Jana Petrović | Materials in catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jana Petrović | Materials in catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Innovation Centre of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy | Serbia

Jana Petrović is a dedicated researcher specializing in semiconductor materials and photocatalysis, with a strong focus on developing innovative materials for the photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium under visible light irradiation. Her career reflects a continuous commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and practical applications in environmental protection and advanced material science. She has contributed to research and development in the field of chemical engineering and material science, actively participating in cutting-edge projects and presenting promising outcomes for sustainable technological solutions.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Jana pursued her academic journey at the University of Belgrade – Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, where she successfully completed undergraduate and master’s studies in chemical engineering and is currently enrolled in doctoral academic studies. Her formal education provided her with an exceptional foundation in chemical engineering principles, materials science, and environmental technologies. Through rigorous academic training, she has developed extensive expertise in advanced research methodologies and analytical techniques that contribute to her innovative work in photocatalysis and semiconductor materials.

Experience

Her professional career began as a Young Research Intern, where she contributed to research projects focusing on material science and environmental applications. Currently, she holds the position of Research Assistant at the Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, where she continues to expand her expertise in materials characterization and innovative photocatalytic technologies. Her role involves conducting experiments, analyzing materials through advanced characterization techniques such as FESEM microscopy, BET surface analysis, XRD and FTIR analysis, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, as well as contributing to collaborative research initiatives aimed at environmental sustainability.

Research Interest

Jana’s primary research interests lie in the field of semiconductor materials and photocatalysis, with a particular focus on materials designed for the photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium under visible light irradiation. Her work addresses key environmental challenges by exploring sustainable and efficient ways to remove toxic pollutants from industrial wastewater. She is passionate about the development of new materials that harness visible light for effective photocatalytic reactions, contributing to cleaner technologies and innovative solutions in the field of environmental remediation.

Awards

Throughout her academic and research career, Jana has been recognized with multiple scholarships and awards for her outstanding achievements and contributions to science. She has received prestigious scholarships from national foundations supporting young researchers and talented students, as well as institutional recognition for her excellence in academic and research performance. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and her potential to make a significant impact in the fields of chemical engineering and materials science.

Publications

Petrović, J., Radovanović, Ž., Obradović, B., Janaćković, Đ., Petrovic, R., et al. (2025). “Modification of surface properties and photocatalytic performance of pure and oxygen-doped graphitic carbon nitride via DBD plasma treatment” in Journal of the Serbian Chemical Society.

Petrović, J., Radovanović, Ž., Lazarević, S., Barać, N., Janaćković, Đ., Petrovic, R., et al. (2024). “Synthesis of photocatalysts for the reduction of hexavalent chromium by modification of TiO₂ with nanoparticles of Cu and/or CdS” in Tehnika.

Conclusion

Jana Petrović stands as a promising researcher whose work bridges the gap between innovative material science and environmental sustainability. Her dedication to research, coupled with her hands-on expertise in advanced materials characterization techniques, positions her as a valuable contributor to the scientific community. With a strong foundation in chemical engineering, a growing portfolio of research accomplishments, and a clear focus on solving critical environmental challenges, she continues to advance the field of photocatalysis and semiconductor materials, paving the way for sustainable technological advancements.

Rita Mwendia Njeru | Natural Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Rita Mwendia Njeru, Natural Sciences, Best Researcher Award

Ms. Rita Mwendia Njeru at University of Szeged, Hungary

Professional Profile

Orcid  Profile

🌟Summary

Rita Mwendia Njeru is a Geophysics Researcher at the University of Szeged, Hungary, specializing in digital rock physics and 3D imaging analysis. Her research focuses on microscale characterization of geothermal reservoirs using micro-computed tomography for optimizing water reinjection in the Pannonian Basin.

🎓Education

Rita Mwendia Njeru has pursued a rigorous academic path, culminating in a Ph.D. in Geophysics from the University of Szeged, Hungary, where her research focuses on microscale characterization of geothermal reservoirs using advanced imaging techniques. She holds a Master of Science degree in Physics from Egerton University, Kenya, where she pioneered the Geophysics option for the Masters’ program and played a pivotal role in developing academic frameworks for subsequent students. Rita’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics, also from Egerton University, where she graduated with honors and engaged in extensive coursework that extended beyond traditional physics, including economics and communication skills.

💼 Professional Experience

Rita Mwendia Njeru brings a wealth of professional experience in geophysics research and academic leadership. Currently a Geophysics Researcher at the University of Szeged, Hungary, Rita specializes in digital rock physics and 3D imaging analysis. Her ongoing doctoral research focuses on optimizing water reinjection in geothermal reservoirs within the Pannonian Basin using micro-computed tomography. Previously, Rita served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and Tutorial Fellow at Egerton University, Kenya, where she not only taught undergraduate courses in geophysics but also coordinated academic advising and led outreach initiatives to promote science education, particularly encouraging women to pursue physics. She has collaborated with renowned research institutes such as Geochem-Hungary and LIAG-Germany, contributing to advancements in geothermal energy research and digital rock physics. Rita’s diverse roles have equipped her with strong project management skills and a deep commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.

🔬 Research Interests

Rita Mwendia Njeru’s research interests center on advancing the field of geophysics through innovative applications of digital rock physics and 3D imaging analysis. Her current focus is on microscale characterization of geothermal reservoirs using micro-computed tomography, aiming to optimize water reinjection strategies in the Pannonian Basin. Rita is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to address challenges in energy sustainability and geological resource management. Her interdisciplinary approach combines expertise in image processing with a deep understanding of geophysical principles, contributing to the development of sustainable energy solutions and enhancing our understanding of geological systems.

📖 Publication Top Noted

Micro-scale investigation of the pore network of sandstone in the Pannonian Basin to improve geothermal energy development

    • Authors: Rita Mwendia Njeru, Matthias Halisch, János Szanyi
    • Journal: Geothermics
    • Volume: 2024-09

Optimizing Micro-CT Resolution for Geothermal Reservoir Characterization in the Pannonian Basin

    • Authors: Rita Mwendia Njeru, Akhmad Sofyan, Matthias Halisch, Balázs Kóbor, János Szanyi
    • Journal: Energies
    • Volume: 2024-06-22

Determination of Scaling Zone and Scaling Type in Slotted Liner Based on the Fluid Flow Pattern in the Geothermal Well “X”

    • Authors: Rita Mwendia Njeru
    • Journal: International Journal of Renewable Energy Research
    • Volume: 13
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 8681-8693
    • Year: 2023