Yosuke Komatsu | Intelligent Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yosuke Komatsu | Intelligent Materials | Best Researcher Award 

Resercher, at Institute of Health Sciences, Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd, Japan.

Yosuke Komatsu is a distinguished scientist currently affiliated with KIRIN Holdings Company Limited, Health Science Research Institute, where he leads projects in nutrition and gut microbiota. With training in pharmaceutical and life sciences from Hokkaido University, he brings multidisciplinary expertise in metabolomics, protein science, and prebiotics. Komatsu’s innovative work centers on how human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and dietary proteins influence gut microbial metabolism, nutrient absorption, and infant growth. He has authored numerous peer‑reviewed publications in high‑impact journals, combining advanced NMR metabolomic techniques and in vitro digestion models. His research elucidates cross‑feeding mechanisms in the gut microbiome and the nutritional quality of protein sources ranging from milk to insects. With a strong track record in publication, patent development, and conference presentations, he is poised to contribute novel insights into human health, nutritional biomarkers, and early‑life diet interventions. Komatsu is widely respected for bridging basic science and applied nutrition research.

Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

Yosuke Komatsu earned all his degrees at Hokkaido University in Japan. He completed his Bachelor’s degree (2004–2008) in Integrated Pharmaceutical Sciences within the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, followed by a Master’s program (2008–2010) at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences. He then pursued a PhD (2018–2021) in Life Sciences at the Graduate School of Life Science. During his doctoral studies, Komatsu worked under the Soft Matter Science group, focusing on protein digestibility and nutritional metabolism using advanced analytical methods. His academic training provided him with rigorous grounding in pharma, metabolomics, and nutritional science, fostering his ability to conduct interdisciplinary research. His education set the foundation for later innovation in human milk oligosaccharide research and protein evaluation. It enabled him to integrate pharmaceutical insights with nutritional outcomes demonstrated through in vitro digestion models, NMR metabolomics, and gut microbiome analysis, culminating in a robust research portfolio.

💼 Experience

Yosuke Komatsu has built a solid research career in Japan’s nutrition and food science industry as well as academia. Since June 2024, he has been at KIRIN Holdings, Health Science Research Institute, where he oversees studies on prebiotics, human milk oligosaccharides, and metabolomics. From November 2015 to May 2024, he worked at Morinaga Milk Industry’s Health and Nutrition Science Institute, developing projects related to protein digestibility, dietary amino acid balance, and gut health. Simultaneously, he held adjunct roles at Juntendo University (Apr 2023–Mar 2024) and Hokkaido University (Apr 2017–Mar 2024), bridging academic research and industry. Earlier, from April 2010 to October 2015, he was at Morinaga’s Tokyo Tama Factory. Across these roles, Komatsu has led both laboratory-based and translational studies, supervised student training, collaborated across institutions, and guided patent filings. His experience uniquely blends industrial research, academic collaboration, and leadership in research dissemination through publications and presentations.

🔬 Research Interests

Yosuke Komatsu focuses on the intersection of nutrition, gut microbiota, and protein science. His work encompasses: (1) Prebiotics and Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)—exploring how HMOs support beneficial gut bacteria like Faecalibacterium prausnitzii via cross‑feeding mechanisms; (2) Protein digestibility and nutritional quality—comparing human milk, formula, plant, insect, and casein proteins under infant digestion models (INFOGEST); (3) Metabolomics and gut microbial metabolites—using NMR to identify biomarkers responsive to protein undernutrition or maternal diet; (4) Nutrition biomarkers such as albumin redox state and urinary taurine to assess protein status. He applies integrative metabolomic, microbiome, transcriptomic, and in vitro digestion techniques. His aim is to elucidate how early‑life nutrition influences microbial ecology, infant growth, and long‑term metabolic health, bridging molecular insights to practical dietary interventions.

🏆 Award

Yosuke Komatsu’s excellent research communication was recognized in August 2023, when he received the Outstanding Presentation Award at the 11th Annual Meeting of the Japan DOHaD Society. This accolade highlighted his oral presentation on maternal diet, human milk nutrient composition, and infant growth outcomes, demonstrating clarity, scientific depth, and relevance to developmental origins of health and disease. The award underscores his ability to present complex findings—such as links between maternal nutrition, HMOs, and infant growth trajectories—in an engaging, compelling manner to expert audiences. This recognition reflects his dedication to advancing nutritional science and his effectiveness as a science communicator. He has also delivered invited lectures at prominent conferences, including the IDF World Dairy Summit and international metabolomics symposia. Together, his award and speaking engagements illustrate both his scientific excellence and his leadership in disseminating research results to diverse scholarly communities.

📚 Top Noted Publications

Below are some of Komatsu’s major publications, each listed with year, journal, and citation link:

Haruka Onodera, Yohei Sato, Yosuke Komatsu, Makoto Yamashita, et al. (2025). “HMOs Induce Butyrate Production of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii via Cross‑Feeding by Bifidobacterium bifidum with Different Mechanisms for HMO Types.” Microorganism. Cited by: [single‑line citations needed] 🔗 (2025).
Keiko Motokawa, Maki Shirobe, … Yosuke Komatsu. (2024). “Is urinary taurine associated with protein intake? Itabashi Longitudinal Study on Aging.” Geriatrics & Gerontology International. Cited by: … 🔗
Yosuke Komatsu, Yasuaki Wada, … “Comparison of protein digestibility of human milk and infant formula using the INFOGEST method under infant digestion conditions.” The British Journal of Nutrition (2024). Cited by: … 🔗
Yosuke Komatsu, Muneya Tsuda, … “Nutritional Evaluation of Milk‑, Plant‑, and Insect‑Based Protein Materials by Protein Digestibility Using the INFOGEST Digestion Method.” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (2023). Cited by: … 🔗
Yosuke Komatsu … (2023). “Associations between Maternal Diet, Human Milk Macronutrients, and Breast‑Fed Infant Growth during the First Month of Life in the SMILE Iwamizawa in Japan.” Nutrients. Cited by: … 🔗

1. Baseline Digestibility Studies

Komatsu Y, Wada Y, Shibasaki T, Kitamura Y, Ehara T, Nakamura H & Miyaji K. (2024). Comparison of protein digestibility of human milk and infant formula using the INFOGEST method under infant digestion conditions. British Journal of Nutrition, published online 3 June 2024; Volume 132(3): pp 1–26. DOI: 10.1017/S0007114524001260. PMID: 38826083. Affiliation: Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd., Kanagawa, Japan ACS Publications+2OUCI+2Cambridge Core+2.

2. Broad Protein Source Evaluation

Komatsu Y, Tsuda M, Wada Y, Shibasaki T, Nakamura H & Miyaji K. (2023). Nutritional Evaluation of Milk‑, Plant‑, and Insect‑Based Protein Materials by Protein Digestibility Using the INFOGEST Digestion Method. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 71(5): 2503–2513, published 25 January 2023. DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c07273. PMID: 36695832. Affiliations: Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd., and Hokkaido University collaboration ACS PublicationsPubMed.

3. Maternal Diet & Infant Growth

Komatsu Y, Wada Y, Tabata F, Kawakami S, Takeda Y, Nakamura K, Ayabe T, Nakamura K, Kimura T & Tamakoshi A. (2023). Associations between Maternal Diet, Human Milk Macronutrients, and Breast‑Fed Infant Growth during the First Month of Life in the SMILE Iwamizawa in Japan. Nutrients, 15(3): 654 (Open Access, published 28 January 2023). DOI: 10.3390/nu15030654 MDPI森永乳業ウェブサイト.

4. Studies Still Pending Full Indexing

  • Onodera H, Sato Y, Komatsu Y, Yamashita M, et al. (2025). HMOs Induce Butyrate Production of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii via Cross‑Feeding by Bifidobacterium bifidum with Different Mechanisms for HMO Types. Microorganism (2025). Not yet indexed in major citation databases.

  • Motokawa K, Shirobe M, et al. including Komatsu Y. (2024). Is Urinary Taurine Associated with Protein Intake? Itabashi Longitudinal Study on Aging. Geriatrics & Gerontology International (2024). No citation metadata visible in standard scholarly indexes.

Conclusion

Dr. Yosuke Komatsu is highly deserving of consideration for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions are significant in advancing nutritional sciences, particularly in understanding protein quality, maternal-infant health, and microbiome interactions. He has a well-rounded portfolio of peer-reviewed research, translational patents, academic engagements, and presentations.

Devagi Kanakaraju | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju is a Malaysian chemist and educator dedicated to the advancement of sustainable environmental practices through science and education. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry from James Cook University, Australia, she has established herself as a prominent researcher and academic leader at UNIMAS. Her contributions to both research and pedagogy have earned her numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Malaysian Australian Alumni Council and multiple innovation medals at national and university expos. She continues to drive impact through research excellence, innovative teaching, and academic leadership.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

scholar

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry, James Cook University, Australia – 2014

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) – 2005

  • M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia – 2003

  • B.Sc. Ed (Hons) in Chemistry, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia – 2000

👨‍🔬 Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju is an academic with over two decades of experience in higher education, currently serving as Deputy Director at the Centre for Academic Development and Management at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Since joining UNIMAS in 2003, she has held various leadership and academic positions, including Program Coordinator at the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology (2015–2017, 2019–2023). She has contributed significantly to curriculum innovation, teaching excellence, and academic management. She began her professional career as a Publishing Editor at Penerbitan Pelangi Sdn Bhd (2002–2003). Dr. Kanakaraju is also an active member of the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, the American Chemical Society, and the Malaysian Young Chemists Network.

🔍 Research Interest

Dr. Kanakaraju’s research spans across Environmental Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, and Analytical Chemistry. Her work focuses on water and wastewater treatment, photocatalysis, green chemistry, and the development of novel composite materials for environmental remediation. She is particularly known for innovations like the “Capture and Break (Cab)” and “DARe-CP” photocatalyst systems for dye and waste degradation. Her multidisciplinary research integrates chemistry, environmental science, and sustainability.

📚 Publications 

  • Kanakaraju, D., Anak Kutiang, F.D., Lim, Y.C., Goh, P.S.
    “Recent progress of Ag/TiO₂ photocatalyst for wastewater treatment: Doping, co-doping, and green materials functionalization”
    Applied Materials Today, Volume 27, 101500 (2022)
    📈 Citations: 121
    🔬 This paper reviews cutting-edge advancements in Ag/TiO₂ photocatalysts, highlighting the role of metal/non-metal doping, co-doping, and eco-friendly functionalization techniques to enhance photocatalytic efficiency for wastewater treatment.

  • Kanakaraju, D., Ravichandar, S., Lim, Y.C.
    “Combined effects of adsorption and photocatalysis by hybrid TiO₂/ZnO-calcium alginate beads for the removal of copper”
    Journal of Environmental Sciences, Volume 55, pp. 214–223 (2017)
    📈 Citations: 116
    🧪 This study explores a dual-function hybrid bead system incorporating TiO₂/ZnO and calcium alginate, capable of simultaneously adsorbing and degrading copper ions from aqueous systems, paving the way for multifunctional treatment technologies.

  • Kanakaraju, D., Chandrasekaran, A.
    “Recent advances in TiO₂/ZnS-based binary and ternary photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants”
    Science of the Total Environment, Volume 868, 161525 (2023)
    📈 Citations: 105
    🧫 A comprehensive review of TiO₂/ZnS photocatalyst systems, this article details their mechanisms, synthesis techniques, and potential in degrading persistent organic pollutants through advanced photocatalytic reactions.

  • Al-Sharqi, A., Apun, K., Vincent, M., Kanakaraju, D., Bilung, L.M.
    “Enhancement of the antibacterial efficiency of silver nanoparticles against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria using blue laser light”
    International Journal of Photoenergy, 2019(1), Article ID 2528490
    📈 Citations: 81
    💡 This paper demonstrates the synergistic use of silver nanoparticles and blue laser light in improving antibacterial efficacy, showing promise for non-antibiotic antimicrobial strategies.

  • Wahi, R., Zuhaidi, N.F.Q., Yusof, Y., Jamel, J., Kanakaraju, D., Ngaini, Z.
    “Chemically treated microwave-derived biochar: An overview”
    Biomass and Bioenergy, Volume 107, pp. 411–421 (2017)
    📈 Citations: 81
    🌱 This overview assesses the potential of chemically modified, microwave-derived biochar for environmental applications, particularly in adsorption and soil enhancement.

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Devagi Kanakaraju stands out as a leading researcher in materials and environmental chemistry, with an outstanding record in sustainable innovation, high-impact publications, academic leadership, and applied research. Her contributions to novel photocatalyst systems and hybrid materials have direct implications for environmental sustainability and green technology.

She is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Materials Chemistry, with both the academic pedigree and real-world impact to represent excellence in this field.

Yohei Yamamoto | soft materials | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yohei Yamamoto | soft materials | Best Researcher Award

Professor, at University of Tsukuba, Japan.

Professor Yohei Yamamoto is a distinguished figure in the field of molecular assembly and optics. Currently serving as a Professor in the Division of Materials Science at the University of Tsukuba, he leads the Molecular Assembly and Optics Laboratory. His research primarily focuses on the formation, structure, and electronic properties of molecular assemblies, aiming to develop advanced nanomaterials with enhanced photoelectric functionalities. Throughout his career, Professor Yamamoto has made significant contributions to the understanding and application of π-conjugated organic molecules and polymers in nanodevices. His dedication to scientific excellence is evident through his numerous publications and the recognition he has received from various scientific communities.​Eindhoven Tech Research Portal+7ims.tsukuba.ac.jp+7ResearchGate+7

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Professor Yamamoto’s academic foundation was laid at Tsuruga Prefectural High School, from which he graduated in March 1994. He then pursued his undergraduate studies in the School of Chemistry at Osaka University, earning his degree in March 1998. Continuing at Osaka University, he completed his Master’s course in the Department of Chemistry under the guidance of the Kaizaki Laboratory in March 2000. His doctoral journey culminated in March 2003 with a Doctor of Science degree from the Department of Chemistry, where he conducted research in the Kawai Laboratory. His doctoral thesis, titled “Control of the Magnetic Properties in Mixed-Ferrite Thin Films and Fabrication of Oxide–Nonoxide Superlattices,” reflects his early commitment to exploring the intricate properties of materials.​

Experience 🏫

Professor Yamamoto’s research career commenced as a JSPS Research Fellow from April 2002 to March 2004, during which he was affiliated with the ISIR at Osaka University in the Kawai Lab. He then continued as a JSPS Research Fellow at the Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, in Aida Lab from April 2004 to March 2005. Following this, he served as a Researcher in the ERATO Aida Nanospace Project, JST, from April 2005 to September 2005. His role expanded as he became a Group Leader in the ERATO–SORST Nanospace Project, JST, from October 2005 to October 2010. In November 2010, he joined the University of Tsukuba as an Associate Professor and was promoted to Professor in February 2018.​

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Yamamoto’s research interests are centered on the formation, structure, and electronic properties of molecular assemblies. He is particularly focused on constructing molecular nanomaterials consisting of π-conjugated organic molecules and polymers, aiming to apply them in nanodevices for photoelectric functions and energy conversion. His work involves exploring the self-assembly of these molecules to develop materials with novel optoelectronic properties.​ims.tsukuba.ac.jp+1YouTube+1

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Professor Yamamoto has been honored with several awards recognizing his contributions to science:​

  • March 2006: The Japan Society of Applied Physics Presentation Award at the 53rd Spring Conference.​

  • March 2007: The Chemical Society of Japan Presentation Award at the 87th Spring Conference.​

  • March 2009: The Chemical Society of Japan Lecture Award for Young Chemist at the 89th Spring Conference.​

  • May 2009: Award for Encouragement of Research in Polymer Science from The Society of Polymer Science, Japan.​

  • March 2010: The Chemical Society of Japan Award For Young Chemists for 2009.​

  • April 2014: The Young Scientists’ Prize, The Commendation for Science and Technology by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.​

  • June 2014: Tsukuba University Prize for Young Scientist.​

  • September 2015: SPSJ Hitachi Chemical Award.​

  • June 2016: ICSM 2016 Best Poster Award.​

  • May 2019: Laser Society of Japan Encouragement Award.​

  • February 2020: University of Tsukuba Best Faculty Member 2019.​

Top Noted Publications 📚

Professor Yamamoto has an extensive list of publications. Here are some selected works:​ResearchMap+4en.jsdb.jp+4YouTube+4

1. The Control of Cluster-Glass Transition Temperature in Spinel-Type ZnFe₂O₄₋δ Thin Film

  • Published: 2001, Japanese Journal of Applied Physics

  • Citations: 49

  • Highlights:

    • Investigates magnetic properties of ZnFe₂O₄₋δ thin films.

    • Focus on controlling cluster-glass transition temperature via oxygen vacancies.

    • Important for spintronics and magnetic storage devices.

  • Source: ims.tsukuba.ac.jp

2. Self-Assembled π-Conjugated Organic/Polymeric Microresonators and Microlasers

  • Published: 2023, Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan

  • Highlights:

    • Development of microresonators from π-conjugated polymers.

    • Self-assembly enables precise control over light-matter interaction.

    • Relevant for miniaturized lasers, sensors, and integrated photonics.

  • Mentions: Integrated AIDA Web, Eindhoven Tech Research Portal

3. Machine Learning of Organic Solvents Reveals an Extraordinary Axis in Hansen Space as Indicator of Spherical Precipitation of Polymers

  • Accepted: 2023, Aggregate

  • Highlights:

    • Applies machine learning to study solvent-polymer interactions.

    • Unveils a novel axis in Hansen solubility space.

    • Supports predictive design of polymer precipitation and formulation.

  • Source: ims.tsukuba.ac.jp

4. Degradable Optical Resonators as In Situ Microprobes for Microscopy-Based Observation of Enzymatic Hydrolysis

  • Published: 2023, Chemical Communications

  • Highlights:

    • Introduces biodegradable optical microresonators.

    • Enables real-time visualization of enzymatic reactions in biological environments.

    • Bridges material science with biochemistry and microscopy techniques.

  • Mentions: RSC Publishing, Muck Rack

5. Facile Light-Initiated Radical Generation from 4-Substituted Pyridine Derivatives in Aqueous Media

  • Published: 2020, Chemical Communications

  • Highlights:

    • Describes a light-triggered method to generate stable radicals in water.

    • Simple conditions, broad applicability in green chemistry and synthesis.

    • Potential use in photopolymerization and drug delivery systems.

  • Source: RSC Publishing

Conclusion

Professor Yohei Yamamoto is a highly accomplished and well-recognized researcher in the field of molecular assembly and optics. His consistent academic excellence, leadership roles in national projects, and an impressive award record clearly demonstrate his qualification for a Best Researcher Award. With minor enhancements in international visibility and translational impact, he could not only win national-level honors but also stand out on the global research stage.

Xiaofei Yang | Intelligent Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xiaofei Yang | Intelligent Materials | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, China

Dr. Xiaofei Yang 🎓 is a renowned Professor at the Division of Energy Storage, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (CAS), China. With expertise in advanced materials for all-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs), Dr. Yang has significantly contributed to the field through groundbreaking research, numerous publications, and impactful patents. His innovative approaches in energy storage technologies have earned him global recognition, including being listed among the World’s Top 2% Scientists 🌟 for consecutive years (2022–2024).

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

📘 Dr. Yang earned his Ph.D. (2013–2018) from the Division of Energy Storage at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (CAS) in China, specializing in advanced lithium battery technologies. He holds a Bachelor’s degree (2009–2013) in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Anhui University, China, laying a strong foundation for his remarkable academic journey.

Experience

📈 Dr. Yang currently serves as a Professor (2022–present) and has previously held roles as an Associate Professor (2021–2022) at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS. He honed his research expertise as a postdoctoral fellow (2018–2021) at Western University, Canada, where he worked on cutting-edge materials in the field of mechanical and materials engineering.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Dr. Yang has received numerous accolades, including being recognized in the Special Talent Program B of CAS (2022), Outstanding Young Scientists of Liaoning (2023), and Top Talents of Dalian (2022). He was also honored as the Zhang Dayu Young Scholar (2022) and awarded the Mitacs Elevate Fellowship in Canada (2020). He actively contributes as an editorial board member and committee member in prestigious journals and organizations globally.

Research Focus

🔬 Dr. Yang’s research centers on advanced materials for all-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs), addressing critical challenges such as electrode materials and solid-state electrolytes. His innovative work combines nanotechnology, advanced characterization techniques, and emerging engineering solutions to optimize battery performance. His studies have set benchmarks in material synthesis and the practical application of ASSLBs.

Conclusion

With a prolific academic career, numerous accolades, and an unyielding passion for energy storage technologies ⚡, Dr. Xiaofei Yang continues to lead impactful research. His contributions are pivotal in revolutionizing the future of renewable energy and sustainable technologies.

Publications

Towards High-Performance Solid-State Li-S Batteries: From Fundamental Understanding to Engineering Design, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2020, 49, 2140-2195. DOI link (Cited by: 890)

Determining the Limiting Factor of the Electrochemical Stability Window for PEO-based Solid Polymer Electrolyte, Energy Environ. Sci., 2020, 13, 1318-1325. DOI link (Cited by: 760)

Recent Advances and Perspectives on Thin Electrolytes for High-Energy Density Solid-State Lithium Batteries, Energy Environ. Sci., 2021, 14, 643-671. DOI link (Cited by: 680)

Safety Concerns in Solid-State Lithium Batteries: From Materials to Devices, Energy Environ. Sci., 2024, 17, 7543-7565. DOI link

Promoting the Transformation of Li2S2 to Li2S: Increasing Utilization of Active Materials for High Sulfur Loading Li-S Batteries, Adv. Mater., 2019, 31, 1901220. DOI link (Cited by: 630)