Daniel Salomone Gonzalez | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Daniel Salomone Gonzalez |Engineering| Best Researcher Award

Phd. Ingeniero Consultor,Segingenieria ,Uruguay

Daniel Salomone González  is a distinguished Consultant Engineer in Energy Efficiency with SEG Ingeniería and serves as an independent expert across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa. With over 14 years of experience in the energy sector , Daniel has made significant contributions to the optimization of thermal systems, renewable energy integration, and large-scale efficiency audits . He holds a Ph.D. in Energy Engineering and has published cutting-edge research in leading journals . Daniel is also a lecturer at UNIT, where he trains the next generation of energy professionals. His career is marked by international collaborations, notably with institutions in Spain , Argentina , and Brazil . His passion lies in transforming energy systems toward a sustainable future through innovative, science-based solutions . He combines academic rigor with hands-on industrial experience, making him a leading voice in energy efficiency across developing regions.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education & Experience 

Daniel is a Chemical Engineer  by training, with a Master’s and Ph.D. in Energy Engineering  from the University of the Republic, Uruguay . With more than 14 years of multidisciplinary expertise, he has specialized in energy audits, thermodynamic modeling, and renewable systems integration . His hands-on experience spans over 100 consultancy projects, including public, commercial, and industrial sectors. A dynamic educator , he lectures at UNIT, where he teaches future engineers about energy management and sustainability. His expertise is regularly sought after by governments and research institutions across the Caribbean, Africa, and Latin America . Whether leading a national-level energy audit or advising on heat storage modeling, Daniel blends academic precision with practical implementation, making him a trusted leader in energy systems engineering. His technical insights and field-tested solutions are vital for regions seeking energy transition and carbon reduction .

Professional Development 

Daniel has earned several distinguished professional certifications that reinforce his credibility in the energy sector. He is a Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP)® from EVO , a recognized ISO 50001 Energy Auditor , and an active instructor at UNIT , Uruguay’s national technical institute. He continuously enhances his professional scope through international collaborations with institutions like the University of Salamanca , ITCL Research Center, and the Saint Lucia Government . His leadership in energy audits and consultancy projects for public and industrial clients has contributed to transformative energy-saving strategies . As a lifelong learner, Daniel remains engaged in the latest energy innovations, such as heat pump energy storage systems and biomass integration . His role as a bridge between academia, industry, and policy not only elevates his career but also amplifies the impact of sustainable technologies across global regions. He exemplifies continual growth in the clean energy sector .

Research Focus 

Daniel’s research is rooted in the science and application of sustainable energy systems. His primary focus areas include pumped heat energy storage systems , thermodynamic modeling , biomass heating solutions , and energy management frameworks . With six completed or ongoing research projects and 5 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals like Energy Conversion and Management and Journal of Energy Storage, his work blends innovation with practicality. Daniel develops simulation-based models to optimize energy storage and consumption, a critical area for regions with intermittent energy supplies . His deep learning in system optimization enables industries and municipalities to reduce their carbon footprint effectively . Collaborating with universities and government bodies, Daniel ensures his research has both academic and on-ground impact. He consistently brings theoretical advancements to life through real-world applications, ensuring his work contributes to a cleaner, more efficient energy future .

Awards & Honors 

Daniel’s excellence in the energy field has earned him notable recognition. He was awarded first prize for both his master’s and Ph.D. theses , reflecting his academic brilliance and innovative contributions to energy systems. His practical work in consultancy has led to significant energy savings across over 100 major projects, earning acclaim from regional governments and international institutions . His expertise has positioned him as a preferred consultant and lecturer in both academic and industry circles. While he has not yet published books or registered patents, his published works in SCI-indexed journals and his role in transformative energy audits  make him a standout in applied energy research. His certification as a CMVP and ISO 50001 auditor adds further distinction . These honors highlight his dedication to both innovation and implementation, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award  at international forums.

Publication of Top Notes

1.Title: Advanced strategies for the efficient optimization and control of industrial compressed air systems

Authors: D. Salomone-González
Year: 2025
Citation: Results in Engineering, DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.10542

2.Title: Pumped heat energy storage with liquid media: Thermodynamic assessment by a transcritical Rankine-like model

Authors: D. Salomone-González, P.L. Curto-Risso, A. Calvo Hernández, A. Medina, J.M.M. Roco, J. Gonzalez-Ayala
Year: 2022
Citation: Journal of Energy Storage, DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2022.10596

3.Title: Modeling of heat leak effect in round trip efficiency for Brayton pumped heat energy storage with liquid media, by cooling and heating of the reservoirs tanks

Authors: D. Salomone-González
Year: 2022
Citation: Journal of Energy Storage, DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2021.103793

4.Title: Multicriteria optimization of Brayton-like pumped thermal electricity storage with liquid media

Authors: D. Salomone-González
Year: 2021
Citation: Journal of Energy Storage, DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2021.103242

5.Title: Pumped heat energy storage with liquid media: Thermodynamic assessment by a Brayton-like model

Authors: D. Salomone-González
Year: 2020
Citation: Energy Conversion and Management, DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2020.113540

6.Title: Redes de distribución de calor y frío a partir de biomasa para pequeñas comunidades en Uruguay

Authors: D. Salomone-González
Year: 2020
Citation: Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, DOI: 10.36561/ing.18.2

Conclusion

Daniel Salomone González seamlessly bridges academic excellence and practical engineering innovation. His research has not only been published in top-tier journals but has also delivered measurable energy savings across developing regions. With a solid record of international collaboration, technical leadership, and recognized innovation, Daniel exemplifies the best qualities of a high-impact researcher. He stands out as a leading figure in applied energy research and is therefore an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Dr . SamiraZafarnak | Hydrogenation | Best Researcher Award

Dr .SamiraZafarnak | Hydrogenation | Best Researcher Award

Dr . Samira Zafarnak , Shiraz University , Iran

A passionate and driven researcher 🎓, this individual holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering 🧪 from Shiraz University, with specialized expertise in catalysis, materials science, and sustainable energy 🌱. With academic and industrial experience in both Iran 🇮🇷 and the United Kingdom 🇬🇧, they bring a global, interdisciplinary approach 🌍 to research. Their current postdoctoral role at the Methanol Institute involves pioneering catalytic processes for methanol synthesis and CO₂ conversion 🔬. Renowned for their adaptability, collaboration 🤝, and critical problem-solving skills 💡, they contribute impactful knowledge in clean energy technologies and environmentally responsible engineering 🌐.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

Education & Experience

This accomplished researcher earned their Ph.D. 🎓 in Chemical Engineering from Shiraz University (2019–2023), with a dissertation on biogas reforming using nano clay catalysts 🔍. They also completed an M.Sc. (2014–2017) in the same field, focusing on ethane to ethylene conversion 🔬, and a B.Sc. (2009–2013) from Islamic Azad University 📘. Their academic journey is complemented by hands-on research in catalytic design and plasma systems during postdoctoral appointments in Iran 🇮🇷 and the UK 🇬🇧. Their current role involves catalyst fabrication, reactor design 🏗️, and gas chromatography-based evaluation at the Methanol Institute 🔧.

Professional Development

In their postdoctoral career, this researcher has embraced interdisciplinary growth 🌐 by engaging in high-level catalyst synthesis, plasma engineering ⚡, and reactor design. They contributed to RF-driven plasma jet development at the University of York 🇬🇧, analyzing hydroxyl density using spectrometry 🧫. At the Methanol Institute, they design scaled-up reactors and evaluate novel catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation and RWGS reactions 🔁. They demonstrate a commitment to safety standards, laboratory excellence 🧪, and continuous learning 📈. These experiences have strengthened their adaptability, analytical thinking, and global collaboration capacity 🤝 in cutting-edge chemical engineering applications.

Research Focus

Their research focus centers on catalysis, sustainable energy conversion, and CO₂ utilization 🌱. By exploring noble/non-noble metal catalysts over nano-structured supports, they aim to make energy processes cleaner and more efficient ♻️. Their work bridges fields such as heterogeneous catalysis, nanomaterials 🧲, and plasma applications in chemical reactions ⚛️. Key areas include biogas reforming, methanol synthesis, and the Reverse Water Gas Shift (RWGS) reaction 🔄. Their research contributes to global efforts in green technology, reducing carbon emissions 🌍, and advancing the next generation of chemical reactors and materials innovation 🔧.

Awards & Honors

This dedicated scientist has earned recognition through competitive academic placements and impactful research appointments 🌟. Their Ph.D. research was praised for its innovation in sustainable energy systems ⚡. They were selected as a Postdoctoral Associate at the prestigious University of York 🇬🇧 and later as a Fellow at the Methanol Institute 🇮🇷, where they lead pivotal reactor design projects 🏗️. Their work has been highlighted in academic presentations and journal submissions 📚. A strong candidate for future research excellence awards 🥇, their contributions to catalytic engineering and green chemistry have marked them as a rising talent in chemical innovation 🧪.

Publication Top Notes

1. Dry reforming of methane for CO₂ conversion using sintering-resistant halloysite-supported Ni catalysts enhanced by alkaline-earth metal oxide promoters

Citation:
Zafarnak, S. (2025). Dry reforming of methane for CO₂ conversion using sintering-resistant halloysite-supported Ni catalysts enhanced by alkaline-earth metal oxide promoters. Fuel, Published: 2025-03-19.
Roles: Writing – review & editing, Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Funding acquisition.

2. Design and fabrication of a microchannel plasma reactor for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment

Citation:
Peiravi, M., Zafarnak, S., & Taghvaei, H. (2025). Design and fabrication of a microchannel plasma reactor for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 107007. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.107007

3. Zeolite and molecular sieves for natural gas dehydration

Citation:
Zafarnak, S., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2024). Zeolite and molecular sieves for natural gas dehydration. In Advances in Natural Gas: Formation, Processing, and Applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-19221-0.00002-8

4. Membrane technology for syngas production

Citation:
Zafarnak, S., Meshksar, M., Rahimpour, H. R., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2023). Membrane technology for syngas production. In Advances in Synthesis Gas: Methods, Technologies and Applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91871-8.00007-6

5. Postdisaster issues and problems

Citation:
Zafarnak, S., Rahmatmand, B., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2023). Postdisaster issues and problems. In Crises in Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Industries. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95163-0.00015-3

Conclusion

Dr. Zafarnak embodies the essence of a “best researcher” through her scientific rigor, innovation, and dedication to sustainable technologies. Her work not only contributes significantly to the scientific community but also addresses critical global challenges in energy, environment, and chemical engineering. The combination of her academic excellence, international impact, and practical contributions makes her a standout candidate for any Best Researcher Award.

Iro Dianellou | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs Iro Dianellou | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs Iro Dianellou , Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , greece

Ioanna Dianellou is a passionate geologist 🧭 with a solid background in environmental and nuclear geochemistry 🌍⚛️. She currently works at Mirtec S.A. in Greece, specializing in asbestos analysis and chemical testing of environmental samples. Her hands-on research spans from mineral analysis to nanomaterials for nuclear waste treatment. Ioanna has participated in international projects, including an Erasmus+ internship in Turkey 🇹🇷. With publications in respected scientific journals 📚 and a strong academic foundation, she continues to contribute to geoscience and environmental safety. Her work is driven by curiosity, sustainability 🌱, and a deep commitment to scientific excellence. 🔬👩‍🔬

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education & Experience 

Ioanna holds a Master’s degree 🎓 in Synthetic Chemistry and Biochemistry from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, focusing on materials for nuclear waste treatment ☢️. Her thesis explored modified bentonite’s ability to remove Cs and Co. She earned her Geology diploma in 2020, specializing in Economic Geology. Ioanna has experience with analytical techniques like XRD, ICP-MS, FTIR, and SEM 🔍. She interned at Ege University (Turkey) under Erasmus+, and at Hellas Gold S.A. in exploration geology ⛏️. Currently, she is a geologist and lab technician at Mirtec S.A., conducting advanced chemical and mineral analyses. Her work bridges geology and environmental safety 🌿.

Professional Development 

Ioanna continuously enhances her expertise through academic research 🧪, internships, and hands-on lab experience. Her Erasmus+ internship at Ege University gave her international exposure 🌍 in nanomaterial synthesis and nuclear waste treatment. Working at Mirtec S.A., she applies advanced laboratory techniques (XRF, TG-DTA, XRD, ICP-MS) in real-world environmental and energy sample analyses 🔬. She’s collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, mastering geochemical and geotechnical investigation tools. Through her postgraduate education and scientific publications, she demonstrates ongoing professional growth and commitment to solving environmental and radiological challenges ☢️. Her proactive learning mindset ensures she remains updated in emerging technologies and methodologies 📚🧠.

Research Focus 

Ioanna Dianellou’s research focuses on environmental geochemistry, radiochemistry, and nanomaterials 🌋⚛️. She specializes in the removal of radioactive elements like uranium, thorium, cesium, and cobalt from aqueous and solid waste using modified materials such as bentonite and nanofibers. Her expertise includes characterization of materials (SEM, XRD, FTIR) and the application of spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques (ICP-OES, UV-Vis) 🧪. With publications in journals on radioactive waste sorption, she bridges geology with nuclear waste management. Her research aims to promote safe, sustainable methods for pollution control and environmental remediation, contributing to green energy and nuclear safety 🌱💡.

Awards and Honors 

Ioanna’s academic excellence is reflected in her high grades and distinction in both undergraduate and postgraduate studies 🥇. She graduated with an 8.56/10 (Excellent) in her Master’s and 8.37/10 (Very Good) in her Geology diploma 🎓. She earned an Erasmus+ scholarship for her internship at Ege University in Turkey, showcasing her skills in international research collaboration 🌍. Her co-authored publications in reputable journals such as Applied Radiation and Isotopes highlight her contribution to impactful scientific work 📚. These recognitions underscore her dedication, discipline, and emerging reputation in the field of nuclear and environmental geosciences 💫.

Publication Top Notes

1. Dianellou, I., Noli, F., Kantiranis, N. (2025)

Title: Sorption behavior of ¹³⁷Cs and ⁶⁰Co onto raw and cellulose-modified Greek bentonite
Journal: Applied Radiation and Isotopes, Vol. 222, Article 111850
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2025.111850

🔍 Summary:
This study investigates the sorption efficiency of raw and cellulose-modified Greek bentonite for the removal of radioactive isotopes Cesium-137 (¹³⁷Cs) and Cobalt-60 (⁶⁰Co) from aqueous solutions. Using batch experiments, the modified bentonite demonstrated significantly improved sorption capacity due to increased surface functional groups. The research utilized XRD and FTIR for material characterization and applied kinetic and isotherm models to understand adsorption behavior. The findings offer insights into eco-friendly and efficient solutions for treating low-level radioactive waste using locally sourced clay materials.

2. Kaptanoglu, I.G., Yusan, S., Kaynar, Ü.H., Aytas, S., Erenturk, A.S., Dianellou, I. (2025)

Title: Investigation of thorium(IV) removal utilizing reduced graphene oxide-zinc oxide nanofibers via response surface methodology
Journal: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-025-10095-1

🔍 Summary:
This research explores the removal of thorium(IV) ions from aqueous solutions using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) combined with zinc oxide nanofibers. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the adsorption parameters. The nanofibers were characterized using SEM and FTIR, and adsorption experiments were evaluated through statistical modeling. Dianellou’s contribution helped refine the experimental approach and validate results. The study presents an innovative hybrid nanomaterial that efficiently adsorbs radioactive thorium, demonstrating potential for use in advanced nuclear waste management technologies.

3. Kyriakidis, F., Dianellou, I., Vollas, A., Alatzoglou, M., Gargoulas, N., Oikonomou, V. (2024)

Title: Presence of asbestos in building materials and soils in postfire areas of Mati, Kineta and Varimbombi in Greece
Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health, Vol. 46, Article 452
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-024-02211-z

🔍 Summary:
This environmental study focuses on the identification of asbestos contamination in areas affected by wildfires in Greece. Polarized light microscopy and stereomicroscopy were used to analyze soil and building debris samples from Mati, Kineta, and Varimbombi. Dianellou contributed to the analytical assessment of asbestos fibers and the evaluation of public health risks. The results show widespread asbestos presence due to the combustion of building materials, underlining the need for remediation and proper waste management in post-disaster zones.

Conclusion

Ioanna Dianellou’s research is not only scientifically advanced but also socially impactful. Her work is grounded in both academic excellence and real-world application, a hallmark of a well-rounded and forward-thinking researcher. Her contributions to radioactive pollutant remediation and environmental monitoring are timely, innovative, and of global relevance. She is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award and embodies the future of interdisciplinary scientific problem-solving.