Pinkie Ntola | Materials Chemistry | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Pinkie Ntola, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

Dr. Pinkie Ntola 🎓 is a seasoned chemist and academic professional at Durban University of Technology 🏫, currently serving as Interim Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation. With a PhD in Chemistry from UKZN 🧪, her research specializes in heterogeneous catalysis and environmental analytical chemistry 🌍. She has held multiple academic roles, from tutor to senior lecturer, demonstrating unwavering commitment to education and innovation 📚✨. Dr. Ntola is also a dedicated member of several university committees and has received numerous awards recognizing her excellence in teaching, research, and industry engagement 🏅👩‍🔬.

Publication Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education & Experience

🎓 Education

🎓 PhD in Chemistry (2021), University of KwaZulu-Natal – Heterogeneous Catalysis
🧪 Master of Technology in Chemistry (2011–2014), Durban University of Technology
🧫 Bachelor of Technology in Chemistry (2009), Durban University of Technology
⚗️ Diploma in Analytical Chemistry (2006–2008), Durban University of Technology
📜 Certificate in Qualitative & Quantitative Research Methods (2017), DUT
🎒 Grade 12 Senior Certificate (2001), Bizana Senior Secondary School

🧑‍🔬 Experience

📍 Interim Director, Technology Transfer and Innovation, DUT (Present)
👩‍🏫 Senior Lecturer, Chemistry Dept., DUT (2024–Present)
👩‍🏫 Lecturer, Chemistry Dept., DUT (2015–2023)
🧑‍🏫 Junior Lecturer, Chemistry Dept., DUT (2010–2014)
🧑‍🏫 Inorganic Chemistry Tutor, DUT (2009)
🔬 Trainee Chemist, Anglo American (2008)
👩‍🔬 Lab Demonstrator & Tutor, DUT (2007)

Summary Suitability For The Award

Dr. Pinkie Ntola, Interim Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa, is a highly accomplished academic and researcher whose contributions to materials chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, and environmental analytical chemistry exemplify cutting-edge research excellence. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, her innovative work and scholarly impact make her an outstanding candidate for the Excellence in Research Award.

Professional Development

Dr. Ntola has actively invested in her professional growth through academic training, research certifications, and leadership roles 🎯📈. She completed a certificate in qualitative and quantitative research methods 📊, equipping her with essential skills for scientific inquiry. Her trajectory from tutor to senior lecturer reflects her dedication to lifelong learning and impactful teaching 📘🧑‍🏫. As a DHET National Expert in Chemical Laboratory Technology 🧪, she contributes to national academic standards. Dr. Ntola’s involvement in university boards and strategic committees highlights her leadership in institutional development and policy formulation ⚖️📋, fostering innovation and collaboration across academic and industrial domains 🌐💼.

Research Focus

Dr. Ntola’s research revolves around Materials Chemistry, Heterogeneous Catalysis, and Environmental Analytical Chemistry 🔍🌿. Her PhD explored oxidative dehydrogenation using metal oxide-supported catalysts, contributing to greener and more efficient chemical processes ⚗️♻️. She is passionate about solving real-world environmental challenges through analytical innovation and sustainable chemistry 🌱🧪. Her work intersects advanced material design and catalytic mechanisms, providing insights into pollution reduction and energy efficiency 🌍⚙️. As an emerging researcher, she continuously expands her scientific footprint by engaging in multidisciplinary collaborations and supervising student research, shaping the future of applied chemical sciences 🧑‍🔬📈.

Awards & Honors

🏅 Emerging Researcher Award, Faculty of Applied Sciences (2019)
🥉 3rd Prize, Best Oral Presentation, PRIS Conference at UKZN (2020)
📜 Certificate of Recognition in Research, Dept. of Chemistry (2022)
👩‍💼 Outstanding Female Industry Liaison, STEAMI (2023)
📜 Certificate of Recognition in Research, Dept. of Chemistry (2023)
🏆 Teaching & Learning Excellence Award, Faculty of Applied Sciences (2023)
🧪 DHET National Expert, Chemical Laboratory Technology Skill (2024)

Publication Top Noted

📘 Fischer-Tropsch synthesis using promoted, unsupported, supported, bimetallic and spray-dried iron catalysts: A review – AS Buthelezi et al., 2024, Cited by: 12 🔬
🔥 Exploring the role of fuel on the microstructure of VOx/MgO powders prepared using solution combustion synthesis – P Ntola et al., 2022, Cited by: 8 🧪
🧑‍🏫 A survey of soft skills expectations: a view from work integrated learning students and the chemical industry – P Ntola et al., 2024, Cited by: 7 💼
⚗️ Effect of the fuel on the surface VOx concentration, speciation and physico-chemical characteristics of solution combustion synthesised VOx/MgO catalysts for n-octane activation – P Ntola et al., 2023, Cited by: 4 🔍
💧 Comparison of UV and ELS detectors in HSPEC analysis of natural organic matter in dam water – KG Moodley et al., 2017, Cited by: 3 💡
📄 Development of methods for the separation and characterization of natural organic matter in dam water – P Sobantu, 2015, Cited by: 3 💧

Mila Krstajić Pajić | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mila Krstajić Pajić , University of Belgrade, Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy , Serbia.

Dr. Mila Krstajić Pajić, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Serbia. Passionate about electrochemistry , her research spans novel materials for energy conversion and storage systems, including fuel cells and supercapacitors. As a project leader in the NOVATRODES initiative , she advances hydrogen production technology. A devoted educator , she teaches physical chemistry and electrochemical engineering. Beyond academia, Mila is a dedicated mom and wife, enjoying outdoor adventures like skiing . She actively promotes electrochemistry through conferences and leadership roles.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Suitability For The Award

Mila Krstajić Pajić, PhD, is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Electrochemical Processes due to her distinguished contributions and leadership in the field of electrochemistry. Her extensive background, including significant research achievements and dedication to both fundamental and applied electrochemical sciences, makes her an exemplary choice for this recognition.

Experience:

University of Belgrade, Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy

Assistant Professor, 2022 – present
Teaching Assistant (PhD), 2020 – 2022
Assistant / PhD Candidate, 2017 – 2020 (1 year maternity leave)

University of Belgrade, Institute for Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy

Research Assistant / PhD Candidate, 2014 – 2017
Research Trainee / PhD Candidate, 2013 – 2014

Internships

Imperial College London, 2013
EControl-Glas, GmbH&Co. KG, 2012

Professional Development

Mila Krstajić Pajić, PhD, is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in electrochemistry . She leads the NOVATRODES project , focusing on innovative hydrogen production technologies. Her research includes developing advanced materials for fuel cells, supercapacitors, and electrochemical reactors. Mila’s expertise is complemented by her active role in international projects and conferences . As a passionate educator , she teaches physical chemistry and electrochemical engineering at the University of Belgrade. Her commitment extends to promoting electrochemistry through leadership in the Serbian Chemical Society and participation in global research initiatives .

Research Focus

Mila Krstajić Pajić, PhD, specializes in cutting-edge electrochemical research . Her primary focus includes the development and characterization of novel materials for energy conversion and storage systems . This encompasses PEM fuel cells, direct methanol and formic acid fuel cells, water electrolyzers, and supercapacitors. Mila is also an expert in alkaline water splitting, particularly in “zero-gap” flow electrolyzers with 3D porous electrodes . Her applied research involves creating effective water disinfectants and advancing electrochemical processes for sustainable energy solutions . Her work combines fundamental and applied research to push the boundaries of electrochemical technology.

Publications

“Ni-MoO2 Composite Coatings Electrodeposited at Porous Ni Substrate as Efficient Alkaline Water Splitting Cathodes” (2024) [Cited by: 0]
“Ru–Co Alloy Coatings Electrodeposited on a MAX Phase Substrate as Efficient Catalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction” (2024) [Cited by: 0]
“Hydrogen Evolution at Ni Foam Electrodes and Ni-Sn Coated Ni Foam Electrodes” (2023) [Cited by: 0]
“Activation of Osmium by the Surface Effects of Hydrogenated TiO2 Nanotube Arrays for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Performance” (2023) [Cited by: 0]
“Oxygen Reduction Reaction on Electrochemically Deposited Sub-Monolayers and Ultra-Thin Layers of Pt on (Nb-Ti)2AlC Substrate” (2022) [Cited by: 0]
“Electrochemical Deposition and Characterization of Iridium Oxide Films on Ti2AlC Support for Oxygen Evolution Reaction” (2020) [Cited by: 0]
“Sub-Monolayers of Iridium Electrodeposited on Ti2AlC Substrate as Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Sulfuric Acid Solution” (2020) [Cited by: 0]
“Dispersion Effect in Formic Acid Oxidation on PtAu/C Nanocatalyst Prepared by Water-in-Oil Microemulsion Method” (2019) [Cited by: 0]

Conclusion

Dr. Mila Krstajić Pajić’s outstanding research, leadership in the field of electrochemistry, and dedication to teaching and community service make her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to advancing electrochemical processes, coupled with her impressive publication record and active role in international research projects, underscore her exceptional qualifications for this prestigious recognition.