Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer / Researcher at University of the Free State, South Africa

Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Free State (UFS), QwaQwa Campus, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Science (2015) from UFS, where she also obtained her M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees. Her research focuses on polymer-titania nanocomposites and sustainable polymers. As an NRF Y2-rated Emerging Researcher (2021-2025), Dr. Mofokeng is recognized for her contributions to polymer science, receiving the Best Emerging Researcher award in Natural and Agricultural Sciences (QwaQwa Campus) in 2016.

Publication Profile

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Academic and Research Contributions

Dr. Mofokeng teaches Honours-level modules in Physical Polymer Science and Polymer Testing and Characterization at UFS. She supervises Honours, Master’s, and Ph.D. students, actively publishing research in polymer science. In her roles, she oversees the research laboratory, sources research funding, and contributes to curriculum development.

Professional Experience

Since 2019, Dr. Mofokeng has been a Senior Lecturer, previously serving as a Lecturer (2017–2018), Officer in Professional Services (2011–2017), and Research Assistant (1999–2011). Her extensive experience in research operations has involved hands-on roles in laboratory management, equipment maintenance, student training, and conducting complex polymer analyses.

Skills and Expertise

Dr. Mofokeng is proficient in a variety of scientific instruments, including DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA, and rheometers, essential for polymer characterization and analysis. She has experience with SEM, TEM, and STEM techniques and is skilled in synthesizing polymers, composites, and nanocomposites.

Publication  Top Notes

 

Preparation of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Polymer Composites, 2024

Focus: Develops PLA/PHBV/GO composites specifically for selectively removing Pb(II) ions from water.

Synthesis of Graphene Oxide for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Carbon Trends, 2024

Focus: Details the synthesis and properties of GO aimed at lead ion adsorption in water.

Morphology and Thermal Properties of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites

Publication: Polymer Engineering and Science, 2024

Focus: Analyzes structural and thermal aspects of PLA/PHBV/GO composites.

Properties of Polybutylene Succinate-Pineapple Leaf Fiber Composites

Publication: Heliyon, 2023

Focus: Discusses chemical and thermal properties of eco-friendly PBS composites using waste fibers.

Review on Graphene-Based Biodegradable Polymer Composites

Publication: Materials, 2023

Focus: Reviews the use of graphene in polymer composites for heavy metal adsorption in water.

Polysiloxane in Guar Gum-Polyaniline Matrix

Publication: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2018

Focus: Studies the effect of polysiloxane on the thermal and optical properties of a modified guar gum matrix.

LDPE with Carbon Black, Zinc, and Paraffin Wax

Publication: Journal of Polymer Research, 2017

Focus: Investigates the thermo-switch properties of LDPE composites with various additives.

Thermal Stability of PCL/PLA Composites with Layered Silicates

Publication: Polymer Testing, 2016

Focus: Explores thermal stability enhancements in PCL/PLA composites.

PLA/PHBV Nanocomposites with TiO₂ as Filler

Publication: Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2015

Focus: Analyzes the thermal degradation and morphology of PLA/PHBV blends with TiO₂ fillers.

Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Various Biodegradable Polymer Blends

Publication: Thermochimica Acta, 2015

Focus: Examines mechanical properties of PLA/PHBV, PLA/PCL, and PHBV/PCL blends with TiO₂ nanofillers.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Mofokeng’s achievements and dedication make her a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her contributions to polymer science, leadership in academia, and consistent service to the University of the Free State highlight her commitment to her field and inspire future women researchers. With continued efforts to expand her international research footprint, she stands poised to make an even greater impact in polymer science.

Aziza Kuldasheva | material science | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Aziza Kuldasheva | material science | Women Researcher Award

PhD at Wuhan University of technology, China

Aziza Kuldasheva is a dedicated civil engineering researcher and educator with extensive international experience. Holding a PhD position at Wuhan University of Technology in China, she has been deeply involved in advancing building materials and structural engineering. With fluency in multiple languages, including English and Russian, she effectively collaborates across diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Aziza’s commitment to education is demonstrated through her roles as a lecturer and senior research worker at various prestigious institutions. Her passion for sustainable construction practices and innovative engineering solutions positions her as a key contributor to the field.

Publication Profile

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Education 📚🎓

Aziza Kuldasheva earned her Bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.5 and a Master’s degree with a GPA of 3.9 from Samarkand State Architectural and Civil Engineering University in Uzbekistan. She further enhanced her expertise through a scientific internship at Harbin Engineering University in China and completed another Master’s degree at Riga Technical University in Latvia, achieving a GPA of 3.9. Currently, she is pursuing her PhD at Wuhan University of Technology, where she maintains a GPA of 3.54. Her academic journey reflects her strong foundation in civil engineering, supplemented by diverse international experiences that enrich her research and teaching methodologies.

Experience 🏗️🔧🌏

Aziza has a wealth of experience in civil engineering, beginning her career at Samarkand State Architectural and Civil Engineering University, where she served as an Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, and Senior Research Worker in the Science-Research Laboratory of Building Materials. Between 2010 and 2018, she made significant contributions to various research projects, demonstrating leadership in her field. Aziza also worked as a Senior Research Worker at a similar laboratory in Riga, Latvia, gaining valuable insights into European engineering practices. Notably, she was an expert for the Ministry of Innovative Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan and participated in high-impact projects such as the nonlinear statistical model updating of prestressed concrete beams and bridge health monitoring assessments in Hubei, China. Her multifaceted roles reflect her commitment to advancing knowledge and technology in civil engineering.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️🌟

Aziza Kuldasheva has received numerous certificates and accolades throughout her academic and professional journey. She was honored with a certificate for her contributions to the BAU 2023 Exhibition of Building Materials in Germany, recognizing her commitment to innovation in the field. Additionally, she holds various training certificates, including those in quality laboratory testing, concrete technology, and inclusive growth for developing countries, showcasing her dedication to continuous professional development. Her expertise in building materials and color technologies has been validated through certifications from prestigious organizations, enhancing her credibility as a researcher and educator. These achievements underscore her impact on civil engineering and her commitment to improving construction practices, making her a respected figure in her field.

Research Focus 🔬🏗️

Aziza Kuldasheva’s research focuses on enhancing the safety and reliability of civil engineering structures, particularly through advanced modeling and analysis of building materials. Her recent projects include nonlinear statistical model updating and safety evaluations of long-span prestressed concrete beams, emphasizing her innovative approaches to structural engineering challenges. Aziza is particularly interested in the intersection of technology and sustainability in construction practices, aiming to develop effective solutions that address both functional and environmental concerns. Her participation in bridge health monitoring projects illustrates her commitment to real-world applications of her research. As a member of the Building Technology Center at Wuhan University of Technology, she collaborates with industry leaders to bridge the gap between academic research and practical engineering solutions. Aziza’s work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also seeks to enhance the resilience and sustainability of civil engineering practices globally.

Publication  Top Notes

Title: Single-cell transcriptional uncertainty landscape of cell differentiation

Authors: Nan Papili Gao, Olivier Gandrillon, András Páldi, Ulysse Herbach, Rudiyanto Gunawan, et al.

Publication Date: July 20, 2023

Journal: F1000Research

DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.131861.2

ISSN: 2046-1402

Conclusion

Aziza Kuldasheva is a strong candidate for the Women Researcher Award due to her academic achievements, diverse experience, and significant contributions to civil engineering research. By addressing areas for improvement, such as enhancing her publication record and increasing her engagement with the research community, she can further strengthen her position as a leading researcher in her field. Supporting her nomination for this award would not only recognize her efforts but also encourage her continued growth and contributions to engineering and technology, particularly in the context of women’s representation in research.