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.

Prof Dr avraam isayev | Nanocomposites | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. in Polymer Engineering and Science – USSR Academy of Sciences, Moscow.

Prof. Dr. Avraam Isayev is a distinguished figure in the field of polymer engineering and education, with a career spanning several decades. He is known for his significant contributions to academia, particularly during his tenure at the University of Akron, Ohio, USA. Throughout his career, Dr. Isayev has held various esteemed positions, including Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Adjunct Professor, Distinguished Professor, Interim Director, Director, Associate Professor, and Professor. Notably, he played a pivotal role as the Director of the Molding Technology Research and Development Center (MOLDTECH) from 1990 to 2009. Dr. Isayev is a member of several prestigious professional societies, including the Society of Plastics Engineers, the Society of Rheology, the Rubber Division of the ACS, the Polymer Processing Society, the American Chemical Society, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the American Ceramic Society, and the Tire Society. His exceptional contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority in polymer engineering. Dr. Isayev’s work has significantly impacted the field of polymer science and engineering, making him a highly respected figure in his field.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Dr. Avraam Isayev is a highly accomplished scholar and researcher with an extensive academic background in engineering and mathematics. He earned his Master of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering from the Azerbaijan Institute of Oil and Chemistry in Baku, USSR, in 1964, and in Applied Mathematics from the Moscow Institute of Electronic Machine Building in Moscow, USSR, in 1975. His educational journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Polymer Engineering from the Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis and Science at the USSR Academy of Sciences in Moscow in 1970. These academic achievements laid the foundation for Dr. Isayev’s illustrious career in the field of polymer engineering, where he has made significant contributions to research, education, and professional development. His expertise and dedication have earned him recognition as a leading authority in his field.

Employment:

Dr. Avraam Isayev is a distinguished academician and researcher with a remarkable career spanning over five decades. He has held various prestigious positions in the field of polymer engineering, including Distinguished Professor Emeritus and Adjunct Professor at the University of Akron, Ohio, USA. Dr. Isayev’s journey began with his doctoral studies and research at the Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis of the USSR Academy of Sciences in Moscow, where he later served as a Research Associate. Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to academia, industry, and research institutions globally, leaving an indelible mark on the field of polymer engineering.

Award and Honor:

Dr. Avraam Isayev is a distinguished figure in the field of polymer engineering, renowned for his extensive contributions to research, academia, and industry. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Isayev has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Melvin Mooney Distinguished Technology Award from the Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in 1999 and the George S. Whitby Award for Distinguished Teaching and Research from the ACS in 2011. His innovative work has earned him accolades such as the NorTech Innovation Award for Ultrasonic Devulcanization Extruder and Technology in 2011 and the James L. White Innovation Award from The Polymer Processing Society in 2012. Dr. Isayev’s impact extends beyond the academic sphere, as demonstrated by his 2017 election as a Member of the European Union Academy of Sciences (EUAS) and his nomination for the 2018 ENI Award in Advanced Environmental Solutions. He has also been recognized for his influential contributions to materials science, being ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide within his specialty area throughout his career. Dr. Isayev’s remarkable achievements underscore his dedication to advancing the field of polymer engineering and his significant impact on the global scientific community.

Research Interest:

Dr. Avraam Isayev’s research interests span a wide range of topics within the field of polymer engineering. His expertise encompasses polymer processing, rheo-optics, and the rheology of polymers, with a focus on their applications in oil products and disperse systems. Dr. Isayev has made significant contributions to molding technologies, including injection, co-injection, transfer, compression, and gas-assisted injection molding of polymers. His work extends to the development of self-reinforced or in-situ composites based on liquid crystal polymers (LCP), as well as the continuous decrosslinking of thermosets and rubbers. Dr. Isayev is also known for his research in copolymerization of polymer blends using high-power ultrasound, and he has explored the realm of high-temperature and high-performance nanocomposites. Additionally, he has worked on developing constitutive equations and process modeling techniques to enhance the understanding and optimization of polymer processes. Dr. Isayev’s diverse research portfolio underscores his commitment to advancing the fundamental understanding and practical applications of polymer engineering.

Service to the University of Akron:

Dr. Avraam Isayev has played an active role in various administrative and advisory capacities throughout his tenure. He served as a Faculty Observer on the Board of Trustees in 1991/92 and was a member of the Advisory Committee to the President in 1989/90, 1991/92, and 2005/2006. Dr. Isayev was also a part of the University Council from 1988 to 1992 and contributed to the Advisory Committee to the Provost in 1990/91 and 1994/95. His dedication to improving faculty status is evident from his involvement in the Ad Hoc Committee on Mechanisms to Enhance Faculty Status from 1985 to 1987 and the Library Committee from 1989 to 1991. Additionally, he chaired the Faculty Search Committee for the Department of Polymer Engineering on several occasions and was involved in selecting the Dean of the College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering in 1988. Dr. Isayev’s commitment to academic excellence is further demonstrated through his participation in various committees, such as the Graduate Admission Committee, College Appeal Committee, Faculty Senate, Campus Facilities and Planning Committee, University Planning and Budget Committee, College Promotion and Tenure Committee, Search Committee for Director of Research and Sponsored Program, Student Policy Committee, and University Distinguished Professor Committee, where he contributed to the enhancement of the university’s academic and research endeavors.

Publications Top Notes:

Rheology: concepts, methods, and applications

Cited by- 958 year- 2022

Injection and compression molding fundamentals

Cited by- 345 year- 2017

Novel ultrasonic technology for devulcanization of waste rubbers

Cited by- 323 year- 1995

Toward a viscoelastic modelling of the injection molding of polymers

Cited by- 312 year- 1987

Ultrasound assisted twin screw extrusion of polymer–nanocomposites containing carbon nanotubes

Cited by- 241 year- 2009

Quiescent polymer crystallization: modelling and measurements

Cited by- 224 year- 1994

Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award