Duyang Zang | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Prof. Duyang Zang | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Northwestern Polytechnical University | China

Duyang Zang is a professor in the School of Physical Science and Technology at Northwestern Polytechnical University, China. He holds a PhD in Physics from Paris-Sud University (2010) and has since become a leading figure in soft matter physics. His research spans topics such as capillary phenomena, interfacial rheology, and the dynamics of droplets and bubbles, with a particular focus on acoustic levitation. With a remarkable academic record, Zang has authored over 90 peer-reviewed journal papers and two books.

👨‍🎓 Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Duyang Zang’s academic journey began with a deep interest in physics, leading him to earn his PhD in 2010 from Paris-Sud University. During his doctoral studies, he focused on complex systems and their physical behaviors at the interfaces, an area that would become central to his later research career. His foundational work laid the groundwork for his specialization in soft matter physics.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Zang is a professor at Northwestern Polytechnical University, where he continues to lead cutting-edge research in soft matter dynamics. Over the past decade, Zang has managed and contributed to over 10 major scientific projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Education. His research is not limited to traditional soft matter studies but also explores the innovative application of acoustic levitation to manipulate soft matter systems.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Zang’s work is at the forefront of soft matter physics, focusing on the physics and dynamics of interfaces in complex and soft matter systems. His key research areas include:

  • Capillary phenomena: Understanding how liquids interact with surfaces at a microscopic level.
  • Interfacial rheology: Investigating how soft materials behave under stress and deformation.
  • Droplet and bubble dynamics: Studying the movement, stability, and behavior of droplets and bubbles in various systems.
  • Phase behaviors: Exploring how materials transition between different phases, such as from liquid to gas or solid to liquid.

A particularly innovative aspect of his research is the exploration of combining soft matter physics with acoustic levitation, which enables novel ways of manipulating matter without physical contact.

📈 Academic Cites

Zang’s extensive body of work is reflected in his impressive citation count of more than 2,700 citations, with an h-index of 30 (as per Scopus). This demonstrates his significant and sustained influence in the scientific community, with numerous researchers building upon his findings to explore new areas of study.

🧠 Research Skills

Zang is recognized for his strong analytical and experimental research skills, which have enabled him to conduct groundbreaking work on interfacial phenomena and phase transitions. His ability to integrate theoretical models with experimental observations has made him a leader in both fundamental and applied research in soft matter physics. Additionally, his work in acoustic levitation showcases his ability to merge innovative technologies with classical research areas.

🏫 Teaching Experience

As a professor, Zang is deeply committed to the education and mentorship of the next generation of physicists. He has taught various courses, including those on soft matter physics and complex systems. His teaching extends beyond formal classrooms as he also participates in academic panels, conferences, and research guidance, offering valuable mentorship to graduate students and young researchers.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Duyang Zang’s work has earned him prestigious recognitions such as:

  • Top 10 Emerging Scientists Award of China (2018)
  • IAAM Scientist Medal (2021)
  • Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials (IAAM)
    His achievements are further underscored by his role on the editorial boards of leading journals like European Physical Journal E, Frontiers in Soft Matter, and Soft Matter.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Zang’s contributions have set the stage for continued advances in soft matter physics, especially in its application to new technologies and innovative materials. As a thought leader, he is likely to continue influencing the field by addressing complex challenges, such as dynamic interfaces and material design. Zang’s work, particularly in acoustic levitation, could open new frontiers in areas like biotechnology, nanotechnology, and advanced manufacturing.

  Publications Top Notes

Anisotropic growth dynamics of liquid bridge during droplet coalescence under acoustic levitation

  • Authors: Hongyue Chen, Xianyu Nong, Bokun Zhao, Wenxuan Zhong, Kangqi Liu, Zhen Chen, Duyang Zang
    Journal: Physical Review Fluids
    Year: 2025

Atomization by Acoustic Levitation Facilitates Contactless Microdroplet Reactions

  • Authors: Xiaoxu Li, Xianyu Nong, Chenghui Zhu, Xufeng Gao, Huan Chen, Xu Yuan, Dong Xing, Lu Liu, Chiyu Liang, Duyang Zang et al.
    Journal: Journal of the American Chemical Society
    Year: 2024

Ultrasound induced grain refinement of crystallization in evaporative saline droplets

  • Authors: Xiaoqiang Zhang, Hongyue Chen, Yuhan Wang, Xin Gao, Zhijun Wang, Nan Wang, Duyang Zang
    Journal: Ultrasonics Sonochemistry
    Year: 2024

Extraordinary stability of surfactant‐free bubbles suspended in ultrasound

  • Authors: Xiaoliang Ji, Wenxuan Zhong, Kangqi Liu, Yichen Jiang, Hongyue Chen, Wei Zhao, Duyang Zang
    Journal: Droplet
    Year: 2024

Toward Enhanced Aerosol Particle Adsorption in Never‐Bursting Bubble via Acoustic Levitation and Controlled Liquid Compensation

  • uthors: Xiaoliang Ji, Pingsong Jiang, Yichen Jiang, Hongyue Chen, Weiming Wang, Wenxuan Zhong, Xiaoqiang Zhang, Wei Zhao, Duyang Zang
    Journal: Advanced Science
    Year: 2023

 

Celal Kursun | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Assoc Prof Dr. Celal Kursun | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Head of Materials Science and Engineering at Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Turkey

Dr. Celal Kurşun is an Associate Professor at Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, specializing in Materials Science and Engineering. He completed his postdoctoral research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has a strong background in the synthesis and characterization of advanced materials, including magnesium-based alloys and metallic glasses. Dr. Kurşun has held various academic positions, including Assistant Professor and Research Specialist, and has supervised numerous graduate theses.

🎓Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Celal Kurşun’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication to materials science and engineering, with a particular focus on advanced alloys, structural properties, and energy applications. His academic path began with a Bachelor’s degree in 2009, followed by a Master’s degree in 2012, where he investigated the structural and thermal properties of copper-based alloys. These early pursuits laid the foundation for his more extensive doctoral research, where he completed not one but two PhD theses. The first, completed in 2015, focused on the structural, thermal, and mechanical properties of Cu-based nanocrystalline alloys, while the second (2018) shifted focus to magnesium-based amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys, particularly their mechanical and hydrogen storage capacities. This early academic pursuit of diverse materials’ properties set the stage for his later contributions to high-impact research areas such as energy storage, radiation shielding, and alloy design.

Professional Endeavors & Postdoctoral Research 🔬

Dr. Kurşun’s professional career is distinguished by both teaching and high-level research. After earning his PhD, he undertook a postdoctoral position at the prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison (2018-2020) within the Materials Science and Engineering Department. Here, his research concentrated on the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced magnesium-based bulk metallic glass alloys for hydrogen storage and energy applications. This period not only sharpened his research skills but also allowed him to engage in cutting-edge projects with significant implications for sustainable energy technologies. His postdoctoral work solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the study of energy-efficient materials.

Contributions and Research Focus ⚙️

Dr. Kurşun’s research focuses on advanced materials, particularly nanostructured and metallic glass alloys. His work addresses critical challenges in energy storage, with a focus on hydrogen storage in magnesium-based alloys, which holds promise for clean energy applications. Additionally, his research on radiation shielding materials, such as boron-doped titanium alloys and Al-Gd2O3 composites, contributes to industries requiring advanced protective materials against neutron and gamma radiation, such as nuclear energy and space exploration.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Kurşun’s research has not only advanced academic knowledge but has also had significant real-world applications. His groundbreaking work on magnesium-based alloys for hydrogen storage and his innovative approaches to improving radiation shielding materials have placed him at the forefront of energy and environmental research. Furthermore, his academic leadership has had a broad impact through the mentorship of numerous graduate students, many of whom have gone on to pursue successful careers in materials science and engineering. His recognition within international scientific organizations such as the American Physical Society and The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society underscores his influence on the global materials science community.

Academic Citations 📑

Dr. Kurşun’s work has been consistently recognized and cited in leading international journals, including Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, Ceramics International, and HELIYON. His research on the structural and mechanical properties of alloys, radiation shielding, and catalytic processes is frequently cited by researchers working in similar domains, contributing to the development of novel materials and technologies. His citation record reflects the impact his work has had on advancing knowledge and innovation in materials science, energy storage, and environmental sustainability.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Dr. Kurşun possesses an extensive skill set, combining advanced experimental techniques with theoretical modeling. His technical expertise includes the design, synthesis, and characterization of amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys, as well as mechanical testing, neutron and gamma radiation shielding, and the study of thermal properties of materials. His familiarity with techniques such as arc melting, mechanical alloying, and the use of various characterization tools (e.g., X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy) allows him to address complex challenges in materials science.

Teaching Experience 🍎

Throughout his career, Dr. Kurşun has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring students. As an Associate Professor, he has designed and taught various courses in materials science, solid-state physics, and engineering, preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers. His approach to teaching emphasizes not only the theoretical foundations of materials science but also practical, hands-on experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges. In addition to his classroom duties, Dr. Kurşun has supervised a number of graduate and undergraduate theses, helping students pursue their research interests and develop critical thinking and analytical skills.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Kurşun’s legacy is already being shaped by his continued research and mentorship, with his influence extending to both the scientific community and the educational sector. Looking ahead, Dr. Kurşun aims to deepen his work on sustainable materials for energy applications, particularly in developing alloys that can address the global demand for clean energy solutions. His research trajectory also hints at greater interdisciplinary work, exploring areas where materials science meets environmental sustainability, energy storage, and the circular economy.

Publication Top Notes📖

Structure, mechanical, and neutron radiation shielding characteristics of mechanically milled nanostructured (100-x)Al-xGd2O3 metal composites
  • Authors: Celal Kursun, Meng Gao, Ali Orkun Yalcin, Khursheed A. Parrey, Yasin Gaylan
    Journal: Ceramics International
    Year: 2024
Unraveling structural relaxation induced ductile-to-brittle transition from perspective of shear band nucleation kinetics in metallic glass
  • Authors: Meng Gao, Celal Kursun, John H. Perepezko
    Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
    Year: 2023
Synthesis and mechanical properties of (Ni70Si30)100−x Fe x (x = 0, 5, 10) alloys
  • Authors: Celal Kursun, Ahmet Muslim Aksoy
    Journal: Emerging Materials Research
    Year: 2019
Mechanical properties, microstructural and thermal evolution of Mg65Ni20Y15−xSix (X = 1, 2, 3) alloys by mechanical alloying
  • Authors: Celal Kursun, Musa Gogebakan, Hasan Eskalen
    Journal: Materials Research Express
    Year: 2018
The Effect of Milling Time on the Synthesis of Cu54Mg22Ti18Ni6 Alloy
  • Authors: Celal Kursun, Musa Gogebakan
    Journal: 9th International Physics Conference of the Balkan Physical Union (Bpu-9)
    Year: 2016

 

 

jie zhang | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Mr. Jie zhang | Experimental methods | Best Researcher Award

Student at Nanjing University of Aeronaut, China

Jie Zhang is a dedicated student at the State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control for Aerospace Structures at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. With a strong foundation in engineering, Jie is pursuing both Master’s and Doctoral studies in Material Science and Technology. His academic journey reflects a commitment to innovation and research, particularly in energy storage solutions. Through his active involvement in multiple prestigious research projects, Jie is gaining valuable experience in advanced materials synthesis, positioning himself as a promising researcher in the field.

Profile:

🎓Education:

Jie Zhang earned his Bachelor’s degree from the College of Engineering and Applied Science at Nanjing University. Currently, he is advancing his education as a Master’s and Doctoral student in the College of Material Science and Technology at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. His academic training encompasses a deep understanding of material properties and synthesis techniques. Jie’s educational background equips him with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex challenges in material science, particularly in developing advanced materials for lithium-ion batteries. His ongoing studies focus on innovative methods to enhance energy storage technologies, preparing him for a future of impactful contributions to the field.

Professional Experience:

Jie Zhang has actively participated in several prominent research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Key Research and Development Program of Jiangsu Province. His hands-on experience in these projects has allowed him to explore innovative synthesis methods for transition metal oxides. Although Jie has not yet engaged in consultancy or industry projects, his research involvement provides a solid foundation for future collaborations. His current focus is on hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis, where he investigates the morphology evolution and self-assembly processes of advanced materials. This experience is invaluable as he works towards developing superior anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, enhancing their performance and sustainability.

Research Focus:

Jie Zhang’s research primarily centers on hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis of transition metal oxides for energy storage applications. He has proposed novel and facile methods to synthesize micro-nano structures and yolk-shell structures, which are pivotal for enhancing the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). His innovative approach involves investigating the morphology evolution and self-assembly processes of these materials, contributing significantly to the understanding of their properties and functionalities.

Awards and Honors:

Jie Zhang is an emerging researcher whose contributions to material science and energy storage are gaining recognition. Although he has not yet received formal awards or honors, his participation in high-impact research projects demonstrates his commitment to excellence. His involvement in prestigious initiatives funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Key Research and Development Program of Jiangsu Province positions him favorably within the academic community. Additionally, his forthcoming patent (CN117374246A) reflects his innovative approach to research and the potential for significant advancements in the field. Jie’s work is recognized for its originality and impact, which could lead to future accolades as he continues to publish and contribute to high-quality scientific journals.

📖 Publication Top Notes:

Title: Modal signal analysis of parabolic shell structures with flexoelectric sensors
  • Authors: Zhang, J., Fan, M., Tzou, H.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 1
Title: Glucose-assisted solvothermal synthesis of hierarchical micro-nano yolk–shell V2O3 microspheres as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries
  • Authors: Zhang, J., Zhu, K., Kong, Z., Yan, K., Liu, J.
    Publication Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
Title: Interfacial Engineering of MoS2/V2O3@C-rGO Composites with Pseudocapacitance-Enhanced Li/Na-Ion Storage Kinetics
  • Authors: Rao, Y., Zhu, K., Zhang, G., Liu, J., Wang, J.
    Publication Year: 2023
    Citations: 2
Title: Oxygen vacancies and heterointerface co-boosted Zn2+ (De)intercalation kinetics in VO2 for ultra-efficient aqueous zinc-ion batteries
  • Authors: Liang, P., Zhu, K., Chen, J., Yan, K., Wang, J.
    Publication Year: 2023
    Citations: 25
Title: Flexoelectric vibration control of parabolic shells
  • Authors: Zhang, J., Fan, M., Tzou, H.
    Publication Year: 2023
    Citations: 5

 

Priyanka Sahu | Experimental methods | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Priyanka Sahu | Experimental methods | Young Scientist Award

Assistant Professor at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge of Technologies-RK Valley (AP-IIIT RK Valley), India

Dr. Priyanka Sahu is an accomplished academic and researcher, currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies (AP-IIIT), Idupulapaya, Andhra Pradesh. With a solid foundation in Physics and Astronomy (Materials Science), she holds an M.Tech degree from NIT Rourkela and a Ph.D. from IIT Indore. Her research focuses on the development of high entropy alloys and soft magnetic materials, with expertise in experimental methodologies such as sol-gel auto-combustion and mechanical alloying. Dr. Sahu has published numerous high-impact papers, presented at international conferences, and received prestigious accolades like the Best Researcher Award and Best Oral Presentation. She is a passionate educator and an innovative thinker, contributing significantly to both research and academia.

Profile:

Education

Dr. Priyanka Sahu has pursued an impressive academic journey, earning her Ph.D. in Materials Science from the Indian Institute of Technology Indore (IITI) in 2023, where her dissertation focused on developing and characterizing high-entropy soft magnetic alloys. She holds an M.Tech (Research) degree in Physics and Astronomy with a specialization in Materials Science from the National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NITR) in 2017, during which she studied the electrical and magnetic properties of modified strontium hexaferrite. Prior to this, she completed her Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Telecommunication at the Government Engineering College Bilaspur in 2014, following a diploma in the same discipline from the Government Polytechnic College Ambikapur in 2011. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Sahu has consistently maintained high honors and distinctions, showcasing her dedication to research and learning.

 

Professional experience

Dr. Priyanka Sahu has accumulated diverse teaching and research experience. She is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies (AP-IIIT), Idupulapaya, Andhra Pradesh, since March 2024. Prior to this, Dr. Sahu worked as a Teaching Assistant and researcher at IIT Indore from 2017 to 2023, during which she handled multiple labs and courses related to physical metallurgy and material science. Her research experience also includes working at NIT Rourkela in a Physics Laboratory. Dr. Sahu has expertise in handling various high-end instruments such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), which are crucial in material characterization. She has also participated in numerous national and international conferences as a presenter and invited speaker, furthering her knowledge and sharing insights into her specialized research areas.

Research focus

Dr. Priyanka Sahu’s research is centered around the development of advanced materials, particularly high-entropy alloys (HEAs), soft magnetic materials, and magnetocaloric materials. Her work explores novel synthesis methods, including mechanical alloying and sol-gel auto-combustion, to develop new materials with superior thermal, magnetic, and electrical properties. Dr. Sahu has extensively studied the microstructural and magnetic behaviors of multi-component alloys, investigating the influence of elements like Si and Mn on phase evolution and magnetic properties. She also focuses on thermodynamic modeling using Redlich-Kister formalism and Miedema’s semi-empirical models for predicting phase formations in these alloys. Her research aims to apply theoretical models to experimental data for better material characterization, especially in high-entropy amorphous alloys. Dr. Sahu’s work is highly interdisciplinary, impacting fields like nanotechnology, metallurgy, and condensed matter physics.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Priyanka Sahu has received numerous accolades throughout her academic and professional career. She was awarded the prestigious “Best Researcher Award” at the 16th edition of International Research Awards in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics in 2024. Her outstanding oral presentation in the “Progress in Metallurgy & Materials (ISPMM-2023)” at IIT Indore earned her a Best Oral Presentation award. Additionally, she secured the 1st runner-up spot in poster presentation during the Research and Industrial Conclave (RIC-2023) at IIT Indore. Dr. Sahu has also received multiple honorariums for her contributions to various programs such as the QIP program at IIT Indore and TEQIP-III in 2018. She was recognized for her early academic excellence with a merit scholarship at Government Polytechnic College Ambikapur, and she ranked 1st in class during her diploma years. These honors reflect her commitment to research and academia.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Synthesis and characterization of hydrogenated novel AlCrFeMnNiW high entropy alloy
    ✍️ SK Dewangan, VK Sharma, P Sahu, V Kumar
    📘 International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 45(34), 16984-16991, 2020, cited 62 times
  • Investigating the effect of multiple grain–grain interfaces on electric and magnetic properties of [50 wt% BaFe12O19–50 wt% Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3] composite system
    ✍️ R Pattanayak, R Muduli, RK Panda, T Dash, P Sahu, S Raut, S Panigrahi
    📘 Physica B: Condensed Matter, 485, 67-77, 2016, cited 42 times
  • Microstructure and magnetic behavior of FeCoNi (Mn–Si) x (x= 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) high-entropy alloys
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Solanki, S Dewangan, V Kumar
    📘 Journal of Materials Research, 34(5), 829-840, 2019, cited 30 times
  • Dielectric, ferroelectric and impedance spectroscopic studies in TiO2-doped AgNbO3 ceramic
    ✍️ R Muduli, R Pattanayak, S Raut, P Sahu, V Senthil, S Rath, P Kumar, …
    📘 Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 664, 715-725, 2016, cited 21 times
  • Effect of grain size on electric transport and magnetic behavior of strontium hexaferrite (SrFe12O19)
    ✍️ P Sahu, SN Tripathy, R Pattanayak, R Muduli, N Mohapatra, S Panigrahi
    📘 Applied Physics A, 123, 1-10, 2017, cited 15 times
  • Microstructural, magnetic, and geometrical thermodynamic investigation of FeCoNi (MnSi) x (0.0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) high entropy alloys
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Materialia, 18, 101133, 2021, cited 7 times
  • Impact of Si and Mg on Microstructural and Magnetic Behavior of Fe-Co-Ni (Mg-Si)x (x = 0.00,0.1,0.2) Multicomponent Alloys
    ✍️ P Sahu, AS Bagri, MD Anoop, M Kumar, V Kumar
    📘 Silicon, 12, 893-902, 2020, cited 7 times
  • Microstructural, magnetic, and geometrical thermodynamic investigation of FeCoNi (MnSi) x (0.0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) high entropy alloys
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Materialia, 18, 101133, Patent NO
  • Microstructure, Non-isothermal Crystallization Kinetics and Magnetic Behaviour Study of [FeCoNi100-x(SiMn)x] High Entropy Amorphous Alloys Synthesized by …
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Metals and Materials International, 29(9), 2684-2709, 2023, cited 3 times
  • Phase Evolution and Soft Magnetic Behavior of Mechanically Alloyed Fe–Co–Ni Medium Entropy Alloy at Different Disk Angular Velocity
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 76(11), 3065-3078, 2023, cited 2 times
  • Investigation of the structural, electrical, and magnetic behavior of Co3+-Ti4+ doped strontium hexaferrite: validation of measured and theoretical models
    ✍️ P Sahu, PK Sahu, S Panigrahi
    📘 Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 35(10), 709, 2024, cited 1 time
  • Influence of Si and Mn on the Phase Formation, Crystallization Kinetics, and Enhanced Magnetic Properties of Mechanically Alloyed NiCoFe(SiMn)x High Entropy …
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Silicon, 15(12), 5367-5392, 2023, cited 1 time
  • An assessment of the mechanically alloyed equiatomic FeCoNiMnSi high entropy amorphous alloy for non-isothermal crystallization kinetics and magnetocaloric refrigeration …
    ✍️ P Sahu, S Samal, V Kumar
    📘 Materials Characterization, 216, 114269, 2024

Conclusion

Overall, Dr. Priyanka Sahu is a well-rounded researcher with a solid background in materials science, excellent technical skills, a significant publication record, and previous awards. Her contributions to the field of high entropy alloys and magnetocaloric materials are impressive and impactful. While focusing on securing research funding and pursuing interdisciplinary research could enhance her profile further, she is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.”