Soo Jean Park | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Soo Jean Park | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | Macquarie University | Australia

Dr Soo Jean Park is a leading researcher in organic chemistry and chemical ecology, specialising in arthropod semiochemistry, pheromone biology, and sustainable pest management. Her research advances the molecular and ecological understanding of pest–plant–natural enemy interactions, with particular focus on the chemical signals governing behaviour in economically significant insect species such as Queensland fruit fly, fall armyworm, and other Tephritidae pests. She integrates advanced analytical chemistry, organic synthesis, electrophysiology, and behavioural assays to uncover volatile profiles, identify bioactive natural products, and develop environmentally responsible pest control solutions. Her work has contributed significant insights into species-specific pheromone blends, age- and diet-dependent chemical emission patterns, rectal gland and cuticular chemistry, natural product attractants and repellents, and the chemical basis of reproductive isolation in sibling pest species. Dr Park has also driven innovation in softer insecticide design, natural product–based antifungal agents, and novel semiochemical applications aimed at reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. Her research outputs, spanning 34 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Molecules, Journal of Chemical Ecology, Journal of Pest Science, and PLoS ONE, reflect rigorous methodology, strong interdisciplinary collaboration, and substantial translational value for agriculture and biosecurity. She works closely with entomologists, ecologists, organic chemists, and industry partners to bridge fundamental chemical insights with applied pest management strategies, contributing to improved crop protection and ecological sustainability. Her findings support the development of precision monitoring tools, behaviour-modifying lures, and innovative integrated pest management frameworks with global relevance. Dr Park’s research influence is further evident through 347 citations, 34 documents, and an h-index of 10, demonstrating her growing impact in chemical ecology and sustainable insect management.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

1. Park, S. J., Price, J. R., & Todd, M. H. (2012). Oxidative arylation of isochroman. The Journal of Organic Chemistry, 77(2), 949–955. Cited by: 118

2. Kempraj, V., Park, S. J., & Taylor, P. W. (2020). Forewarned is forearmed: Queensland fruit flies detect olfactory cues from predators and respond with predator-specific behaviour. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 7297. Cited by: 36

3. Pérez, J., Park, S. J., & Taylor, P. W. (2018). Domestication modifies the volatile emissions produced by male Queensland fruit flies during sexual advertisement. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 16503. Cited by: 34

4. Noushini, S., Perez, J., Park, S. J., Holgate, D., Mendez Alvarez, V., Jamie, I., … Jamie, J. (2020). Attraction and electrophysiological response to identified rectal gland volatiles in Bactrocera frauenfeldi (Schiner). Molecules, 25(6), 1275. Cited by: 27

5. Noushini, S., Perez, J., Park, S. J., Holgate, D., Jamie, I., Jamie, J., & Taylor, P. (2019). Rectal gland chemistry, volatile emissions, and antennal responses of male and female banana fruit fly, Bactrocera musae. Insects, 11(1), 32. Cited by: 25

Gunjan Jadon | Medicinal Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Gunjan Jadon | Medicinal Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Professor | Pacific College of Pharmacy | India

Dr. Gunjan Jadon is an emerging researcher in pharmaceutical analysis and analytical chemistry, known for her contributions to quality-centered method development and scientific rigor. With a growing academic profile reflected through 3 peer-reviewed publications, 54 citations, and an h-index of 2, she has steadily established her presence within the analytical science community. Her research focuses on chromatographic method development, impurity assessment, pharmaceutical quality control, and the systematic application of Analytical Quality by Design (QbD) principles. One of her notable works includes the development and validation of a QbD-based RP-HPLC method for the quantification of dobutamine, demonstrating her expertise in experimental optimization, response-surface modeling, and regulatory aligned method validation. Dr. Jadon’s broader research interests integrate risk assessment, analytical robustness studies, and the enhancement of method precision and reproducibility to support high-quality pharmaceutical evaluation. She actively collaborates with multidisciplinary teams of pharmaceutical scientists and analytical chemists, strengthening the practical and translational impact of her findings. Her work contributes to improving drug-evaluation workflows, ensuring analytical reliability, and promoting safer therapeutic outcomes across the pharmaceutical sector. Beyond her research outputs, she remains engaged in scientific dialogue through collaborative networks, co-authored studies, and participation in academic platforms aimed at advancing analytical science. Her contributions hold societal relevance by supporting the development of robust analytical frameworks that enhance the quality, safety, and consistency of pharmaceutical products. Driven by a commitment to scientific integrity and continuous innovation, Dr. Jadon continues to explore emerging analytical challenges while expanding the methodological landscape of pharmaceutical research, demonstrating promise as a dedicated and impactful early-career scientist.

Profiles : Google Scholar | Scopus | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Dahiya, R., Dahiya, S., Fuloria, N. K., Kumar, S., Mourya, R., Chennupati, S. V., et al. (2020). Natural bioactive thiazole-based peptides from marine resources: Structural and pharmacological aspects. Marine Drugs, 18(6), 329.

2. Joshi, S. K., Bhadauria, R. S., & Diwaker, A. K. (2012). Introduction to neoplasm: Tumor classification – A review article. International Journal of Advanced Research in Pharmaceutical & Bio Sciences, 22.

3. Jadon, G., & Kumawat, L. (2011). Synthesis, spectral and biological evaluation of some phenyl acetic acid hydrazone derivatives. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2(10), 2572.

4. Gunjan, J., & Kumawat, L. (2011). Synthesis, spectral and biological evaluation of some hydrazone derivatives. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2(9), 2408–2412.

5. Gunjan, J., Rahul, N., Divya, S., Praveen, K. S., & Diwaker, K. A. (2012). Antioxidant activity of various parts of Punica granatum: A review. Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics, 2, 138–141.

Gunjan Jadon’s work advances analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical quality assurance by developing robust, regulatory-aligned methods that improve drug safety and evaluation. Her research contributes to more reliable therapeutic quality control, supporting innovation, precision, and societal well-being across the pharmaceutical sector.

Limin Gu | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Research Article Award

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Prof. Dr. Limin Gu | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Research Article Award

Associate Professor | Hebei University of Science and Technology | China

Prof. Dr. Limin Gu is a distinguished Associate Professor and a leading researcher in the field of flame retardant materials and materials science and engineering. She has made significant contributions to advancing sustainable flame-retardant technologies through her work at the College of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hebei University of Science & Technology, and as an active member of the Research Center for Chemical Safety & Security and Verification Technology. Her research focuses on intrinsically flame-retardant polymer synthesis, bio-based halogen-free flame retardants, graphene functionalization, and computer vision-assisted chemical analysis. With strong expertise in analytical techniques such as GC, GC-MS, HPLC, TGA, and TG-IR, she effectively integrates experimental and applied approaches in her studies. Prof. Gu has authored more than 20 scientific publications in prestigious journals including European Polymer Journal, Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, and Journal of Applied Polymer Science, and has also published a scholarly monograph on flame-retardant waterborne polyurethane materials. Her innovative research has led to over ten awarded Chinese patents related to bio-based flame retardants, phosphonium compounds, and multifunctional polymeric materials, highlighting her dedication to developing eco-friendly and high-performance flame-retardant systems. Recognized for her scientific excellence and contributions to sustainable materials development, Prof. Gu continues to influence the advancement of green chemistry and polymer innovation. Her growing academic impact is demonstrated by 227 citations, 17 documents, and an h-index of 8, reflecting her emerging leadership and meaningful contributions to the global materials science community.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Gu, L., Shi, Y., Liu, W., Zhang, L., & Ge, Y. (2025). Synthesis and characterization of the hemicellulose-based “three sources into one” intumescent flame retardant and its modification on cellulose. Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 150(12), 9105-9119.

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.