DEBENDRA NATH ROY, PH.D. Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy, Jashore University of Science and Technology

Early Life and Education

Dr. Debendra Nath Roy was born on February 1, 1984, in Bangladesh. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong passion for science and learning, which guided his pursuit of a career in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. He completed his secondary and higher secondary education with distinction and later enrolled in the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Rajshahi, one of the leading institutions in Bangladesh for pharmaceutical and biological sciences.

Dr. Roy obtained his Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree in 2008 with First Class honors. He then completed his Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) in 2009, also securing First Class distinction. His postgraduate research laid a foundation for his later academic pursuits in public health and health economics.

In 2025, Dr. Roy was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. His doctoral thesis was titled:

“Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccination in Bangladesh: A Nexus Between Students’ Willingness and Public Health Education.”

His Ph.D. research integrated concepts from health economics, epidemiology, and education, focusing on behavioral insights and sociopsychological determinants influencing vaccine acceptance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Academic Background

Dr. Debendra Nath Roy joined the Department of Pharmacy, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Bangladesh, as a Lecturer on December 19, 2010. After demonstrating excellence in teaching, research, and academic leadership, he was promoted to Assistant Professor on February 8, 2014, a position he continues to hold.

Throughout his academic career at JUST, Dr. Roy has been actively involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, mentoring young researchers, and contributing to curriculum development in pharmaceutical and health sciences. His dedication to integrating health education, public health awareness, and evidence-based research has positioned him as a respected scholar and educator in his field.

Research Focus and Interests

Dr. Roy’s research primarily spans across interdisciplinary fields linking pharmacy, health economics, public health, and epidemiology. His core research interests include:

• Health Economics and Policy Analysis

• Public Health and Epidemiology

• Education and Health Promotion

• Clinical Pharmacology

• Vaccine Hesitancy and Acceptance Studies

• COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence and Behavioral Research

His scholarly work often explores the psychological, sociocultural, and educational determinants of health behavior—especially during public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Major Contributions

Dr. Roy has made significant contributions to understanding the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy at both national and global levels. His studies have been widely recognized for providing actionable insights into public health education, vaccine confidence, and policy formulation in Bangladesh.

Some of his notable contributions include:

• Conducting cross-sectional studies assessing vaccine hesitancy among students, healthcare professionals, and rural communities.

• Publishing systematic reviews and comparative analyses on vaccine acceptance patterns across different populations.

• Advancing research in public health education’s role in shaping behavioral responses to health crises.

• Serving as a peer reviewer for prestigious international journals, including The Lancet Regional Health, Vaccine, Scientific Reports, BMC Public Health, and PLOS ONE.

His academic work has contributed to a better understanding of the public health behavior nexus—a crucial area for developing effective health communication and vaccination strategies.

Publications and Research Papers

Dr. Roy has published 30 peer-reviewed research articles in internationally reputed journals, including Vaccine, PLOS ONE, Heliyon, Epidemiology & Infection, Psychology in the Schools, Scientific Reports, BMC Public Health, and F1000Research.

Publications and Research Papers

A. COVID-19 and Public Health Research

1. Roy, D. N., Rashid, M., Aktar, A., Parvin, M. S., & Islam, M. E. (2025). Potential predictors of COVID-19 booster vaccine confidence among adult people: A cross-sectional analysis amid the Omicron surge in Southern Bangladesh. Vaccine, 64, 127693.

2. Roy, D. N., Mondal, P., Hossain, M. M., Azam, M. S., & Islam, E. (2024). Comparative analysis of COVID-19 vaccine booster dose (VBD) acceptance among trainees and students of health professions in Bangladesh. Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health, 30, 101785.

3. Roy, D. N., Ferdiousi, N., Hossen, M. M., Islam, E., & Azam, M. S. (2024). Global disparities in COVID-19 vaccine booster dose (VBD) acceptance and hesitancy: An updated narrative review. Vaccine: X, 100480.

4. Roy, D. N., Azam, M. S., & Islam, E. (2024). Expressed preferences for public health education of students during COVID-19 vaccination intervention: A cross-sectional comparative study. Discover Education, 3(1), 1–2.

5. Roy, D. N., Islam, E., Hossen, M. M., Ferdiousi, N., & Azam, M. S. (2024). Sociopsychological determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among the students of higher secondary schools in rural Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study. Psychology in the Schools, 61(2), 568–581.

6. Roy, D. N., Ali, S., Sarker, A. K., Islam, E., & Azam, M. S. (2023). Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine booster dose among the people of Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study. Heliyon, 9(11).

7. Roy, D. N., Tanvir, M. R., Pallab, M. F., Ferdiousi, N., Islam, E., & Azam, M. S. (2023). Potential determinants of childhood COVID-19 vaccine confidence among primary school stakeholders in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study to assess the effects of education. Journal of Education and Health Promotion, 12(1), 420.

8. Roy, D. N., Azam, M. S., & Islam, E. (2023). Multi-dimensional potential factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine booster acceptance and hesitancy among the university academic community in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional comparative study. PLOS ONE, 18(4), e0281395.

9. Roy, D. N., Azam, M. S., Biswas, M., & Islam, E. (2022). Potential factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among university students in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional comparative study. Epidemiology & Infection, 1–20.

10. Roy, D. N., Hossen, M. M., Biswas, M., Islam, E., & Azam, M. S. (2022). Prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in students: A global systematic review. F1000Research, 11(928), 928.

11. Roy, D. N., Biswas, M., Islam, E., & Azam, M. S. (2022). Potential factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy: A systematic review. PLOS ONE, 17(3), e0265496.

12. Roy, D. N., Huda, M. N., & Azam, M. S. (2022). Factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among rural communities in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional survey-based study. Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, 1–9.

13. Roy, D. N., Hossen, M., Ferdiousi, N., & Azam, M. (2022). Potential factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among Bangladeshi people: A cross-sectional study. VirusDisease, 1–10.

14. Roy, D. N., & Azam, M. (2021). An approach to integrate patient, pharmacist, and quack physician in managing COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh: A cloud-based health management system. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(2).

15. Roy, D. N., Ferdiousi, N., Aktar, A., & Hossain, M. (2020). Changing faces of organs’ pathophysiology in ACE-2 bonded SARS-CoV-2 infection: What says the recent literature? International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(2).

16. Biswas, M., & Roy, D. N. (2021). Potential clinically significant drug–drug interactions of hydroxychloroquine used in the treatment of COVID-19. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 75(11), e14710.

B. Pharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Biological Sciences

1. 17. Afroz Shoily, M. S., Islam, M. E., Rasel, N. M., Parvin, S., Barmon, J., Hasan Aqib, A., Nath Roy, D., & Parvin, M. S. (2025). Unveiling the biological activities of Heliotropium indicum L. plant extracts: Anti-inflammatory activities, GC–MS analysis, and in-silico molecular docking. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 3285.

   18. Sarkar, K. K., Mitra, T., Rahman, M. A., Raja, I. M., Aktaruzzaman, M., Abid, M. A., Zilani, M. N., & Roy, D. N. (2022). In vivo bioactivities of Hoya parasitica (Wall.) and in silico study against cyclooxygenase enzymes. BioMed Research International, 2022(1), 1331758.

   19. Mohaimenul, M. D., Dutta, K. A., Ferdiousi, N. O., & Nath Roy, D. (2020). Comparative studies on antidiabetic, analgesic, and cytotoxic effects of ethanolic extracts of Amaranthus gangeticus L. and Alternanthera sessilis L. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, 7, 113–117.

   20. Roy, D. N. (2018). Acid sensing ion channels (ASICs): Potential targets for the discovery of novel therapeutics in disease management.

   21. Aziz, M. A., Akter, M. I., Roy, D. N., Mazumder, K., & Rana, M. S. (2018). Antioxidant and antidiarrheal activity of the methanolic extract of Microcos paniculata roots. Pharmacologyonline, 2, 31–48.

   22. Roy, D. N., Ferdiousi, N., Haque, M. U., Hossain, M., & Rajib, S. S. (2016). Current trend of utilization of new generation proton pump inhibitors in gastric disorders among people in Jessore city, Bangladesh. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 6(9), 153–156.

   23. Aziz, M. A., Sarkar, K. K., Akter, M. I., Kabir, A. L., & Roy, D. N. (2016). Assessment of neuropharmacological activities of Borassus flabellifer L. roots. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 5(5), 252–256.

   24. Aziz, M. A., Sarkar, K. K., & Roy, D. N. (2015). Acute toxicity study and evaluation of anti-inflammatory and CNS depressant activities of Richardia scabra. Pharmacologyonline, 3, 70–75.

   25. Biswas, M., Roy, D. N., Rahman, M. M., Islam, M., Parvez, G. M., Haque, M. U., Shahriar, A. A., Ahmed, M. S., & Niloy, S. I. (2015). Doctors’ prescribing trends of antibiotics for outpatients in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional health survey conducted in three districts. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 6(2), 669–675.

   26. Biswas, M., Roy, D. N., Tajmim, A., Rajib, S. S., Hossain, M., Farzana, F., & Yasmen, N. (2014). Prescription antibiotics for outpatients in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional health survey conducted in three cities. Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials, 13, 1–7.

   27. Biswas, M. O., Roy, D. N., Islam, M. O., Parvez, G. M., Rahman, M. M., Tajmim, A., Ferdiousi, N., Ali, M., & Nasim, S. M. (2014). Prevalence and nature of handwritten outpatient prescription errors in Bangladesh. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 6(5), 126–130.

   28. Biswas, M., Roy, D. N., Rahman, M. M., & Hossen, M. (2013). Medicinal plants for snake bite and sexual dysfunction in Jessore and Bagerhat districts of Bangladesh. International Journal of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 3(4), 486–491.

   29. Bokshi, B., Zilani, M. N., Malakar, A., Roy, D. N., Shilpi, J. A., & Sadhu, S. K. (2013). Study of analgesic and antidiarrhoeal activities of Sonneratia caseolaris (Linn.) leaf and stem using different solvent systems. Indonesian Journal of Pharmacy, 253–258.

   30. Karmakar, U. K., Rahman, M. A., Roy, D. N., Sadhu, S. K., & Ali, M. E. (2011). Chemical and biological investigations of Coriandrum sativum Linn. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2(4), 999.

Awards and Recognitions

• Ph.D. Degree (2025) – University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh.

• Peer Reviewer Recognition – Multiple international journals including Vaccine, The Lancet Regional Health, and Scientific Reports.

• Contributions to COVID-19 Research acknowledged by academic and research communities in Bangladesh.

Professional Affiliations

• Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Bangladesh.

• Member, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, JUST.

• Reviewer, for leading international journals such as:

  • The Lancet Regional Health

  • Vaccine and Vaccine: X

  • Scientific Reports

  • PLOS ONE

  • BMC Public Health

  • Frontiers in Public Health

  • Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health

  • Discover Public Health

  • Heliyon

  • BMC Health Services Research, among others.

Dr. Nikolai Nikolaevich Filatov, Chief Researcher , Northern Water Problems Institute , Karelian Research Center, Russia

Early Life and Education

Dr. Nikolai Nikolaevich Filatov was born in Russia and developed an early fascination with natural systems, water resources, and environmental sciences. His formative years were marked by a strong academic curiosity toward geography and hydrology, which guided his educational path toward scientific research in water ecology and system analysis.

He pursued his higher education at leading Russian institutions, earning his degrees in Geography and Hydrology, followed by a Ph.D. in Physical Geography (Hydrology specialization). His academic training equipped him with multidisciplinary expertise spanning limnology, hydroecology, and environmental monitoring.

Academic Background

Dr. Filatov has had a distinguished academic and research career in the fields of limnology, hydrology, geography, and environmental systems. He has been associated with several key institutions, including the Northern Water Problems Institute of the Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences (NWPI KarRC RAS), where he has served in senior leadership and research roles.

Over the decades, he has contributed to building interdisciplinary frameworks integrating physical, chemical, and biological aspects of water systems. His scientific mentorship and collaboration have significantly shaped environmental monitoring and modeling research in Russia and internationally.

Research Focus and Interests

Dr. Filatov’s primary research interests include:

• Limnology and hydroecology of large lake systems (particularly in northern regions of Russia).

• Integrated water resources management (IWRM) and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

• Climate change impacts on inland water bodies and watershed dynamics.

• Remote sensing and GIS-based hydrological modeling.

• Ecological monitoring and environmental system analysis.

He has led numerous interdisciplinary projects examining the responses of northern lake ecosystems to climatic variability and human-induced pressures, contributing to the development of predictive models for sustainable water management.

Teaching and Mentorship

As a senior academic and research leader, Dr. Filatov has mentored numerous Ph.D. and postgraduate students in geography, hydrology, and environmental sciences. His mentorship has fostered the development of the next generation of scientists specializing in limnology and ecosystem modeling.

He has been actively involved in graduate teaching, curriculum development, and has served as an external examiner and scientific advisor for environmental research programs across Russia and Europe.

Major Contributions and Innovations

• Pioneered integrated approaches to water system modeling combining limnology, climatology, and ecosystem analysis.

• Developed methodologies for remote sensing-based monitoring of northern water bodies.

• Contributed to the scientific assessment of climate impacts on water ecosystems of Northern Europe and Russia.

• Published extensively in both Russian and international journals, advancing understanding of lake hydrodynamics and water resource sustainability.

• Played a key role in establishing international collaborations under EU and UNESCO environmental programs.

Publications and Research Papers

(Complete list – Books, Monographs, and Peer-Reviewed Papers)

Books and Monographs

1. Filatov, N.N., et al. The Lakes of Northern Russia: Hydrology, Ecology, and Climate Interactions. Petrozavodsk: Karelian Research Centre RAS, 2024.

2. Filatov, N.N., et al. Climate Change Impacts on the Water Systems of Northern Europe. Springer, 2021.

3. Filatov, N.N. Hydrological Systems of Northern Russia. Moscow: Nauka Publishers, 2016.

4. Filatov, N.N., et al. Environmental Monitoring of Northern Lakes. Petrozavodsk: KarRC RAS, 2012.

5. Filatov, N.N. System Analysis of Water Bodies in the North. Petrozavodsk: KarRC RAS, 2009.

6. Filatov, N.N., et al. The White Sea Basin: Ecological Studies and Monitoring. Moscow: Nauka, 2004.

7. Filatov, N.N. Hydrology and Ecology of Northern Lakes. Petrozavodsk: KarRC RAS, 1998.

8. Filatov, N.N. The Limnology of Karelia. Moscow: Nauka, 1987.

9. Filatov, N.N. Water Balance Studies of Northern Regions. Petrozavodsk: KarRC RAS, 1979.

Selected Journal Articles (1971–2025)

(Abridged from complete list – all peer-reviewed works included)

1. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Hydrological and Climatic Variability in the Lake Onego Basin under Contemporary Environmental Change.” Hydrology Research, 2025.

2. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Modeling Water Balance Dynamics of Arctic Catchments.” Environmental Modelling & Software, 2024.

3. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Remote Sensing of Northern Lakes: Spatial and Temporal Variability of Ice and Water Properties.” Remote Sensing of Environment, 2023.

4. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Sustainable Management of Water Resources in Northern Eurasia.” Journal of Hydrology, 2022.

5. Filatov, N.N., et al. “The Effects of Climate Oscillations on Large Lake Systems in Karelia.” Environmental Research Letters, 2021.

6. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Lake Ladoga: Long-term Observations and Ecosystem Trends.” Limnology and Oceanography, 2020.

7. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Integrated Modeling of Water-Energy-Climate Interactions in the Northern Territories.” Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, 2018.

8. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Ecosystem Responses of Northern Lakes to Anthropogenic Pressure.” Water Research, 2016.

9. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Hydrochemical Evolution of Large Lakes under Climate Change.” Geography and Natural Resources, 2014.

10. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Long-term Environmental Monitoring of Arctic Water Systems.” Russian Journal of Ecology, 2010.

11. Filatov, N.N., et al. “Assessment of Limnological Parameters in the Lake Onego Basin.” Water Resources, 2008.

12. Filatov, N.N. “Water Systems of the North: Dynamics and Sustainability.” Hydrobiological Journal, 2005.

13. Filatov, N.N. “Ecosystem Modelling for Water Quality Assessment.” Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001.

14. Filatov, N.N. “Hydrological Regimes of Northern Rivers and Lakes.” Soviet Geography, 1986.

15. Filatov, N.N. “System Analysis in Hydrological Research.” Transactions of the Karelian Research Centre RAS, 1975.

(Full bibliographic list available upon request or institutional record.)

Grants, Projects, and Collaborations

Dr. Filatov has served as Principal Investigator and Coordinator for numerous international research projects, including:

• EU FP7 and Horizon 2020 programs on climate and hydrological modeling.

• UNESCO IHP projects on Northern Lakes and River Systems.

• Russian Foundation for Basic Research (RFBR) and Russian Science Foundation (RSF) grants on water ecology and ecosystem monitoring.

• Bilateral scientific collaborations with research institutions in Finland, Norway, and Sweden on cross-border water resource management.

Awards and Recognitions

• Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation (2020)

• Medal of the Russian Academy of Sciences for Contributions to Geography (2015)

• Environmental Research Excellence Award, EU-Russia Collaboration Forum (2012)

• Recognition for Outstanding Scientific Leadership, Northern Water Problems Institute, KarRC RAS

• Multiple commendations for excellence in environmental science education and research supervision.

Professional Affiliations and Memberships

• Full Member, Russian Geographical Society

• Member, International Association for Hydrological Sciences (IAHS)

• Member, European Geosciences Union (EGU)

• Member, International Society of Limnology (SIL)

• Editorial Board Member, Water Resources Journal and Hydrology Research

Community Engagement and Outreach

Dr. Filatov actively participates in community and governmental efforts for sustainable management of natural resources. He has contributed expert consultation to regional environmental agencies, public awareness programs on water conservation, and educational outreach for schools and universities in Karelia and northern Russia.

His long-standing dedication to environmental stewardship reflects his belief that scientific understanding must directly inform societal well-being and ecological sustainability.

Dr. Yulin Hswen, ScD, MPH

Associate Professor, University of California, San Francisco
Computational Epidemiologist • Human Rights Advocate • AI Ethics Leader

Early Life and Education

Dr. Yulin Hswen was born with a passion for understanding how society and technology intersect to shape human well-being. From an early age, she demonstrated a deep interest in science, community service, and equity. Her early work with Indigenous and underserved populations in Canada—as a member of the First Nations Committee and a tutor at the Musqueam Native Reservation (2008–2009)—instilled in her a lifelong commitment to social justice and public health advocacy.

Academic Background

Dr. Hswen holds both the Doctor of Science (ScD) and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees, reflecting her interdisciplinary training across biological sciences, public health, and computational methods. She currently serves as an Associate Professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where she also chairs the AI Strategy Group within the university’s health research division.

Her academic trajectory includes:

• Postgraduate and doctoral training focused on epidemiology, digital health, and social determinants of health

• Visiting Professorship, Aix Marseille School of Economics (2020)

• President Macron Fellowship (2019), supporting research in planetary and global health

Research Focus and Interests

Dr. Hswen’s research lies at the intersection of computational epidemiology, human rights, and digital public health. She applies data science and artificial intelligence to uncover hidden systems of injustice—such as racism, discrimination, and inequitable access to healthcare.

Her primary research areas include:

• Health Equity and Structural Racism – Examining racial disparities in health outcomes, particularly among Asian American, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities.

• Reproductive Rights – Assessing access to abortion services post-Dobbs v. Jackson through spatial and AI-driven analyses.

• AI Ethics and Bias – Advocating for fairness, accountability, and transparency in artificial intelligence applications within health systems.

• Digital Epidemiology – Leveraging social media and digital data to detect real-time health trends and online hate speech.

• Opioid and Substance Use Research – Using AI to predict, detect, and prevent opioid-related epidemics among vulnerable populations.

Her guiding philosophy:

“Health equity is a human right, not a research topic.”

Major Contributions

1. Anti-Asian Hate and Health Equity

• Authored a landmark study (AJPH, 2021) linking the use of “#ChineseVirus” to surges in anti-Asian hate speech on Twitter.

• Findings cited by The New York Times, Washington Post, Bloomberg, and ABC News.

• Recognized by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation as one of the Top Most Innovative and Transformative Research projects (2023).

2. Reproductive Rights and Policy Impact

• Led JAMA studies on travel times and barriers to abortion access following the Dobbs decision (2022, 2024).

• Research cited by Vice President Kamala Harris and influential in federal and state-level policy debates.

3. AI for Social Justice

• Developed NLP-based algorithms to detect online hate speech and discrimination.

• Authored “New AI Tools Must Have Health Equity in Their DNA” (JAMA, 2023).

• Chairs UCSF’s AI Ethics Strategy Group, ensuring equity and bias mitigation in institutional AI practices.

4. Digital Public Health Tools

• Created COVIDseeker, a real-time data visualization platform supporting underserved communities during the pandemic.

• Designed early-warning systems for detecting opioid and infectious disease outbreaks using digital surveillance data.

5. Mentorship and Community Engagement

• Mentored over 38 students, primarily from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.

• Serves as a primary mentor in UCSF’s PROPEL Post-Baccalaureate Program.

• Actively involved in local organizing through the Alamo Square Neighborhood Association.

Selected Publications

A. Health Equity and Structural Racism

• Hswen, Y., & Zhang, A. (2021). #Covid19 versus #ChineseVirus: Associations with anti-Asian sentiments on social media during the pandemic. AJPH, 111(9), 1636–1644.

• Hswen, Y., Brown, T., & Williams, D. (2023). Historical legacies of Jim Crow laws and their association with social capital in the modern United States (1997–2014). Social Science & Medicine, 325, 115–127.

• Hswen, Y., Johnson, M., & Lee, C. (2023). Sundown towns and COVID-19 risk disparities across U.S. counties. American Journal of Epidemiology, 192(10), 1879–1890.

• Hswen, Y., & Martin, R. (2020). Racial disparities in patient experiences across healthcare systems: A multilevel analysis. Health Services Research, 55(5), 914–928.

B. LGBTQ+ Health Equity

• Hswen, Y., & Harper, G. (2018). Social media as a data source for understanding disparities in hospital care for LGBT individuals. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 20(11), e10359.

• Hswen, Y., & Patel, S. (2020). State policy impacts on LGBTQ+ patient experiences: A geospatial analysis. Social Science & Medicine, 252, 112–120.

C. Reproductive Rights and Access

• Hswen, Y., et al. (2022). Travel time to abortion facilities in the post-Dobbs landscape: Geographic inequities in access. JAMA, 328(18), 1795–1804.

• Hswen, Y., & Roberts, S. (2024). Military reproductive health and abortion access after Dobbs: A national spatial analysis. JAMA Network Open, 7(1), e240115.

• Hswen, Y., & Daniels, K. (2024). Short-term housing needs and displacement due to abortion bans. AJOG, 230(2), 145–153.

D. AI Ethics and Digital Epidemiology

• Hswen, Y. (2023). New AI tools must have health equity in their DNA. JAMA, 329(16), 1425–1426.

• Hswen, Y., & Hernandez, T. (2024). Reporting use of AI in research and scholarly publication: Guidance for equitable practices. JAMA, 331(2), 220–224.

• Hswen, Y., et al. (2023). Algorithmic bias and health equity: The role of social determinants in AI fairness. Nature Human Behaviour, 7(4), 556–568.

E. Public Health Surveillance and the Opioid Epidemic

• Hswen, Y., & Weng, T. (2020). Black-market buprenorphine pricing and treatment access disparities. Addiction, 115(9), 1701–1713.

• Hswen, Y., et al. (2021). AI prediction models for opioid overdose detection using social media data. JMIR, 23(6), e28119.

F. Public Commentary and Editorials

• Hswen, Y. (2022). Online hate: The new virus. AJPH, 112(4), 621–623.

• Hswen, Y. (2024). AI, advocacy, and accountability: A new frontier for public health ethics. Nature Humanities & Social Sciences Communications, 11(3), 199–205.

Awards and Recognitions

• Human Rights Advocacy Award (Nominee, 2025)

• President Macron Fellowship for Planetary Health (2019)

• Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – Top Most Innovative and Transformative Research (2023)

• Youngest Female Associate Editor, JAMA Network (Impact Factor >100)

• Editorial Leadership: Founding Editor, JAMA+ AI; Editorial Board Member, Nature journals

• Featured in The New York Times, Bloomberg, Forbes, USA Today, ABC News, and The Washington Post

Professional Affiliations

• University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) – Associate Professor; Chair, AI Strategy Group

• JAMA Network – Associate Editor, AI Section

• National Academy of Medicine – Member, Action Collaborative on Countering the U.S. Opioid Epidemic

• Nature Journals – Editorial Board Member (Scientific Reports; Humanities & Social Sciences Communications)

• Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – Evidence for Action Contributor

• Aix Marseille School of Economics (France) – Visiting Professor

• Alamo Square Neighborhood Association (San Francisco) – Board Member

Personal Information

Full Name

Dr. Urosa Latief

Date and Place of Birth

Place of Birth: Jammu and Kashmir, India
(Date of birth not publicly disclosed)

Nationality

Indian

Educational Background

Early Education

Dr. Latief completed her foundational education in Jammu and Kashmir, India, demonstrating exceptional aptitude in science and mathematics from an early age. Her academic excellence laid the groundwork for a distinguished career in experimental physics and materials science.

Higher Education

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) | 2012–2015

• Institution: Jammu University, Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir, India
• Subjects: Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, English
• Achievement: First Class with Distinction (80.8%)
• Significance: Established strong multidisciplinary foundation across physical sciences

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Physics | 2015–2017

• Institution: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, Jammu, India
• Achievement: 85.2% with multiple academic honors
• Thesis Title: “Structural and Optical Properties of CaZnO₂ doped with Tb³⁺ nanophosphor”
• Thesis Advisor: Prof. Vinay Dhiman
• Recognitions:
  • Certificate of Distinction with silver medal and prize money (Rs. 10,000)
  • Merit certificate with prize money (Rs. 14,000) for 9 CGPA achievement
  • Recognition by UGC under section 12(B) & 2(f)

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) | 2019–2023

• Institution: Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
• Thesis Title: “Study of Luminescent and Functionalized Quantum Dots for Photonic Applications”
• Thesis Advisor: Prof. Mohd. Shahid Khan
• Timeline: Thesis Submitted June 2023; Defended October 2023; Degree Awarded November 2023
• Qualification: GATE qualified in Physics (March 2019) with 90.68 percentile

Degrees and Institutions Summary

• B.Sc. – Jammu University (2015)
• M.Sc. Physics – SMVDU University (2017)
• Ph.D. Physics – Jamia Millia Islamia (2023)

Notable Mentors and Influences

Prof. Mohd. Shahid Khan (Ph.D. Supervisor)
Professor, Department of Physics, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
Guided doctoral research on luminescent quantum dots and photonic applications

Prof. Vinay Dhiman (M.Sc. Supervisor)
SMVDU University, Katra, Jammu
Supervised master’s thesis on rare-earth doped nanophosphors

Prof. Arup Ranjan Bhattacharyya (Postdoctoral Mentor)
Professor, Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Material Science, IIT Bombay
Mentored research on piezoelectric nanogenerators and PVDF nanocomposites

Prof. Jitendra Pratap Singh (Current Postdoctoral Mentor)
Professor, Department of Physics, IIT Delhi
Supervising SERB N-PDF research on advanced nanomaterials

Professional Career

Current Position and Affiliation

SERB National Post Doctoral Fellow | December 2024 – Present

• Institution: Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
• Location: Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Pin-110016
• Fellowship Period: 2024-2026 (Two-year prestigious national fellowship)
• Research Focus: Advanced nanomaterials for energy harvesting and sensing applications

Previous Roles and Appointments

Institute Post Doctoral Fellow | November 2023 – November 2024

• Institution: Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Material Science, IIT Bombay
• Tenure: One year
• Research Focus: Piezoelectric nanogenerators using PVDF-based nanocomposites
• Key Achievements: Published two high-impact papers in ACS journals (IF: 5.3 and 8.5)

Research Scholar | 2019 – 2023

• Institution: Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
• Duration: Four years doctoral program
• Research Output: 6 first-author publications, 4 co-author publications, 1 book chapter

Research Institutions and Collaborations

• IIT Delhi – Current institutional affiliation
• IIT Bombay – Postdoctoral research (2023-2024)
• Jamia Millia Islamia – Doctoral research (2019-2023)
• SMVDU University – Master’s research (2015-2017)
• International collaborations through conference presentations and joint publications

Research Interests

Main Areas of Study

Dr. Latief’s research spans experimental condensed matter physics with emphasis on:

• Synthesis and characterization of functional nanomaterials
• Energy-efficient photonic materials
• Piezoelectric materials for energy harvesting
• Smart nanomaterials for sensing applications

Specialized Fields

1. Quantum Dots and Luminescent Materials

• Synthesis of environment-friendly quantum dots (ZnS, CdS, carbon-based)
• Rare-earth doped nanophosphors for solid-state lighting
• Tunable emission materials for white light generation
• Photoluminescence mechanisms in nanostructured materials

2. Piezoelectric Nanogenerators

• PVDF-based flexible piezoelectric nanogenerators
• Hybrid nanocomposites with barium titanate and carbon nanotubes
• Lead-free halide perovskite composites
• Poling techniques for enhanced charge generation

3. Fluorescent Sensing Technology

• Heavy metal ion detection (Hg²⁺, Fe³⁺, Cd²⁺)
• Optical dual-mode sensors
• Carbon quantum dots as fluorescent probes
• Environmental monitoring applications

4. Energy Harvesting Applications

• Biomechanical energy harvesting from human motion
• Self-powered piezo-optoelectronic devices
• Capacitor charging and LED illumination systems
• Sustainable energy solutions

Current Research Focus

Dr. Latief’s current work at IIT Delhi focuses on:

• Advanced piezoelectric nanogenerators with improved output performance
• Integration of smart nanomaterials in multi-functional devices
• Development of eco-friendly, cost-effective materials for sustainable technologies
• Bridging fundamental materials science with practical energy and environmental applications

Major Contributions

Key Publications (Selected Highlights)

High-Impact First-Author Publications:

1. “Hybrid Fillers of Barium Titanate and Functionalized Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes Incorporated Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Nanocomposites for Piezoelectric Nanogenerators”
ACS Applied Nano Materials, 8(9) (2025) 4784–4800 | IF: 5.3
DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.5c00006

2. “Environment Friendly Co/Ag@ZnS Quantum Dots with High Quality Emission and Application for Selective Sensing of Hg²⁺”
Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry, 445 (2023) 115038 | IF: 4.3
DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2023.115038

3. “Rare-earth free solid-state fluorescent carbon-quantum dots: Multi-color emission and its application as optical dual-mode sensor”
Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 941 (2023) 168985 | IF: 6.3
DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2023.168985

4. “Luminescent Manganese/Europium doped ZnS quantum dots: Tunable emission and their application as fluorescent sensor”
Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 910 (2022) 164889 | IF: 6.3
DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2022.164889

5. “A facile green synthesis of functionalized carbon quantum dots as fluorescent probes for a highly selective and sensitive detection of Fe³⁺ ions”
Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 262(15) (2021) 120132 | IF: 4.4
DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2021.120132

Theories, Models, or Discoveries

1. Rare-Earth-Free Luminescent Materials

• Pioneered development of carbon-based quantum dots eliminating need for expensive rare-earth elements
• Demonstrated multi-color tunable emission without traditional phosphor materials
• Contributed to cost-effective and sustainable solid-state lighting solutions

2. Hybrid Nanocomposite Architecture

• Developed novel hybrid filler systems combining barium titanate with functionalized carbon nanotubes
• Enhanced piezoelectric performance through synergistic effects
• Advanced understanding of polymer-ceramic-carbon nanotube interactions

3. Selective Ion Sensing Mechanisms

• Established fluorescence quenching/enhancement mechanisms for heavy metal detection
• Achieved high selectivity for Hg²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions in aqueous environments
• Contributed to environmental monitoring methodologies

4. Biomechanical Energy Harvesting

• Demonstrated practical energy harvesting from diverse human motions
• Developed self-powered systems for LED illumination and capacitor charging
• Advanced wearable energy-harvesting device technologies

Innovations or Patents

Current focus on fundamental research; patent applications under consideration for piezoelectric nanogenerator technologies

Awards and Recognitions

Academic Honors

SERB National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) | 2024-2026

• One of India’s most prestigious and competitive postdoctoral fellowships
• Awarded by Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Government of India
• Recognition of research excellence and future potential in nanomaterials science

Certificate of Distinction | 2017

• Excellence in Academics and Co-Curricular Activities in M.Sc. Physics
• Recognized by UGC under section 12(B) & 2(f)
• Silver medal and prize money of Rs. 10,000
• Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University

Merit Certificate | 2016

• Outstanding academic performance (9 CGPA)
• Prize money of Rs. 14,000
• Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University

GATE Qualification | March 2019

• Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (Physics)
• 90.68 percentile – demonstrating strong theoretical and analytical capabilities

Fellowships and Grants

SERB National Post Doctoral Fellowship (2024-2026)

• Two-year research funding at IIT Delhi
• Competitive national-level selection
• Support for independent research in nanomaterials

Institute Post Doctoral Fellowship (2023-2024)

• One-year fellowship at IIT Bombay
• Recognition of doctoral research excellence

Professional Memberships

Currently focusing on research; professional society memberships being developed

Conference Recognition

Best Poster Presentation Award | March 2022

• International Conference on Recent Advances in Functional Materials (RAFM-2022)
• Organized by Department of Physics, IQAC and Star College Scheme (GoI)
• ARSD College, University of Delhi

Publications and Works

Publication Metrics

• Total Publications: 11 peer-reviewed journal articles + 1 book chapter
• First-Author Publications: 6 high-impact research articles
• Co-Author Publications: 5 collaborative research articles
• Impact Factor Range: 1.2 to 8.5
• Citation Profile: Growing international citations (Google Scholar, ResearchGate)

Books and Monographs

Book Chapter:
“Strategy to synthesize tunable emissive ZnS QDs enabled by cobalt doping”
Recent Advances in Nanomaterials, Springer Proceedings in Materials, Vol. 27 (2023), pp. 209–214
Online ISBN: 978-981-99-4878-9
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-4878-9_28

Peer-Reviewed Articles (Complete List)

2025 Publications:

1. Urosa Latief, Suvankar Mondal, et al. “Hybrid Fillers of Barium Titanate and Functionalized Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes Incorporated Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Nanocomposites for Piezoelectric Nanogenerators” ACS Applied Nano Materials 8(9) (2025) 4784–4800 (IF: 5.3)

2. Suvankar Mondal, Monika Salesh, Urosa Latief, et al. “Multifunctional Lead-free Halide Perovskite Based Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Composites for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Piezo-Optoelectronic Applications” ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 17(12) (2025) 18813–18830 (IF: 8.5)

2023 Publications:

3. Urosa Latief, et al. “Environment Friendly Co/Ag@ZnS Quantum Dots with High Quality Emission and Application for Selective Sensing of Hg²⁺” Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry 445 (2023) 115038 (IF: 4.3)

4. Urosa Latief, et al. “Rare-earth free solid-state fluorescent carbon-quantum dots: Multi-color emission and its application as optical dual-mode sensor” Journal of Alloys and Compounds 941 (2023) 168985 (IF: 6.3)

5. Shafi Ul Islam, Urosa Latief, et al. “Long wavelength emissive ZnO/CQDs phosphor with high color purity and its application in sensitive detection of cadmium (II)” Spectrochimica Acta Part A (2023) 123292 (IF: 4.4)

6. Shafi Ul Islam, Urosa Latief, et al. “Ecofriendly blue emissive ZnO-graphene nanocomposite and its application as superior catalytic reduction of Methyl Orange and Congo Red” Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology 108 (2023) 411-422 (IF: 2.5)

7. Shafi Ul Islam, Urosa Latief, et al. “Color-tunable emission of ZnO/Ag₂O/MnO₂ nanocomposite phosphor for solid-state lighting applications” World Scientific NANO 18 (2023) (IF: 1.2)

2022 Publications:

8. Urosa Latief, et al. “Luminescent Manganese/Europium doped ZnS quantum dots: Tunable emission and their application as fluorescent sensor” Journal of Alloys and Compounds 910 (2022) 164889 (IF: 6.3)

9. Shafi Ul Islam, Urosa Latief, et al. “Novel NiO/ZnO/Fe₂O₃ white light-emitting phosphor: facile synthesis, color-tunable photoluminescence and robust photocatalytic activity” Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics 33 (2022) 23137-23152 (IF: 2.8)

2021 Publications:

10. Urosa Latief, et al. “A facile green synthesis of functionalized carbon quantum dots as fluorescent probes for a highly selective and sensitive detection of Fe³⁺ ions” Spectrochimica Acta Part A 262(15) (2021) 120132 (IF: 4.4)

2024 Publications:

11. Md Amanullah Saifee, Urosa Latief, et al. “Tri-chalcogenides (Sb₂S₃/Bi₂S₃) solar cells with double electron transport layers: design and simulation” Discover Energy 4 (2024)

Conference Papers and Presentations

Oral Presentations:

1. International Conference on “Nanotechnology For Better Living” (NBL-2025)
University of Kashmir & IIT Hyderabad | September 7-11, 2025
Location: University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar

2. International Conference on “Advanced Functional Materials and Devices” (AFMD-2023)
ARSD College, University of Delhi | March 13-15, 2023

Poster Presentations:

3. International Conference on “Nanotechnology: Opportunities & Challenges” (ICNOC-2022)
Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi | November 28-30, 2022 (Online)

4. International Conference on Recent Advances in Functional Materials (RAFM-2022)
ARSD College, University of Delhi | March 14-16, 2022 (Online)
Award: Best Poster Presentation

5. National Conference on “Functional materials: Synthesis, Properties and Applications”
Aligarh Muslim University | February 21-23, 2022

6. INDO-AUSTRALIAN Webinar on “Formulation and characterization of Materials”
March 2, 2021 (Online)

7. International Conference on Light Matter Interaction (ICLMIN-2021)
Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam | May 19-21, 2021

8. National Conference on “Recent Advances in Material Science and Spectroscopy”
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra | February 15-17, 2017

Online Research Profiles

• ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Urosa-Latief
• Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=02qjWVkAAAAJ&hl=en

Teaching and Mentorship

Courses Taught

Currently in postdoctoral research phase; formal teaching roles to be developed

Supervision of Students or Researchers

• Collaborative research with junior researchers at IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi
• Co-authorship with research scholars, fostering collaborative research culture
• Mentoring undergraduate project students in experimental physics and materials characterization

Educational Initiatives

• Active participation in student-oriented conferences and workshops
• Promoting women in STEM through research excellence and visibility
• Contributing to research skill development through collaborative projects

Collaborations and Projects

Interdisciplinary Work

Physics-Materials Science-Engineering Interface

• Bridging experimental physics with materials engineering
• Collaboration between Physics and Metallurgical Engineering departments
• Integration of synthesis, characterization, and device fabrication

Energy-Environment Nexus

• Combining energy harvesting with environmental sensing
• Developing dual-function materials for multiple applications
• Sustainable materials development approach

International Partnerships

• Participation in international conferences with global researchers
• Publications in internationally recognized journals
• Growing citation network across international research community

Funded Research Projects

SERB National Post Doctoral Fellowship Project (2024-2026)

• Funding Agency: Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Govt. of India
• Project Focus: Advanced nanomaterials for energy and sensing applications
• Institution: IIT Delhi
• Project Value: As per SERB N-PDF guidelines

Institute Post Doctoral Fellowship Project (2023-2024)

• Funding Agency: IIT Bombay
• Project Focus: Piezoelectric nanogenerators using PVDF nanocomposites
• Duration: One year

Doctoral Research Support (2019-2023)

• Research fellowship during Ph.D. at Jamia Millia Islamia
• Laboratory access and research facilities

Impact and Legacy

Influence on the Field

Sustainable Materials Development

• Pioneered rare-earth-free luminescent materials, reducing dependence on expensive elements
• Demonstrated eco-friendly synthesis routes for quantum dots
• Contributed to green chemistry approaches in nanomaterials synthesis

Energy Harvesting Technology

• Advanced piezoelectric nanogenerator performance through hybrid nanocomposites
• Demonstrated practical biomechanical energy harvesting applications
• Contributed to self-powered electronics research

Environmental Sensing

• Developed selective and sensitive fluorescent sensors for heavy metal detection
• Provided cost-effective monitoring solutions for water quality
• Enhanced understanding of fluorescence-based sensing mechanisms

Policy or Practical Applications

Contribution to National Priorities

• Aligns with “Make in India” initiative through indigenous technology development
• Supports renewable energy goals through energy harvesting research
• Addresses environmental monitoring needs for water and soil quality

Practical Device Development

• LED illumination using harvested energy
• Capacitor charging from human motion
• Self-powered sensor systems

Educational Impact

• Inspiring young women researchers in STEM fields
• Demonstrating career progression from regional universities to premier IITs
• Role model for physics and materials science students

Long-Term Contributions

Research Infrastructure

• Building expertise in quantum dot synthesis and characterization
• Establishing piezoelectric nanogenerator fabrication protocols
• Creating knowledge base for future researchers

Scientific Knowledge

• Published fundamental insights into nanomaterial properties
• Contributed to understanding of energy harvesting mechanisms
• Advanced fluorescence-based sensing methodologies

Future Impact Potential

• Research foundation for next-generation wearable electronics
• Pathways for commercial development of energy harvesting devices
• Framework for sustainable nanomaterials development

Personal Life and Interests

Hobbies and Passions

Information not publicly disclosed; focus maintained on professional achievements

Personal Philosophy

Dr. Latief’s work reflects a philosophy centered on:

• Sustainability: Developing eco-friendly, cost-effective materials
• Innovation: Bridging fundamental science with practical applications
• Excellence: Maintaining high standards in research quality
• Collaboration: Building interdisciplinary research partnerships
• Perseverance: Rising from regional universities to premier national institutes

Community Involvement

• Representing women in STEM fields
• Contributing to scientific community through peer review and collaboration
• Participating in academic conferences and knowledge dissemination
• Supporting junior researchers through co-authorship and mentorship

Recent Work and Future Directions

Ongoing Research

At IIT Delhi (Current – SERB N-PDF)

• Advanced piezoelectric nanogenerators with enhanced output performance
• Smart nanomaterials for multi-functional applications
• Integration of energy harvesting and sensing capabilities
• Development of self-powered devices

Collaborative Projects

• Lead-free halide perovskite composites for piezo-optoelectronic applications
• Biomechanical energy harvesting from human motion
• Flexible and wearable electronics development

Upcoming Publications

• Research manuscripts in preparation from current IIT Delhi work
• Continued collaboration with IIT Bombay team on energy harvesting
• Conference proceedings from NBL-2025 and future conferences

Emerging Interests

Multifunctional Smart Materials

• Materials with combined energy harvesting and sensing capabilities
• Self-powered sensor networks
• Responsive materials for adaptive applications

Flexible and Wearable Electronics

• Flexible piezoelectric devices
• Wearable energy harvesters
• Comfortable and efficient device designs

Sustainable Technologies

• Circular economy approaches to materials development
• Recyclable and biodegradable nanomaterials
• Life cycle assessment of energy harvesting devices

Advanced Characterization Techniques

• In-situ measurement of piezoelectric properties
• Real-time energy harvesting monitoring
• Advanced spectroscopic methods

Selected Bibliography

Key Citations (Most Impacted Publications)

1. Urosa Latief et al., “Rare-earth free solid-state fluorescent carbon-quantum dots” J. Alloys Compd. 941 (2023) 168985

2. Urosa Latief et al., “Luminescent Manganese/Europium doped ZnS quantum dots” J. Alloys Compd. 910 (2022) 164889

3. Urosa Latief et al., “Hybrid Fillers…for Piezoelectric Nanogenerators” ACS Appl. Nano Mater. 8(9) (2025) 4784–4800

4. Urosa Latief et al., “A facile green synthesis of functionalized carbon quantum dots” Spectrochim. Acta A 262(15) (2021) 120132

5. Urosa Latief et al., “Environment Friendly Co/Ag@ZnS Quantum Dots” J. Photochem. Photobiol. A 445 (2023) 115038

Notable References

• High-impact publications in ACS journals (IF: 5.3, 8.5)
• Consistent publication record in reputed materials science journals
• Growing citation network in nanomaterials and energy harvesting communities

Further Reading

For Quantum Dots Research:

• Dr. Latief’s publications in Journal of Alloys and Compounds
• Book chapter in Springer Proceedings on ZnS quantum dots

For Piezoelectric Nanogenerators:

• ACS Applied Nano Materials (2025) publication
• ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2025) publication on perovskite composites

For Fluorescent Sensing:

• Spectrochimica Acta Part A publications (2021, 2023)
• Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A (2023)

References / Sources

Primary Data Sources

Official Contact Information:

• Current Institution: Department of Physics, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016
• Email: ird600927@iitd.ac.in, 20003616@iitb.ac.in, urosatantry@gmail.com

Academic References

Prof. Mohd. Shahid Khan (Ph.D. Thesis Advisor)
Professor, Department of Physics, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025
Phone: +91-9810977661 | Email: mskhan@jmi.ac.in | Fax: +91-11-26981753

Prof. Arup Ranjan Bhattacharyya (Post Doctoral Mentor – IIT Bombay)
Professor, Dept. of Metallurgical Engineering and Material Science, IIT Bombay
Phone: +91-9892373464 | Email: arupranjan@iitb.ac.in

Prof. Jitendra Pratap Singh (Current Post Doctoral Mentor – IIT Delhi)
Professor, Department of Physics, IIT Delhi, New Delhi-110016
Phone: +91-9711737999 | Email: jpsingh@physics.iitd.ac.in

Interviews or Media Mentions

Information compiled from official curriculum vitae and published research records

Publication Databases

• Google Scholar Profile: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=02qjWVkAAAAJ&hl=en
• ResearchGate Profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Urosa-Latief
• Institutional Affiliations: IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, Jamia Millia Islamia

Summary Statement

Dr. Urosa Latief represents the emerging generation of Indian women scientists making significant contributions to nanomaterials research and sustainable energy technologies. Her journey from Jammu University to premier IITs, marked by consistent academic excellence and impactful research, demonstrates dedication to scientific innovation. With 11 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, prestigious SERB National Post Doctoral Fellowship, and research spanning quantum dots, piezoelectric nanogenerators, and fluorescent sensors, she has established herself as a rising leader in experimental condensed matter physics. Her work addresses critical global challenges in energy sustainability and environmental monitoring while advancing fundamental understanding of nanomaterial properties and device applications.

This biography is compiled from official curriculum vitae dated 2024-2025 and publicly available research publications.

Dr.Hafeez Ur Rehman

International Scientists Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hafeez Ur Rehman is an accomplished computational physicist and dedicated educator specializing in materials science, hydrogen storage applications, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Born on March 10, 2000, Dr. Rehman has demonstrated exceptional academic excellence and research contributions despite his young age, establishing himself as a promising researcher in the field of applied physics.

Educational Background

Dr. Rehman earned his Master of Philosophy in Applied Physics from GC University Lahore (2019-2021) with a CGPA of 3.28/4.00, where he completed his thesis on “Structural, Electronic, Thermal, and Elastic Properties of Metal Hydrides for Hydrogen Storage” under the supervision of Dr. Nawaz Muhammad. He obtained his BS (Hons) in Physics from Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan (2015-2019) with an impressive CGPA of 3.42/4.00, focusing on quantum physics, solid-state physics, electromagnetic theory, and nuclear physics.

Current Professional Positions

Currently serving as a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Education Lahore, Dera Ghazi Khan Campus (September 2023-present), Dr. Rehman teaches undergraduate physics courses, co-supervises MPhil students, and conducts research in doping on alkali halides through DFT calculations and carbon biochar studies. He has been a Lecturer in Physics at Superior Group of Colleges since July 2019, where he teaches A-Level and F.Sc physics courses along with practical sessions.

Research Excellence and International Collaboration

Dr. Rehman’s research portfolio is distinguished by his collaborative work with the University of Science and Technology Beijing (September 2022-May 2024), where he conducted computational research on heterostructure calculations, band gap determination, and density of states analysis using VASP software. His investigations into optical and elastic properties of perovskites have contributed significantly to the field of materials science.

Publications and Research Impact

As a prolific researcher, Dr. Rehman has authored multiple high-impact publications in reputable international journals:

• Materials Science Research: “The investigation of structural, electronic, thermal, and elastic properties of X2ZnH4 (X = K, Rb and Cs) for hydrogen storage applications: DFT study” (2024)
• Nanotechnology Reviews: Three comprehensive review papers on triboelectric nanogenerators published in leading journals including Nanomaterials, Polymers, and Sensors (2024)
• Ongoing Research: Multiple manuscripts under review focusing on halide double perovskites and lithium hydride perovskites for energy applications

Technical Expertise and Skills

Dr. Rehman possesses advanced expertise in computational physics software including VASP and Wien2k, with strong capabilities in:

• DFT calculations and quantum mechanical modeling
• Materials simulation and characterization
• Data analysis using Python and MATLAB
• Heterostructure analysis and electronic property investigations
• Optical and elastic property modeling

Professional Development and Recognition

His commitment to academic excellence is evidenced by his active participation in international conferences, including the 11th International Zeguma Conference on Scientific Research in Turkey (2024), International Conference on Solid-State Physics at University of Punjab (2021), and the 4th PU International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology (2022).

Dr. Rehman is a member of the Dr. Samar Physics Society at the Center for Advanced Studies in Physics (CASP), GC University Lahore, demonstrating his commitment to professional networking and academic collaboration.

Research Interests and Future Directions

His research interests encompass:

• Hydrogen storage materials and metal hydrides
• Thermoelectric materials and Heusler alloys
• Quantum mechanical modeling of materials
• Density functional theory applications
• Materials simulation for energy applications

Language Proficiency and Communication

Fluent in Urdu and Balochi as native languages, Dr. Rehman possesses strong English proficiency (B2-C1 level), enabling effective international collaboration and research dissemination.

Conclusion

Dr. Hafeez Ur Rehman represents the new generation of computational physicists who combine theoretical expertise with practical applications in materials science. His dedication to research excellence, international collaboration, and educational leadership positions him as a deserving candidate for the International Scientists Award – Best Researcher Award. His contributions to hydrogen storage research, nanomaterials, and computational physics demonstrate significant potential for continued impact in the scientific community.

For correspondence: hafeezurrehmandgk59@gmail.com

Dr. Hesham M.H. Zakaly

Associate Professor | Nuclear Physicist & Radiation Safety Expert

Professional Summary

Dr. Hesham Mahmoud Hamed Mohamed Zakaly is a distinguished nuclear physicist and radiation safety expert with over a decade of experience in experimental nuclear physics, medical physics, and radiation protection. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Ural Federal University, Russia, and Lecturer at Al-Azhar University, Egypt, Dr. Zakaly has established himself as a leading researcher in radiation biology, Monte Carlo simulations, and radiopharmaceutical development.

Educational Background

Dr. Zakaly’s academic journey spans multiple countries and institutions, reflecting his international perspective in nuclear science:

• Ph.D. in Radiation Biology (2022) – Ural Federal University, Russia
  • Dissertation: “Dosimetric Evaluation of Promising Radiopharmaceuticals Based on ⁸⁹Zr and ¹⁷⁷Lu For Radiation Diagnostics and Therapy”
• M.Sc. in Experimental Nuclear Physics (2015) – Al-Azhar University, Egypt
• Pre-M.Sc. in Applied Radiation (2012) – Helwan University, Egypt
• B.Sc. in Special Physics (2008) – Al-Azhar University, Egypt

Current Positions

Associate Professor (доцент) – Ural Federal University, Russia (2025-Present) Postdoctoral Researcher – Ural Federal University, Russia (2022-Present) Lecturer – Al-Azhar University, Egypt (2022-Present)

Research Expertise

Dr. Zakaly’s research portfolio encompasses several critical areas of nuclear science and medical physics:

Core Research Areas

• Radiation Biology & Medical Physics: Specializing in dosimetric evaluations and radiation therapy applications
• Radiopharmaceuticals: Development and assessment of diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals
• Monte Carlo Simulations: Advanced computational modeling using FLUKA and other simulation codes
• Nuclear Engineering: Radiation shielding, protection, and safety protocols
• Environmental Radioactivity: Natural radioactivity assessment and radiological hazard evaluation
• Nanomaterials: Radiation interaction with nano-structured materials

Technical Proficiencies

• FLUKA Monte Carlo Code and Flair interface
• WinAct, IDAC-Dose, and DCAL dosimetry software
• Advanced radiation detection and measurement systems
• Linux-based operating systems and scientific computing

Professional Achievements

Publications & Research Impact

Dr. Zakaly has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications in internationally indexed journals, with significant contributions to:

• Radiation shielding materials and glass systems
• Natural radioactivity assessments in marine environments
• Radiopharmaceutical dosimetry and biokinetic modeling
• Nuclear radiation protection technologies

Editorial Leadership

He serves on editorial boards of several prestigious journals including:

• Associate Editor: Frontiers in Public Health (IF 6.461)
• Academic Editor: PLOS ONE (IF 3.7)
• Academic Editor: Journal of Nanomaterials (IF 3.791)
• Guest Editor for special issues in Materials and Electronics

International Recognition

• Languages: Fluent in Arabic (native), English (advanced), and Russian (advanced)
• International Collaboration: Active researcher in multi-national projects across Russia, Egypt, Romania, and EU countries

Major Research Projects

Dr. Zakaly has been instrumental in several high-impact research initiatives:

1. Russian Science Foundation Project (2022-2025) – “Stability of perovskite solar cells under irradiation with powerful streams of accelerated particles”
2. STDF Egypt Project (2020-Present) – “Fabrication of novel glass to immobilize hazardous radioactive wastes”
3. EU ENI Project MONITOX (2014-2020) – Environmental toxicants migration monitoring in the Black Sea Basin
4. UrFU Development Program – Advanced functional materials for detector technology and photonics

Teaching & Mentorship

With over 12 years of teaching experience, Dr. Zakaly has:

• Supervised postdoctoral and master’s degree students
• Taught experimental physics laboratories across all undergraduate levels
• Developed nuclear physics curricula and modernized laboratory facilities
• Participated in strategic planning for quality assurance and accreditation

International Conference Leadership

Dr. Zakaly has presented at numerous international conferences and served as:

• Conference Chairperson: INTERVENT 2023 (Romania) – “Interdisciplinary applications of advanced analytical techniques”
• Active Participant: Over 20 international conferences across Europe, Asia, and Africa
• Keynote Speaker: Multiple presentations on radiopharmaceuticals and radiation safety

Professional Affiliations & Networks

• ResearchGate: Comprehensive research portfolio and collaboration network
• Google Scholar: Extensive citation network in nuclear physics and medical physics
• Scopus Author ID: 57196235532
• ORCID: International researcher identifier for scientific publications

Vision & Future Research

Dr. Zakaly continues to push the boundaries of nuclear science through interdisciplinary research combining:

• Advanced radiation therapy techniques
• Novel radiation shielding materials
• Environmental radiation monitoring
• Sustainable nuclear technologies

His work directly contributes to safer medical procedures, environmental protection, and the advancement of nuclear technology for peaceful applications.

Dr. Stephanie L. Mathews |Best Researcher Award

Professional Biography

Dr. Stephanie L. Mathews is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Carolina State University, where she has served since August 2023. She brings extensive experience in microbiology research and innovative teaching methodologies to her role, specializing in General Microbiology and Scientific Inquiry in Microbiology courses.

Academic Background

Dr. Mathews earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Forest Biomaterials from North Carolina State University in 2015, where her doctoral research focused on expressing, purifying, and characterizing recombinant lignocellulose degrading enzymes. Her groundbreaking work included isolating bacteria from pulping waste, sequencing genomes, and characterizing growth patterns and lignocellulose deconstruction processes. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a B.A. in Biology in December 2010.

Research Excellence

Dr. Mathews has established herself as a leading researcher in industrial microbiology and environmental biotechnology. Her research portfolio includes:

• Industrial Enzyme Discovery: During her postdoctoral research at NC State (2015-2016), she focused on identifying industrial enzymes from the microbiomes of household insects, working with renowned researchers Dr. Rob Dunn and Dr. Amy Grunden.
• Lignocellulose Biodegradation: Her doctoral work resulted in the isolation and characterization of Paenibacillus glucanolyticus, a bacterium capable of degrading pulping waste and deconstructing lignocellulose materials.
• Antibiotic Discovery: Recent research has involved screening soil microorganisms and various environmental samples for novel antibiotic-producing bacteria, contributing to the global effort to combat antibiotic resistance.

Teaching Innovation and Leadership

Dr. Mathews is recognized as an innovative educator who has transformed undergraduate biology education through evidence-based teaching practices. Her teaching philosophy centers on active learning, inclusive pedagogy, and course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs).

Key Teaching Innovations:

• Tiny Earth Implementation: As a certified Tiny Earth trainer and partner instructor, she has successfully integrated authentic research experiences into undergraduate microbiology courses, engaging students in antibiotic discovery from environmental samples.
• Active Learning Pioneer: Dr. Mathews is a graduate of multiple prestigious teaching development programs, including the Promoting Active Learning and Mentoring (PALM) Fellowship and the NSF-Research Coordination Network High-throughput Inquiry-based case study for Today’s Students (HITS) Fellowship.
• Course Redesign Expert: She has redesigned multiple courses using Universal Design for Learning principles, flipped classroom methodologies, and problem-based learning approaches.

Publications and Scholarly Impact

Dr. Mathews has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals including Applied and Environmental Microbiology, Royal Society Open Science, and the Journal of Microbiology and Biology Education. Her research has been cited extensively, with particular impact in the areas of:

• Bacterial biodegradation of industrial waste streams
• Characterization of extremophile enzymes
• Antibiotic resistance in environmental bacteria
• Course-based undergraduate research education

Notable publications include her work on Paenibacillus glucanolyticus genome sequencing and characterization, glycoside hydrolase genes in Agrobacterium tumefaciens virulence, and evidence-based teaching practices in undergraduate biology education.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Mathews has received numerous awards recognizing both her research excellence and teaching innovation:

• Research Recognition: First Place, NCSU Graduate Student Research Symposium (2015); Thoyd Melton Award from North Carolina ASM Branch (2014); First Place, Eastman Graduate Student and Post-Doctoral Research Competition (2013)
• Teaching Excellence: Multiple faculty development grants for educational innovation; DELTA Express Grant for student engagement technologies (2024)
• Fellowship Honors: USDA National Needs Fellowship (2011-2015); NSF I-Corps program participant

Professional Service and Leadership

Dr. Mathews demonstrates exceptional commitment to professional service:

• Leadership Roles: Treasurer of the North Carolina Branch of the American Society of Microbiology; Former Chair of Faculty Senate at Campbell University; Website Coordinator for the North Carolina Academy of Science
• Educational Leadership: Tiny Earth Training Leadership team member; Facilitator for national Tiny Earth workshops; Mentor for STEM diversity programs
• Scientific Community: Active member of multiple professional societies; Regular presenter at national and international conferences; Peer reviewer for scientific journals

Current Focus and Future Directions

At North Carolina State University, Dr. Mathews continues to advance both research and education in microbiology. Her current work focuses on:

• Developing innovative laboratory experiences that combine authentic research with rigorous pedagogy
• Investigating environmental microorganisms for biotechnological applications
• Leading national efforts in biology education reform through the PALM network
• Mentoring the next generation of scientists through inclusive teaching practices

Dr. Mathews represents the modern scientist-educator, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge research with transformative teaching to prepare students for careers in the biological sciences while advancing our understanding of microbial systems and their applications to environmental and industrial challenges.

Dr. Gary S. Was

Walter J. Weber, Jr. Professor Emeritus of Sustainable Energy, Environmental and Earth Systems Engineering

International Scientists Award – Best Researcher Award

Professor Gary S. Was stands as one of the world’s preeminent authorities in radiation materials science, nuclear engineering, and materials degradation in extreme environments. Currently the Walter J. Weber, Jr. Professor Emeritus of Sustainable Energy, Environmental and Earth Systems Engineering and Professor Emeritus of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences at the University of Michigan, Dr. Was has dedicated over four decades to advancing our understanding of how materials behave under the harsh conditions found in nuclear reactors and other extreme environments.

Educational Foundation

Dr. Was earned his Sc.D. in Nuclear Materials from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1980, preceded by his S.M. in Nuclear Engineering (1977) and B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Michigan (1975). This solid foundation in both materials science and nuclear engineering positioned him uniquely to tackle the complex challenges at the intersection of these fields.

Distinguished Career and Leadership

Throughout his illustrious career at the University of Michigan (1980-2021), Dr. Was served in numerous leadership roles that shaped both the institution and the broader nuclear engineering community. As Chair of the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences (1994-1999), he led strategic planning initiatives, established external advisory boards, and secured congressional support for nuclear engineering education. His tenure as Associate Dean for Research in the College of Engineering (2000-2005) saw him oversee $140M in research funding while developing strategic research partnerships with industry.

From 2006-2009, Dr. Was served as Director of the Michigan Memorial Phoenix Energy Institute, where he led the university’s comprehensive energy initiative, coordinating multidisciplinary research across campus and establishing new faculty positions in critical growth areas.

Research Excellence and Innovation

Dr. Was’s research has fundamentally advanced our understanding of radiation effects in materials, with particular emphasis on:

Irradiation-Assisted Stress Corrosion Cracking (IASCC)

His pioneering work on IASCC has revealed the mechanisms by which radiation damage promotes environmentally assisted cracking in nuclear reactor components, leading to improved materials selection and mitigation strategies.

Ion Irradiation as Neutron Surrogate

Dr. Was developed and refined techniques using ion irradiation to simulate neutron damage, enabling accelerated testing and reducing reliance on expensive reactor irradiations. This work has become the international standard for radiation effects research.

High-Temperature Corrosion and Environmental Degradation

His comprehensive studies of materials behavior in supercritical water and other extreme environments have informed the development of next-generation nuclear reactors and advanced energy systems.

Laboratory Leadership and Infrastructure

Dr. Was established and directed three major research facilities that serve as international resources:

• Michigan Ion Beam Laboratory for Surface Modification and Analysis: One of the most well-equipped laboratories of its kind, featuring multiple ion accelerators and specialized facilities for radiation damage studies.
• High Temperature Corrosion Laboratory: Unique capabilities for stress corrosion cracking testing in light water reactor environments.
• Irradiated Materials Testing Laboratory: Specialized facilities for testing neutron-irradiated materials under prototypic reactor conditions.

Publications and Scholarly Impact

With an h-index of 69 (Scopus) and 76 (Google Scholar), Dr. Was has authored over 336 archival journal articles, 5 textbooks (including the definitive “Fundamentals of Radiation Materials Science: Metals and Alloys”), and numerous book chapters. His textbook has been translated into Russian, Japanese, and Chinese, reflecting its global impact. He has delivered 142 invited conference talks and 133 invited seminars worldwide, establishing him as a sought-after expert in his field.

Mentorship and Human Capital Development

Dr. Was has supervised 49 Ph.D. students who have gone on to leadership positions in academia, national laboratories, and industry. His commitment to education extends beyond individual mentorship to curriculum development and program innovation, including the establishment of dual-track undergraduate programs and comprehensive graduate research programs.

International Recognition and Awards

Dr. Was’s contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards:

• Institute of Metals Lecture and Robert Franklin Mehl Award, TMS (2025)
• T.P. Hoar Award, Institute of Corrosion (2020)
• Member of the EU Academy of Sciences (2018)
• Glenn Murphy Award, American Society for Engineering Education (2017)
• Mishima Award, American Nuclear Society (2017)
• Lee Hsun Award, Institute of Metals Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2013)
• Henry Marion Howe Medal, ASM International (2008)
• Champion H. Matthewson Medal, TMS (2000)

He holds fellowships in multiple professional societies including TMS, MRS, ANS, ASM International, and NACE International.

Service and Professional Leadership

Dr. Was has served the scientific community through numerous editorial and advisory roles, including:

• Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Nuclear Materials (2016-present)
• Chair, International Atomic Energy Agency Coordinated Research Project (2016-present)
• Board of Directors, International Cooperative Group on Environmentally Assisted Cracking
• Multiple National Academies committees on nuclear laboratory quality and corrosion education

Current Research and Future Impact

Even in emeritus status, Dr. Was continues active research with current projects totaling over $6.7M in funding, including:

• Grand Challenge for Accelerated Deployment of Advanced Reactors ($3M, DOE-NEUP)
• Response of Candidate Fusion Blanket Materials to Ion Irradiation ($1.8M, DOE)
• Neutron-Ion Handshake for Advanced Reactor Materials ($1.2M, Commonwealth Fusion Energy Systems)

Global Impact and Legacy

Dr. Was’s work transcends traditional academic boundaries, directly impacting nuclear safety, reactor design, and materials qualification for both current and advanced reactor systems. His development of accelerated testing methodologies has enabled rapid materials qualification for new reactor designs, potentially accelerating the deployment of clean nuclear energy technologies.

His international collaborations span continents, with significant partnerships in Europe, Asia, and beyond. The techniques and methodologies he developed are now standard practice in radiation effects research worldwide.

Vision for the Future

Throughout his career, Dr. Was has consistently advocated for nuclear energy as a critical component of the global clean energy portfolio. His research directly supports the safe, efficient operation of existing nuclear plants while enabling the development of advanced reactor concepts that could provide abundant, carbon-free energy for future generations.

Conclusion

Professor Gary S. Was exemplifies the ideal of a researcher whose work bridges fundamental science and practical application. His four-decade commitment to understanding and solving materials challenges in extreme environments has advanced both scientific knowledge and technological capability. Through his research, teaching, and service, he has built a lasting legacy that continues to influence nuclear engineering and materials science globally.

His nomination for the International Scientists Award – Best Researcher Award recognizes not only his outstanding individual contributions but also his role in developing the next generation of scientists and engineers who will tackle the energy and materials challenges of the 21st century.

For correspondence and additional information: gsw@umich.edu