Prof. Hari Babu Bollikolla – chemistry – Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hari Babu Bollikolla - chemistry - Best Researcher Award

Acharya Nagarjuna University - India

Author Profile 

ORCID 

SCOPUS 

🎓 Early academic pursuits

Dr. Hari Babu Bollikolla began his academic journey in andhra pradesh, india, demonstrating exceptional commitment from a young age. after securing 76% in ssc in 1993, he advanced with 81.2% in his intermediate studies specializing in mpc. he pursued a b.sc. degree in mpc, completing it in 1999 with 67.4%, followed by an m.sc. in organic chemistry in 2001. his research-oriented mindset led him to complete a ph.d. in physical sciences from acharya nagarjuna university in 2006. showcasing a multidimensional approach, he also earned an mba in hr & finance in 2011. his strong foundational knowledge in both science and management shaped his academic outlook and future contributions.

👨‍🏫 Professional endeavors

Dr. Bollikolla’s academic career spans over two decades, rooted in acharya nagarjuna university. he started as a lecturer in triveni degree college (2001-2003) and grew steadily through group-b faculty to assistant professor in 2006. he was promoted to associate professor in 2018 and became a full professor in 2021. currently, he serves as the registrar of andhra kesari university and continues to contribute as a professor in the department of chemistry at anu. he has held key roles such as dean of the faculty of sciences, head of departments, and convener of state-level entrance exams, reflecting his dynamic administrative capabilities and commitment to higher education.

🧪 Contributions and research focus

Dr. Bollikolla’s research portfolio spans a wide array of synthetic chemistry themes, including anticancer agents, heterocyclic flavonoids, and nutraceuticals. his ph.d. thesis explored the chemistry conformational analysis of 2-aryl-trans-decahydroquinolin-4-ols using kinetics and proton nmr spectroscopy. with 36 ph.d. and 11 m.phil scholars guided under his supervision, he has fostered a strong research culture. he has completed and managed multiple research projects funded by prestigious agencies like serb, ugc, csir, dst-fist, and even international institutions like king saud university and university malaysia sabah. his notable projects involve synthesis of polyhydroxy flavonoids, benzylimidazolyl carbamates, and cutting-edge computational work on hiv-integrase inhibitors—pioneering applications often integrated with power electronics in advanced drug modeling systems.

🌍 Impact and influence

Dr. Bollikolla’s work has had a notable impact across academia and the pharmaceutical research sector. by blending traditional synthetic methodologies with advanced catalysis and molecular chemistry modeling, he has positioned his research at the intersection of theoretical and applied sciences. his collaborations span both national and international borders, including multiple memoranda of understanding (mou) with research labs and industries. these partnerships have led to innovations in anticancer drug discovery and nutraceutical development—domains increasingly empowered by computational simulations often enhanced by power electronics for lab automation and data acquisition.

📈 Academic citations and digital presence

Dr. Bollikolla maintains a strong presence in the academic world through his digital identifiers. his orcid (0000-0003-1308-391x), scopus (24070474800), and web of science researcher id (n-7076-2018) reflect his wide-reaching contributions. his citation impact is reflected through numerous peer-reviewed publications, with increasing relevance in interdisciplinary studies that align chemistry chemistry, computational biology, and device-aided spectroscopy—areas where power electronics aids precision and efficiency in experimental chemistry.

🏛️ Legacy and future contributions

As registrar and senior academician, dr. bollikolla continues to mentor the next generation of chemists and researchers. his leadership at andhra kesari university and acharya nagarjuna university sets the tone for curriculum innovation, research excellence, and institutional development. his future endeavors are likely to deepen transdisciplinary research, particularly integrating chemical synthesis with data-driven, sensor-based lab frameworks. these systems, when harmonized with power electronics, promise to revolutionize modern chemistry labs, making them more responsive, automated, and accurate.

Notable Publications 

  • Title: An efficient Cu catalyzed regioselective ortho-nitration approach for the synthesis of 2-nitroarylcyanamides: Molecular docking and ADME studies
    Author(s): Boddapati, S. N. Murthy; Tamminana, Ramana; Senapathi, Hari Jyothi; Kola, A. Emmanuel; Ansari, Siddique Akber; Kapavarapu, Ravi Kumar; Bollikolla, Hari Babu; Jonnalagadda, Sreekantha Babu
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure

  • Title: (±)-10-Camphorsulfonic acid catalyzed effective synthesis of α,β-unsaturated β-aminoketones from enaminone
    Author(s): Hari Babu Bollikolla; V. B. R. Krishnan Kambhampati; Srihari Chennuboyina; Baby Ramana Mutchu
    Journal: Monatshefte für Chemie - Chemical Monthly

  • Title: Zn(OAc)₂•2H₂O-Catalyzed Betti Base Synthesis under Solvent-free Conditions
    Author(s): M. Mujahid Alam; Hari B. Bollikolla; Ravi Varala
    Journal: Letters in Organic Chemistry

  • Title: A mini review on emerging targets and approaches for the synthesis of anti-viral compounds: In perspective to COVID-19
    Author(s): Maheswara Rao Gokada; Visweswara Rao Pasupuleti; Hari Babu Bollikolla
    Journal: Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry

  • Title: Catalyst-free facile and efficient one-pot synthesis of densely functionalized pyrroles and α-amino ketones
    Author(s): Hari Babu Bollikolla
    Journal: Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry

Dr. Milind Kulkarni – Chemistry – Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Dr. Milind Kulkarni - Chemistry - Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

C-MET, Pune - India 

Author Profile 

SCOPUS 

🌱 Early academic pursuits

Dr. Milind v. Kulkarni began his academic journey with excellence, earning an m.sc. in polymer chemistry from shivaji university, kolhapur, in 1996, securing the first rank. he went on to complete his ph.d. in 2002 from the university of pune, focusing on “conducting polymer based sensors.” his formative years laid a strong foundation in material chemistry, polymers, and their electronic applications, which later extended to interdisciplinary domains including power electronics and smart materials.

👨‍🔬 Professional endeavors

Dr. Kulkarni started his career as a scientist-b at the centre for materials for electronics technology (c-met), pune, under the ministry of electronics and information technology (meity), govt. of india. currently serving as centre head, he has led several pioneering projects. his role spans advanced materials development, applied research, institutional collaborations, and national-level innovation programs. he also serves in academic bodies such as the board of studies of symbiosis international university, fergusson college, d.y. patil university, and mit-wpu. he has also been appointed as adjunct faculty at coep and expert member at technovuus, arai, advancing r&d integration in power electronics and material sciences.

🧪 Contributions and research focus

Dr. Kulkarni's research focuses on the development of active materials for li-ion and na-ion batteries, solid-state and flexible batteries, and next-gen systems like li-s and li-air batteries targeting hybrid electric vehicles. he has engineered polyaniline-based thin, flexible, and cost-effective batteries and developed e-textiles using polyaniline-cnt nanocomposites. his expertise extends to Chemistry inkjet-printed, flexible electronics, and multifunctional nanomaterials for power electronics and biomedical applications. notably, he successfully demonstrated a lead-free x-ray attenuation apron and fabricated polymer nanocomposites for biosensing, including e-nose and e-tongue devices. the cross-application of his work bridges chemical sensing, energy storage, and next-gen power electronics.

🌍 Impact and influence

Dr. Kulkarni’s innovations, including india’s first indigenous low-cost polymer swab for covid-19 diagnostics, have had a significant societal and industrial impact. his active engagement with the automotive sector through arai and technovuus highlights his contribution to applied research in power electronics and energy storage. he is a member of prestigious organizations such as the Chemistry electrochemical society (usa), electrochemical society of india, materials research society of india, and society for polymer science (india). as a fellow of the royal society of chemistry (frsc, london) and maharashtra academy of sciences, his expertise is globally recognized.

📚 Academic cites

Dr. Kulkarni has published over 115 peer-reviewed research papers in reputed international journals. with a google scholar h-index of 36, more than 4322 citations, and i10-index of 85, his scholarly contributions underscore the relevance and quality of his work. he has also presented 130+ conference papers and delivered over 50 invited lectures, reflecting his status as a Chemistry thought leader in nanotechnology and energy materials. his 25+ patents, including those granted in the us, canada, germany, and a pct filing, highlight his innovative capacity.

🎓 Legacy and future contributions

Dr. Kulkarni has mentored 5 ph.d. scholars, with 5 more currently under guidance, in addition to supervising m.phil., m.tech., b.e., and m.sc. students. his dedication to nurturing young researchers ensures the continuity of research excellence in polymer nanocomposites, smart materials, and power electronics. looking ahead, his work promises breakthroughs in bio-integrated sensors, wearable batteries, and sustainable energy solutions, further driving india’s capabilities in strategic materials and green technologies.

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Distorted 2H/1T MoS₂ nanostructures with improved field emission and sodium-ion battery performance
    Author(s): Ujjwala P. Chothe, Priyanka R. Sumbe, Mahendra A. More, Milind V. Kulkarni, Bharat Bhanudas Kale
    Journal: Nanoscale Advances (2025)

  • Title: Self-Standing vanadium oxide pillared carbon microfiber film as an excellent anode for lithium & sodium ion batteries
    Author(s): Sayali B. Kale, Ujjwala P. Chothe, Kaustav Bhattacharjee, Aakira Fujishima, Suresh W. Gosavi
    Journal: Inorganic Chemistry Communications (2024)

  • Title: Imidazolium Functionalized Copolymer Supported Solvate Ionic Liquid Based Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Lithium Ion Batteries
    Author(s): Sahebrao S. More, Rushikesh B. Kale, Poorva J. Ambekar, Milind V. Kulkarni, Bharat Bhanudas Kale
    Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials (2024)

  • Title: Interfacial engineering of ZnO–ZnS/rGO nano heterostructures: An efficient photoanode for dye-sensitized solar cell
    Author(s): Ranjit S. Kate, Ratna Chauhan, Ujjwala P. Chothe, Bharat Bhanudas Kale, Sanjay Krishnaji Apte
    Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics (2024)

  • Title: Microstructure tuned Na₃V₂(PO₄)₃@C electrodes toward ultra-long-life sodium-ion batteries
    Author(s): Ranjit S. Kate, Kaustav Bhattacharjee, Milind V. Kulkarni, Ramesh J. Deokate, Ramchandra S. Kalubarme
    Journal: RSC Advances (2024)

Dr. Debmalya Bhunia – Chemical Biology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Debmalya Bhunia - Chemical Biology - Best Researcher Award

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE 

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

DEBMALYA BHUNIA'S academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, which paved the way for his outstanding contributions to the field of organic and medicinal chemistry. He completed his doctoral research at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India, where he earned his degree from the University of Calcutta. During his studies, Debmalya focused on designing and synthesizing organelle-specific peptides, small molecules, and lipids for targeted drug delivery systems. His work involved advancing drug delivery mechanisms, particularly using liposomal lipopeptides for tumor inhibition. This early academic pursuit set the stage for a career dedicated to innovative biomedical research.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🌍

After his doctoral work, Debmalya honed his expertise further by working at various prestigious institutions. He served as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at The Ohio State University, where his research focused on the design and synthesis of noncanonical nucleobases and novel peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). His work in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department involved developing cell-based assays for PNA-DNA/RNA interactions, which are crucial for understanding genetic material manipulation. Debmalya then moved to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York, where he made significant contributions in chemical biology and molecular biology, particularly in DNA/RNA mutagenesis, DNA preservation, and the design of cancer vaccines using innovative peptide nucleic acid strategies.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Debmalya’s research focuses on the intersection of chemical biology, DNA/RNA sequence manipulation, and therapeutic development. He has developed new methodologies for DNA preservation and translation inhibition, contributing to a deeper understanding of gene expression regulation. His expertise in designing bifacial PNAs and utilizing click chemistry for DNA Chemical Biology coupling has opened new avenues for genetic research and therapy development. His recent work includes exploring potential applications of peptide nucleic acids in cancer vaccine development, positioning him at the forefront of genetic engineering and molecular therapeutics.

ACCREDITATION AND RECOGNITION 🏅

Debmalya’s exceptional research and innovative contributions have been recognized by his peers in academia and industry. His work on peptide-based drug delivery systems and cancer Chemical Biology vaccines has garnered attention for its potential in translational medicine. At Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, he was promoted to Senior Fellow in January 2025, underscoring his commitment and expertise in advancing biomedical sciences. His postdoctoral fellowships at The Ohio State University and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, coupled with his early career accomplishments, reflect his standing as a prominent figure in chemical biology and molecular medicine.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌐

Debmalya’s work has significantly influenced the fields of drug delivery, peptide chemistry, and molecular therapeutics. His innovative research on peptide nucleic acids and DNA/RNA Chemical Biology interactions holds great promise for improving our understanding of genetic diseases and developing targeted therapies. His pioneering efforts in cancer vaccine design using peptide nucleic acids demonstrate his ability to bridge the gap between basic chemistry and clinical applications. Debmalya’s impact is not limited to academia but extends to biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, where his findings could lead to the development of novel treatments.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🚀

As Debmalya advances in his career, his research is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the realms of chemical biology, therapeutic development, and molecular engineering. His ongoing work at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory promises to yield even more groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in the area of cancer therapy and genetic manipulation. His future contributions will likely continue to shape the future of personalized medicine, gene therapy, and targeted drug delivery, making him a key figure in the evolution of modern biomedical sciences.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • Title: Peptide nucleic acids: Recent advancements and future opportunities in biomedical applications
    Authors: Achinta Sannigrahi; Nayan De; Debmalya Bhunia; Jhuma Bhadra
    Journal: Bioorganic Chemistry (2025)
    DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2025.108146
  • Title: Modular synthesis of functional libraries by accelerated SuFEx click chemistry
    Authors: Joshua Homer; Rebecca A. Koelln; Andrew Barrow; Timothy Gialelis; Zlata Boiarska; Nikita Steinohrt; Erinna Lee; Wen-Hsuan Yang; Robert Johnson; Taemoon Chung et al.
    Journal: Chemical Science (2024)
    DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05729a
  • Title: Designed hybrid anticancer nuclear-localized peptide inhibits aggressive cancer cell proliferation
    Authors: Prasenjit Mondal; Saswat Mohapatra; Debmalya Bhunia; Prabir Kumar Gharai; Nabanita Mukherjee; Varsha Gupta; Satyajit Ghosh; Surajit Ghosh
    Journal: RSC Medicinal Chemistry (2022)
    DOI: 10.1039/D1MD00324K
  • Title: Synthesis of bifacial Peptide Nucleic Acids with diketopiperazine backbones
    Authors: Not specified
    Journal: Synlett (2022-03-18)
    DOI: 10.1055/a-1802-6873
  • Title: A Small Molecule with Bridged Carbonyl and Tri‐fluoro‐aceto‐phenone Groups Impedes Microtubule Dynamics and Subsequently Triggers Cancer Cell Apoptosis
    Authors: Not specified
    Journal: ChemMedChem (2021-09-06)
    DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100192

Dr. Fares Zouaoui – Analytical chemistry and process engineering – Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Fares Zouaoui - Analytical chemistry and process engineering - Best Researcher Award 

University of Rennes - France 

AUTHOR PROFILE 

ORCID 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 📚

Fares Zouaoui began his academic journey at Bejaia University, Algeria, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Process Engineering in 2015, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering in 2017. During these years, he developed a keen interest in the intersection of chemical engineering and analytical chemistry, particularly focusing on the application of electrochemical processes for environmental analysis. His foundational education set the stage for his deep exploration of electrochemistry, sensor technology, and water treatment processes, paving the way for his advanced research and career.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 👨‍🔬

Fares’s professional journey has been marked by his work as a researcher and educator. After completing his PhD in Analytical Chemistry at Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University in France in 2020, where he focused on modeling and optimizing biosensors for environmental analysis, he transitioned to several key roles. From 2022 to 2023, he served as an Assistant Professor and later an Associate Professor at the University of Rennes in France. His professional endeavors have included postdoctoral research at the Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique (CEA) in Grenoble, where he worked on Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) films as electrochemical electrodes. His academic roles allowed him to mentor students, coordinate research projects, and contribute significantly to the scientific community.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Fares Zouaoui’s research focuses primarily on the development and optimization of electrochemical processes for environmental applications. His work includes the design of electrochemical sensors and biosensors, especially using Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) materials and Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs). He has also worked extensively on water treatment technologies, Analytical chemistry and process engineering specifically focusing on the combined processes of anodic oxidation and ozonation. His PhD research in modeling and optimization of biosensors and his postdoctoral research have contributed to significant advancements in the fields of electrochemistry, sensor technology, and environmental remediation.

ACCELERATING INNOVATION THROUGH TEACHING AND SUPERVISION 🎓

As an educator, Fares has shared his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of scientists. He has taught courses on electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, and chemical engineering at the University of Rennes. His supervision activities include mentoring Master's students, interns, and PhD candidates, guiding them through their research on topics like electrochemical Analytical chemistry and process engineering processes and water treatment. His role in supervising doctoral research, including co-supervising a thesis on the elimination of refractory pollutants using hybrid processes, reflects his commitment to advancing both research and education in his field.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Fares’s work has had a significant impact on both academia and industry. His innovative research on electrochemical sensors and water treatment processes has provided practical solutions to environmental challenges, particularly in the areas of pollutant removal and resource management. His contributions to electrochemical biosensors, especially for environmental Analytical chemistry and process engineering monitoring, have been recognized globally. Fares's involvement in international research projects, including collaborations with institutions in Brazil, highlights his global influence in the fields of chemical engineering and environmental sciences.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🌱

Looking forward, Fares Zouaoui is committed to continuing his research and teaching efforts to drive forward the development of sustainable and innovative technologies for environmental protection. His current projects, including his work on PFAS treatment and electrode material development, are aimed at solving some of the most pressing environmental issues. Through his leadership in research projects and educational roles, he is shaping the future of environmental chemical engineering and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable world.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • Title: Electrochemical sensors based on amorphous carbon electrode: A review
    Author: Fares ZOUAOUI, Gauthier Menassol, Cédric DUCROS, Pascal Mailley, Yohann Thomas
    Journal: Microchemical Journal
    DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2025.112650
  • Title: Anodic oxidation by electrical power pulses for alachlor degradation
    Author: Fares Zouaoui, Didier Floner, Florence Fourcade
    Journal: Environmental Technology
    DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2024.2389323
  • Title: Assessment of a hybrid process coupling ozonation and anodic oxidation in a monophasic configuration
    Author: Helios Yasmine, Florence Fourcade, Fares Zouaoui, Pierre-François Biard
    Journal: Electrochimica Acta
    DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2024.144049
  • Title: New poly(ether-phosphoramide)s sulfides based on green resources as sensitive films for the specific impedimetric detection of nickel ions
    Author: Taha Chabbah, Saber Chatti, Fares Zouaoui, Ibtissem Jlalia, GAIJI HOUDA, Houyem Abderrazak, Hervé Casabianca, Régis Mercier, Steffen Weidner, Abdelhamid Errachid et al.
    Journal: Talanta
    DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123550
  • Title: Mathematical Model and Numerical Simulation of Conductometric Biosensor of Urea
    Author: Fares Zouaoui, Nadia Zine, Abdelhamid Errachid, Nicole Jaffrezic-Renault
    Journal: Electroanalysis
    DOI: 10.1002/elan.202100610

Dr. Bunnel Kitete Tunda  – Pharmacology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bunnel Kitete Tunda  -Pharmacology- Best Researcher Award

Federal University of São João del-Rei - Brazil

Author Profile 

SCOPUS

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Kitete Tunda Bunnel's academic journey began with a deep passion for medicine, pursuing a degree in human medicine from universite technologique bel campus (utbc) in the dr congo. graduating in 2012, his final thesis focused on the incidence of hypertensive retinopathy in patients, a topic that highlights his early interest in the intersections of chronic diseases and their impact on public health. this solid foundation laid the groundwork for his future contributions to healthcare, especially in geriatric pharmacology and drug utilization.

Professional endeavors 🏥

Kitete’s professional career spans across various continents, bringing his medical expertise from africa to brazil. after his graduation, he embarked on a journey that saw him transition to advanced studies in brazil, where he is currently pursuing a master's degree at universidade federal de são joão del-rei (ufsj). his master's research explores deprescribing oral antidiabetics in elderly patients, a critical topic given the global rise in aging populations and diabetes management. his diverse educational background, supplemented by short courses from renowned institutions like uppsala university in sweden, showcases his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Kitete's research has been dedicated to understanding and improving the health outcomes of vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. his master's thesis focuses on how oral antidiabetic medications are addressed in informational leaflets globally, an essential study given the growing importance of patient education Pharmacology and safety in medication usage. in addition to his research in pharmacology, kitete has made contributions to understanding chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, particularly in african and brazilian contexts.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Kitete’s academic and research efforts have been recognized through multiple opportunities for advanced study and training. he was awarded a scholarship by coordenação de aperfeiçoamento de pessoal de nível superior (capes) in brazil, a prestigious recognition of his academic potential and commitment to research in Pharmacology healthcare. his work in drug utilization research has also been strengthened by his participation in international courses, including those at uppsala university in sweden, further enhancing his credentials in the global healthcare landscape.

Impact and influence 🌍

Kitete’s work is deeply impactful, as it addresses critical health challenges faced by elderly populations, particularly in the areas of diabetes and chronic disease management. his research on deprescribing oral antidiabetics highlights the importance of re-evaluating medication use in older adults, which could lead to Pharmacology significant advancements in patient safety and healthcare outcomes. his contributions span both local and international settings, ensuring that his research findings have broad implications for public health across different regions.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

As kitete tunda bunnel continues his academic and professional journey, his contributions to geriatric pharmacology and chronic disease management promise to leave a lasting legacy. his work is paving the way for safer and more effective treatment protocols for elderly patients, and his international experiences allow him to bridge healthcare knowledge across continents. with a clear focus on patient-centered care, kitete’s future research will likely continue to influence healthcare policies and improve quality of life for aging populations around the world.

Notable Publications

  • Title: Deprescribing oral antidiabetics in elderly patients: Do electronic leaflets across the world address it?
    Authors: Bunnel, K.T., Carvalho, S.J.E., Pereira, M.L., Couto, R.O., Baldoni, A.O.
    Journal: Exploratory Research in Clinical and Social Pharmacy (2024), Vol. 16, Article 100537
  • Title: Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) improves biochemical outcomes in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies
    Authors: Oliveira, V.M., Silveira, L.R., Bunnel, K.T., Baldoni, N.R., do Couto, R.O.
    Journal: Advances in Traditional Medicine (2024)