Emil Babić | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

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.

Shang-Fu Yuan | Inorganic Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

Prof. Shang-Fu Yuan | Inorganic Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

Professor, Jinan University,China.

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan is a distinguished chemist specializing in structural and materials chemistry, with significant contributions to the design, synthesis, and characterization of ligand-protected metal nanoclusters. In China, he earned his B.S. in Applied Chemistry from East China Jiaotong University and later completed his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (Structural Chemistry) under Prof. Quan-Ming Wang at Xiamen University. Following postdoctoral research at Tsinghua University, he joined Jinan University as a Professor at the College of Chemistry and Materials Science and the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications. His research spans metal nanoclusters, layered organic metal chalcogenides, and photocatalysis for energy and environmental applications. With over 25 high-impact publications in journals such as JACS, Angewandte Chemie, and Nature Communications, Dr. Yuan is recognized for advancing atomic-level understanding in catalysis and optoelectronics through precise molecular design and advanced crystallographic analysis.

Professional Profile 

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan began his academic journey at the School of Basic Science, East China Jiaotong University, where he obtained his B.S. degree in Applied Chemistry. His undergraduate studies provided a strong foundation in chemical principles and laboratory techniques, sparking his interest in structural chemistry and functional materials. He then pursued his doctoral studies at the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, under the supervision of Prof. Quan-Ming Wang. He specialized in Physical Chemistry, with a focus on Structural Chemistry, exploring the synthesis and crystallographic analysis of ligand-protected metal nanoclusters. His Ph.D. research laid the groundwork for his expertise in atomic-precision design of materials for catalysis and optoelectronic applications. After earning his doctorate, he continued his scientific training as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Chemistry at Tsinghua University, further refining his skills in advanced structural analysis and molecular engineering.

Experience 

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan’s professional career reflects a trajectory of academic excellence and impactful research in chemistry. He served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, working under Prof. Quan-Ming Wang, where he investigated ligand-protected metal nanoclusters and their catalytic applications. He joined Jinan University as a Professor in the College of Chemistry and Materials Science and became a key member of the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications. In this role, he leads research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and institutional grants, focusing on atomic-level material design, photocatalytic energy conversion, and layered metal chalcogenides. Dr. Yuan’s leadership extends to mentoring graduate students, managing interdisciplinary collaborations, and contributing to international scientific discourse through publications in top-tier journals and presentations at leading chemistry conferences worldwide.

Professional Development

Throughout his career, Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan has consistently engaged in professional development to expand his scientific expertise and leadership skills. His postdoctoral fellowship at Tsinghua University was instrumental in honing advanced crystallographic techniques and applying them to the design of high-performance catalytic nanoclusters. As a faculty member at Jinan University, he has secured multiple competitive research grants, including from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, enabling him to establish a productive and innovative research group. Dr. Yuan actively collaborates with leading scientists nationally and internationally, fostering cross-disciplinary research in photocatalysis, nanomaterials, and structural chemistry. He stays at the forefront of scientific advancements by participating in international conferences, peer-reviewing manuscripts for high-impact journals, and engaging in academic exchanges. His dedication to continuous learning and collaborative networking has positioned him as an influential researcher and mentor in the field of functional nanomaterials and advanced coordination chemistry.

Skills & Expertise

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan’s skills and expertise encompass a broad spectrum of chemistry and materials science, with a specialization in atomic-precision synthesis and structural characterization of metal nanoclusters. He is highly proficient in single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, enabling detailed structural elucidation at the molecular level. His research extends to layered organic metal chalcogenides, ligand engineering, and the design of photocatalysts for energy conversion and environmental remediation. Dr. Yuan possesses advanced skills in molecular design, coordination chemistry, and catalysis, particularly in the context of visible-light-driven reactions. His expertise also covers the integration of nanomaterials into functional devices and the investigation of charge transfer mechanisms. With a proven track record of publishing in prestigious journals, he demonstrates strong capabilities in scientific writing, data analysis, and project management. Additionally, he is experienced in mentoring young scientists, managing interdisciplinary collaborations, and securing competitive research funding from national and institutional sources.

Resarch Focus

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan’s research is centered on the design, synthesis, and application of ligand-protected coinage metal clusters and nanoclusters, with a focus on achieving atomic-level control over their structures and properties. He investigates single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques to reveal precise structural details, which inform the development of high-performance photocatalysts and optoelectronic materials. His work extends to layered organic metal chalcogenides, exploring their potential in energy conversion, photocatalytic reduction, and the transformation of organic molecules under visible light. By integrating structural chemistry with materials science, Dr. Yuan aims to enhance charge transfer efficiency, catalytic activity, and stability in nanomaterials. His research addresses critical challenges in sustainable energy, green synthesis, and environmental remediation. Through interdisciplinary approaches, he seeks to bridge fundamental chemistry with practical applications, contributing to advances in nanotechnology, coordination chemistry, and molecular engineering for next-generation functional materials.

Awards & Recognitions

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan has received significant recognition for his research excellence and contributions to the field of structural and materials chemistry. His work has been supported by prestigious funding bodies, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, through multiple grants such as the General Program (22201103) and Joint Funds (U22A20432). He has also been awarded the Initiating Foundation of Jinan University, reflecting institutional recognition of his potential as a research leader. His publications in top-tier journals like Journal of the American Chemical Society, Angewandte Chemie International Edition, and Nature Communications have garnered international attention, further solidifying his reputation. Dr. Yuan’s research achievements have positioned him as an influential figure in nanocluster chemistry, leading to invitations for peer review and collaborative projects. His contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also have practical implications for sustainable catalysis, optoelectronic materials, and environmental applications.

Publication Top Notes 

Conclusion:

Dr. Shang-Fu Yuan is a highly competitive candidate for the Research for Chemical Scientist Award. His outstanding research output, innovation in atomically precise nanocluster design, and leadership in high-profile projects showcase the qualities sought in awardees. With continued emphasis on translating research to societal applications and broadening interdisciplinary collaborations, his profile could evolve from being an excellent award candidate to an undeniable leader in the global chemical sciences community.

Fa-Feng Xu | Materials Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

Dr. Fa-Feng Xu | Materials Chemistry | Chemical Scientist Award

assistant researcher, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences in  China.

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Dr. Fa-Feng Xu 🧪 is an accomplished researcher specializing in photonic materials and microlasers. He currently serves as an Assistant Research Fellow at the Key Laboratory of Green and High-End Utilization of Salt Lake Resources, Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences 🇨🇳. He earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2020 🎓, following his bachelor’s degree in Material Chemistry from Jilin University in 2014. His postdoctoral work at the same institute focused on material engineering under the supervision of renowned scholars. Dr. Xu’s interdisciplinary research integrates chemistry, materials science, and photophysics to develop advanced optical devices such as microlaser arrays for applications in displays and encryption. With multiple high-impact publications and patents, Dr. Xu is a rising talent in the field of optoelectronic materials 🌟.

PROFILE 

Orcid 

🔍 Summary of Suitability:

Based on the provided CV, Dr. Fa-Feng Xu is a highly suitable candidate for the Chemical Scientist Award. His academic training and professional journey demonstrate a profound command over physical chemistry, material science, and photochemistry—disciplines central to the chemical sciences. Dr. Xu holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and has engaged in impactful postdoctoral research in materials engineering. He has consistently worked on the synthesis and functionalization of advanced photonic materials, particularly organometallic complexes and organic microlasers, which are at the cutting edge of chemical innovation.

🔹 Education & Experience 

Dr. Xu’s academic journey began at Jilin University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Material Chemistry in 2014 🎓. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, mentored by distinguished professors including Academician Jiannian Yao 🧬. His research focused on photochemistry and organic photonic materials. After earning his doctorate in 2020, Dr. Xu continued as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Material Engineering at the same institute, collaborating with Prof. Yu-Wu Zhong. Since November 2023, he has been serving as an Assistant Research Fellow at the Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, contributing to the sustainable utilization of salt lake resources 🧫. His career reflects deep expertise across disciplines including chemistry, optics, and nanomaterials, shaping innovations in photonic applications 💡.

🔹Professional Development

Dr. Fa-Feng Xu has developed a robust professional skill set grounded in multidisciplinary science 🧪. His expertise spans organic synthesis, materials design, and photonic device fabrication. With a strong foundation in chemistry and materials science, he designs and synthesizes organometallic and liquid crystal systems with high-performance photonic properties 🌈. He is skilled in fabricating organic microlasers and constructing patterned microlaser arrays for advanced applications like laser displays and information encryption 🔐. Dr. Xu is adept in characterizing materials using techniques such as UV-Vis, SEM, TEM, XRD, and AFM. His practical experience extends to the use of cutting-edge instrumentation including electron beam lithography and femtosecond lasers for device testing. Through collaborations and continuous research, he brings innovation to organic photonics, contributing significantly to applied optical science and advanced materials development 🎯.

🛠️ Skills & Expertise

Dr. Fa-Feng Xu possesses a diverse set of interdisciplinary research skills that bridge the fields of chemistry, photophysics, and materials science 🧪🔬. He is proficient in the synthesis, purification, and analysis of organic and organometallic compounds, including platinum and iridium complexes and liquid crystal systems 🌈. His expertise extends to designing and fabricating organic microlaser arrays—such as microdisks, microspheres, and microplates—for applications in laser displays and information encryption 🖥️🔐. Dr. Xu is skilled in preparing polymer-based microstructures using materials like PS and PMMA for high-performance waveguiding and lasing functions ⚡. He is also experienced in constructing and characterizing inorganic nanostructures, such as silver nanowires 🧫. Technically adept, he operates advanced instruments including SEM, TEM, AFM, XRD, and UV-Vis for structural and optical characterization 🛠️. Furthermore, his familiarity with cutting-edge device fabrication techniques—such as vacuum deposition, lithography, and femtosecond lasers—enables innovative work at the frontier of organic photonics and materials science 🚀.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Xu’s research is centered on the intersection of organic photonics, microlasers, and advanced optical materials 🌟. He focuses on the rational design and synthesis of organometallic compounds (notably Pt and Ir complexes), liquid crystal systems, and polymeric microstructures for photonic applications. His work includes fabricating two-dimensional microcrystals and wavelength-tunable microlaser arrays, which find use in full-color laser displays and encrypted information systems 🖥️🔒. Dr. Xu also explores waveguiding phenomena and the development of photonic materials with thermal and optical responsiveness, bridging chemistry, optics, and device engineering. His contributions reflect a broader interest in next-generation optoelectronics, nonlinear optics, and nanostructured materials. The integration of organic systems into functional devices highlights his forward-thinking approach in applied physical chemistry and materials innovation 🔬✨.

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

  • 🥇 Excellent Paper Certificate, 8th CAST Excellent Scientific Paper Selection Program

  • 🎓 Merit Student, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), 2014–2015

  • 🏆 Outstanding Student Leader, UCAS, 2015–2016

  • 💰 Academic Scholarships, UCAS (2014–2019)

  • 🎖️ National Encouragement Scholarships, Jilin University (2010–2012)

  • 🌟 Excellence Scholarship Student, Jilin University, 2010–2011

Publications & Citations 📚

  1. 📝 Organoplatinum(II) Cruciform: A Versatile Building Block to Fabricate 2D Microcrystals with Full-Color and White Phosphorescence and Anisotropic Photon Transport, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 📅 2022 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 🌈📸

  2. 📝 Wavelength-Tunable Single-Mode Microlasers Based on Photoresponsive Pitch Modulation of Liquid Crystals for Information Encryption, Research 📅 2020 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 🔒📡

  3. 📝 Flat-Panel Laser Displays Based on Liquid Crystal Microlaser Arrays, CCS Chem. 📅 2020 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 🖥️🎯

  4. 📝 Thermo-Responsive Light-Emitting Metal Complexes and Related Materials, Inorg. Chem. Front. 📅 2020 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 🔥🔬

  5. 📝 Molecular Cocrystals with Hydrogen-Bonded Polymeric Structures and Polarized Luminescence, Materials 📅 2022 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 💎💡

  6. 📝 Research Progress of Cesium-Based Photonic Materials, J. of Salt Lake Research 📅 2024 | 🔁 Cited by: [citation data needed] 🧂🔍

🔍 Conclusion:

Dr. Xu’s contributions lie at the intersection of synthetic chemistry, optics, and functional materials. His creative solutions to complex challenges in organic photonics and his strong publication and patent record mark him as an emerging leader in chemical research. His profile exemplifies the innovation and interdisciplinary excellence the Chemical Scientist Award aims to recognize.

Svetlna Ilić| Materials Chemistry| Best Researcher Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

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.