Nidhi Chandrakar | Emerging Technologies | Applied Scientist Award

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Ms. Nidhi Chandrakar | Emerging Technologies | Applied Scientist Award

Nidhi Chandrakar at NIT Trichy | India

Nidhi Chandrakar is a passionate and highly motivated researcher with expertise in power electronics, converter topologies, and advanced control strategies. Her work focuses on the development of high-efficiency energy conversion systems and smart power solutions for various applications, including electric vehicles, renewable energy integration, and intelligent energy storage systems. She has an exceptional ability to combine theoretical knowledge with practical implementation, demonstrated through her extensive experience in hardware design, circuit simulation, and system optimization. Nidhi has contributed to multiple high-impact research projects, including the design of Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converters and the implementation of innovative modulation strategies for improving performance and efficiency. She has published her research findings in reputed international journals and has presented her work at several prestigious conferences. In addition, she has co-authored book chapters on emerging electric vehicle technologies and hybrid energy systems, reflecting her versatility and technical proficiency. Nidhi’s strong analytical skills, collaborative mindset, and innovative approach position her as a dedicated researcher committed to driving advancements in sustainable power systems and next-generation energy solutions.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Nidhi Chandrakar has built a solid academic foundation in electrical engineering, power systems, and energy technologies. She is currently pursuing advanced research focused on power electronics and control strategies, particularly the optimization of high-performance DC-DC converters. Her academic journey has been defined by her deep interest in converter topologies, modulation techniques, and energy-efficient system designs. Throughout her studies, she has explored hardware implementation, simulation modeling, and algorithm development to bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications. She has consistently demonstrated strong academic performance, excelling in both analytical and experimental aspects of electrical engineering. Nidhi’s research training has provided her with practical exposure to modern control systems, FPGA programming, and microcontroller-based hardware development. Her academic experiences also include collaborative projects, interdisciplinary research, and active participation in workshops and seminars, which have strengthened her understanding of emerging technologies. By integrating advanced concepts of power electronics, renewable energy systems, and intelligent control, Nidhi has developed a holistic perspective on modern engineering challenges. Her educational background has shaped her into a skilled researcher with a passion for exploring innovative solutions in sustainable energy systems and cutting-edge power conversion technologies.

Professional Experience

Nidhi Chandrakar has gained valuable professional experience through diverse roles in research, development, and teaching. She is currently contributing as a Senior R&D Engineer, where she works on the design and development of electronic load systems used for testing power supplies, batteries, and advanced energy systems. Her role involves hardware design, circuit optimization, testing, and troubleshooting, enabling her to develop efficient and reliable systems. Previously, she worked as an R&D Engineer, where she focused on Boost PFC circuits, LLC resonant converters, and Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converters. During this period, she played a key role in developing gate driver circuits, isolated regulated power supplies, and advanced PCB layouts. In addition to her industrial contributions, Nidhi has served as a Teaching Assistant, supporting academic courses in Digital System Design and HDL programming, and has also worked as a Residential Student Counselor, mentoring students and assisting in administrative responsibilities. Through these experiences, she has developed strong problem-solving abilities and gained practical exposure to power system optimization, simulation tools, and microcontroller-based hardware development. Her professional journey demonstrates a balanced expertise in both academic research and industry-driven innovation.

Research Interests

Nidhi Chandrakar’s research interests focus on power electronics, energy conversion, and intelligent control strategies. She is particularly interested in the development of high-efficiency DC-DC converters, with a specialization in Dual Active Bridge (DAB) topologies and their applications in electric vehicle systems. Her current work involves optimizing converter performance through innovative approaches to current stress reduction and circulating current minimization, ensuring improved system reliability and energy efficiency. Nidhi is also passionate about renewable energy integration, smart grids, and energy storage technologies, with a strong focus on improving the interaction between distributed energy resources and power electronics systems. She has explored pulse-width modulation (PWM) and phase-shift modulation (PSM) techniques to enhance converter efficiency, supported by both simulation and experimental validation. Beyond power converters, her interests extend to real-time control systems, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, and embedded systems development for sustainable energy applications. Nidhi seeks to contribute to innovative research addressing global energy challenges by designing scalable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions. Her long-term goal is to advance the field of power electronics by bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical implementation in smart energy systems.

Research Skills

Nidhi Chandrakar possesses strong technical, analytical, and experimental skills that complement her research expertise in power electronics and control systems. She is proficient in Verilog coding and FPGA-based digital system design, enabling her to implement high-performance hardware prototypes. She has extensive experience working with Texas Instruments C2000 microcontrollers, particularly the F28379D series, for real-time control applications and advanced converter optimization. Nidhi is skilled in using MATLAB and PLECS simulation software for system modeling, analysis, and performance evaluation of power electronics systems. Her technical capabilities also include gate driver circuit design, isolated regulated power supply development, and PCB layout optimization, allowing her to translate complex concepts into functional designs. Additionally, she is proficient in programming languages such as C, C++, and Python, which she uses for developing algorithms, simulations, and embedded control solutions. Nidhi has hands-on expertise in soldering, hardware testing, troubleshooting, and validating control strategies for experimental setups. She also demonstrates strong abilities in technical documentation, academic writing, and presenting research findings at international conferences. Her diverse skill set empowers her to conduct impactful research and develop innovative, high-efficiency power solutions for emerging technologies.

Awards and Honors

Nidhi Chandrakar has been recognized for her research contributions, academic excellence, and technical expertise in the field of power electronics. She has co-authored several highly cited publications in leading international journals, where her research on current stress mitigation and circulating current reduction strategies in Dual Active Bridge converters has been well-appreciated. Nidhi has also presented her work at prestigious international conferences, where her innovative approaches to converter control and optimization have received positive recognition from the scientific community. Her contributions to book chapters published by Springer and Academic Press highlight her growing influence in the areas of electric vehicle technologies, hybrid energy systems, and renewable energy applications. In addition to her academic achievements, she has consistently maintained an outstanding record of performance throughout her studies, earning appreciation for her dedication, hard work, and technical innovation. Nidhi’s research outputs demonstrate her ability to produce impactful solutions to real-world engineering challenges. These honors reflect her strong commitment to advancing sustainable energy technologies and her potential to contribute significantly to the development of next-generation power electronics systems.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Efficient Control Strategy for Circulating Current Minimization in Dual Active Bridge Applications
Year: 2025

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nidhi Chandrakar is a highly driven researcher, engineer, and innovator with a strong focus on power electronics, converter design, and sustainable energy systems. Her academic background, professional experience, and hands-on expertise in hardware design, control strategies, and energy optimization have shaped her into a well-rounded contributor to both research and industry. Through her publications, conference presentations, and collaborative projects, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of converter technologies and renewable energy integration, positioning her as an emerging expert in her field. Nidhi strives to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical implementation, aiming to develop efficient, reliable, and cost-effective power solutions that address global energy challenges. Her commitment to innovation, sustainability, and knowledge sharing underscores her long-term vision of contributing to advancements in electric vehicle systems, renewable power integration, and intelligent energy storage technologies. With her passion, determination, and strong technical foundation, Nidhi is well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the evolving landscape of modern power electronics.

 

Chihyun Hwang | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Chihyun Hwang | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Principle at Koreal Electronics Technology Institute | South Korea

Dr. Chihyun Hwang is a distinguished energy scientist and Senior Researcher at the Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI), specializing in next-generation electrochemical energy storage systems. His expertise spans lithium-ion, sodium-ion, zinc-ion, and all-solid-state batteries, with particular emphasis on molecular binder design, nanostructured anodeless materials, and in-situ electrochemical analysis. Over the years, he has developed an outstanding research profile, contributing significantly to advancing energy technologies that support high-density, durable, and safe energy storage solutions for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. With an H-index of 22 and nearly 60 published papers in prestigious journals such as Advanced Energy Materials, Advanced Functional Materials, and Angewandte Chemie, he has demonstrated both academic excellence and industry relevance. His work has frequently addressed critical issues in interface stability, electrode architecture, and electrochemical reversibility, ensuring long-term performance and scalability of energy storage devices. Beyond publications, Dr. Hwang actively contributes to professional communities, serving as Academic Director of the Korean Battery Society. His research leadership, supported by national and international collaborations, has positioned him as a vital contributor to the global battery research community, dedicated to enabling sustainable and high-performance energy technologies for the future.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Chihyun Hwang pursued a rigorous academic path that laid the foundation for his career in energy storage research. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Fiber Engineering from Inha University, where he developed a strong materials science background. Motivated by the potential of energy technologies, he advanced to doctoral studies at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), completing his Ph.D. in Energy Engineering under the mentorship of Professor Hyun-Kon Song. His doctoral research, titled Designing Molecular Structures of Polymeric Binders for Alloying-Based Anodes, reflected his early focus on electrochemical materials engineering and binder chemistry. The project involved designing and optimizing polymer binders to enhance electrode reversibility and stability, especially for high-capacity alloying anode systems such as silicon and antimony. This work gave him critical expertise in molecular design, electrochemical kinetics, and the durability of next-generation battery systems. His academic training was further enriched through exposure to interdisciplinary studies in chemical engineering, materials processing, and nanotechnology. Collectively, his education equipped him with both theoretical depth and experimental versatility, enabling him to address fundamental challenges in modern battery science while preparing him for a highly impactful international research career.

Professional Experience

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s professional journey demonstrates a consistent trajectory of leadership and innovation in advanced energy storage. He has served as Senior Researcher at the Advanced Batteries Research Center of KETI, where he leads multiple large-scale projects on lithium metal, sodium-ion, and solid-state batteries. He was previously a Research Professor at UNIST, focusing on energy and chemical engineering, bridging academia and industry in battery innovation. Before that, he broadened his international exposure as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the research group of Prof. Nian Liu at the Georgia Institute of Technology, investigating zinc-ion and solid-state battery chemistries. Prior to his U.S. experience, he worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Prof. Hyun-Kon Song’s group at UNIST, extending his doctoral research into industrially viable energy storage solutions. At KETI, Dr. Hwang plays a critical role in projects developing digital twin infrastructures for battery manufacturing, high-energy solid-state batteries, and safe sodium-ion systems. His career reflects an integration of academic rigor, postdoctoral innovation, and applied industrial research, with a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. This combination highlights his ability to translate laboratory advances into scalable technologies, essential for global energy transition initiatives.

Research Interest

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s research interests span a wide spectrum of next-generation energy storage technologies, emphasizing fundamental innovation and practical application. A major focus is all-solid-state batteries, where he works on designing polymeric binders, nanostructured anodeless materials, and interfacial stabilizers to improve energy density and long-term cycling. He also explores large-scale bipolar stacking strategies to enable commercialization. His second research stream involves sodium-ion batteries, particularly mitigating reactive oxygen species through surface doping and additive engineering for stable high-voltage cathodes. Another growing area is zinc-ion batteries, where his work includes developing single-crystalline zinc anodes, electrolyte systems, and protective interfacial layers that enhance cycling stability and suppress dendritic growth. A distinctive strength of his research lies in in-situ electrochemical analysis, employing advanced techniques such as Raman microscopy, differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, and impedance spectroscopy to elucidate reaction mechanisms. These methods provide molecular-level insights into degradation and reversibility, accelerating the design of more robust systems. Collectively, his research aims to develop high-energy-density, safe, and durable electrochemical storage devices for electric mobility and renewable integration. His interests integrate theoretical understanding, nanomaterials design, and scalable processing, establishing him as a leading figure in the quest for sustainable battery technologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Chihyun Hwang possesses a diverse and highly specialized skill set that underpins his success in energy storage research. He is an expert in molecular and polymer design, particularly for binders that enhance electrode kinetics and mechanical resilience. His skills in nanostructure engineering allow him to create novel anodeless materials and functional electrode architectures that optimize charge transport and suppress failure mechanisms. A significant technical strength lies in his command of in-situ characterization techniques, including Raman microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, which provide real-time insights into electrochemical reactions and interfacial dynamics. He is also highly experienced in solid-state battery fabrication and analysis, enabling him to evaluate interface stability and optimize electrolyte formulations. His expertise extends to computational and analytical methods, which he uses to model battery reactions and validate experimental findings. Beyond laboratory techniques, Dr. Hwang demonstrates strong project management skills, having coordinated multi-institutional and industry-supported initiatives. His ability to integrate materials synthesis, device engineering, and mechanistic analysis allows him to approach research challenges holistically. These combined skills make him not only a prolific researcher but also a leader capable of bridging science, engineering, and technology development in advanced energy systems.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s contributions to energy research have been recognized through prestigious awards and leadership roles that highlight both his scientific excellence and professional impact. He was elected Academic Director of the Korean Battery Society, underscoring his standing as a leading voice in the national research community. He also received the Award Certificate of Chungbuk Governor, reflecting regional acknowledgment of his technological contributions. He was honored with the highly competitive Sejong Science Fellowship (NRF), awarded to exceptional early-career researchers in Korea. This fellowship supported his independent research initiatives and accelerated his trajectory in advanced battery innovation. In addition to these distinctions, Dr. Hwang has consistently been invited to deliver presentations at international conferences, including meetings of the Materials Research Society, Electrochemical Society, and Korean Battery Society. His invited talks and presentations demonstrate global recognition of his expertise in zinc-ion, sodium-ion, and solid-state batteries. Collectively, these awards and honors not only validate his scientific contributions but also highlight his leadership potential in shaping Korea’s and the world’s energy technology landscape. His recognitions underscore his dual role as a pioneering researcher and influential academic contributor.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Gel/solid polymer electrolytes characterized by in situ gelation or polymerization for electrochemical energy systems
Year: 2019
Citation: 304

Title: Self‐assembling films of covalent organic frameworks enable long‐term, efficient cycling of zinc‐ion batteries
Year: 2021
Citation: 188

Title: Mechanical mismatch-driven rippling in carbon-coated silicon sheets for stress-resilient battery anodes
Year: 2018
Citation: 138

Title: Folding graphene film yields high areal energy storage in lithium-ion batteries
Year: 2018
Citation: 122

Title: An antiaging electrolyte additive for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries
Year: 2020
Citation: 83

Conclusion

Dr. Chihyun Hwang exemplifies the profile of a modern applied scientist, integrating deep academic training, cutting-edge research, and practical innovation in the field of advanced batteries. With a career spanning prestigious institutions in Korea and the United States, he has built a strong reputation for addressing critical challenges in electrochemical energy storage through creative design and rigorous analysis. His more than 50 publications, combined with international collaborations and leadership in professional societies, mark him as both a thought leader and a collaborative innovator. His work consistently bridges the gap between theory and application, from molecular design of binders to the development of high-energy solid-state and sodium-ion systems. Recognition through fellowships, awards, and professional leadership further reflects his excellence and influence in the scientific community. Looking forward, Dr. Hwang is well-positioned to drive transformative advances in sustainable energy technologies, particularly in developing safer, higher-density, and more durable batteries for electric mobility and renewable integration. His career embodies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact, making him not only a respected researcher but also a vital contributor to the global transition toward sustainable energy solutions.

Juan de Pablo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Juan de Pablo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor and Vice President at New York University, United States

Dr. Juan José de Pablo is an internationally recognized leader in molecular engineering and materials science, currently serving as Professor and Vice President at New York University. With a distinguished academic and professional trajectory spanning over three decades, Dr. de Pablo has made pioneering contributions to soft matter physics, polymer engineering, and computational materials science. He has authored over 700 peer-reviewed publications and holds an H-index exceeding 120, reflecting the profound influence of his research. His recent roles include Executive Vice President for Global Science and Technology and Executive Dean of the Tandon School of Engineering at NYU, following a decade-long tenure at the University of Chicago. At the latter, he directed pivotal research centers and contributed to national laboratories like Argonne and Fermilab. A member of the U.S. National Academies of Engineering and Sciences, Dr. de Pablo’s interdisciplinary approach integrates theory, computation, and experimentation. His leadership in establishing large-scale scientific initiatives and educational outreach reflects a deep commitment to innovation, mentorship, and societal impact through science.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. de Pablo began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the National University of Mexico (UNAM) in 1985. He proceeded to earn a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley in 1990, a period during which he laid the foundation for his interest in polymeric systems and thermodynamics. Following this, he undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at ETH Zurich’s Institute for Polymers from 1990 to 1992, specializing in materials science. These formative years were instrumental in shaping his interdisciplinary research vision, blending rigorous theoretical training with practical insights. His educational background demonstrates a consistent trajectory toward advanced computational and molecular-level analysis of soft matter. The combination of leading North American and European institutions in his training reflects the global dimension of his perspective on science and engineering. These experiences equipped him with the skills to later lead international collaborations and scientific enterprises that bridge multiple disciplines, from nanotechnology to biophysics.

Professional Experience

Dr. de Pablo’s professional career is marked by leadership in academia, research management, and global scientific strategy. His early academic appointments were at the University of Wisconsin, where he progressed from Assistant to Full Professor of Chemical Engineering between 1992 and 2012. During this period, he also served as Director of the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) and Deputy Director of the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center (NSEC), driving frontier research in materials design and nanotechnology. In 2012, he joined the University of Chicago as the Liew Family Professor in the Institute for Molecular Engineering and Senior Scientist at Argonne National Laboratory. He later held multiple vice-presidential roles, overseeing national laboratories and leading global science initiatives. Currently, as Executive Vice President for Global Science and Technology and Executive Dean of NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, he continues to shape science policy, innovation ecosystems, and advanced education. His leadership roles at UChicago-Argonne LLC and the Center for Hierarchical Materials Design (CHiMaD) further underscore his expertise in strategic research development and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Interest

Dr. de Pablo’s research interests span a broad spectrum within molecular and materials engineering, including soft condensed matter, computational thermodynamics, polymer physics, and biomolecular simulations. He has been instrumental in developing novel simulation techniques that enable a molecular-level understanding of materials behavior under complex conditions. His work frequently integrates theoretical frameworks with experimental data, enabling predictive modeling of systems ranging from liquid crystals to nucleic acids. More recently, he has expanded into machine learning-guided materials discovery and the design of functional materials for health, sustainability, and electronics. He is also deeply engaged in the Materials Genome Initiative, contributing to the national agenda for accelerating materials innovation. Dr. de Pablo’s research not only advances fundamental science but also facilitates translational outcomes, such as in the stabilization of biologics, nanofabrication, and soft robotics. His interdisciplinary and collaborative approach has positioned him at the forefront of modern materials science, with sustained funding from national agencies and partnerships with industry.

Research Skills

Dr. de Pablo’s research skills are characterized by exceptional breadth and depth in theoretical, computational, and applied materials science. He has pioneered algorithms for calculating free energies, explored phase transitions in complex fluids, and designed coarse-grained models for large biomolecules. His fluency in molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations, and density-of-states methods is complemented by expertise in high-performance computing and GPU acceleration. He applies these tools to problems in polymer behavior, nanostructured materials, and biointerfaces. Dr. de Pablo also has deep knowledge of lithography, directed self-assembly, and patterning technologies, as evidenced by his multiple U.S. patents in these areas. Moreover, he plays a leading role in training the next generation of scientists, having supervised over 70 Ph.D. students. His entrepreneurial activities and editorial roles reflect a commitment to disseminating innovation and shaping the scientific discourse. These research capabilities, coupled with leadership in large-scale initiatives and advisory committees, make Dr. de Pablo a uniquely effective figure in both advancing science and mentoring talent.

Awards and Honors

Dr. de Pablo’s illustrious career has been recognized with over 60 prestigious awards, fellowships, and honors, reflecting his outstanding contributions to science, education, and leadership. Early in his career, he received multiple young investigator awards from the NSF, IBM, Xerox, and 3M. Notably, he was honored with the Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering (PECASE) and the Presidential Faculty Fellow Award by President Clinton. He has since delivered over 40 named lectures, including the Paul Flory, Marie Curie, and Samuel C. Johnson Distinguished Lectures. Dr. de Pablo is an elected Fellow of the American Physical Society, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a Member of both the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Sciences. His recent recognitions include the Polymer Physics Prize, DuPont Medal for Excellence, and international accolades such as the Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite (France). These honors highlight not only his scientific excellence but also his impact as an educator, innovator, and global science diplomat.

Conclusion

Dr. Juan José de Pablo’s career exemplifies the integration of scientific brilliance, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to global collaboration and mentorship. From his foundational training in Mexico and the U.S. to his leadership at premier institutions like the University of Chicago and NYU, he has continuously advanced the frontiers of molecular engineering and materials science. His interdisciplinary research, extensive publication record, and innovative patent portfolio showcase both depth and translational relevance. Beyond his technical achievements, Dr. de Pablo’s influence on science policy, education, and diversity initiatives reflects a holistic vision for the role of science in society. As an advisor, editor, and entrepreneur, he fosters environments where cutting-edge research meets real-world challenges. His legacy is further amplified through the numerous students and researchers he has mentored, many of whom have become leaders in their own right. Dr. de Pablo remains an inspirational figure whose work bridges disciplines, institutions, and continents in the pursuit of scientific progress and societal advancement.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Water-mediated ion transport in an anion exchange membrane
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025
Citations: 2

Title: Structural studies of the IFNλ4 receptor complex using cryoEM enabled by protein engineering
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Title: Free-Energy Landscapes and Surface Dynamics in Methane Activation on Ni(511) via Machine Learning and Enhanced Sampling
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Title: Synthetic Active Liquid Crystals Powered by Acoustic Waves
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Title: Current Advances in Genome Modeling Across Length Scales
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Title: Chromatin structures from integrated AI and polymer physics model
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Title: A Twist on Controlling the Equilibrium of Dynamic Thia-Michael Reactions
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Title: Bio-Based Surfactants via Borrowing Hydrogen Catalysis
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Title: Efficient sampling of free energy landscapes with functions in Sobolev spaces
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Title: 3D Nano-architected Polymer Shell Enables Reconfigurable Stabilized Blue Phase Soft Crystals
Authors: Juan J De Pablo
Year: 2025

Shedrack Mgeni | Energy Sustainability | Applied Research Award

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Mr. Shedrack Mgeni | Energy Sustainability | Applied Research Award

Mkwawa University, Tanzania

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni is a dedicated and accomplished Senior Teacher of Chemistry and Biology with over 17 years of teaching experience. He is passionate about bioenergy research, with a particular focus on bioethanol production from fruit wastes as an alternative energy source. Mgeni holds a Master of Science (Biology) with Education from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, earned in 2024. His Master’s research, under the supervision of Dr. Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Dr. Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel, and Dr. Herieth Rhodes Mero, explored bioethanol production from fruit wastes. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology with Education from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2015) and a Diploma in Secondary Science Education from Morogoro Teacher’s College (2010). Currently, Mgeni teaches at Miyuji Secondary School, Dodoma, where he also serves as the Academic Master and Sports & Games Master. He is widely published in biofuels research and is recognized for his innovative work on circular economy and renewable energy solutions. His dedication to advancing sustainable energy and promoting environmental conservation earned him the University of Dar es Salaam’s Distinguished Innovator of the Year award in 2024.

Professional Profiles

Education

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni has an extensive academic background, showcasing his dedication to science and education. He began his educational journey at Lugoda Primary School in Tanzania (1994–2000), followed by secondary education at Kibao Secondary School (2001–2004) and Kidugala Lutheran Seminary (2005–2007). In 2010, he earned a Diploma in Secondary Science Education (Chemistry and Biology) from Morogoro Teachers College. Building on this foundation, he obtained a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry & Biology) with Education from Sokoine University of Agriculture in 2015. In 2024, he completed his Master of Science (Biology) with Education at the University of Dar es Salaam. His postgraduate research focused on bioethanol production from fruit wastes as a renewable energy source. His diverse educational background reflects his strong foundation in both teaching and scientific research, equipping him with expertise in education, bioenergy, and sustainability.

Professional Experience

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni has an extensive teaching career spanning over 17 years, coupled with leadership roles and research experience. He began as a teacher at Matola Secondary School (2007–2010) in Njombe, where he taught Chemistry and Biology. He later became Head of the Chemistry and Biology departments (2010–2011), overseeing curriculum development and departmental activities. Mgeni also worked as a part-time teacher at St. Gertrude Secondary School in Njombe (2010–2011). His teaching practice (T.P) experiences include Bihawana High School (2013), Morogoro Teachers College (2014), and Mbeya Day High Secondary School (2015). From 2011 to 2015, he taught at Mabatini Secondary School, before moving to Kifanya Secondary School (2016–2021). In 2021, he joined Miyuji Secondary School in Dodoma, where he currently teaches Chemistry and Biology. Since 2022, he has served as the Academic Master, overseeing academic activities, and in 2024, he took on the role of Sports & Games Master, organizing sports events and fostering students’ extracurricular growth.

Research Interests

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni’s primary research interests lie in bioenergy generation, particularly bioethanol production from fruit wastes. His work focuses on exploring renewable energy sources and promoting circular economy practices. Through his research, Mgeni aims to develop sustainable bioenergy alternatives to fossil fuels, contributing to cleaner energy solutions and reducing environmental pollution. His recent studies involve using fruit waste juice enhanced with fermentable sugars, such as sorghum and millet, to increase bioethanol yields. Additionally, he is interested in converting bioethanol into value-added products, promoting waste recycling, and contributing to environmental conservation. Mgeni is committed to advancing biofuel technology and promoting sustainable practices, which aligns with global efforts toward cleaner and greener energy sources. His research directly contributes to renewable energy innovation and circular economy advancement.

Research Skills

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni possesses a diverse set of research skills, particularly in bioenergy production and sustainable waste management. His expertise includes bioethanol production processes, fermentation techniques, and bio-waste recycling. He is proficient in laboratory experimentation, biofuel yield optimization, and the application of sorghum and millet as fermentable sugar enhancers. Mgeni has extensive skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific documentation, demonstrated by his publications in peer-reviewed journals. His technical skills extend to biofuel characterization, evaluating the efficiency and quality of bioethanol produced from fruit wastes. Additionally, Mgeni is adept at academic writing, having co-authored multiple journal articles and review papers. His skills in presenting research findings at conferences, such as the University of Dar es Salaam Research and Innovation Week, showcase his ability to effectively communicate scientific results.

Awards and Honors

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni is recognized for his outstanding contributions to bioenergy research and innovation. In 2024, he was awarded the First Winner for Best Innovator of the Year during the 9th University of Dar es Salaam Research and Innovation Week at Mkwawa University College of Education. His award-winning project, titled Preparation of Value-Added Products Using Bioethanol Produced from Fruit Wastes, highlighted his innovative approach to renewable energy production. Additionally, Mgeni received the First Winner for Best Innovator of the Year award at the 9th University of Dar es Salaam Research and Innovation Week held from June 5th to 7th, 2024, for the same project. These prestigious awards underscore his significant contributions to sustainable energy research and his impact on promoting environmentally friendly technologies. His recognition as a distinguished innovator showcases his dedication to advancing bioenergy solutions.

Conclusion

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni is a highly accomplished educator and researcher with a strong commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. His expertise in bioethanol production from fruit wastes, coupled with his dedication to promoting circular economy practices, highlights his impactful contributions to renewable energy research. With over 17 years of teaching experience, Mgeni plays a vital role in shaping the academic and extracurricular development of students at Miyuji Secondary School. His numerous publications in biofuels research reflect his scholarly excellence and scientific impact. Through his innovative projects, Mgeni has demonstrated a keen ability to develop practical solutions to environmental challenges. His recognition as the Best Innovator of the Year underscores his influence in bioenergy innovation. Mgeni’s ongoing work in biofuel generation and his passion for education position him as a key advocate for cleaner energy and sustainable practices, driving positive change in both academia and society.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Bioethanol production from fruit wastes juice using millet and sorghum as additional fermentable sugar

    • Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel

    • Year: 2025

  2. Title: Potential Contributions of Banana Fruits and Residues to Multiple Applications: An Overview

    • Authors: Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Shedrack Thomas Mgeni

    • Year: 2025

  3. Title: Bioethanol production from pineapple fruit waste juice using bakery yeast

    • Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel

    • Year: 2024

  4. Title: The prospect of fruit wastes in bioethanol production: A review

    • Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Herieth Rhodes Mero, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel

    • Year: 2024