Yusuf Shehu | Physics | Excellence in Research

Dr. Yusuf Shehu | Physics | Excellence in Research

Dr at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Nigeria

Dr. Yusuf Shehu is an accomplished physicist and researcher specializing in semiconductor devices, nanotechnology, and optoelectronics. With over a decade of teaching and research experience, he has demonstrated deep expertise in UV photodetectors, thin film fabrication, and spintronic materials. His research integrates experimental techniques such as laser-assisted chemical bath deposition and theoretical simulations like SCAPS-1D and density functional theory. Dr. Shehu has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications in Scopus-indexed journals and actively contributes to international conferences and academic societies. His academic journey reflects global engagement, having pursued advanced degrees in Malaysia and Turkey. Beyond academia, he is actively involved in mentoring students, community outreach, and scientific awareness initiatives. As a member of professional organizations including the Nigerian Institute of Physics and RAESON, he continuously expands his network and influence. Dr. Shehu’s combined strengths in research, teaching, and leadership position him as a promising academic and innovator in applied physics.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Yusuf Shehu holds a robust academic background in physics, beginning with a Bachelor of Science degree from Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil, in 2010, where he conducted research on groundwater radioactivity. He earned a Master of Science in Physics from Fatih University, Istanbul, Turkey, in 2014, completing a thesis on spin-dependent properties in two-dimensional systems. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Physics at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), expected to complete in 2025. His doctoral research focuses on the fabrication and characterization of antimony-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles for UV photodetectors using laser-assisted chemical bath deposition. In addition to his formal education, he has also earned a diploma in Data Processing and Information Technology, strengthening his proficiency in computational tools. His academic trajectory reflects both breadth and depth, with a strong emphasis on nanomaterials, simulation methods, and device physics, all of which are foundational to his ongoing research and teaching activities.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Yusuf Shehu has accumulated over a decade of academic experience at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, serving in various capacities from Graduate Assistant to his current role as Lecturer I. His teaching portfolio includes undergraduate courses in mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics, and experimental physics. He has supervised numerous student projects on topics ranging from fluid surface tension to nanodevice construction. Internationally, he has served as a Research Assistant at Universiti Sains Malaysia during his doctoral studies, contributing to funded research projects on photodetectors and nanomaterials. In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Shehu has held administrative positions such as departmental examination officer, level adviser, and committee member for admissions and student awards. He has also contributed to pre-degree and remedial education programs, demonstrating his commitment to academic development across multiple levels. His professional journey reflects a balance of teaching, mentorship, research, and institutional service.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Yusuf Shehu’s research interests are grounded in the fields of nanomaterials, semiconductor devices, photodetectors, and spintronics. He is particularly focused on the synthesis and characterization of materials for optoelectronic applications, including UV photodetection, molecular electronics, and LEDs. His work explores TiO₂ nanostructures, doped materials, and 2D systems for enhanced electronic and optical performance. He is proficient in SCAPS-1D simulations and density functional theory (DFT), employing these tools to model nanostructures and optimize device performance. His research also includes spin-polarized transport, electronic and magnetic properties of materials, and high-k dielectric heterostructures. Dr. Shehu is interested in bridging theory and practice, using both computational and experimental methods to address real-world technological challenges. He is particularly motivated by the potential of nanotechnology to revolutionize energy harvesting, sensing, and electronic systems. His future goals include expanding into quantum device modeling and sustainable energy applications using novel materials and hybrid nanostructures.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Yusuf Shehu has been recognized for both academic excellence and research contributions. He received the Best Paper Presenter Award at the 6th International Conference on Clean Energy and Technology held at University Malaya, Malaysia in 2023, affirming the quality and impact of his scientific work. His academic journey has been supported by prestigious scholarships, including the TETFund Overseas Ph.D. Scholarship awarded by the Nigerian government in 2020 and a Kano State Government scholarship for his Master’s program in Turkey in 2012. Additionally, he has received certificates of appreciation and participation from numerous scientific conferences, workshops, and training sessions. These include the OSH course at USM, international symposia on electric mobility, and several national conferences organized by the Nigerian Institute of Physics and NAMP. His contributions have also earned him honorary recognitions from academic societies and student associations, reflecting his active involvement in academic and community-based initiatives.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Yusuf Shehu possesses a strong skillset in both experimental and computational research methods, making him versatile in advanced physics and materials science investigations. Experimentally, he is proficient in laser-assisted chemical bath deposition, chemical bath techniques, and ac/dc sputtering, which he uses for fabricating high-performance nanostructures and semiconductor devices. His computational expertise includes SCAPS-1D for device simulation, and density functional theory (DFT), particularly with Quantum ATK software, to model the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of materials. He also employs the Green’s function technique for analyzing electron transport in nanostructures. His data analysis skills are further supported by his IT background, with competency in Python, LaTeX, and common data processing tools. Dr. Shehu integrates theory and practice in his research workflow, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of materials behavior. His multidisciplinary approach supports innovation in optoelectronics, spintronics, and nanotechnology applications.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Yusuf Shehu is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant and sustained contributions to the fields of nanomaterials, semiconductor devices, and photodetection technologies. His research has advanced the development of antimony-doped TiO₂-based UV photodetectors and contributed to the broader understanding of nanoscale electronic and optical properties. Through impactful publications, active participation in international research projects, and dedication to mentoring students, he has made meaningful contributions to both scientific knowledge and societal advancement. With his strong academic foundation, international exposure, and drive for innovation, Dr. Shehu is well-positioned to emerge as a future leader in applied physics and nano-optoelectronics, driving impactful research and fostering global collaborations in the years to come.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Direct and Residual Contributions of Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation by Legumes to the Yield and Nitrogen Uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) in the Nigerian Savannah
    Authors: UR Pal, Y Shehu
    Year: 2001
    Cited by: 58

  • Title: Yield and chemical composition responses of Lablab purpureus to nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilisers
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, UR Pal, CJC Phillips
    Year: 2001
    Cited by: 41

  • Title: The Effect of Intercropping Lablab purpureus L. with Sorghum on Yield and Chemical Composition of Fodder
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, UR Pal, CJC Phillips
    Year: 1999
    Cited by: 22

  • Title: The productivity of pure and mixed grass-legume pastures in the northern Guinea Savanna zone of Nigeria
    Authors: Y Shehu, JO Akinola
    Year: 1995
    Cited by: 21

  • Title: Gamma Ray and FTIR studies in zinc doped lead borate glasses for radiation shielding application
    Authors: ZI Takai, RS Kaundal, MK Mustafa, S Asman, A Idris, Y Shehu, …
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 17

  • Title: The Effects of Sowing Date on the Growth and Nutritive Value of Lablab purpureus
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, UR Pal, CJC Phillips
    Year: 2001
    Cited by: 16

  • Title: The effects of green manuring and chemical fertiliser application on maize yield, quality and soil composition
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, GWK Mensah, A Aliyu, CJC Phillips
    Year: 1998
    Cited by: 16

  • Title: The effect of intercropping maize with Stylosanthes hamata at different row spacings on grain and fodder yields and chemical composition
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, CJC Phillips
    Year: 1997
    Cited by: 13

  • Title: Effect of Gross Alpha and Beta in Groundwater intake and Estimation of Groundwater Table in Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil
    Authors: S Yusuf, G Iliyasu, UA Danbatta, AY Hotoro
    Year: 2015
    Cited by: 12

  • Title: The Effects of Timing of an Interim Harvest on the Yield and Composition of Lablab purpureus
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, UR Pal, CJC Phillips
    Year: 2001
    Cited by: 7

  • Title: Fabrication of TiO2 nanoparticles/porous-silicon heterostructure photodetector for UV detection
    Authors: Y Shehu, SAM Samsuri, NM Ahmed, S Aslam
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: 6

  • Title: Energy efficiency improvement in fish production systems in Oyo State, Nigeria: a path towards sustainable protein supply
    Authors: YU Oladimeji, SA Adepoju, HO Yusuf, S Yusuf
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 6

  • Title: The Effects of Plant Population Density on the Growth and Chemical Composition of Lablab purpureus Grown for Fodder Production in a Semi‐Arid Region
    Authors: Y Shehu, WS Alhassan, UR Pal, CJC Phillips
    Year: 2001
    Cited by: 6

Prof . Narayana Nagesh | Biological Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof . Narayana Nagesh | Biological Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Chief Scientist (Retd) at CCMB, India

Dr. Narayana Nagesh, PhD, FTAS, FRSC, is a distinguished Chief Scientist at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India. With over three decades of research experience, he has made pioneering contributions in the fields of chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, and molecular diagnostics. His work focuses on the synthesis of anticancer agents, DNA-drug interactions, and biomolecular sensing. He has published 94 peer-reviewed articles and holds multiple patents with global recognition. Dr. Nagesh has led several national and international research initiatives, notably in COVID-19 testing and mRNA vaccine development. As a mentor, he has guided over 28 students and served as an external PhD examiner. His contributions extend to national policymaking bodies, and he has played a key role in societal health initiatives. Widely respected for his scientific vision and leadership, Dr. Nagesh embodies excellence in translational research, innovation, and public health impact.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Narayana Nagesh completed his Master’s in Chemistry with a University II rank in 1987, followed by an MPhil with a merit scholarship between 1987–1990. He earned his PhD in Chemistry from 2002 to 2005 with a thesis on “Studies on the Structure and Interaction of G-Quadruplex DNA with Metal Ions and Drugs.” His doctoral work laid the foundation for his expertise in nucleic acid structures and their biomedical applications. Post-PhD, he undertook a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at Northern Arizona University, USA, working under Prof. Edwin A. Lewis from 2006 to 2007. During this tenure, he focused on Bcl2 Quadruplex DNA interaction with porphyrins, contributing significantly to cancer-related DNA therapeutics. His academic journey reflects a strong multidisciplinary foundation, combining rigorous training in biophysics, organic chemistry, and molecular biology, and has been pivotal to his long-standing research career in biomolecular interactions and drug discovery.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Narayana Nagesh began his career at CCMB in 1990 as a Scientist-B and has risen through the ranks to serve as Chief Scientist. Over his 30+ year tenure, he has led numerous interdisciplinary research projects funded by CSIR, DST, DBT, and international bodies. He has served as the nodal principal investigator in critical national initiatives, including India’s COVID-19 testing and mRNA vaccine platform development. Dr. Nagesh has played a vital role in institutional governance, acting as chairman of multiple selection and promotion committees and managing the performance review of over 40 staff members. He has also served as a reviewer for funding proposals across India and globally, including for UK’s MRC and Italy’s Fondazione Cariparo. His extensive administrative, collaborative, and scientific contributions reflect not only technical excellence but also deep commitment to institutional leadership and societal benefit in the field of life sciences and public health.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Nagesh’s research interests lie at the intersection of chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, and molecular diagnostics. He has specialized in the synthesis and evaluation of novel small molecules that target G-quadruplex DNA, an area relevant to cancer biology and therapeutic intervention. His work includes designing topoisomerase inhibitors, anti-cancer agents, porphyrin-based DNA binders, and synthetic ligands for biomarker detection. He has also pioneered research on mRNA-based platforms for vaccines and developed biosensors for early disease detection, including cardiovascular disorders and viral infections. Another focus of his research involves the synthesis of aptamers and ligands specific to overexpressed amino acids in disease states. His multidisciplinary approach blends organic chemistry, DNA structural biology, and clinical relevance. His recent innovations also include nanoparticle-coated fabrics for antibacterial protection, demonstrating his interest in real-world translational applications. Dr. Nagesh’s research is both foundational and futuristic, addressing pressing health challenges with novel scientific solutions.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Narayana Nagesh has earned widespread recognition for his exceptional scientific contributions. He was elected Fellow of the Telangana Academy of Sciences (FTAS) in 2022 and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) in 2024—prestigious acknowledgments of his influence in the scientific community. He received the Indo-Swiss Joint Research Project (ISJRP) fellowship, facilitating international collaboration with the University of Neuchâtel. Earlier in his career, he was honored with the NAU-TRIF and ABRC awards in the USA during his postdoctoral tenure. Dr. Nagesh has received several travel fellowships and was invited to present his research at global platforms including the ACS National Meeting and international conferences on G-quadruplex DNA. Additionally, he serves on the executive committee of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), reflecting his impact on national science policy. His sustained record of excellence, leadership, and global collaboration underscore his stature as a leader in biomedical and chemical research.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Nagesh possesses a robust skill set spanning synthetic organic chemistry, DNA-ligand interaction studies, molecular diagnostics, and biophysical analysis. He is adept at designing and synthesizing anticancer and DNA-interacting compounds, with a deep understanding of pharmacophore modeling and structure-activity relationships. His skills extend to developing biosensors, including electrochemical and optical sensing platforms for disease biomarkers like homocysteine and cysteine. He is also experienced in aptamer synthesis and RNA-based therapeutics, particularly mRNA vaccine design. Dr. Nagesh has demonstrated competence in high-throughput screening, molecular docking, and cell-based assays. His hands-on experience in G-quadruplex structural studies and interaction thermodynamics provides a rare blend of theoretical and practical expertise. With leadership in COVID-19 diagnostic operations and sensor development for cardiovascular diseases, his translational research skills are particularly strong. His comprehensive skill set enables him to seamlessly bridge basic chemistry with applied biomedicine, making him a multifaceted researcher of national and global relevance.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Narayana Nagesh demonstrates a stellar record of scientific excellence, translational research, and societal impact. His multidisciplinary work, impactful publications, leadership in national projects (e.g., COVID-19 testing and mRNA vaccine platforms), and international collaborations make him exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award.

🔹 His blend of academic rigor, innovation, mentorship, and national service exemplifies the spirit of the award.
🔹 His recognition as FRSC, FTAS, and active leadership across scientific and societal platforms further validate his eligibility.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Characterization of an alkaline active – thiol forming extracellular serine keratinase by the newly isolated Bacillus pumilus
    Authors: AG Kumar, S Swarnalatha, S Gayathri, N Nagesh, G Sekaran
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 144

  • Title: DNA-binding affinity and anticancer activity of β-carboline–chalcone conjugates as potential DNA intercalators: Molecular modelling and synthesis
    Authors: N Shankaraiah, KP Siraj, S Nekkanti, V Srinivasulu, P Sharma, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 119

  • Title: Design and synthesis of dithiocarbamate linked β-carboline derivatives: DNA topoisomerase II inhibition with DNA binding and apoptosis inducing ability
    Authors: A Kamal, M Sathish, VL Nayak, V Srinivasulu, B Kavitha, Y Tangella, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 107

  • Title: Design and synthesis of C3-tethered 1,2,3-triazolo-β-carboline derivatives: Anticancer activity, DNA-binding ability, viscosity and molecular modeling studies
    Authors: AK Nagula Shankaraiah, Chetna Jadala, Shalini Nekkanti, Kishna Ram Senwar, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 101

  • Title: Design and synthesis of C3‐pyrazole/chalcone‐linked beta‐carboline hybrids: antitopoisomerase I, DNA‐interactive, and apoptosis‐inducing anticancer agents
    Authors: A Kamal, V Srinivasulu, VL Nayak, M Sathish, N Shankaraiah, C Bagul, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 98

  • Title: Production of melanin pigment from Pseudomonas stutzeri isolated from red seaweed Hypnea musciformis
    Authors: C Ganesh Kumar, N Sahu, G Narender Reddy, RBN Prasad, N Nagesh, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 91

  • Title: Purification of extracellular acid protease and analysis of fermentation metabolites by Synergistes sp. utilizing proteinaceous solid waste from tanneries
    Authors: AG Kumar, N Nagesh, TG Prabhakar, G Sekaran
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 86

  • Title: Genetic Locus Encoding Functions Involved in Biosynthesis and Outer Membrane Localization of Xanthomonadin in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae
    Authors: AK Goel, L Rajagopal, N Nagesh, RV Sonti
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 85

  • Title: Synthesis of podophyllotoxin linked β-carboline congeners as potential anticancer agents and DNA topoisomerase II inhibitors
    Authors: AK Manda Sathish, Botla Kavitha, V. Laxma Nayak, Yellaiah Tangella, Ayyappan …, Narayana Nagesh
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 84

  • Title: Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Supported on Graphene Oxide‐Catalyzed S‐Arylation: An Efficient and Ligand‐Free Synthesis of Aryl Sulfides
    Authors: A Kamal, V Srinivasulu, JC Murty, N Shankaraiah, N Nagesh, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 81

  • Title: Synthesis of β-carboline–benzimidazole conjugates using lanthanum nitrate as a catalyst and their biological evaluation
    Authors: A Kamal, MPN Rao, P Swapna, V Srinivasulu, C Bagul, AB Shaik, …, Narayana Nagesh
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 76

  • Title: Ammonium ion at low concentration stabilizes the G-quadruplex formation by telomeric sequence
    Authors: N Nagesh, D Chatterji
    Year: 1995
    Citations: 72

  • Title: Halomonas glaciei sp. nov. isolated from fast ice of Adelie Land, Antarctica
    Authors: G Reddy, P Raghavan, N Sarita, J Prakash, N Nagesh, D Delille, S Shivaji
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 71

  • Title: Bcl-2 promoter sequence G-quadruplex interactions with three planar and non-planar cationic porphyrins: TMPyP4, TMPyP3, and TMPyP2
    Authors: VH Le, N Nagesh, EA Lewis
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 68

  • Title: Studies on the site and mode of TMPyP4 interactions with Bcl-2 promoter sequence G-Quadruplexes
    Authors: N Nagesh, R Buscaglia, JM Dettler, EA Lewis
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 68

  • Title: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new β-carboline-bisindole compounds as DNA binding, photocleavage agents and topoisomerase I inhibitors
    Authors: J Kovvuri, B Nagaraju, VL Nayak, R Akunuri, MPN Rao, A Ajitha, …, N Nagesh
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 62

  • Title: Magnetic bead-amplified voltammetric detection for carbohydrate antigen 125 with enzyme labels using aptamer-antigen-antibody sandwiched assay
    Authors: M Sadasivam, A Sakthivel, N Nagesh, S Hansda, M Veerapandian, …
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 61

  • Title: A dihydroindolizino indole derivative selectively stabilizes G-quadruplex DNA and down-regulates c-MYC expression in human cancer cells
    Authors: N Nagesh, G Raju, R Srinivas, P Ramesh, MD Reddy, CR Reddy
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 61

  • Title: BODIPY-based Ru(II) and Ir(III) organometallic complexes of avobenzone, a sunscreen material: potent anticancer agents
    Authors: NNCYL Gajendra Gupta, Shirisha Cherukommu, Gunda Srinivas, Seon Woong Lee, …, N Nagesh
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 58

  • Title: Synthesis and biological evaluation of pyrazole linked benzothiazole-β-naphthol derivatives as topoisomerase I inhibitors with DNA binding ability
    Authors: B Nagaraju, J Kovvuri, CG Kumar, SR Routhu, MA Shareef, M Kadagathur, …, N Nagesh
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 51