Emil Babić | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Emil Babić | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

professor |  University of Zagreb | Croatia

Prof. Emil Babić is a distinguished Croatian physicist with a long and impactful career in condensed matter physics and materials science. Educated at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, he went on to become a leading academic and researcher, contributing significantly to the study of high-entropy alloys, metallic glasses, and superconducting materials. His work has been published in high-impact journals, with over 50 years of scholarly contributions shaping the field. Prof. Babić has played a central role in mentoring generations of physicists, guiding around 50 theses, 13 doctoral dissertations, and 5 post-doctoral fellows. His expertise in electronic structures, alloy behavior, and advanced materials has been widely recognized through his publications and collaborations with international research groups. With a career that spans fundamental discoveries and applied innovations, Prof. Babić stands as a respected figure in Croatian and global physics, celebrated for his scientific rigor, mentorship, and dedication to advancing knowledge.

Professional Profile 

Prof. Emil Babić pursued his entire academic education at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Croatia, where he developed a deep foundation in physics. He earned his Master of Science degree in Physics , marking the beginning of his lifelong journey into advanced materials and solid-state research. His early academic training combined theoretical and experimental approaches, equipping him with the tools to explore the structural and electronic properties of complex alloys and materials. Building on his master’s research, he later obtained a PhD in Physics from the same institution, further cementing his expertise in condensed matter physics. His doctoral work laid the groundwork for his future research on metallic glasses, high-entropy alloys, and superconductivity. The rigorous academic environment of Zagreb’s Faculty of Science, combined with his own intellectual curiosity, enabled him to emerge as a scientist of international recognition, contributing broadly to physics and material sciences.

Experience 

Prof. Emil Babić has accumulated decades of rich academic and research experience, primarily within the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. His career spans during which he served in both teaching and research positions. He has been a central figure in advancing Croatian physics research, contributing not only through publications but also by actively participating in collaborative international projects. Prof. Babić has mentored around 50 theses, 13 doctoral dissertations, and 5 post-doctoral researchers, leaving a strong academic legacy. His expertise has led him to engage in groundbreaking studies on superconductivity, metallic glasses, and high-entropy alloys, often collaborating with prominent international scientists. In addition to research, he has played an essential role in curriculum development, conference participation, and the organization of scientific activities, thus enriching the academic and research landscape in Croatia and beyond. His experience reflects both leadership and innovation.

Professional Development

Throughout his career, Prof. Emil Babić has actively pursued professional development, ensuring continuous growth as a researcher, mentor, and collaborator. He has remained engaged with the international scientific community by publishing influential research articles, contributing to conferences, and co-authoring studies with physicists from Europe and beyond. His professional journey also included securing academic scholarships and participating in exchange programs, which broadened his perspective on global scientific challenges. Importantly, Prof. Babić fostered a strong academic culture within the University of Zagreb, promoting interdisciplinary approaches to physics and materials science. He also took on organizational roles in scientific conferences, strengthening the visibility of Croatian research in the global arena. By mentoring young researchers and doctoral candidates, he continuously developed his leadership and supervisory skills, adapting to evolving methodologies in physics. His career reflects a balance of independent research, collaborative teamwork, and dedication to professional growth within academia.

Skills & Expertise

Prof. Emil Babić’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of condensed matter physics and materials science, with particular specialization in high-entropy alloys, metallic glasses, superconductivity, and electronic structures. His deep knowledge of advanced experimental techniques has enabled him to study phase transitions, bulk glass-forming ability, and the role of doping in improving material properties. His expertise extends to both theoretical analysis and laboratory-based experimentation, making him a versatile scientist. In addition, Prof. Babić has demonstrated strong mentorship and supervisory skills, having guided numerous graduate and doctoral students toward successful academic careers. He is adept at collaborative, cross-disciplinary research, working with international teams on complex projects. His ability to bridge fundamental physics with applied research highlights his innovative approach. Moreover, his publication record showcases his capacity to contribute impactful insights into material design, alloy characterization, and superconductivity, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable leader in his field.

Resarch Focus

Prof. Emil Babić’s research focus lies primarily in condensed matter physics, with an emphasis on metallic glasses, high-entropy alloys, and superconducting materials. His studies investigate the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of these complex systems, aiming to understand their behavior under varying physical conditions. A recurring theme in his research is the transition from high-entropy to conventional alloys, where he has explored questions of stability, performance, and material optimization. Additionally, he has studied the enhancement of superconducting properties through nanostructuring and doping, contributing valuable insights to applied physics. His work is not only of theoretical importance but also holds technological significance, particularly in energy storage, advanced materials, and industrial applications. By publishing in leading journals and collaborating with international experts, Prof. Babić has advanced the global understanding of how alloys can be designed and manipulated to achieve desirable physical and functional properties.

Awards & Recognitions

Prof. Emil Babić’s long and impactful career has been recognized through academic honors, scholarships, and professional achievements. Over the past five decades, he has received recognition for both his scientific output and his contributions to academic mentorship. His research has been published in high-impact journals such as Journal of Applied Physics, Materials, Journal of Alloys and Compounds, and Europhysics Letters, which itself is a recognition of the international value of his work. He has also been invited to collaborate with international teams, highlighting his reputation as a trusted expert in physics. At the University of Zagreb, his role in mentoring over 50 theses and 13 doctoral dissertations has been celebrated as a vital contribution to the academic community. Furthermore, his involvement in organizing scientific conferences and contributing to research networks has earned him respect and acknowledgment, both within Croatia and internationally, as a leader in condensed matter physics.

Publication Top Notes 

Title: Mechanism of Enhancement in Electromagnetic Properties of MgB2 by Nano SiC Doping
Authors: SX Dou, O Shcherbakova, WK Yoeh, JH Kim, S Soltanian, XL Wang, E Babić
Year: 2007
Citations: 370

Title: High-transport critical current density above 30 K in pure Fe-clad MgB2 tape
Authors: S Soltanian, XL Wang, I Kušević, E Babić, AH Li, MJ Qin, J Horvat, HK Liu
Year: 2001
Citations: 232

Title: Superconductivity in zirconium-nickel glasses
Authors: E Babić, R Ristić, M Miljak, MG Scott, G Gregan
Year: 1981
Citations: 75

Title: Production of large samples of ultra-rapidly quenched alloys of aluminium by means of a rotating mill device
Authors: E Babić, E Girt, R Krsnik, B Leontic
Year: 1970
Citations: 64

Title: Correlation between doping induced disorder and superconducting properties in carbohydrate doped MgB2
Authors: JH Kim, SX Dou, S Oh, M Jerčinović, E Babić, T Nakane, H Kumakura
Year: 2008
Citations: 58

Title: Temperature dependent impurity resistivity in Al-based 3-d transition metal alloys
Authors: E Babić, R Krsnik, B Leontić, M Očko, Z Vučić, I Zorić, E Girt
Year: 1972
Citations: 50

Title: Hall effect and electronic structure of glassy Zr 3d alloys
Authors: J Ivkov, E Babić, RL Jacobs
Year: 1984
Citations: 49

Title: Sugar as an optimal carbon source for the enhanced performance of MgB2 superconductors at high magnetic fields
Authors: OV Shcherbakova, AV Pan, JL Wang, AV Shcherbakov, SX Dou, E Babić
Year: 2008
Citations: 47

Title: Stoner excitations in the strong itinerant amorphous ferromagnets FexNi80−xB18Si2 and Fe80B20
Authors: E Babić, Ž Marohnić, EP Wohlfarth
Year: 1983
Citations: 43

Title: The influence of pinning centres on magnetization and loss in Fe-Ni-B-Si amorphous alloys
Authors: J Horvat, Ž Marohnić, E Babić
Year: 1989
Citations: 42

Title: Magnetoresistance and V-I curves of Ag-sheathed (Bi,Pb tape)
Authors: E Babić, I Kušević, SX Dou, HK Liu, QY Hu
Year: 1994
Citations: 41

Title: Synthesis, structural characterization and magnetic properties of iron boride nanoparticles with or without silicon dioxide coating
Authors: M Mustapić, D Pajić, N Novosel, E Babić, K Zadro, M Cindrić, J Horvat
Year: 2010
Citations: 38

Title: Correlation between mechanical, thermal and electronic properties in Zr–Ni, Cu amorphous alloys
Authors: R Ristić, M Stubičar, E Babić
Year: 2007
Citations: 38

Title: Phase transformations during isochronal annealing of Fe40Ni40B20 glass
Authors: M Stubičar, E Babić, D Subašić, D Pavuna, Ž Marohnić
Year: 1977
Citations: 38

Prof. Emil Babić demonstrates exceptional research excellence in condensed matter physics and materials science, with impactful publications, mentorship achievements, and contributions to alloy and superconductivity research. His long-standing academic leadership and pioneering studies on metallic glasses and high-entropy alloys position him as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening industry impact and international recognition could further solidify his profile, but his current record already reflects outstanding scientific excellence and influence.

Hui Li | Materials Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

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Dr. Hui Li | Materials Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

Senior Engineer | Beijing Institute of Smart Energy | China

Dr. Hui Li is a Senior Engineer at the Beijing Institute of Smart Energy, specializing in electrochemical energy storage systems. With a strong foundation in lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery research, Dr. Li has established himself as an influential figure in advancing next-generation energy technologies. He has contributed extensively to both academic research and industrial applications, bridging the gap between fundamental science and real-world energy solutions. Over the years, he has participated in more than 11 major research projects, authored two books, published over 36 scientific papers, and filed 27 patents, of which eight have been authorized. His collaborations extend internationally, including research with the University of California, San Diego, and domestic partnerships with major enterprises to develop large-scale sodium-ion battery systems. Recognized for academic excellence and professional contributions, Dr. Hui Li is a driving force in the development of safe, reliable, and sustainable energy storage technologies.

Professional Profile 

Hui Li’s academic journey reflects a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research and excellence in engineering. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Qingdao Agricultural University , where he laid the foundation for his scientific career. Pursuing higher studies, he joined the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) and earned a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering. During his doctoral training, Hui Li was selected for an international joint research program at the University of California, San Diego , where he studied NanoEngineering with a focus on electrochemical energy materials under leading experts. His academic performance was distinguished with a National Ph.D. Scholarship (2016) and the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award from BIT . Through this education, he gained deep expertise in materials science, nanotechnology, and energy engineering, equipping him with the skills to contribute meaningfully to the rapidly evolving field of advanced energy storage technologies.

Experience 

Dr. Hui Li’s professional career spans cutting-edge research, project leadership, and industrial collaboration in the energy sector. He began with an internship at the State Grid Smart Grid Research Institute , working on energy storage projects. Later, as an R&D Engineer at the State Grid Smart Grid Research Institute , he led and contributed to seven major projects, including sodium-ion and liquid metal battery technologies funded by the National Key R&D Program and National Natural Science Foundation. He joined the Beijing Institute of Smart Energy, where he continues as a Senior Engineer, contributing to lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery development, particularly for extreme environments. His work spans research management, scenario analysis, and technology evaluation for grid-scale applications. To date, he has completed nine projects and is actively involved in two ongoing ones, establishing himself as a leading researcher integrating academic innovation with industry-based solutions.

Professional Development

Hui Li has consistently pursued professional development through academic, industrial, and collaborative engagements. He has authored two professional books on electrochemical energy storage and LiDAR applications, reflecting his ability to link theory with practice. He serves as a peer reviewer for multiple journals, including Shandong Electric Power Technology, Battery, and Mining and Metallurgy, ensuring he remains actively involved in evaluating and shaping research in his field. As a mentor at the Beijing Institute of Technology, he contributes to training the next generation of researchers. His editorial and reviewing roles have honed his analytical and critical skills, while his collaborations with top universities and companies, such as the University of California, San Diego and China Enli Co., Ltd., have expanded his expertise in global research networks. Membership in the China Chemical Society further complements his development, keeping him connected to evolving innovations and policy directions in chemical engineering and energy storage.

Skills & Expertise

Hui Li’s expertise spans electrochemical energy storage, battery materials engineering, and system integration. He has advanced knowledge of lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery electrode materials, particularly in aqueous sodium-ion systems and Prussian blue-based compounds. His skills extend across multi-scale design, nanomaterial synthesis, and material genome engineering, enabling him to translate fundamental science into scalable technologies. With 36 peer-reviewed publications and extensive patent contributions, he demonstrates a balance of theoretical insight and practical innovation. His technical competencies include electrochemical performance testing, TEER evaluation, and computational modeling for material optimization. Hui Li also excels in project leadership, having managed large-scale national and corporate-funded projects. His professional versatility allows him to work across academic, industrial, and collaborative research environments, contributing both as a lead investigator and as a team collaborator. His multidisciplinary expertise positions him as a key contributor to the advancement of high-performance, reliable, and sustainable energy storage technologies.

Resarch Focus

Dr. Hui Li’s research focuses on next-generation electrochemical energy storage systems, especially lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. His work emphasizes the design, synthesis, and performance optimization of cathode and anode materials, with a strong interest in environmentally friendly, high-safety, and high-capacity systems. He has investigated Prussian blue analogs, Na3V2(PO4)3-based materials, and layered oxides, contributing significantly to the advancement of aqueous sodium-ion batteries. A core aspect of his research is bridging fundamental material mechanisms with device-level applications, including Ah-level battery cells and full system integration for grid storage. Through collaborations with universities and enterprises, he has contributed to the development of a 102.96 kWh water-based sodium-ion battery energy storage system, demonstrating practical scalability. His current research explores material genome engineering, doping strategies, and advanced coatings to enhance battery stability, safety, and electrochemical performance. This integrated approach aims to accelerate the deployment of sustainable energy storage for renewable electricity and smart grid applications.

Awards & Recognitions

Hui Li’s outstanding academic and professional contributions have earned him several prestigious awards and recognitions. During his doctoral studies, he was honored with the National Ph.D. Scholarship , a distinction awarded to top-performing doctoral candidates across China. His doctoral thesis was further recognized with the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award  from the Beijing Institute of Technology, an accolade given to only 25 scholars university-wide. He also received the Beijing Institute of Technology Seedling Fund, awarded to only 20 individuals, highlighting his research potential in innovative energy storage materials. Beyond academic honors, Hui Li was recognized as an Outstanding Individual during the State Grid New Employee Induction Training, reflecting his dedication and leadership in professional settings. These achievements underscore his commitment to excellence in research, education, and practical innovation, marking him as a leading scientist contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy storage and smart grid technologies.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Effects of Mg doping on the remarkably enhanced electrochemical performance of Na₃V₂(PO₄)₃ cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: H. Li, X.Q. Yu, Y. Bai, F. Wu, C. Wu, L.Y. Liu, X.Q. Yang
Year: 2015

Title: Understanding the electrochemical mechanisms induced by gradient Mg²⁺ distribution of Na-rich Na₃₊ₓV₂₋ₓMgₓ(PO₄)₃/C for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: H. Li, H.M. Tang, C.Z. Ma, Y. Bai, J. Alvarado, B. Radhakrishnan, S.P. Ong, F. Wu, Y.S. Meng, C. Wu
Year: 2018

Title: Na-Rich Na₃₊ₓV₂₋ₓNiₓ(PO₄)₃/C for Sodium Ion Batteries: Controlling the Doping Site and Improving the Electrochemical Performances
Authors: H. Li, Y. Bai, C. Wu, F. Wu, X.F. Li
Year: 2016

Title: Budding willow branches shaped Na₃V₂(PO₄)₃/C nanofibers synthesized via an electrospinning technique and used as cathode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: H. Li, Y. Bai, F. Wu, Y. Li, C. Wu
Year: 2015

Title:  Controllable synthesis of high-rate and long cycle-life Na₃V₂(PO₄)₃ for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: H. Li, C. Wu, Y. Bai, F. Wu, M.Z. Wang
Year: 2016

Hui Li is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Chemical Scientist Award. His research demonstrates a rare balance of fundamental innovation and applied outcomes, particularly in advancing sodium-ion and lithium-ion battery technologies for sustainable energy storage. His track record of publications, patents, and leadership in major funded projects positions him as an impactful researcher at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, and energy engineering.

While greater emphasis on independent international leadership and broader engagement could strengthen his profile, his achievements already place him among the promising chemical scientists driving forward solutions for global energy challenges. He is well-deserving of recognition through this award.

Svetlna Ilić| Materials Chemistry| Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Svetlna Ilić| Materials Chemistry| Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Associate at Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia,Serbia.

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Dr. Svetlana Ilić is a Senior Research Associate at the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, part of the University of Belgrade and a national research institute in Serbia. She is affiliated with the Materials Laboratory, where her work focuses on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of nanostructured materials for diverse applications—ranging from energy and mechanical engineering to environmental protection and biomedical uses vinca.rs +1 intranet.vin.bg.ac.rs +1 . Dr. Ilić earned her B.Sc. in Inorganic Chemical Technology from the University of Belgrade (2008) and completed her Ph.D. (2018) at the same institution, specializing in sol–gel synthesis and characterization of iron‑doped mullite . Her current research includes developing modified clay separation media, porous semiconductors, oxide-based ceramics, and catalytic filters for diesel particulate removal

PROFILE 

ORCID

Scopus

🔍 Summary of Suitability:

Dr. Svetlana Ilić is a dedicated and accomplished researcher with impactful contributions to ceramic materials science. Her focus on sustainable and functional ceramics derived from natural or waste sources demonstrates her commitment to practical solutions in energy and environmental applications. She also exemplifies academic responsibility through reviewer and editorial roles and active collaboration in European research networks.

🎓 Education

Dr. Svetlana Ilić completed both her Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Serbia 🇷🇸. Her academic training laid a strong foundation in materials science, particularly in ceramic processing, powder metallurgy, and advanced characterization techniques. This comprehensive education has been instrumental in shaping her successful research career in functional ceramics and nanomaterials.

🧪 Experience

Since February 1, 2011, Dr. Ilić has been serving as a Senior Research Associate at the Department of Materials, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade 🔬. Her work focuses on the synthesis and consolidation of pure and doped mullite powders, development of dense and porous ceramics, and the utilization of natural raw materials for ceramic production. She is highly skilled in structural, microstructural, and mechanical characterization techniques including XRD, SEM, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and nanoindentation. Over the years, she has participated in multiple national and international projects related to refractory materials, LTCC materials, thermal insulators, and porous ceramic structures.

🛠️ Skills

Dr. Ilić possesses a versatile set of technical and soft skills. Technically, she is proficient in advanced materials synthesis and characterization methods. She demonstrates high competency in using tools like XRD, SEM, nanoindentation, and spectroscopy. In addition to her experimental expertise, she is highly organized, responsible, and an effective communicator. She is fluent in Serbian and proficient in English, and adept in Microsoft Office, Google Drive, and various digital research platforms. Her collaborative spirit, adaptability, and willingness to learn make her a valuable member of interdisciplinary research teams.

🏅 Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Ilić’s scientific excellence is reflected through her active involvement in editorial and peer review activities. She served as a Guest Editor for Metallurgical and Materials Data between April and July 2024 and has reviewed articles for prestigious journals including the Journal of the American Ceramic Society, Journal of the European Ceramic Society, and Ceramics International. Her contributions as a reviewer and editor underscore her expertise and respected position in the ceramic science community, even though specific awards are not listed.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Ilić’s research is primarily centered on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of nanostructured and ceramic materials for applications in energy, environmental protection, and mechanical systems. She specializes in mullite-based ceramics—both dense and porous—as well as in the development of refractory and insulating materials from natural and waste sources. Her recent work includes modifying porous ceramics with nano-additives for improved catalytic performance, studying the magnetic properties of self-assembled graphene films, and developing materials for wastewater treatment and diesel particulate filtration. Her involvement in European COST Actions and multidisciplinary projects highlights her commitment to sustainable materials science and applied research.

Publications & Citations 📚

  • Ilić, S., Maletaškić, J., Skoko, Ž., Vuksanović, M. M., Radovanović, Ž., Ristović, I., & Šaponjić, A. (2025). Utilization of waste clay–diatomite in the production of durable mullite-based insulating materials. Applied Sciences, 15(13), 7512. https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137512

  • Savić, A., Vuksanović, M. M., Savić, M., Knežević, N., Šaponjić, A., Ilić, S., & Egelja, A. (2025). Modified silica particles coated with Cu–Al layered double hydroxide for phosphate and arsenate removal in water treatment. Molecules, 30(10), 2138. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30102138

  • Ilic, S., Šaponjić, A., Ivanovski, N. V., Posarac-Marković, M., Kokunesoski, M., Janacković, D., & Devecerski, A. (2024). Influence of iron on the mullite formation. Science of Sintering, 56(4), 425–438. https://doi.org/10.2298/SOS240425017I

  • Posarac-Marković, M., Jovic Orsini, N., Ilic, S., Kuzmanovic, M., Šaponjić, A., Radovanović, Z., & Matović, B. (2024). Structural and morphological studies on yttrium-doped magnesium aluminate spinel powders synthesized by mixed-fuel solution combustion synthesis approach. Science of Sintering, 56(8), 821–836. https://doi.org/10.2298/SOS240821036P

  • Ružić, J., Maletaškić, J., Radovanović, Ž., & Ilić, S. (2024). Mechanical properties of mullite investigated by nanoindentation. Metallurgical and Materials Data, 29, Article 29. https://doi.org/10.30544/MMD29

  • Kokunesoski, M., Janacković, D., Kićević, D., Ilic, S., & Šaponjić, A. (2023). The effect of acrylate on the properties and machinability of alumina ceramics. Science of Sintering, 55(1), 103–115. https://doi.org/10.2298/SOS2301103K

🔍 Conclusion:

Highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Dr. Ilić combines scientific excellence, sustained productivity, community service, and innovation. She stands out as a role model in applied materials research and is poised to make further significant contributions on a global scale with continued support and recognition.