Florentina-Cristina Chirila | Experimental Methods | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Florentina-Cristina Chirila | Experimental Methods | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Materials Physics | Romania

Florentina-Cristina Chirila (Dragoi) is a highly accomplished physicist specializing in ferroelectric and multiferroic materials. With extensive experience in material science research, she has contributed significantly to the field through national and international collaborations. As a Senior Researcher at the National Institute of Materials Physics, Romania, she has coordinated and participated in multiple high-impact research projects, secured patents, authored numerous high-ranking publications, and presented at international conferences. Her leadership in developing functional materials for electronics and sensors has placed her at the forefront of innovation in advanced material applications. Recognized for both her scientific output and mentorship, she exemplifies a researcher deeply committed to advancing technology for future energy, sensing, and electronic solutions.

Profiles

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Education

Florentina-Cristina Chirila completed her academic training at the University of Bucharest, where she obtained both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physics, followed by a Ph.D. focused on the electrical and ferroic properties of complex heterostructures involving ferroelectric materials. Her academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future research on functional oxide materials. Her doctoral work bridged theoretical understanding and practical applications in electronic devices, sensors, and memory systems. This strong academic background, combined with subsequent international research experience in Germany and Spain, allowed her to develop expertise in a broad range of experimental and analytical techniques, which she continues to apply in advanced materials development and interdisciplinary scientific collaboration.

Professional Experience

Florentina-Cristina Chirila began her research career at the National Institute of Materials Physics in Romania, where she currently holds the position of Senior Researcher Rank I. Her career includes specialized training and short-term scientific stages in prominent European institutes, such as the Max Planck Institute and the Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona. She has led research efforts on ferroelectric thin films and multiferroic heterostructures, coordinating multi-year, high-budget projects and managing research teams. In addition to project leadership, she has contributed as a team member on several international and national projects. Her collaborative network spans multiple countries, enhancing her capacity to integrate cross-border expertise into her scientific endeavors.

Awards and Honors

Florentina-Cristina Chirila has been recognized with several prestigious awards for her outstanding contributions to materials science. Her accolades include the esteemed “Radu Grigorovici” Prize from the Romanian Academy and the “Roger Kelly Award” for young researchers. She has also been a consistent recipient of medals and recognition at EUROINVENT, securing Bronze, Silver, and Excellence Awards. These honors acknowledge not only her research achievements but also her innovation, as demonstrated by her patent applications and technology development in the area of energy harvesting and sensor design. Her reputation as an expert reviewer for high-impact journals further affirms her standing in the global scientific community.

Research Focus

Florentina-Cristina Chirila’s research centers on the development and characterization of functional materials, particularly ferroelectric thin films, multiferroic heterostructures, and oxide-based interfaces. Her work emphasizes experimental methods, electrical characterization, and strain engineering to improve the performance of energy storage devices, pyroelectric sensors, and multistate memory elements. A significant portion of her research addresses energy harvesting and advanced sensor applications. She has made impactful contributions through innovation in pyroelectric elements and dielectric nanolaminates. Her ability to translate fundamental material properties into applied technologies positions her research at the interface of physics, engineering, and nanotechnology, enabling next-generation electronic and optoelectronic solutions.

Notable Publications

Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Thin Films on TiN/Si Substrates Grown by Pulsed Laser Deposition at CMOS-Compatible Temperatures
Authors: C.F. Chirila, G.A. Boni, D.G. Popescu, C.M. Istrate, M.A. Husanu, L.D. Filip, C. Besleaga, L. Pintilie, A. Dimoulas
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2025

Electrical properties of epitaxial PZT-LSMO magnetoelectric heterostructures: the effect of the interface with the electrodes
Authors: L.M. Hrib, L. Trupina, M.I. Botea, C.F. Chirila, A.G. Boni, M.C. Istrate, L. Pintilie
Journal: Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics
Year: 2025

Guanine-based spin valve with spin rectification effect for an artificial memory element
Authors: N. Iacob, C. Chirila, M. Sangaré, A. Kuncser, A.E. Stanciu, M. Socol, …
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2025

Surface charge dynamics on air-exposed ferroelectric Pb(Zr, Ti)O3(001) thin films
Authors: L.E. Abramiuc, L.C. Tanase, M.J. Prieto, L. de Souza Caldas, A. Tiwari, …
Journal: Nanoscale
Year: 2023

Resistive-like Behavior of Ferroelectric p–n Bilayer Structures Based on Epitaxial Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3 Thin Films
Authors: A.G. Boni, C. Chirila, L. Trupina, C. Radu, L.D. Filip, V. Moldoveanu, I. Pintilie, …
Journal: ACS Applied Electronic Materials
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Florentina-Cristina Chirila exemplifies excellence in applied physics and material science through her deep technical expertise, consistent scientific output, and leadership in multidisciplinary projects. Her ability to lead high-value research and collaborate across international borders underscores her value to the global scientific community. She stands as a role model for future generations of researchers.

Mohamad Abdelaal | Experimental Methods | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamad Abdelaal | Experimental Methods | Best Researcher Award

IKI RAS | Russia

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal is a multidisciplinary space scientist and geophysicist with expertise spanning planetary science, electromagnetic phenomena, and geophysical exploration. His career integrates advanced academic research with engineering experience, particularly in studying dust particle dynamics in planetary atmospheres. Mohamad has worked across international research institutes and industry, contributing to space missions and developing instruments for electromagnetic and particle detection. His background includes seismic data processing, remote sensing, and geophysical prospecting. Through his publications and hands-on work, he has significantly contributed to understanding atmospheric discharge phenomena on Mars and the Moon. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied sciences, Mohamad bridges space exploration and environmental geophysics, shaping innovative solutions in planetary research.

Profiles

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Education

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal completed his academic journey in top institutions specializing in geosciences and space sciences. His doctoral research focused on electromagnetic phenomena arising from dust particle dynamics in planetary environments. He holds a master’s degree in Earth sciences with specialized training in mining geology and seismic data filtering. His pre-master’s education emphasized geomagnetic pulsations and electrodynamic coupling using satellite and ground-based observations. He began his academic path with a bachelor’s degree in geosciences, concentrating on geothermal energy and geophysical analysis. His education combines theoretical insight with practical training, including international exchange studies and interdisciplinary fieldwork. This academic trajectory has equipped him with the analytical, experimental, and computational skills necessary to advance planetary and space research.

Professional Experience

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal has extensive professional experience in space science, engineering, and geophysical exploration. At a major space research institute, he has led experiments investigating planetary surfaces, developing instruments for electromagnetic measurements and dust analysis. He contributes to lunar and Martian mission data interpretation and instrument calibration. In the private sector, he has worked as a geophysicist, managing surveys and data interpretation using advanced software tools. His earlier roles included engineering positions in solar energy and space applications, where he implemented georadar and electric prospecting techniques. He has also taught undergraduate physics and led laboratory sessions, integrating research with education. His professional path merges scientific exploration, engineering precision, and academic instruction in multidisciplinary environments.

Awards and Honors

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal has been recognized for academic merit, innovation, and leadership through multiple scholarships and awards. He received competitive government-funded scholarships for both his doctoral and master’s studies, reflecting academic excellence and research potential. His entrepreneurial mindset earned him recognition in a global leadership program focused on innovation and future technologies. An award from a global tech company enabled him to complete specialized training in cloud computing, further enhancing his technical profile. He was also selected for a competitive international exchange program to advance his knowledge in mining and geophysics. These honors highlight his commitment to continuous learning, technical advancement, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, positioning him as a leader in both scientific and technological domains.

Research Focus

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal’s research focuses on the interaction between charged dust particles and electromagnetic fields in planetary environments such as Mars, the Moon, and atmosphereless bodies. He develops instruments to measure low-frequency electromagnetic noise and models discharge phenomena that occur under extraterrestrial atmospheric conditions. His experimental work simulates Martian and lunar environments, investigating plasma-like behavior and the generation of electromagnetic radiation. In addition, his research extends to seismic noise filtering and geophysical prospecting for critical minerals. He combines laboratory experimentation, field data interpretation, and numerical modeling, using programming tools to analyze and visualize complex datasets. His interdisciplinary approach contributes valuable insights to space weather, planetary surface processes, and the design of future exploratory missions.

Notable Publications

Electromagnetic Noise in the Near-Surface Martian Atmosphere: Research Methods
Authors: Mohamad Abdelaal
Journal: Solar System Research
Year: 2025

Circumlunar Dusty Plasma: Main Physical Processes and Experimental Data Obtained during the “Luna-25” Mission
Authors: Popel, S.I.; Zelenyi, L.M.; Zakharov, A.V.; Kuznetsov, I.A.; Dol’nikov, G.G.; Lyash, A.N.; Shashkova, I.A.; Kartasheva, A.A.; Dubov, A.E.; Abdelaal, M.E.
Journal: Plasma Physics Reports
Year: 2024

Experimental Modeling of Atmospheric Discharge Phenomena and Charged Dust Particle Interactions
Authors: Abdelaal, M.E.; Dokuchaev, I.V.; Malinovskaya, E.A.; Klimov, S.I.; Dolnikov, G.G.; Zakharov, A.V.
Journal: Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences
Year: 2024

Experimental Study of the Influence of UV Radiation on the Activation of Regolith Dust Particle Simulators on Atmosphereless Bodies
Authors: Kuznetsov, I.A.; Shashkova, I.A.; Lyash, A.N.; Poroikov, A.Y.; Bednyakov, S.A.; Kronrod, E.V.; Dolnikov, G.G.; Dubov, A.E.; Voshchan, O.N.; Abdelaal, M.E.
Journal: Astronomy Reports
Year: 2024

Dust Complex for Studying the Dust Particle Dynamics in the Near-Surface Atmosphere of Mars
Authors: Zakharov, A.V.; Dolnikov, G.G.; Kuznetsov, I.A.; Lyash, A.N.; Esposito, F.; Molfese, C.; Rodríguez, I.A.; Seran, E.; Godefroy, M.; Dubov, A.E.; Abdelaal, M.E.
Journal: Solar System Research
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Mohamad Essam Abdelaal is a dynamic space and geophysical scientist whose expertise connects planetary research, electromagnetic analysis, and instrument development. His contributions span academic, experimental, and industrial domains, supported by strong computational and technical skills. With a track record of innovation and international collaboration, he continues to drive forward research in planetary exploration and atmospheric physics. His ability to unify scientific theory with practical applications makes him a valuable asset in advancing planetary science and future space missions.

 

Dalya Akl | High-Energy Astrophysics | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Dalya Akl | High-Energy Astrophysics | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Dalya Akl | American University of Sharjah | United Arab Emirates

Ms. Dalya Akl is an astrophysicist specializing in telescope operations, gravitational waves (GW), short gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), and computational modeling. With a rich background in astronomical image processing and data analysis. Her expertise spans real-time observation coordination, pipeline development, multi-messenger astronomy, and light curve analysis, making significant contributions to astro-physical research.

👨‍🎓Publication Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Dalya Akl’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the American University of Sharjah (U.A.E.), where she excelled in the study of gravitational waves and gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). Her undergraduate thesis, titled “Enhanced Analysis and Classification of Gamma-Ray Bursts through Advanced Astro-photometry Techniques and Machine Learning Algorithms,” showcased her early interest in combining astrophysical research with advanced data analysis techniques, laying a strong foundation for her future research endeavors.

🔭 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Dalya’s career spans multiple prominent roles in astronomical research. She is an active member of the GRANDMA Collaboration, where she plays a key role in the data analysis group and system operations. Her work in coordinating observational campaigns and data acquisition across international telescopes has provided valuable insights into the electromagnetic counterparts of gravitational wave events.  Her work has focused on optimizing observational strategies for multi-messenger astronomy, particularly for high-priority astrophysical events like GW170817.

🧑‍🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Dalya has made substantial contributions to the understanding of gravitational waves and their electromagnetic counterparts. As the lead of the SPECTRA team, she oversees the integration of diverse observation systems to ensure the precise execution of GW and GRB observational campaigns.  Additionally, the study of gamma-ray bursts has advanced understanding in these areas, contributing to the ongoing efforts to link these phenomena across multiple wavelengths.

🚀 Impact and Influence

Ms. Dalya’s work in multi-messenger astronomy has had a profound impact on the astrophysics community. Dalya’s leadership in the SN2023wrk observational campaign and her significant contributions to the analysis of supernovae and GRBs have been instrumental in shaping the discourse in multi-wavelength astrophysics. Her research has been widely cited in top-tier journals such as the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (MNRAS) and the American Astrophysical Society Journal, further cementing her influence in the field.

📚 Academic Citations

Ms. Dalya’s research is well-recognized within the scientific community, with her work cited in several impactful publications and conference presentations. Her paper such as “Early Observations of SN 2023wrk”  have contributed to the ongoing advancement of multi-messenger astrophysics. In addition, Dalya’s leadership in data analysis for campaigns like the SN2023wrk and GRB 230812B has been pivotal in shaping the field’s understanding of these high-energy events.

🖥️ Technical Skills

Ms. Dalya is highly proficient in programming languages such as Python, Fortran, and R, and is skilled in using MATLAB, Mathematica, and advanced statistical tools like XGBoost for machine learning tasks. Her technical expertise extends to data analysis software such as Tycho Tracker, SAOlmage, and Aladin Sky Atlas, which are crucial for photometry, image processing, and astrometric calibration of telescope data. These technical proficiencies allow her to design, implement, and optimize astronomical observation systems and data pipelines, enabling more accurate detection and classification of GW events and GRBs.

Publications Top Notes

 

 

Kuantay Boshkayev | High-Energy Astrophysics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kuantay Boshkayev | High-Energy Astrophysics | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakhstan

Kuantay Boshkayev is a distinguished physicist specializing in relativistic astrophysics. Born on December 4, 1981, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, he has dedicated his career to advancing scientific knowledge in theoretical physics. A professor at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), he combines his teaching and research roles, mentoring students and leading innovative research projects. Fluent in Kazakh, Russian, and English, Kuantay is recognized for his contributions to the field and his active involvement in scientific communities both locally and internationally.

🎓Profile

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Kuantay Boshkayev embarked on his academic journey at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physics (1999-2004) and a Master’s degree in Physics (2004-2006). His early research focused on relativistic equations of motion, culminating in a Master’s thesis that addressed discrepancies in these equations. He further advanced his education with two Ph.D. degrees: one in Theoretical Physics from KazNU (2009) and another in Relativistic Astrophysics from Sapienza University of Rome (2012), where he studied rotating white dwarfs and neutron stars under the guidance of prominent scholars.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Kuantay serves as a Full Professor at KazNU and Chief Research Associate at the National Nano Laboratory of Open Type (NNLOT). His professional trajectory includes roles such as Associate Professor and Leading Research Associate, contributing significantly to both academic and research settings. Throughout his career, Kuantay has held various teaching and research positions, reflecting his deep commitment to physics and education.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Kuantay Boshkayev’s research primarily revolves around relativistic astrophysics, exploring dark matter, black holes, and the dynamics of accretion disks. His work has produced impactful publications in esteemed journals, addressing complex phenomena in the universe. Notable research includes analyzing dark matter profiles in galaxies and studying the properties of rotating stars, demonstrating his expertise and dedication to advancing scientific understanding.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Kuantay’s contributions to education and research have earned him multiple accolades, including the “Kurmet Diploma” and the “Best Researcher-2021” fellowship from the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan. His work not only enriches academic discourse but also inspires students and colleagues, establishing him as a respected figure in the scientific community.

📖 Academic Citations

His extensive list of publications includes significant papers in journals such as Physical Review D, MNRAS, and Astrophysical Journal, reflecting his contributions to high-impact research. Kuantay’s work on quasiperiodic oscillations and accretion disk properties has been widely cited, further solidifying his influence in the field of astrophysics.

💻 Technical Skills

Kuantay is proficient in various computer skills, including Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, and scientific software such as Mathematica and LaTeX. His technical expertise enables him to employ advanced computational techniques in his research, enhancing the depth and accuracy of his findings.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With over 15 years of teaching experience, Kuantay has instructed courses in Electrodynamics, Special and General Relativity, and Mathematical Physics at KazNU. He has played a pivotal role in mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, shaping the future generation of physicists through rigorous academic training.

🌈 Legacy and Future Contributions

Kuantay Boshkayev aims to continue his legacy of excellence in research and education. His future contributions are expected to further explore the complexities of astrophysics, particularly in understanding dark matter and black holes. By inspiring students and collaborating with peers, he strives to make lasting impacts in both academia and the broader scientific community.

📖Publication Top Notes

Accretion disks properties around regular black hole solutions obtained from non-linear electrodynamics
  • Authors: Yergali Kurmanov, Kuantay Boshkayev, Talgar Konysbayev, Orlando Luongo, Nazym Saiyp, Ainur Urazalina, Gulfeiruz Ikhsan, Gulnara Suliyeva
    Publication Year: 2024
Quasi-periodic oscillations in rotating and deformed space–times
  • Authors: K. Boshkayev, T. Konysbayev, Ye Kurmanov, M. Muccino, H. Quevedo
    Publication Year: 2024
 Numerical analyses of M31 dark matter profiles
  • Authors: Kuantay Boshkayev, Talgar Konysbayev, Yergali Kurmanov, Orlando Luongo, Marco Muccino, Hernando Quevedo, Gulnur Zhumakhanova
    Publication Year: 2024

 

Numerical analysis of quasiperiodic oscillations with spherical spacetimes
  • Authors: Kuantay Boshkayev, Orlando Luongo, Marco Muccino
    Publication Year: 2023
On the growth of supermassive black holes formed from the gravitational collapse of fermionic dark matter cores
  • Authors: C. R. Argüelles, K. Boshkayev, A. Krut, G. Nurbakhyt, J. A. Rueda, R. Ruffini, J. D. Uribe-Suárez, R. Yunis
    Publication Year: 2023

 

 

Abhay Ashtekar | Gravitational Waves | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Abhay Ashtekar | Gravitational Waves | Best Researcher Award

Atherton University Professor at Pennsylvania State University, United States

Abhay Vasant Ashtekar is a renowned theoretical physicist specializing in gravitation and quantum gravity. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Chicago in 1978 and has since held distinguished academic positions at various institutions, including Syracuse University and The Pennsylvania State University. As the founding director of the Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos, he has made significant contributions to the understanding of loop quantum gravity. His work has been recognized globally, and he remains an influential figure in contemporary physics, engaging in research, education, and international collaboration.

 🎓Profile:

Education:

Abhay Ashtekar completed his Ph.D. in Physics at the University of Chicago in 1978. He received multiple honorary degrees, including Doctor Rerum Naturalium Honoris Causa from Friedrich-Schiller Universität, Jena, Germany in 2005 and Université de la Mediterranée, Aix-Marseille, France in 2010. His educational background laid the foundation for his pioneering work in general relativity and quantum gravity, influencing numerous scholars in the field. Ashtekar’s commitment to academic excellence and research innovation has established him as a leading educator and researcher in the realm of theoretical physics.

Professional Experience:

Abhay Ashtekar’s extensive academic experience spans several prestigious institutions. He served as Professeur at Université de Paris VI (1983-1985) and held multiple professorships at Syracuse University from 1984 to 1993. He has been the Eberly Chair and Evan Pugh Professor at The Pennsylvania State University since 1993, contributing significantly as founding director of the Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos. Ashtekar has also held visiting positions, including at the Perimeter Institute in Canada and the Raman Research Institute in India. His global collaborations and leadership roles reflect his commitment to advancing research in gravitational physics.

Research Focus:

Abhay Ashtekar’s primary research focus is on loop quantum gravity and the unification of quantum mechanics with general relativity. His work aims to understand the nature of space-time at the quantum level, challenging traditional views of gravity and proposing new frameworks for cosmological theories. He has also explored the implications of these theories for black holes and the early universe. Through his research, Ashtekar has significantly advanced the mathematical techniques used in gravitational physics, fostering a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles governing the universe. His ongoing investigations continue to inspire new approaches and discussions within the scientific community.

Awards and Honors:

Abhay Ashtekar has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. He was honored with the First Gravity Prize by the Gravity Research Foundation in 1977 and was elected as a Fellow of the American Physical Society in 1997. Other accolades include the Einstein Prize from the American Physical Society in 2019, and he has been recognized as an Honorary Fellow of both the Indian Academy of Sciences and the International Society for General Relativity and Gravitation. His contributions to education have been acknowledged through various distinguished lectures and honorary degrees, reflecting his impact on the field of theoretical physics.

📚Publication Top Notes:

Title: The Operational Meaning of Total Energy of Isolated Systems in General Relativity
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Speziale, S.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
Title: Null infinity as a weakly isolated horizon
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Speziale, S.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 2
Title: Null infinity and horizons: A new approach to fluxes and charges
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Speziale, S.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 2
Title: Horizons and null infinity: A fugue in four voices
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Speziale, S.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 6
Title: Unified treatment of null and spatial infinity III: asymptotically Minkowski space-times
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Khera, N.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 2
Title: Unified treatment of null and spatial infinity IV: angular momentum at null and spatial infinity
  • Authors: Ashtekar, A., Khera, N.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 2
Title: The Next Generation Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration: History, Philosophy, and Culture
  • Authors: Galison, P., Doboszewski, J., Elder, J., Wu, J., Wüthrich, A.
    Publication Year: 2023
    Citations: 4