Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai | Sensor | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai | Sensor | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai | National Chung Hsing University | Taiwan

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai is a distinguished scholar and innovative researcher whose work integrates mechanical engineering, microfabrication, and smart agricultural technologies. His academic journey and professional experiences have spanned Taiwan and Japan, and his expertise covers micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), micromanufacturing, automation, and artificial intelligence applications in agriculture. Currently serving as the Department Chair of Bio-Industrial Mechatronic Engineering at National Chung Hsing University, he has been instrumental in advancing interdisciplinary approaches to smart farming and bio-industrial automation. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai has also directed major research centers, guided industry collaborations, and received international recognition for his inventive contributions in agricultural engineering, demonstrating a career that bridges cutting-edge technology with real-world sustainability solutions.

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Summary of Suitability 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai is a distinguished researcher and academic leader in bio-industrial mechatronic engineering, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), micromanufacturing, automation, artificial intelligence applications, and smart agriculture. With advanced degrees in Mechanical Engineering from National Taiwan University and a strong international research background in Japan, he has established himself as a pioneer at the intersection of engineering innovation and agricultural technology.

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from National Chiao-Tung University, where he built the foundational knowledge of mechanics, materials, and automation. He continued his graduate studies at National Taiwan University, completing both his Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Mechanical Engineering. His doctoral research involved MEMS and micromanufacturing, laying the groundwork for future exploration of automation and artificial intelligence applications in agriculture. His strong academic training across Taiwan’s leading universities prepared him with a balance of technical rigor, innovative thinking, and interdisciplinary vision that underpins his current contributions.

Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai professional career reflects a balance between academic leadership and international research collaborations. He began as a researcher at the Micro System Integration Center (μSIC) and later at the Advanced Institute for Materials Research (WPI-AIMR) at Tohoku University in Japan, where he contributed to micromanufacturing and MEMS integration projects. He also gained industry experience as a researcher with MEMS-CORE Corporation in Japan, applying micro-automation technologies in practical contexts. Returning to Taiwan, he joined the Department of Bio-Industrial Mechatronic Engineering at National Chung Hsing University as Assistant Professor and steadily advanced to Associate Professor and Department Chair. He also served as Director of the Agricultural Automation Center, where he established collaborative projects linking artificial intelligence, robotics, and farming technology. His leadership roles underscore his ability to bridge academia, research, and industry with measurable impact.

Research Interests

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai research interests encompass micro-electro-mechanical systems, micromanufacturing, automation technologies, and their integration into agricultural applications. He is particularly dedicated to advancing smart agriculture, focusing on precision farming systems that incorporate MEMS sensors, machine learning algorithms, and AI-driven automation to optimize productivity while maintaining sustainability. His work also explores automation in livestock farming, including animal monitoring, weight detection, and behavior recognition, as well as AI-based bird detection and repelling systems. By combining MEMS design with AI modeling, his research provides innovative solutions to challenges in agriculture, demonstrating how cutting-edge technology can transform traditional industries.

Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai has received multiple awards and honors that highlight his excellence in both teaching and research. He has twice been honored with the National Chung Hsing University Industry-Academic Outstanding Teacher Award, recognizing his contributions to technology transfer and academic-industry collaboration. He was also the recipient of the School Outstanding Instructor Award, demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship. His patents on agricultural automation systems, including an automatic animal weight measurement method and a bird detection and repelling system, won Silver Medals at the Taiwan Innovation and Technology Expo Invention Competitions. Furthermore, he earned an Outstanding Award in AI and Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Animal Husbandry at a major AI competition, underscoring the interdisciplinary impact of his work. These accolades reflect not only his technical contributions but also his role in shaping the future of agricultural innovation.

Publication Top Notes

  • On‐chip micro‐pseudocapacitors for ultrahigh energy and power delivery
    Year: 2015
    Citation: 80

  • Identifying images of dead chickens with a chicken removal system integrated with a deep learning algorithm
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 79

  • Non-contact magnetic cantilever-type piezoelectric energy harvester for rotational mechanism
    Year: 2018
    Citation: 61

  • Design and fabrication of a phononic-crystal-based Love wave resonator in GHz range
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 47

  • Laser-induced graphene stretchable strain sensor with vertical and parallel patterns
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 45

  • Low-concentration ammonia gas sensors manufactured using the CMOS–MEMS technique
    Year: 2020
    Citation: 43

  • Metallic glass as a mechanical material for microscanners
    Year: 2015
    Citation: 38

  • Evidence of a Love wave bandgap in a quartz substrate coated with a phononic thin layer
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 31

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai has established himself as a leading researcher at the intersection of mechanical engineering, MEMS, and agricultural automation. His educational background, extensive research experiences across Taiwan and Japan, and leadership roles in academia underscore his multidisciplinary expertise. His research interests in micromanufacturing, automation, smart agriculture, and AI applications have led to impactful innovations, including patented technologies and award-winning inventions. With a proven record of publications, invited talks, and recognitions, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yao-Chuan Tsai contributions extend beyond academic theory into practical solutions that enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. His achievements make him a highly deserving candidate for recognition in award nominations, reflecting not only his academic excellence but also his broader impact on industry and society through technological innovation.

Prof. Kheibar Dashtian | Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kheibar Dashtian | Sensing | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Kheibar Dashtian, Materials and Energy Research Center, Iran

Dr. Kheibar Dashtian, Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Iran University of Science and Technology, is a renowned expert in photo/spectro-electrochemistry, stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, and related fields. With over 150 ISI-indexed publications and an impressive h-index of 53, Dr. Dashtian is highly regarded in the scientific community, having delivered 15 invited seminars and contributed 15 book chapters to scientific literature. He has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the 24th Kharazmi Youth Festival Award and a ranking among the top 57 leading scientists in Iran in 2023. His contributions to research have earned him recognition as a Highly Cited ISC Scientist and ISI Scientist. Dr. Dashtian is a visiting lecturer at Iran University of Science and Technology and Yasouj University, and he has supervised 45 MSc graduates and 10 PhD graduates. With a keen focus on material development and device fabrication, he has developed systems such as gas sensing devices, microfluidic platforms, and photoelectrochemical systems. Additionally, he holds two patents pending and has made significant contributions to intellectual property. Dr. Dashtian is also actively involved in numerous research collaborations and has completed five postdoctoral research fellowships. He serves on the editorial boards of four ISI-indexed scientific journals and has reviewed over 300 scientific papers.

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🏆 Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kheibar Dashtian demonstrates extraordinary merit as a researcher in analytical chemistry, with a strong record of scientific innovation, publication, and academic leadership. His accomplishments reflect a rare blend of depth, impact, and consistency across various dimensions of modern research. The following highlights support his high suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Education 🎓:

  • Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry
    Yasouj University, Iran (Sep 2014 – Jun 2019)
    Research in nanomaterial preparation and applications in sensing and wastewater treatment.
    Thesis: “Design and preparation of photoelectrochemical biosensors based on the junction of optically active nanostructured semiconductors and polymers for the determination of biological compounds and Cr(VI) ion.”

  • M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry
    Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran (Sep 2012 – Sep 2014)
    Research on the synthesis, surface modification, and applications of mesoporous SBA-15 for optical sensors.
    Thesis: “Design of optical sensors for determination and removal of heavy metals (Ce, La, Pb, Pr) from aqueous media.”

  • B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry
    Iran Payam Noor University, Gachsaran Branch, Iran (Sep 2008 – Feb 2011)
    Research on Chemistry and Oil Technology.

Work Experience 💼:

  • Visiting Lecturer
    Iran University of Science and Technology & Yasouj University
    Delivering lectures in the field of analytical chemistry and nanomaterials.

Achievements 🏆:

  • Publications: Over 150 ISI-indexed articles with an h-index of 53, i10-index of 117, and citations exceeding 7,700.

  • Presentations: Delivered 15 invited seminars at national and international conferences.

  • Book Chapters: Contributed 15 invited chapters to scientific books.

  • Peer Review: Reviewed over 300 scientific papers for more than 100 ISI-indexed journals.

  • Supervision: Advisor to 45 MSc graduates and 10 PhD graduates.

  • Research Collaboration: Involved in 5 major research projects.

Awards & Honors 🏅:

  • 24th Kharazmi Youth Festival Award 🏆

  • Ranked among the top 57 leading scientists in Iran (2023) 🇮🇷

  • Highly Cited ISC Scientist (Top 1%, ESI-recognized, 2019–2023) 🌟

  • Highly Cited ISI Scientist (Top 2%, ESI-recognized, 2019–2023) 🌟

  • Researcher of the Year award recipient in Yasouj, Iran 🥇

Intellectual Property 💡:

  • 2 patents pending related to gas sensing devices, electrospray pyrolysis systems, and microfluidic platforms.

Editorial Roles 📚:

  • Editorial board member of 4 ISI-indexed scientific journals.

  • Referee for scientific papers across various journals.

Publication Top Notes:

Carbon dot-ZIF-67-infused tragacanth hydrogel films: leveraging tunable luminescence through displacement mechanisms for anthrax detection

Recent advancements in biosensors for diagnosis of ovarian cancer: Analytical approaches

Biological Ce/Fe-metal organic framework multifunctional nanozyme-based colorimetric sensor array for multi-analyte detection in human sweat

Transformative personalized oxalate biomarker analysis through a wrist-worn microneedle device integrated with duplex nanozyme toolbox

Molecularly imprinted polymer based on MIL-101 (Cr) MOF incorporated polyvinylidene for selective adsorption and separation dye with improved antifouling properties

Dispersive micro-solid phase extraction coupled with spectrophotometric using (MgFe CLDH)/GO magnetically separable sorbent for pre-concentration of anionic food dyes in water samples

CoMoO4 nano-architecture-based supercapacitors: Tunable properties, performance optimization, and prospective applications

Prof. Xiaoji Niu | Sensor Fusion Awards | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaoji Niu | Sensor Fusion Awards | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Xiaoji Niu, Wuhan University, China

Dr. Xiaoji Niu is a distinguished professor at the GNSS Research Center of Wuhan University, where he has been leading a team of approximately 20 researchers since March 2010. His expertise lies in integrated navigation systems, particularly in the integration of Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Dr. Niu has been pivotal in advancing deep integration technology for high-precision GNSS/INS systems, aimed at enhancing Position and Orientation Systems (POS) for mobile mapping applications. Prior to his current role, he served as a senior scientist at Shanghai SiRF Technology Co., Ltd., where he spearheaded research and development on dead-reckoning technology and played a key role in the production release of inertial-aided GPS firmware. Dr. Niu’s academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Navigation and Control from Tsinghua University, where he focused on micromachined attitude measurement units for satellite TV antenna stabilization, and a B.Sc. with honors in Mechanical Engineering. His contributions to the field are recognized internationally, underscoring his commitment to advancing navigation technologies.

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Research for Best Researcher Award: 

Professor Xiaoji Niu, currently at the GNSS Research Center of Wuhan University, is a highly accomplished researcher with a notable record in navigation and integrated systems. His extensive experience and impressive contributions to the field make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Navigation and Control
    Institution: Tsinghua University, China
    Department: Department of Precision Instruments
    Duration: Sep 1997 – Dec 2002
    Dissertation: “Micromachined Attitude Measurement Unit with Application in Satellite TV Antenna Stabilization”
    Supervisor: Prof. Zhongyu Gao
  • B.Sc. (with Honors)
    Institution: Tsinghua University, China
    Departments:

    • Department of Precision Instruments (Mechanical Engineering, Major)
    • Department of Automation (Electrical Engineering, Minor)
      Duration: Sep 1992 – Jul 1997

Work Experience

  • Professor
    Institution: GNSS Research Center, Wuhan University
    Duration: Mar 2010 – Present
    Responsibilities:

    • Leading a team of approximately 20 researchers, including 2 postdoctoral researchers.
    • Research on Integrated Navigation Systems (INS and GNSS/INS integration).
    • Deep integration technology for GNSS/INS.
    • Commercializing high-precision GNSS/INS integration techniques for Position and Orientation Systems (POS) for Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS).
    • Developing compact and low-cost MEMS INS for land vehicles and UAV applications.
  • Senior Scientist
    Institution: Shanghai SiRF Technology Co., Ltd
    Department: Advanced Technologies Dept.
    Duration: Feb 2007 – Feb 2010
    Responsibilities:

    • Leading R&D on Dead-Reckoning (DR) technology, including inertial-aided GPS.
    • Technical lead for DR production projects.
    • Started production release of DR firmware in Q2 2008; released to three customers with shipments of over 500k chips, leading to product shipments by two customers.
  • Research Scientist
    Institution: The University of Calgary, Canada
    Department: Mobile Multi-Sensor System (MMSS) Research Group
    Duration: Oct 2005 – Feb 2007
    Responsibilities:

    • Led projects including:
      • Intermap Project (2006-2007): “Assessment of the Intermap Navigation Software and Hardware” (funded by Intermap Technologies Inc.).
      • SiRF Project – Phase II (2005-2006): “Inertial Aided GPS (Phase II)” (funded by SiRF Technology Inc.).
        Supervisor: Dr. Naser El-Sheimy
  • Postdoctoral Fellow
    Institution: The University of Calgary, Canada
    Department: Mobile Multi-Sensor System (MMSS) Research Group
    Duration: Feb 2003 – Sep 2005
    Responsibilities:

    • Led projects including:
      • SiRF Project – Phase I (2005): “Inertial Aided GPS (Phase I)” (funded by SiRF Technology Inc.).
      • MEMS Project (2003-2005): “Next Generation MEMS-Based Navigation System for Vehicles and Personal Location and Navigation” (funded by GEOIDE, Network Center of Excellence).
        Supervisor: Dr. Naser El-Sheimy

Publication top Notes:

Multi-level information fusion enhanced by scene constraint: Key to improve autonomous positioning accuracy in urban underground pipeline using MEMS inertial sensors

Onboard multi-source fusion train positioning method based on railway track irregularity matching

INS-Aided GNSS Pseudo-Range Error Prediction Using Machine Learning for Urban Vehicle Navigation

RANSAC-Based Fault Detection and Exclusion Algorithm for Single-Difference Tightly Coupled GNSS/INS Integration

An Iterative Method for the Distance Constraints in a Multi-Sensor Positioning System

Dr. Hebat-Allah S. Tohamy | Chemical sensors | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hebat-Allah S. Tohamy | Chemical sensors | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Hebat-Allah S. Tohamy, National Research Centre, Egypt

Dr. Hebat-Allah Sarhan Abd-Allah Tohamy, born on November 17, 1989, in Egypt, is an accomplished chemist with a strong academic and professional background. She earned her B.Sc. in Chemistry and Biochemistry with honors in 2011 and her M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry in 2017 from Helwan University. She completed her Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry in 2020 at the same institution, focusing on the preparation, characterization, and applications of carbon allotropes derived from agricultural wastes. Since 2012, Dr. Tohamy has been affiliated with the National Research Center’s Cellulose and Paper Department, where she has gained extensive experience in cellulose chemistry, nanomaterials, sustainability, and drug delivery systems. She has conducted scientific missions in Prague and has been involved in numerous research projects and international collaborations. Her work has earned her recognition, including the best M.Sc. thesis award at the National Research Centre in 2017. Dr. Tohamy is also a member of professional organizations such as the Egyptian Society of Polymer Science and Technology and the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD).

Professional Profile:

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Education:

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry
    Faculty of Science, Helwan University, 2020
    Thesis Title: Preparation, characterization, and applications of carbon allotropes derived from agricultural wastes
  • M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry
    Faculty of Science, Helwan University, 2017
    Thesis Title: Preparation, characterization, and applications of cellulose-based amphiphilic materials
  • B.Sc. in Chemistry and Biochemistry
    Faculty of Science, Helwan University, 2011
    Graduated with Very Good with honors (among the top ten students)

Work Experience:

  • Teaching Assistant with Ph.D.
    Chair of Erosion and Torrent Control, Department of Ecological Engineering for Soil and Water Resources Protection, University of Belgrade – Faculty of Forestry, June 2022 – Present
    Responsible for teaching and research activities related to erosion control and soil and water conservation.
  • Teaching Assistant
    Chair of Erosion and Torrent Control, Department of Ecological Engineering for Soil and Water Resources Protection, University of Belgrade – Faculty of Forestry, April 2016 – June 2022
    Assisted in teaching and research, focusing on erosion control and ecological engineering.
  • Volunteer and Demonstrator
    University of Belgrade – Faculty of Forestry, November 2015 – April 2016
    Gained practical experience in teaching and laboratory work, contributing to various projects in ecological engineering.
  • Researcher
    National Research Center (NRC), Cellulose and Paper Department, since 2012
    Conducted extensive research in cellulose chemistry, recycling agricultural wastes, sustainability, kinetics, thermal analysis, hydrogels, nanomaterials, and amphiphilic polymers. Specialized in carbon-based materials, graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, carbon quantum dots, drug delivery, water treatment, adsorption, and sensors.

Publication top Notes:

Biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose based material for sustainable/active food packaging application

Fluorescence ‘Turn-on’ Probe for Chromium Reduction, Adsorption and Detection Based on Cellulosic Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots Hydrogels

Antibacterial activity and dielectric properties of the PVA/cellulose nanocrystal composite using the synergistic effect of rGO@CuNPs

Potential application of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/shellac embedded with graphene oxide/TiO2-Nps as natural packaging film

Applications of propolis-based materials in wound healing

Oil dispersing and adsorption by carboxymethyl cellulose–oxalate nanofibrils/nanocrystals and their kinetics