  1. Strong Academic Background
    Alex Tro-Cabrera holds a Master’s in Research in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability from the University of the Basque Country (EHU/UPV) and a Bachelor’s in Renewable Energy Engineering from the same institution. His academic progression demonstrates a clear focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
  2. Active Research Contributions
    He is currently a doctoral researcher in Electronic Technology at the University of the Basque Country and is part of the EKOPOL research group, recognized by the Basque Government. His work focuses on photovoltaic integration in buildings, energy communities, and sustainability impacts, aligning well with modern energy transition challenges.
  3. Publications in High-Impact Journals
    • “A methodology for assessing rooftop solar photovoltaic potential using GIS open-source software and the EROI constraint” (Energy and Buildings, 2025)
    • “Energy rehabilitation of a construction quality control laboratory” (Engineering Thermodynamics Conference, 2022)
    • “Optimización de la instalación PV del LCCE” (2022, Universidad del País Vasco)
      These works highlight his expertise in GIS-based solar energy assessments, photovoltaic optimization, and building energy efficiency, demonstrating both theoretical and applied research impact.
  4. Industry & Professional Experience
    • Worked at the Instituto de Ingeniería Energética (Universitat Politècnica de València) as a Thermal Lab Technician (2017).
    • Interned at DEBEGESA, analyzing microgrid viability (2019).
      His past industry experience, coupled with his academic research, makes him a well-rounded candidate for the award.
  5. Research Funding and Recognition
    He is funded by the Eusko Jaurlaritza’s Programa Investigo (2022-2024), which supports outstanding early-career researchers. His involvement in a government-backed project (EHUkhi) further solidifies his research credibility.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Broader International Exposure: While he has strong regional recognition, increased collaboration with international research institutions or projects would strengthen his global impact.
  • Diversification of Research Publications: Expanding publications in high-impact international journals and participating in leading global conferences could enhance his academic profile.

EDUCATION 🎓

  • Máster en Investigación en Eficiencia Energética y Sostenibilidad – Universidad del País Vasco (2022)
  • Grado en Ingeniería de Energías Renovables – Universidad del País Vasco (2021)
  • Técnico Superior en Energías Renovables – CIPFP Catarroja (2017)

EXPERIENCE 🏆

  • Investigador predoctoral – Universidad del País Vasco (2022–Present)
  • Investigador en prácticas – DEBEGESA (2019)
  • Técnico Superior en Investigación – Instituto de Ingeniería Energética, UPV (2017)

AWARDS AND HONORS 🏅

  • Programa Investigo – Eusko Jaurlaritza (2022–2024)

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

  • Renewable Energy – Photovoltaics, Micro-wind, Biomass
  • Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) – Environmental and social impacts
  • Energy Communities – Collective self-consumption models
  • Sustainability & Ecologism – Green energy transitions

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📄

  • A methodology for assessing rooftop solar photovoltaic potential using GIS open-source software and the EROI constraint – Energy and Buildings (2025)
  • Optimización de la instalación PV del LCCE – Universidad del País Vasco (2022)
  • Energy rehabilitation of a construction quality control laboratory – Conference on Engineering Thermodynamics (2022)

CONCLUSION

Alex Tro-Cabrera is an outstanding researcher in renewable energy, photovoltaics, and energy sustainability. His combination of academic excellence, impactful research, practical experience, and government-backed projects makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. With further international collaborations and diversified high-impact publications, he can establish himself as a leading expert in sustainable energy solutions.

CENKER AKTEMUR | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr CENKER AKTEMUR | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Sivas University of Science and Technology, Turkey

Asst. Prof. Dr. Cenker Aktemur is a distinguished academic in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in thermodynamics, refrigeration systems, energy storage, and renewable energy. He completed his PhD at Kocaeli University, focusing on solar-assisted absorption and vapor compression cascade refrigeration systems. Dr. Aktemur’s extensive academic journey includes earning his MSc and BSc from Eastern Mediterranean University. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor at Sivas University of Science and Technology. Dr. Aktemur has an impressive publication record with notable works in energy analysis and optimization, showcasing his dedication to sustainability and energy efficiency.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Google Scholar

Orcid

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARDS

  1. Extensive Academic Background
    • PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on thermodynamics and renewable energy at Kocaeli University, supported by a prestigious scholarship under CoHE’s 100/2000 Program.
    • Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering, demonstrating a robust foundation in the field and fluency in English as the medium of education.
  2. Research Excellence
    • Published extensively in high-impact journals, covering topics like energy systems, thermodynamics, and renewable energy technologies.
    • Citations reflect strong contributions to refrigeration, thermal management, and sustainable energy systems, with notable works like:
      • Energy and exergy analysis of environmentally friendly refrigerants.
      • Optimization studies for insulation and energy savings.
  3. Professional Experience
    • Current role as an Assistant Professor at Sivas University of Science and Technology, leading research and academic initiatives.
    • Previous industrial experience as an R&D Engineer at CMAK Crane Systems, adding a practical dimension to theoretical expertise.
  4. Recognition and Awards
    • Scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate studies.
    • Consistent academic excellence, highlighted by Certificates of Honor and High Honor during undergraduate education.
  5. Interdisciplinary Focus
    • Expertise spans thermodynamics, refrigeration, solar energy, energy storage, and energy management, making a versatile and impactful researcher.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  1. Collaboration and Visibility
    • Expanding international collaborations can increase the global visibility of research and diversify perspectives.
    • More active participation in international conferences and symposia to enhance networking opportunities.
  2. Grant Acquisition and Projects
    • Leadership in obtaining competitive research grants could further validate the impact and applicability of research.
    • Initiating or leading large-scale projects on renewable energy systems would strengthen professional credentials.
  3. Broader Dissemination
    • While publications are numerous, outreach through public lectures, workshops, or policy recommendations could amplify the societal impact of research.

EDUCATION

🎓 PhD in Mechanical Engineering – Kocaeli University (2018-2023)

  • Dissertation: Thermodynamic Performance Enhancement of Solar-Assisted Absorption and Vapor Compression Cascade Refrigeration Cycle
    🎓 MSc in Mechanical Engineering – Eastern Mediterranean University (2015-2017)
  • Thesis: Energy and Economic Analyses of Natural Gas Heating Systems
    🎓 BSc in Mechanical Engineering – Eastern Mediterranean University (2010-2015)
  • Capstone Project: Design and Manufacturing of Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis

EXPERIENCE

💼 Assistant Professor – Sivas University of Science and Technology (2024–Present)
💼 R&D Engineer – CMAK Crane Systems (2023-2024)

AWARDS AND HONORS

🏆 PhD Scholarship from CoHE 100/2000 Program (2018-2022)
🏆 MSc Scholarship (100%) and BSc Scholarship (50%) (2010-2017)
🏆 Certificates of Honor and High Honor during Undergraduate Studies (2011-2015)

RESEARCH FOCUS

🔬 Thermodynamic optimization of refrigeration systems
🔬 Renewable energy integration with advanced energy storage
🔬 Energy management and efficiency
🔬 Sustainable thermodynamic cycles

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

  • Comparative energy and exergy analysis of a subcritical cascade refrigeration system using low global warming potential refrigerants 🌍
  • Optimum insulation thickness for the exterior walls of buildings in Turkey 🏠
  • Energy and exergy analysis of a subcritical cascade refrigeration system with internal heat exchangers ♻️
  • Thermodynamic performance enhancement of booster-assisted ejector expansion refrigeration systems 🌞
  • An overview of natural gas as an energy source for various purposes 🔥
  • Thermodynamic optimization of booster-ejector vapor compression refrigeration systems with R152a/Cu nano-refrigerant 🌱
  • A comparison of optimization techniques for energy systems design 🤖
  • Determination of optimum insulation thicknesses for Turkey’s climate regions 🌐
  • Optimization on the thermal insulation layer thickness in buildings 📐
  • Estimation of heating energy requirement and fuel consumption in prototype buildings 🏢
  • Optimizing insulation thickness based on wall orientations 🌅
  • Thermodynamic optimization of LiBr+LiCl/H2O absorption chillers 🌡️
  • Advanced exergy approaches on R41/R1233ZD cascade refrigeration systems 🧪
  • Energetic analysis of solar-driven absorption refrigeration systems ☀️
  • Integrated ORC-VCR system assessment 🔧
  • Overview of trigeneration systems 📊

CONCLUSION

Cenker Aktemur demonstrates a remarkable combination of academic rigor, research productivity, and professional expertise. His work in thermodynamic performance optimization and energy-efficient systems addresses critical global challenges in energy sustainability. While opportunities exist to broaden his influence through collaborations and leadership in large-scale projects, his accomplishments and trajectory strongly position him as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.