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.

Rubesh Ashok Kumar s | Science and Humanities Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rubesh Ashok Kumar s | Science and Humanities Research | Best Researcher Award

Chennai institute of technology | India

Dr. Rubesh Ashok Kumar is a dynamic and passionate research scholar in the field of materials science, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology (AVIT), Chennai, under Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (VMRF). With a strong foundation in chemistry and over four years of hands-on experience in academic and applied research, he has made notable contributions to the development of nanomaterials, particularly focusing on MXene-based semiconductor nanocomposites for environmental remediation. His dedication to scientific inquiry is reflected in his extensive publication record, collaborative projects, and consistent participation in national and international conferences. Dr. Rubesh is known for his methodical approach to experimental chemistry and his commitment to solving real-world environmental issues through innovative photocatalytic technologies.

Professional Profile

ORCID

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Education

Dr. Rubesh Ashok Kumar began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from The American College, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemistry from NMSSVN College. These formative years laid the groundwork for his deep interest in materials chemistry and nanotechnology. His academic training emphasized core chemical principles, analytical techniques, and experimental design, which he later expanded upon during his postgraduate project on selective ion detection using hydrazone units. His current doctoral research at AVIT focuses on the synthesis and characterization of semiconductor metal oxide-incorporated MXene nanomaterials, targeting efficient photocatalytic applications for environmental cleanup. This research has allowed him to explore advanced synthesis methods such as hydrothermal and co-precipitation techniques, contributing significantly to his academic and professional growth.

Experience

Dr. Rubesh’s professional journey reflects a seamless integration of academic research and technical expertise. He began his career as a Technical Analyst at SPI Global, where he worked on chemistry-related content and analysis. He later joined SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRM-IST), Chennai, as a researcher, focusing on graphene-based polymer nanocomposites for energy and environmental applications. Since November 2021, he has been working as a Ph.D. scholar at AVIT, where he has been instrumental in leading projects related to MXene nanocomposites for wastewater treatment. His collaborative nature and research aptitude have led to successful partnerships with renowned institutions and scientists from Taiwan, South Korea, and India. He has also engaged in teaching undergraduate courses, offering lab instruction in engineering chemistry and environmental science, further extending his influence as a mentor and educator.

Research Interest

Dr. Rubesh’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology and environmental science. His core focus is the development of MXene-based semiconductor nanocomposites for advanced oxidation processes (AOP) to treat dye pollutants, antibiotics, and pharmaceutical waste in wastewater. He specializes in synthesizing various metal oxide nanomaterials using hydrothermal and co-precipitation techniques, investigating their structural, optical, and photocatalytic properties. His work involves rigorous studies on photocatalytic degradation under visible and sunlight irradiation using annular photo reactors, and includes electrochemical analysis and thin film coatings. In addition, he has explored reaction kinetics, reusability studies, and catalyst optimization to enhance the real-time efficiency of wastewater remediation processes. His skillset extends to multiple analytical techniques, such as FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, AFM, and COD analysis, positioning him as a well-rounded and highly capable materials chemist.

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Rubesh has received several accolades for his outstanding research contributions. He secured the first prize at the International Conference on Hybrid Solar Cell Technology (ICSCT 2023) for his oral presentation on photocatalytic degradation using MXene-based materials. His work was further recognized with the third prize during the University Research Day 2024 organized by VMRF for his innovative presentation on sunlight-assisted degradation of pollutants. These achievements highlight not only his academic excellence but also his ability to communicate complex scientific findings effectively. Moreover, he has been an active participant in numerous workshops, training programs, and international seminars focused on nanomaterials and environmental technology, demonstrating his continuous commitment to professional development.

Publications

Impact of WO₃:CeO₂@MXene/g-C₃N₄ nano disk on sunlight-driven photocatalytic removal of fluoroquinolone antibiotic and high-performance supercapacitor application

Authors: Rubesh Ashok Kumar Selvakumar; Vasvini Mary Devaraj; Rachel Angeline Lenin; Nagarani Sandran; Jih-Hsing Chang; Suganya Josephine Gali Anthoni
Journal: Carbon Letters
Year: 2025

An efficient rare earth metal oxide-supported MXene/g-C₃N₄ photocatalyst for removing organic dye from wastewater

Authors: D. Vasvini Mary; S. Rubesh Ashok Kumar; G.A. Suganya Josephine
Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society
Year: 2025

Nano Janue-like N-doped ZnO bundles as efficient photocatalysis for the removal of endocrine disruptor under visible-light irradiation

Authors: Suganya Josephine Gali Anthoni; Rubesh Ashok Kumar Selva Kumar; Vasvini Mary Devaraj; Prathap Kumar Mani; Sivasamy Arumugam
Journal: Pure and Applied Chemistry
Year: 2025

Construction of coral reef-like transition/rare earth metal oxide-supported g-C₃N₄-based nanocomposite: A new approach for enhanced visible light-assisted photocatalytic removal of orange G dye

Authors: D. Vasvini Mary; S. Rubesh Ashok Kumar; Jennifer G. Joseph; B. Dhanalakshmi; G.A. Suganya Josephine
Journal: Applied Catalysis O: Open
Year: 2024

Graphene/GO/rGO based nanocomposites: Emerging energy and environmental application–review

Authors: S. Rubesh Ashok Kumar; D. Vasvini Mary; G.A. Suganya Josephine; Mohamed A. Riswan Ahamed
Journal: Hybrid Advances
Year: 2024

Hydrothermally synthesized WO₃:CeO₂ supported g-C₃N₄ nanolayers for rapid photocatalytic degradation of azo dye under natural sunlight

Authors: S. Rubesh Ashok Kumar; D. Vasvini Mary; G.A. Suganya Josephine; A. Sivasamy
Journal: Inorganic Chemistry Communications
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Dr. Rubesh Ashok Kumar exemplifies a new generation of researchers dedicated to addressing environmental challenges through scientific innovation. With a solid academic background, diverse research experience, and a clear focus on sustainable nanomaterials, he stands out as a promising scientist in the field of photocatalysis and wastewater treatment. His collaborative projects, international exposure, and consistent contributions to high-impact journals underscore his potential to make long-lasting contributions to environmental nanotechnology. As he continues to advance in his academic journey, Dr. Rubesh remains committed to producing impactful research that bridges material science with environmental sustainability, contributing meaningfully to global scientific progress.