Juan Carlos Lozano Medina | Materials | Excellence in Innovation Award

Excellence in Innovation Award

Juan Carlos Lozano Medina
 Universidad De Las Palmas De Gran Canaria, Spain

Juan Carlos Lozano Medina
Affiliation Universidad De Las Palmas De Gran Canaria
Country Spain
Scopus Id 58455462500
Documents 15
Citation 55
h-index 4
Subject Area Materials
Event International Popular Scientist Awards
Orcid 0009-0005-4985-9339

Juan Carlos Lozano Medina is a researcher affiliated with Universidad De Las Palmas De Gran Canaria in Spain whose documented research spans energy systems, pumped hydroelectric energy storage, island electricity systems, desalination, hydrogen integration, renewable-energy applications, power-plant operation, and materials-related manufacturing. His Scopus profile is reported with 15 documents, 55 citations, and an h-index of 4, providing a bibliometric basis for assessing his research activity and scholarly influence. [1]

Abstract

This academic recognition profile presents the research record of Juan Carlos Lozano Medina in the context of the Excellence in Innovation Award. His documented publications demonstrate an interdisciplinary focus on sustainable energy systems, energy storage, island electricity infrastructure, desalination, hydrogen utilization, renewable fuels, and advanced manufacturing. Recent work includes analysis of pumped hydroelectric energy storage in Gran Canaria, integration of desalination with hydroelectric pumping infrastructure, hydrogen-supported energy storage, demand-response optimization, and the use of banana waste for bioethanol production. [2] [3] [4] The record therefore provides evidence of research directed toward technological integration and practical approaches to energy-system sustainability.

Keywords

Juan Carlos Lozano Medina; Excellence in Innovation Award; sustainable energy systems; pumped hydroelectric energy storage; Gran Canaria; island electricity systems; hydrogen energy storage; demand response; renewable energy; desalination; bioethanol; power-plant optimization; additive manufacturing; materials research.

Introduction

Island electricity systems face distinctive engineering challenges associated with limited interconnection, variable renewable generation, demand fluctuations, and the need for flexible energy-storage capacity. Research addressing these challenges can involve multiple disciplines, including energy engineering, optimization, hydropower, hydrogen technologies, water treatment, and materials science. Lozano Medina’s publication record reflects this interdisciplinary environment through studies examining the operation and integration of energy infrastructure in the Canary Islands. [5]

Research Profile

Lozano Medina’s documented research profile is centered on energy-system analysis and technology integration, with particular relevance to island environments. His publications address pumped hydroelectric power, energy storage, demand-response optimization, renewable fuels, power-plant operation, and interactions between energy and water infrastructure. The Scopus-indexed profile supplied for this article lists 15 documents, 55 citations, and an h-index of 4. [1]

  • Energy storage and pumped hydroelectric power systems.
  • Optimization of island electricity systems and demand response.
  • Hydrogen integration with pumped hydroelectric infrastructure.
  • Renewable and waste-derived fuels for electricity systems.
  • Integration of desalination and hydroelectric pumping infrastructure.
  • Power-plant operation and energy-system alternatives in the Canary Islands.
  • Advanced manufacturing and copper-shell fabrication.

Research Contributions

Pumped hydroelectric energy storage. Research on Gran Canaria examines the role of pumped hydroelectric energy storage in energy production and the integration of the Chira-Soria pumped hydroelectric power plant. The work considers energy-system operation and demand patterns, providing a framework for evaluating storage within an island electricity context. [2]

Hydrogen-supported energy storage. A 2024 study investigated the use of hydrogen for large-scale energy storage in support of the efficient integration of pumped hydroelectric power. This research connects hydrogen technologies with established storage infrastructure and examines approaches to improving energy-system flexibility. [4]

Energy and water integration. Research on the integration of a reverse osmosis desalination plant within a hydroelectric pumping station addresses the relationship between water treatment and energy infrastructure. Such integration is relevant to island regions where energy and water systems can be closely interconnected. [3]

Publications

  1. Lozano Medina, J. C.; León Zerpa, F. A.; Pérez Báez, S. O.; Sánchez Morales, C.; Mendieta Pino, C. A. A Study of Energy Production in Gran Canaria with a Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage Plant (PHES). Sustainability, 2025.[2]
  2. Sánchez-Morales, C. J.; Mirza-Rosca, J.; Lozano-Medina, J. C.; Hernandez-Pérez, M. Additive Manufacturing of Highly Detailed Copper Shells by AMSME Process. Microscopy and Microanalysis, 2024.
  3. Medina, J. C. L.; Martín, A. R.; Zerpa, F. L.; Pino, C. A. M. Integration study of a reverse osmosis desalination plant in a hydroelectric pumping station. Desalination and Water Treatment, 2024.[3]
  4. Lozano Medina, J. C.; Concepción, V. H.; Mendieta Pino, C. A.; León Zerpa, F. Massive energy storage using H2 to support the optimal and efficient integration of a pumped hydroelectric power plant. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2024.[4]

Research Impact

The supplied Scopus metrics indicate 15 indexed documents, 55 citations, and an h-index of 4. [1] These indicators provide a quantitative snapshot of the researcher’s indexed scholarly output and citation activity. Bibliometric indicators should be interpreted alongside publication quality, research relevance, collaboration, methodological contribution, and practical application rather than as independent measures of research quality.

Award Suitability

The documented research profile is relevant to an Excellence in Innovation Award because several publications address the development, optimization, or integration of technologies intended to improve the performance of energy and infrastructure systems. The research on pumped hydroelectric storage in Gran Canaria provides an example of applying energy-system analysis to a specific island context, while the work on hydrogen storage examines an additional pathway for supporting flexible energy infrastructure. [2] [4]

Conclusion

Juan Carlos Lozano Medina’s documented scholarly record reflects an interdisciplinary research trajectory involving sustainable energy systems, pumped hydroelectric storage, hydrogen integration, island electricity optimization, desalination, renewable fuels, power-plant operation, and advanced manufacturing. With 15 reported Scopus-indexed documents, 55 citations, and an h-index of 4, his research demonstrates measurable scholarly activity. [1] The combination of energy-system research and technology-oriented studies provides a substantive basis for consideration under an Excellence in Innovation Award, subject to the independent verification and assessment procedures of the International Popular Scientist Awards.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Juan Carlos Lozano Medina, Author ID 58455462500. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=58455462500
  2. Lozano Medina, J. C., León Zerpa, F. A., Pérez Báez, S. O., Sánchez Morales, C., & Mendieta Pino, C. A. (2025). A Study of Energy Production in Gran Canaria with a Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage Plant (PHES). Sustainability, 17.
    DOI:https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020435
  3. Medina, J. C. L., Martín, A. R., Zerpa, F. L., & Pino, C. A. M. (2024). Integration study of a reverse osmosis desalination plant in a hydroelectric pumping station. Desalination and Water Treatment.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dwt.2024.100431
  4. Lozano Medina, J. C., Concepción, V. H., Mendieta Pino, C. A., & León Zerpa, F. (2024). Massive energy storage using H2 to support the optimal and efficient integration of a pumped hydroelectric power plant. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.10.338
  5. Lozano Medina, J. C., Henríquez Concepción, V., Ramos Martin, A., León Zerpa, F., & Mendieta Pino, C. A. (2024). Study of Different Alternatives for the Operation of Power Plants in the Canary Islands. DYNA.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.52152/d11075

Şerife Saçmacı | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Best Researcher Award

Şerife Saçmacı
Erciyes University, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences

            Şerife Saçmacı
Affiliation Erciyes University, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences
Country Turkey
Subject Area Nanotechnology
Event International Popular Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-9188-4574

Şerife Saçmacı  the Best Researcher Award recognizes scholarly excellence demonstrated through sustained scientific investigation, publication quality, innovation, and measurable contributions to academic advancement. This article presents an academic overview of Şerife Saçmacı, a researcher affiliated with Erciyes University, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, whose work in nanotechnology reflects active engagement in analytical chemistry, nanomaterials, and interdisciplinary scientific research. The profile summarizes her research background, scientific contributions, publication activities, and potential suitability for recognition within the International Popular Scientist Awards.[1]

Abstract

Şerife Saçmacı has contributed to scientific research within nanotechnology and analytical chemistry through investigations involving advanced analytical techniques, nanomaterial applications, environmental analysis, and chemical measurement methodologies. Her academic activities demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach that supports scientific innovation, laboratory research, and methodological development. Such contributions align with internationally recognized standards of scholarly achievement and research excellence.[1]

Keywords

Nanotechnology; Analytical Chemistry; Nanomaterials; Chemical Analysis; Environmental Chemistry; Sample Preparation; Scientific Research; Materials Science; Instrumental Analysis; Best Researcher Award.

Introduction

Modern nanotechnology integrates chemistry, materials science, environmental engineering, and analytical methodologies to develop innovative solutions for scientific and industrial challenges. Researchers working within this multidisciplinary environment contribute to improved analytical precision, sustainable technologies, and advanced material development. Academic recognition programs acknowledge researchers whose work supports scientific progress through high-quality publications, innovative methodologies, and collaborative research.[2]

Research Profile

Şerife Saçmacı is affiliated with the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Erciyes University, Turkey. Her research interests encompass analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, sample preparation, trace element determination, environmental monitoring, adsorption techniques, and the application of nanostructured materials in analytical procedures. Her scientific work emphasizes accuracy, reproducibility, and methodological advancement within laboratory research.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Development of analytical methodologies utilizing nanomaterials.
  • Research on adsorption-based sample preparation techniques.
  • Applications of nanotechnology in environmental and chemical analysis.
  • Advancement of trace metal determination and analytical precision.
  • Contribution to interdisciplinary research combining chemistry and materials science.

Publications

The researcher has authored and co-authored peer-reviewed scientific publications covering analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, environmental chemistry, and advanced material applications. These publications contribute to the scientific literature by presenting reproducible methodologies and experimental findings relevant to contemporary analytical sciences.[1]

  • Representative publications indexed in Scopus and related scientific databases.
  • Research articles involving nanomaterials and analytical chemistry.
  • DOI-indexed journal publications supporting international scientific visibility.

Research Impact

Research undertaken by Şerife Saçmacı contributes to the advancement of nanotechnology through improved analytical methods and practical laboratory applications. Her work supports reliable chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, and materials characterization, providing value to both academic research and applied scientific investigations. The interdisciplinary nature of these contributions enhances knowledge transfer across chemistry and nanoscience.[2]

Award Suitability

Based on publicly available academic information, Şerife Saçmacı demonstrates characteristics commonly associated with recipients of research recognition awards, including sustained scientific productivity, publication of peer-reviewed research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributions to nanotechnology and analytical chemistry. These qualities support consideration for recognition within the International Popular Scientist Awards while remaining subject to the official evaluation criteria established by the award organizers.[3]

Conclusion

Şerife Saçmacı represents an active academic researcher whose work contributes to analytical chemistry and nanotechnology through scientifically rigorous investigation and publication. Her research profile illustrates continuous engagement in advancing laboratory methodologies and scientific knowledge. Recognition through academic award programs serves to highlight such contributions while encouraging continued excellence in interdisciplinary research.[1]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Şerife Saçmacı. Scopus.
  2. Crossref. (n.d.). Digital Object Identifier (DOI) metadata for scientific publications in chemistry and nanotechnology.
  3. International Popular Scientist Awards. (n.d.). Best Researcher Award and evaluation information.
    https://popularscientist.com/
  4. Şerife Saçmacı. (2026). Bisphenol-A sensor platform based on AgNPs and SERS application. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry.

Aziz Maleki | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aziz Maleki | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Aziz Maleki, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology at the School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. He holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in Nanomedicine. His research focuses on tissue engineering, phototherapy, catalytic nanomedicine, and sonodynamic therapy. Dr. Maleki serves as Dean of the Zanjan Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Center and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications. He is a member of editorial boards for journals such as Small and ACS Applied Nano Materials, and actively participates in national and international research projects.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Postdoc in Nanomedicine, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 2014–2016

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), Zanjan, Iran, 2004–2009

  • M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran, 2001–2003

  • B.Sc. in Pure Chemistry, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, 1996–2000

👨‍🏫 Academic Appointments:

  • Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Nov 2016–Present

  • Dean, Zanjan Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Center, Oct 2021–Present

  • Dean, Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Dec 2019–Dec 2020

  • Quality Control Manager, School of Pharmacy, ZUMS, Nov 2016–Present

  • Postdoctoral Researcher, School of Pharmacy, ZUMS, Nov 2014–Nov 2016

  • Research Assistant, IASBS, Oct 2015–Dec 2015

🧪 Research Interests:

  • Tissue engineering

  • Phototherapy

  • Bioadhesives

  • Catalytic nanomedicine

  • Sonodynamic therapy

🧬 Research Projects (Selected):

  • Ce-Bi@ZIF-8 hybrid nanocomposite for Alzheimer’s therapy, 2021–2023

  • Polymer-coated mesoporous silica for dissolution enhancement, Completed 2019

  • Artificial skin photothermal studies with polydopamine nanoparticles, 2022

  • Gelatin-Platelet Hydrogels for wound healing, 2020–2023

🏆 Honors and Awards:

  • Ranked 34th in National MSc Entrance Exam (Organic Chemistry), 2010

  • Selected as Exemplary Teacher, ZUMS

  • NIMAD-TÜBİTAK Grant Awardee, 2021 (Grant No. 9900262)

  • Selected among Top 110 Scholars by Iran National Science Foundation, 2023

  • Awarded/Highlighted by Iran Science Elites Federation

🧑‍🎓 Student Supervision (Selected):

  • Nasim Shadmani (Postdoc) – Mesoporous silica nanocarriers for methotrexate

  • Samaneh Fateh (PhD) – Mesoporous silica for brain delivery of rivastigmine

  • Vagiheh Alinegad (PhD) – Polydopamine hydrogels for wound healing

  • Shayesteh Bochani (PhD) – MnO₂ nanosheets in wound healing

  • Roya Poornouroz (PhD) – MOFs in dissolution enhancement of fenofibrate

  • Rezvaneh Azizi (PharmD) – Cu-functionalized ZIFs for infected wounds

📚 Book Chapters:

  • Nanoarchitectured Mesoporous Silica-Based Drug-Delivery Systems, Elsevier, 2016

  • Functionalized Quantum-Dot-Based Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy, Elsevier, 2024

🧫 Laboratory and Technical Skills:

  • Characterization: TGA, DSC, H¹NMR, FT-IR, UV-Vis, SEM, TEM, N₂ adsorption

  • Instrumentation: DLS, FT-IR, UV/Vis, HPLC

  • Animal Studies: MTT assay, tumor modeling, wound/abscess models

💻 Software Skills:

  • ChemOffice, ImageJ, OriginPro, EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley, Microsoft Office

📄 Peer Review & Editorial Activities:

  • Editorial Board Member:

    • Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry (IF=8, Springer)

    • Polymers (IF=5, MDPI – Special Issue)

  • Referee for journals including:

    • Small, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, ACS Applied Nano Materials, ACS Applied Bio Materials

Citation Metrics:

  • Total citations: 3,620 (3,365 since 2020)

  • h-index: 28 (27 since 2020)

  • i10-index: 38 (35 since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Multifunctional photoactive hydrogels for wound healing acceleration
    A Maleki, J He, S Bochani, V Nosrati, MA Shahbazi, B Guo
    ACS Nano 15(12), 18895–18930, 2021.
    Citations: 439

  2. Promoting role of MXene nanosheets in biomedical sciences: therapeutic and biosensing innovations
    M Soleymaniha, MA Shahbazi, AR Rafieerad, A Maleki, A Amiri
    Advanced Healthcare Materials 8(1), 1801137, 2019.
    Citations: 365

  3. MXenes and ultrasonication
    M Malaki, A Maleki, RS Varma
    Journal of Materials Chemistry A 7(18), 10843–10857, 2019.
    Citations: 349

  4. Mesoporous silica materials: From physico-chemical properties to enhanced dissolution of poorly water-soluble drugs
    A Maleki, H Kettiger, A Schoubben, JM Rosenholm, V Ambrogi, M Hamidi
    Journal of Controlled Release, 2017.
    Citations: 305

  5. Advances in tannic acid-incorporated biomaterials: Infection treatment, regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, and biosensing
    A Bigham, V Rahimkhoei, P Abasian, M Delfi, J Naderi, M Ghomi, …
    Chemical Engineering Journal 432, 134146, 2022.
    Citations: 190

  6. Mesoporous silica‐based materials with bactericidal properties
    A Bernardos, E Piacenza, F Sancenon, M Hamidi, A Maleki, RJ Turner, …
    Small 15(24), 1900669, 2019.
    Citations: 185

  7. Biomedical applications of MXene‐integrated composites: regenerative medicine, infection therapy, cancer Treatment, and biosensing
    A Maleki, M Ghomi, N Nikfarjam, M Akbari, E Sharifi, MA Shahbazi, …
    Advanced Functional Materials 32(34), 2203430, 2022.
    Citations: 164

  8. The progress and prospect of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks in cancer therapy, antibacterial activity, and biomineralization
    A Maleki, MA Shahbazi, V Alinezhad, HA Santos
    Advanced Healthcare Materials 9(12), 2000248, 2020.
    Citations: 158

  9. Mesoporous bioactive glasses in cancer diagnosis and therapy: stimuli‐responsive, toxicity, immunogenicity, and clinical translation
    E Sharifi, A Bigham, S Yousefiasl, M Trovato, M Ghomi, Y Esmaeili, …
    Advanced Science 9(2), 2102678, 2022.
    Citations: 124

  10. Electroconductive multi-functional polypyrrole composites for biomedical applications
    EN Zare, T Agarwal, A Zarepour, F Pinelli, A Zarrabi, F Rossi, …
    Applied Materials Today 24, 101117, 2021.
    Citations: 115

  11. Conferring BiVO4 Nanorods with Oxygen Vacancies to Realize Enhanced Sonodynamic Cancer Therapy
    Z Yang, M Yuan, B Liu, W Zhang, A Maleki, B Guo, P Ma, Z Cheng, J Lin
    Angewandte Chemie International Edition 61(44), e202209484, 2022.
    Citations: 108

  12. Bioinspired microneedle patches: Biomimetic designs, fabrication, and biomedical applications
    P Makvandi, A Maleki, M Shabani, ARJ Hutton, M Kirkby, R Jamaledin, …
    Matter 5(2), 390–429, 2022.
    Citations: 104

  13. Emerging insights on drug delivery by fatty acid mediated synthesis of lipophilic prodrugs as novel nanomedicines
    N Fattahi, MA Shahbazi, A Maleki, M Hamidi, A Ramazani, HA Santos
    Journal of Controlled Release 326, 556–598, 2020.
    Citations: 74

  14. Self-assembled organic–inorganic hybrid silica with ionic liquid framework: a novel support for the catalytic enantioselective Strecker reaction of imines using Yb(OTf)3
    B Karimi, A Maleki, D Elhamifar, JH Clark, AJ Hunt
    Chemical Communications 46(37), 6947–6949, 2010.
    Citations: 74

  15. Nanoarchitectonics for smart delivery and drug targeting
    AM Holban, AM Grumezescu
    William Andrew, 2016.
    Citations: 70

  16. Dendrimers as nanoscale vectors: Unlocking the bars of cancer therapy
    AD Dey, A Bigham, Y Esmaeili, M Ashrafizadeh, FD Moghaddam, SC Tan, …
    Seminars in Cancer Biology 86, 396–419, 2022.
    Citations: 67

  17. Chemically engineered immune cell‐derived microrobots and biomimetic nanoparticles: emerging biodiagnostic and therapeutic tools
    LP Jahromi, MA Shahbazi, A Maleki, A Azadi, HA Santos
    Advanced Science 8(8), 2002499, 2021.
    Citations: 66

  18. Dissolution enhancement of a model poorly water-soluble drug, atorvastatin, with ordered mesoporous silica: comparison of MSF with SBA-15 as drug carriers
    A Maleki, M Hamidi
    Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery, 2015.
    Citations: 54

  19. Titanium‐based nanoarchitectures for sonodynamic therapy‐involved multimodal treatments
    A Maleki, M Seyedhamzeh, M Yuan, T Agarwal, I Sharifi, A Mohammadi, …
    Small 19(12), 2206253, 2023.
    Citations: 48

  20. ROS-responsive hydrogels with spatiotemporally sequential delivery of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs for the repair of MRSA-infected wounds
    B Qiao, J Wang, L Qiao, A Maleki, Y Liang, B Guo
    Regenerative Biomaterials 11, rbad110, 2024.
    Citations: 45