Aleksandra Wierzbicka | Experimental methods | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Aleksandra Wierzbicka | Experimental methods | Women Researcher Award

Institute of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences | Poland

Dr. Aleksandra Wierzbicka is a highly accomplished physicist and materials science researcher, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IFPAN) in Warsaw. With over a decade of expertise in X-ray diffraction, epitaxy techniques, and nanostructure analysis, she is recognized for her contributions to both scientific research and education. Her work bridges fundamental physics and practical applications in nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, and photonics.

👨‍🎓Profile

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Scopus

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Aleksandra began her academic journey at the University of Warsaw, earning her undergraduate degree in Physics, specializing in Material Physics and Optics. She continued with a Master’s degree in X-ray Structural Research, where she explored mixed semiconductor crystals. Her deep interest in structural studies of materials led her to pursue a PhD at the Institute of Physics (PAS), where she conducted pioneering research on epitaxial lateral overgrowth structures, focusing on stress and defects in semiconductors using X-ray diffraction and topography techniques.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Since 2010, she has held the position of Assistant Professor at IFPAN, where her role spans scientific research, grant writing, student supervision, and international collaborations. In parallel, she has also contributed to physics education at the Jan Nowak-Jeziorański Community Primary School No. 1 STO, demonstrating her dedication to science communication and youth development.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wierzbicka has been at the forefront of innovative epitaxial growth techniques, particularly molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and liquid-phase epitaxy (LPE). Her work emphasizes the structural characterization of GaN nanowires, core-shell structures, and low-dimensional semiconductor heterostructures. She is also an expert in high-resolution X-ray diffraction and synchrotron-based techniques, contributing to the understanding of lattice disorder, defect distribution, and internal electric fields in complex materials.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Her research has been instrumental in numerous European Union-funded projects, including COST actions, OPUS, SONATA, and NanoBiom, positioning her as a key player in collaborative science. As a project manager and contractor in various high-impact studies, her work has enabled breakthroughs in semiconductor device engineering, sensor technology, and photonics. Her invited talks—such as at CMD 31 in Braga, Portugal further reflect her international recognition.

📊 Academic Citations

Dr. Wierzbicka is the author of 63 peer-reviewed scientific publications, with a citation count exceeding 550 (as per Web of Science). Her ResearcherID (C-8880-2016) and ORCID (0000-0003-1379-5941) profiles showcase her scholarly contributions and visibility in the field of solid-state physics and nanomaterials.

🧠 Research Skills

Aleksandra possesses specialized expertise in:

  • High-resolution X-ray diffraction

  • Synchrotron radiation techniques

  • MBE growth methods

  • Defect and stress analysis

  • Scientific software such as Origin, Panalytical Epitaxy, VESTA, and WinWulff

Her skills are supported by strong computational abilities and analytical rigor, critical for interpreting complex material behavior.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

In addition to her research, Dr. Wierzbicka is a committed educator, engaging both university students and school-aged learners. Her ability to translate complex physical concepts into understandable content makes her an asset in promoting STEM education. She is actively involved in mentoring and curriculum development in physics.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Wierzbicka received her PhD with honors, and her continuous involvement in competitive grant programs like Opus, Sonata, and PBS demonstrates the trust placed in her by the scientific community. Being selected as manager and principal investigator in prestigious international projects (e.g., ANKA Synchrotron Facility at KIT) is a strong indicator of her recognized scientific leadership.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Aleksandra Wierzbicka’s career reflects an ongoing commitment to scientific excellence, education, and international cooperation. She is poised to contribute further to the advancement of nanoscale materials for use in next-generation electronics and optics. Her potential lies not only in her scientific output but also in her ability to inspire and mentor future generations of physicists especially young women in STEM. Looking forward, her trajectory is aligned with leading and shaping global research initiatives in epitaxy and semiconductor technology.

Publications Top Notes

📄Structural and optical properties of in situ Eu-doped ZnCdO/ZnMgO superlattices grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

  • Authors: Anastasiia Lysak, Aleksandra Wierzbicka, Sergio Magalhaes, Piotr Dłużewski, Rafał Jakieła, Michał Szot, Zeinab Khosravizadeh, Abinash Adhikari, Adrian Kozanecki, Ewa Przeździecka

  • Journal: Nanoscale

  • Year: 2025

📄Strain distribution in GaN/AlN superlattices grown on AlN/sapphire templates: comparison of X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence studies

  • Authors: Aleksandra Wierzbicka, Agata Kaminska, Kamil Sobczak, Dawid Jankowski, Kamil Koronski, Pawel Strak, Marta Sobanska, Zbigniew R. Zytkiewicz

  • Journal: Acta Crystallographica Section B: Structural Science, Crystal Engineering and Materials

  • Year: 2025

📄Influence of the Annealing Temperature on the Properties of {ZnO/CdO}30 Superlattices Deposited on c-Plane Al₂O₃ Substrate by MBE

  • Authors: Anastasiia Lysak, Aleksandra Wierzbicka, Piotr Dłużewski, Marcin Stachowicz, Jacek Sajkowski, Ewa Przezdziecka

  • Journal: Crystals

  • Year: 2025

📄 Enhancing GaN Nanowires Performance Through Partial Coverage with Oxide Shells

  • Authors: Radoslaw Szymon, Eunika Zielony, Marta Sobanska, Tomasz Stachurski, Anna Reszka, Aleksandra Wierzbicka, Sylwia Gieraltowska, Zbigniew R. Zytkiewicz

  • Journal: Small

  • Year: 2024

📄 Effect of repeating hydrothermal growth processes and rapid thermal annealing on CuO thin film properties

  • Authors: Monika Ozga, Eunika Zielony, Aleksandra Wierzbicka, Anna Wolska, Marcin Klepka, Marek Godlewski, Bogdan J. Kowalski, Bartłomiej S. Witkowski

  • Journal: Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology

  • Year: 2024

 

 

 

Muhammad Khuram Shahzad | Nano Materials | Member

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Assist Prof Dr. Muhammad Khuram Shahzad | Nano Materials | Member

Assistant Professor at Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Khuram Shahzad is an Assistant Professor at Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology (KFUEIT), Pakistan. With a Ph.D. in Physics from Harbin Institute of Technology, China, he specializes in up-conversion nano-materials for biological applications, hyperthermia, and cancer treatments. He has 28 international publications with an impressive impact factor of 250.31. Dr. Shahzad has completed projects funded by Pakistan Science Foundation and Chinese Scholarship Council, focusing on efficient synthesis and preparation of up-conversion nanoparticles. Recognized for his research excellence, he has received awards from the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan and the Prime Minister’s office, showcasing his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Ph.D. Physics, 2019 – Harbin Institute of Technology, China Master of Philosophy (M.Phil), 2015 – Department of Physics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan Master of Science (M.Sc.) Physics, 2011 – Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Physics, 2006 – University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

Work Experience

Lecturer in Physics: Masomeen College for Advanced Studies, Chiniot (2010-2015) Post Doc Position: Henan University, Kaifeng China (4, December 2019 – 30, September 2020) Assistant Professor: KFUEIT (30, September 2020 – Present)

Research Experience

Six (6) years research experience in the field of up-conversion (UC) nano-materials for biological applications, hyperthermia and cancer treatments, sensors, thin films, nanotechnology, DFT, and Optogenetics Total publications: 28 International Publications: 28 International Impact factor: 250.31 Submitted articles: 3 International journal’s reviewer: Physical and Engineering Sciences in Medicine, Biomedical optics express, Journal of biological chemistry, Pakistan journal of biological science

Awards / Achievements

Awarded best researcher by Higher Education Commission of Pakistan on 04, November-2022 Won laptop and certificate by Prime Minister of Pakistan for best young researcher in Pakistan in 2015. CSC scholarship for doctoral degree admission in China from 2016 to 2019. Sparkle fellowship on 20 December 2020 (Ireland).

Research Focus:

Muhammad Khuram Shahzad’s research primarily focuses on nanomaterials and their applications in biomedical engineering, particularly in the fields of hyperthermia therapy and optical sensing. His work includes the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles for photo-hyperthermia therapy, as well as the development of optical temperature sensing probes using nanostructured materials. Additionally, Shahzad investigates the use of nanocomposites for contaminant removal and solar-to-fuel conversion. His contributions span various disciplines, including nanotechnology, photonics, and materials science, aiming to advance knowledge and technology for biomedical and environmental applications.

Publications

  1. Fermented Corn Stalk for Biosorption of Copper(II) from Aqueous Solution, cited by: 2, Publication: 2018.
  2. A DFT study of structural, electronic, optical, thermal and mechanical properties of cubic perovskite KGeX3 (X = Cl, Br) compound for solar cell applications, cited by: 1, Publication: 2024.
  3. Structural, electronic, optical, and mechanical properties of cubic perovskite LaMnX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) compound for optoelectronic applications: a DFT study, Publication: 2024.
  4. Structural, Electronic, Mechanical, and Optical properties of the lead-free halide perovskites XGeCl3(X = Cs, K, and Rb) for the photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications, Publication: 2023.
  5. Analysis of gold nanospheres, nano ellipsoids, nanorods, and effect of core–shell structures for hyperthermia treatment, Publication: 2022.
  6. Influence of VO2 based structures and smart coatings on weather resistance for boosting the thermochromic properties of smart window applications, Publication: 2022.
  7. Zirconium-based cubic-perovskite materials for photocatalytic solar cell applications: a DFT study, Publication: 2022.
  8. Investigation on optical temperature sensing behaviour via Ag island-enhanced luminescence doped β-NaGdF4:Yb3+/Tm3+ films/microfibers†, Publication: 2021.
  9. Facile preparation of upconversion microfibers for efficient luminescence and distributed temperature measurement†, Publication: 2019.
  10. Dispersing upconversion nanocrystals in PMMA microfiber: a novel methodology for temperature sensing, Publication: 2018.
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Badis Kahouadji | Synthesis of nanomaterials

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Dr. Badis Kahouadji: Leading Researcher in Synthesis of nanomaterials

Researcher-Teacher in the Department of Technology at A. Mira University of Bejaia, Algeria.

🎉👨‍🔬🏆 Congratulations, Dr. Badis Kahouadji, on winning the esteemed ”Best Researcher Award” from ScienceFather! 🏅 Your dedication, innovative research, and scholarly contributions have truly made a significant impact in your field. 🌐 Your commitment to advancing knowledge and pushing the boundaries of research is commendable. 🚀 Here’s to your continued success in shaping the future of academia and making invaluable contributions to your field. Well done! 🎊👏

👨‍🎓🔬 Dr. Badis Kahouadji, a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Experimental Methods, holds the position of Researcher-Teacher in the Department of Technology at A. Mira University of Bejaia, Algeria. 🌍 His academic journey has been marked by a profound dedication to advancing the synthesis of nanomaterials, specifically in the synthesis by sol-gel method. His focus extends to the structural and optic properties study of ortho-phosphates scintillators LnPO4 (Ln = Y, Lu, La, and Gd) doped by trivalent rare earths ions. 🧪💡 Your contributions to the field are truly commendable! 🌟 Keep shining in your pursuit of knowledge and innovation! 👏🎓

Professional Profiles:

Academic studies and diplomas

  • Doctorate Diploma : A.Mira university of Bejaia –Algeria
  • Research Laboratory: Luminescence Laboratory- Laser Department (Nuclear Research Center of Algies -NRCA-)

Scientific Activities and Experience

  • Permanant Reasercher-Teacher at A.Mira university
  • Participation in the national course entitled ‘’ National Training course on the fight against the illicit traffic of the nuclear matters and other radioactive materials ‘’ from March 4th to 07th , 2012 in Algiers (COMMENA)

Peer Reviewer & Academic Engagements

  • Citations: 75 (All), 75 (Since 2018)
  • h-index: 5 (All), 5 (Since 2018)
  • i10-index: 2 (All), 2 (Since 2018)

Publications: 64 documents indexed in Scopus.

Selective Publications (JOURNALS)

  • International publication: www.waset.org/Publication/9997875 Structural and Optical Properties Of Ce3+doped YPO4 : Nanophosphors Synthesis by Sol Gel Method’’ , B. Kahouadji, L. Guerbous, L. Lamiri, A. Mendoud ,International Journal of mathematical, Computational, Physical and Quantum, Engineering, Vol 8,N° 4,2014.
  • International publication: www.jyotiacademicpress.org/jyotic/journalview/28/abstract/34/60/155 THERMAL ANNEALING AND SUBSTRATE NATURE EFFECTS ON STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES, MORPHOLOGICAL AND PHOTOLUMINESCENCE OF PLANAR THIN FILM PHOSPHORS DEPOSED BY SOL-GEL METHOD , Author(s) : L. Guerbous, A. Boukerika, M. Taibeche, A. Sari, Y. Larbah, M. Seraiche, M. S. E. Hamroun, S. Saadi, L. Lamiri and B. Kahouadji Pages : [149] – [182] Received : December 24, 2016; Revised January 13, 2017
  • International publication:
    Badis Kahouadji , Lamine Mebarki , Lyes Benharrat , Jai Prakash , Hendrik C. Swart ,
    Abdelhalim Zoukel , Salim Ouhenia , Lamiri Lyes , Lakhdar Guerbous , Dirk Poelman ,
    Flexible and luminescent polymer nanocomposite films (YPO4:Pr3+/ polystyrene):
    Investigation of structural, morphological and photoluminescence properties for solid-state
    lighting applications, Optical Materials 143 (2023) 114251,
    doi.org/10.1016/j.optmat.2023.114251.
  • International publication:
    Lyes Lamiri , Badis Kahouadji , Mourad Berd , Abdelmoumen Abdellatif, Lotfi Benchallal ,
    Lakhdar Guerbous , Salim Ouhenia , Abdelhafid Souici , Leila Amiour , Abdelhalim Zoukel ,
    Madani Samah , Structural, morphological and photoluminescence characterizations of
    Sm3þ doped Y2O3 nano-sized phosphors synthesized by ultrasound assisted sol-gel method,
    Journal of Rare Earths,https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jre.2022.03.006.
  • International publication:
    Density Functional Theory Study of Gold Doped Armchair Graphene
    Nanoribbons with Vacancies.
    L. Benchallal , S. Haffad , F. Boubenider , L. Lamiri, H. Zitoune , B. Kahouadji ,
    M. Samah, Journal of Computational and Theoretical Nanoscience 15(5):1484-1489.
  • International publication:
    Effect of Vacancies on Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Hydrogen Passivated
    Graphene Nanoribbons.
    S. Haffad , L. Benchallal , F. Boubenider , L. Lamiri, H. Zitoune , B. Kahouadji , M. Samah,
    ACTA PHYSICA POLONICA A,5(2018)133.
  • International publication:
    Optical Materials Annealing effect on the photoluminescence properties of Ce 3+ doped
    YPO4 nanophosphors.
    B. Kahouadjia, L. Guerbousb, Dragana J. Jovanović, Miroslav D. Dramićanin, M. Samaha,L.
    Lamiria, L. Benchallala, Milena Marinović Cincović, Optical Materials 91 (2019) 35–41.
  • International publication:
    B. Kahouadjia, L. Guerbousb, Dragana J. Jovanović, Miroslav D. Dramićanin,A.H.Souici,
    Photoluminescence properties of nano-sized (Lu1-xYx)PO4:Pr3+ (x=10, 20, 30, 40, 50 at. %)
    phosphor powders, Optical Materials 109 (2020) 110252.
  • International publication:
    Mourad Berd, Kamal Moussi, Youcef Aouabdia, Lotfi Benchallal, Ghiles Chahi, Badis
    Kahouadji, From metallic to semiconductor conversion of single –walled carbon nanotubes
    by chlorination, Chemical Physics Letters, Volume 781, 16 October 2021, 138988
  • International publication:
    Badis Kahouadji, Lakhdar Guerbous, Dragana J. Jovanović, Miroslav D Dramicanin,
    Temperature dependence of red emission in YPO4:Pr3+ nanopowders, Journal of
    Luminescence, Volume 241, January 2022, 118499.