Mr Emmanuel Karungani , Maseno University , Kenya
Emmanuel Karungani Simiyu 🇰🇪 is a passionate materials scientist and physics researcher specializing in nanomaterials, thin films, and spectroscopy. He brings hands-on expertise in synthesis and characterization techniques 🧪🔍, with a focus on renewable energy, organic solar cells ☀️, and advanced functional materials. Currently pursuing his MSc in Physics at Maseno University, Emmanuel is driven by the vision to apply scientific innovations for sustainable development 🌱. He is also an Erasmus+ mobility scholar in Latvia 🇱🇻. His cross-continental academic experience and interdisciplinary research showcase his dedication to global impact through science and technology 🌍📚.
Professional Profile
ORCID
Education and Experience
Emmanuel holds a Bachelor of Education Science with IT and is pursuing a Master of Science in Physics at Maseno University 🎓. His educational journey blends a strong foundation in physics with computational and experimental skills 🧮🧫. He has conducted cutting-edge research in Latvia on benzanthrone derivatives 💡 and locally on Eu/Tb-doped In₂Se₃ for organic solar cells. His previous work includes P3HT-AuNPs nanocomposite thin films and bismuth-doped GST films for optoelectronic applications 🧬⚙️. Through diverse research assistantships and guided theses, Emmanuel has gained expertise in spin coating, spray pyrolysis, and optical analysis tools.
Professional Development
Emmanuel actively enhances his research skills through global collaborations 🌐 and professional training initiatives. He participated in the ICTP Physics without Frontiers School at the University of Nairobi 💻, expanding his knowledge in computational physics. As a beneficiary of the Erasmus+ Mobility Program 🇪🇺 and TWAS partial funding, he has engaged with international mentors and advanced laboratory environments 🏛️. His involvement in high-level materials characterization and project-based learning 🔬 has sharpened his scientific reasoning and communication. Emmanuel remains committed to publishing impactful research, contributing to the academic community, and solving real-world problems through material science 🧠🌍.
Research Focus
Emmanuel’s research interests lie in applied materials science, focusing on nanotechnology, bio-based materials, and renewable energy systems 🔋. He investigates spectral conversion, organic photovoltaics, and thin film fabrication techniques such as spin coating and spray pyrolysis 🧪🌞. His projects often center on enhancing the optical and structural properties of advanced semiconductors, including Eu/Tb-doped In₂Se₃, P3HT-AuNPs composites, and Bismuth-GST films 📊🧫. He also explores the luminescent properties of benzanthrone derivatives for optoelectronic and sensing applications. Emmanuel aims to drive innovation in green energy and smart materials for sustainable development 🧠⚡.
Awards and Honors
Emmanuel has been honored with the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme Award to conduct international research at Daugavpils University, Latvia 🇪🇺. He received partial funding from TWAS to support his MSc coursework 🎓. In 2024, he was selected and financially supported to attend the ICTP School on Computational Techniques at the University of Nairobi 🇰🇪, enhancing his skills in numerical methods and simulations 💻. These recognitions reflect his academic excellence 🥇, global research engagement 🌐, and commitment to knowledge dissemination. Emmanuel’s awards empower his ambition to lead impactful scientific inquiry across borders 🌍🧪.
Publication Top Note
Photoluminescence Dependence of 2-Bromo-3-aminobenzo[de]anthracene-7-one on Solvent Polarity for Potential Applications in Color-Tunable Optoelectronics
Karungani, E., Kirilova, E., Avotina, L., Puckins, A., Osipovs, S., Ochodo, T., Airo, M., & Otieno, F. (2025). Photoluminescence dependence of 2-Bromo-3-aminobenzo[de]anthracene-7-one on solvent polarity for potential applications in color-tunable optoelectronics. Molecules, 30(13), 2677. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30132677
Conclusion
Emmanuel Karungani exemplifies the next generation of scientific leaders in applied physics and materials science. His interdisciplinary research contributions, international collaborations, and commitment to renewable energy and advanced materials make him a deserving candidate for the Young Scientist Award. This recognition will not only honor his current achievements but also encourage future breakthroughs in sustainable technology.