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

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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 💧

Naila Zubair | Nanomaterials | Women Researcher Award

Dr.Naila Zubair , Women Researcher Award , Pakistan.

Dr. Naila Zubair is a dedicated researcher in Nanoscience & Nanotechnology and Tribology, affiliated with the National Centre of Excellence in Physical Chemistry, University of Peshawar. She holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (2020) with a perfect 4.00/4.00 CGPA. Her expertise lies in fabricating functional nanomaterials, gas sensors, and biomedical applications. Dr. Zubair is an HEC-approved Ph.D. supervisor and an award-winning scholar, recognized for her contributions to materials science. She has authored several high-impact research publications and actively organizes international scientific conferences. Currently, she serves as a Principal Organizer for SDG-based research events.

Education & Experience

Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (4.00/4.00 CGPA) – 2020, University of Peshawar

M.Phil. in Physical Chemistry (4.00/4.00 CGPA) – 2014, University of Peshawar

M.Sc. in Chemistry – 2011, University of Peshawar

B.Sc. in Chemistry, Zoology & Botany – 2008, WAPDA Degree College, Tarbela Dam

F.Sc. (Pre-Medical) – 2006, WAPDA Degree College, Tarbela Dam

SSC (Science) – 2003, WAPDA Girls High School, Tarbela Dam

Research Experience:

Nanotechnology & Tribology Research Lab, University of Peshawar (2012–2019)

Expertise in SEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis, TEM, and XRD characterization

Worked on fabrication of nanomaterials for gas sensors, antimicrobial applications, and biomedical coatings

Suitability Summary

Dr. Naila Zubair, an accomplished chemist specializing in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, has been recognized with the Best Researcher Award for her groundbreaking contributions in the field. Her extensive research in the fabrication and application of functional nanomaterials has had a profound impact on both academia and industry, making her a leading contender for the Women Researcher Award.

Professional Development

Dr. Naila Zubair has significantly contributed to scientific advancements in nanotechnology through cutting-edge research and leadership roles. She has organized international conferences, collaborated with scientific societies, and served as a peer reviewer for reputed journals. As a principal organizer of the 6th International Conference on “Scientific Outlook of Sustainable Development Goals-2024,” she fosters global research collaborations. Her involvement in the HEC Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) showcases her commitment to academic excellence. Dr. Zubair actively participates in tribology and material science research, bridging chemistry and engineering applications for industrial and medical advancements.

Research Focus

Dr. Naila Zubair specializes in nanomaterial synthesis and their industrial applications. Her research focuses on:

Fabrication of Functional Nanomaterials for gas sensing and catalysis

Tribology Research – Enhancing the wear resistance of industrial coatings

Biomedical Applications – Developing antimicrobial nanomaterials for medical implants

Photo-catalysis & Environmental Chemistry – Designing materials for pollution control

Characterization of Advanced Materials using SEM, XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis

Dental & Medical Coatings – Innovating biocompatible nanomaterials for healthcare.

Awards & Honors

Principal Organizer – 6th International Conference on SDGs (2024)

HEC-Approved Ph.D. Supervisor (2023-2026)

Merit Scholarship (Ph.D.) – University of Peshawar (2014-2018)

Merit Scholarship (M.Phil.) – University of Peshawar (2012-2013)

Best Poster Presentation Award – 13th International Chemistry Conference, Lahore (2014)

Best Poster Presentation Award – 12th International Chemistry Conference, Multan (2013)

IRSIP Fellowship Award – Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan

Reviewer – Iranian Journal of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Organizing Committee Member – International Conference on Physical & Environmental Chemistry (2013)

Organizing Committee Member – 11th International Chemistry Conference (2012).

Publication Top Notes

Morphology Controlled Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Activity – Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China, 41 citations, 2020

High-Performance Room Temperature Gas Sensor Based on Zinc Oxide Nanostructures – Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China, 41 citations, 2019

Electrodeposition and Characterization of Ni-Al2O3 Nanocomposite Coatings on Steel – Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, 21 citations, 2018

Calcium Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles in Dental Resin Nanocomposites – Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine, 20 citations, 2021

Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO Nanostructures with Varying Morphology – Bulletin of Materials Science, 18 citations, 2017

Uniform Fine Particles of ZrO2 for Cu-ZrO2 Nanocomposite Coating on Steel – Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 12 citations, 2019

Chemical Dynamics of Monodispersed Iron Oxide Nanoparticles – Iranian Journal of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, 6 citations, 2019

Synthesis and Stability of Manganese Oxide Particles under Calcination – Journal of the Chemical Society of Pakistan, 5 citations, 2018

Tribological Properties of Electrodeposited Ni–Co3O4 Nanocomposite Coatings – Journal of Tribology, 5 citations, 2017

Monodispersed Calcium Oxalate Fine Particles: Morphological Dynamics – Journal of Dispersion Science and Technology, Published 2024