Jin Luo | Dielectric Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jin Luo | Dielectric Materials | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, Nanjing Tech University, China

Dr. Jin Luo (b. February 6, 1983) is an accomplished Associate Professor and Deputy Department Head of the Composite Materials Department at Nanjing Tech University. He earned his B.Sc. in Material Chemistry from Wuhan University of Technology (2002–2006), an M.Sc. in Material Science and Technology from Zhejiang University (2006–2009), and a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky in Material Science and Technology (2010–2014). Following a postdoctoral appointment at Tsinghua University (2015–2018), he joined Nanjing Tech University in October 2018. Dr. Luo is also a recognized Master’s supervisor. With over 30 peer‑reviewed articles in leading journals and multiple national research grants, he is a respected figure in ferroelectric and piezoelectric thin‑film research.

Professional Profile

ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Luo’s academic journey began at Wuhan University of Technology, where he completed his B.Sc. in Material Chemistry (2002–2006). He pursued a deeper specialization in materials by earning a Master’s degree in Material Science and Technology from Zhejiang University (2006–2009). His passion for advanced functional materials led him overseas to the University of Kentucky (USA), where he completed his Ph.D. in Material Science and Technology (2010–2014). His doctoral work equipped him with extensive experimental and analytical expertise in ferroelectric and piezoelectric ceramics and thin films. This strong foundation, spanning fundamental chemistry to cutting‑edge material engineering, underpins his current research and academic accomplishments.

Experience

Dr. Luo served as a postdoctoral researcher at Tsinghua University from August 2015 to April 2018, investigating domain structure and piezoelectric properties of ferroelectric ceramic thin films. In October 2018, he joined Nanjing Tech University as an Associate Professor and now Deputy Department Head in the Composite Materials Department. He developed and teaches graduate-level courses such as “Modern Testing Methods for Materials” and “Professional Writing for Materials Science.” As a Master’s supervisor, he mentors students in materials science research. Dr. Luo has successfully led several research initiatives, including National Natural Science Foundation of China grants, Nanjing Overseas Scholars Science & Technology Innovation Program awards, and collaborative funding from Tsinghua’s State Key Lab. His administrative role, teaching contributions, and leadership in national-level projects highlight his multifaceted academic career.

Research Focus

Dr. Jin Luo specializes in the design, synthesis, and characterization of ferroelectric ceramic thin films, with emphasis on piezoelectric and energy-storage applications. His research addresses key challenges in lead-free piezoelectric materials, such as domain engineering, strain modulation, and dielectric performance optimization. Employing advanced deposition (e.g., sol‑gel, spin‑coating, epitaxy) and testing techniques, he investigates intrinsic and extrinsic piezoelectric contributions, thermotropic phase behavior, and relaxor ferroelectric structures. His objective is to develop high-performance, environmentally friendly materials (e.g., (K,Na)NbO₃, Bi₀.₅Na₀.₅TiO₃, SrBiTiO₃ systems) for practical energy-harvesting, actuator, and capacitor devices. His work bridges fundamental materials science and applied functional thin films, with over 30 high-impact publications showcasing innovations in piezoelectric response enhancement and energy density improvements.

Publication Top Notes

  1. “A slush-like polar structure for high energy storage performance in a Sr₀.₇Bi₀.₂TiO₃ lead‑free relaxor ferroelectric thin film,” Journal of Materials Chemistry A (2022).
    DOI: 10.1039/d1ta10524h
    Summary: Introduces a novel “slush-like” polar domain arrangement in SBT thin films, yielding enhanced dielectric breakdown strength and recoverable energy density—paving the way for high-efficient, lead-free film capacitors.

  2. “Orientation dependent intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to the piezoelectric response in lead‑free (Na₀.₅K₀.₅)NbO₃ based films,” Journal of Alloys and Compounds (June 2022).
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2022.164346
    Summary: Systematically disentangles orientation-dependent piezoelectric effects in KNN films, quantifying crystal orientation’s role in intrinsic vs extrinsic contributions, informing design of superior lead-free piezoelectrics.

  3. “Optimized energy-storage performance in Mn‑doped Na₀.₅Bi₀.₅TiO₃–Sr₀.₇Bi₀.₂TiO₃ lead‑free dielectric thin films,” Applied Surface Science (Jan 2022).
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2021.151274
    Summary: Demonstrates Mn‑doping in BNT‑SBT films enhances dielectric breakdown strength and energy density, proposing an optimized composition for practical eco-friendly film capacitors.

  4. “Enhancement of piezoelectricity in spin‑coated Bi₁/₂Na₁/₂TiO₃–BaTiO₃ epitaxial films by strain engineering,” Journal of Materials Chemistry C (2021).
    DOI: 10.1039/d1tc03917b
    Summary: Utilizes strain engineering in BNT–BT epitaxial films to boost piezoelectric properties, revealing the mechanistic link between strain and domain structure—informing thin-film actuator development.

  5. “Ferroelectric Domain Structures in Monoclinic (K₀.₅Na₀.₅)NbO₃ Epitaxial Thin Films,” physica status solidi (RRL) (June 2021).
    DOI: 10.1002/pssr.202100127
    Summary: Characterizes unique monoclinic ferroelectric domain configurations in KNN films, correlating structural features to enhanced functional responses under electric fields.

Conclusion

Dr. Jin Luo is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the field of materials science with specialization in ferroelectric and piezoelectric thin films. His contributions are technically advanced, academically consistent, and nationally recognized through competitive research funding. With added visibility in international collaborations and recognition, he could further cement his status as a leading researcher in his domain.

Xiaomin Kang | Energy storage | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Xiaomin Kang | Energy storage | Best Researcher Award

University of South China, China

Prof. Xiaomin Kang is the Dean of the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of South China. He holds a Ph.D. in Material Science and Engineering from Southwest Jiaotong University. Prof. Kang has been leading cutting-edge research in energy conversion and storage, with a particular focus on electrochemical reactions such as oxygen evolution/reduction and carbon dioxide conversion. He has actively contributed to numerous national and international research programs and is a core participant in the Shenzhen Innovative Research Team Program and other prestigious initiatives. Prof. Kang has published over 30 research papers and holds 5 patents, contributing significantly to the development of next-generation energy materials. His work is crucial for advancing clean energy solutions, particularly through electrochemical and material science innovations.

Profile

Education

Prof. Xiaomin Kang completed his undergraduate studies in Material Science and Engineering at Southwest Jiaotong University in 2011. He continued his academic journey at the same institution, earning a Ph.D. in 2017. His doctoral research focused on the development of advanced materials for energy applications, contributing to advancements in the field of electrochemical energy storage. After completing his Ph.D., he worked as a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Prof. Luo Jinglli, a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering. This experience allowed him to further specialize in energy storage and conversion devices, particularly in the areas of oxygen evolution/reduction reactions and CO2 electroreduction. His educational background laid the foundation for his career as a researcher, educator, and leader in the field of mechanical and energy engineering.

Experience

Prof. Xiaomin Kang has a diverse and accomplished career in the field of energy storage and conversion technologies. He began his professional journey as a postdoctoral researcher at Shenzhen University in 2017, specializing in material science and energy applications. In 2020, he became an associate research fellow at Shenzhen University, where he contributed to numerous research projects on energy storage materials and electrochemical processes. In 2022, Prof. Kang was appointed as an associate professor and principal investigator at the University of South China. He currently leads various research projects, including a National Natural Science Foundation of China-funded project and an innovative research program in Shenzhen. His work is instrumental in advancing energy storage technologies and contributing to sustainable energy solutions. Prof. Kang’s leadership and research have significantly impacted the development of energy materials and fuel cells, garnering both national and international recognition.

Research Focus

Prof. Xiaomin Kang’s research focuses on the development of advanced materials for energy storage and conversion, particularly in the fields of electrochemical energy storage, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide reduction. His primary research interests include exploring the oxygen evolution/reduction reactions (OER/ORR) and the electrochemical conversion of CO2 at room temperature. Prof. Kang is dedicated to developing novel catalysts and materials that can efficiently store and convert energy, contributing to sustainable energy solutions. His research also explores the integration of phase change materials for thermal management in lithium-ion batteries. His work aims to address global challenges related to clean energy production, storage, and utilization. He is involved in several high-impact research programs, focusing on hydrogen energy, fuel cell materials, and the development of graphene-based anti-corrosion materials. Prof. Kang’s innovative research has the potential to revolutionize energy technologies, making a significant impact on environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.

Publication Top Notes

  • “Comprehensive Application of Phase Change Materials in Lithium‐Ion Battery Thermal Management: From Single Cooling to Coupled Systems” ⚡🔋
  • “NiFe-LDH nanosheets with high activity in three dimensions on NiFe foam electrode for water oxidation” 💧⚙️
  • “On the role of Zn and Fe doping in nitrogen-carbon electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction” 🧪🔋
  • “An Insight in the role of dopamine acted in the electroless deposition process using atomic force microscopy based single molecule force spectroscopy” 🔬🧠
  • “Capturing critical gem-diol intermediates and hydride transfer for anodic hydrogen production from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural” 🚀🌍
  • “Copper-based metal-organic frameworks for electrochemical reduction of CO2” 🌱⚡
  • “N and S dual-coordinated Fe single-atoms in hierarchically porous hollow nanocarbon for efficient oxygen reduction” 🌿⚙️
  • “Surface Spin Enhanced High Stable NiCo2S4 for Energy-Saving Production of H2 from Water/Methanol Coelectrolysis” 🔋💨
  • “Co7Fe3 Nanoparticles Confined in N-Doped Carbon Nanocubes for Highly Efficient, Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries” ⚡🔋
  • “Contact Characteristics and Tribological Properties of the Weaving Surface of Mn-Cu and Fe-Zn Damping Alloys” 🔧🛠️
  • “Coordination Effect-Promoted Durable Ni(OH)2 for Energy-Saving Hydrogen Evolution from Water/Methanol Co-Electrocatalysis” 🔋💡
  • “Densely packed ultrafine SnO2 nanoparticles grown on carbon cloth for selective CO2 reduction to formate” 🌍🔋
  • “ZnS anchored on porous N, S-codoped carbon as superior oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalysts for Al-air batteries” 🧪⚡
  • “Copper-cobalt-nickel oxide nanowire arrays on copper foams as self-standing anode materials for lithium-ion batteries” 🔋⚡

 

 

 

Vilas Pol | Batteries | Excellence in Research

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Prof. Vilas Pol | Batteries | Excellence in Research

Professor, Purdue University, United States

Prof. Vilas Pol is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of chemical engineering and energy storage systems. Currently, he serves as a Professor at the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University. With a focus on sustainable energy technologies, his work integrates materials science, electrochemical energy storage, and battery technologies. He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the 2024 Asian American Engineer of the Year and the 2024 Fellowship of the Royal Society of Chemistry. His research also covers energy storage, sustainability, and nanomaterials for a better, greener future.

Profile

Education

Prof. Pol holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Bar-Ilan, Israel, where he worked in advanced materials and nanotechnology. He also completed his M.Phil. and M.Sc. in Chemistry at the University of Pune, India. His early academic foundation laid the groundwork for a career that integrates chemistry, materials science, and engineering. His extensive education and expertise have contributed to innovative solutions in energy storage and chemical processes.

Experience

Prof. Pol has a rich professional journey that includes significant roles such as the Purdue University Faculty Scholar and an Adjunct Professor at IIT Indore. He has been associated with high-profile positions, including a materials scientist at Argonne National Laboratory and a visiting faculty at NIMS, Japan. His expertise spans lithium-ion batteries, energy storage materials, and electrochemical technologies. He has also held postdoctoral appointments, including work at the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source at Argonne National Laboratory, expanding his influence in scientific communities worldwide.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Pol’s remarkable achievements have earned him several prestigious accolades, including the 2024 Asian American Engineer of the Year, the Royal Society of Chemistry Fellowship, and recognition as one of Purdue University’s most impactful faculty inventors. Other notable awards include the 2021 AIChE Excellence in Process Development Research Award and the R&D 100 Award for “Versatile Hard Carbon Microspheres Made from Plastic Waste” (2015). His groundbreaking work has also resulted in multiple Guinness World Records, most recently for the fastest arrangement of elements in the periodic table in 2018.

Research Focus

Prof. Pol’s research revolves around sustainable energy technologies, including the development of advanced materials for energy storage applications such as lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. He focuses on enhancing battery performance and safety, exploring novel materials like hard carbon microspheres from plastic waste, and improving electrochemical systems. His work in materials science aims to reduce the environmental impact of energy storage devices, driving innovation in clean and efficient technologies for a sustainable future.

Publications

  • Amorphous GeSnSe nanoparticles as a Li-Ion battery anode with High-Capacity and long cycle performance 🔋
  • Nonwoven fabric supported flame-retarding quasi-solid electrolyte for wider-temperature safer Li-ion battery 🔥
  • Operando Fabricated Quasi-Solid-State Electrolyte Hinders Polysulfide Shuttles in an Advanced Li-S Battery ⚡
  • Glory of Fire Retardants in Li-Ion Batteries: Could They Be Intrinsically Safer? 🔥
  • Inactivation kinetic parameters of hydrogen peroxide application in commercial sterility of aseptic processing systems 🧴
  • Ultrathin (15 nm) Carbon Sheets with Surface Oxygen Functionalization for Efficient Pseudocapacitive Na-ion Storage 💡
  • Innovative amorphous multiple anionic transition metal compound electrode for extreme environments (≤ −80 °C) battery operations 🏔️
  • Optimization of the Form Factors of Advanced Li-S Pouch Cells ⚡
  • Graphene triggered catalytic attack on plastic waste produces graphitic shell encapsulation on cobalt nanoparticles for ferromagnetism and stable Li+ ion storage 🔬
  • Enriched supercapacitive performance of electrochemically tailored β-Co(OH)2/CoOOH nanodiscs from sacrificial Co3(PO4)2·4H2O microbelts 🔋

Yang Hong Xia | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yang Hong Xia | Energy | Best Researcher Award 

Distinguished Researcher, Zhejiang University, China

🌟 Yanghong Xia is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and serves as the director of the research center at the Institute of Hydrogen Energy, Zhejiang University. He is a recipient of the prestigious Zhu Kezhen Scholarship and has been recognized with the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation award from Zhejiang University and Zhejiang Province. Prof. Xia has authored over 100 academic papers, including highly cited works published in notable journals like Nature and Cell, and holds more than 30 patents. His contributions have earned him multiple provincial and ministerial first prizes, including the Zhejiang Science and Technology Progress Award. His research focuses on hydrogen production through water electrolysis using renewable energy sources and the stability of AC/DC hybrid distribution networks.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

🎓 Education: Yanghong Xia completed his B.S. at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 2014 and obtained his Ph.D. from Zhejiang University from 2014 to 2019. He was a visiting Ph.D. student at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, from 2017 to 2018 and a postdoctoral fellow at Zhejiang University from 2019 to 2021. He also served as a visiting scholar at Cambridge University in England from 2019 to 2020 and is currently a Distinguished Researcher at Zhejiang University.

Experience

🔍 Experience: Prof. Xia has an extensive research background, having been a postdoctoral fellow and a distinguished researcher at Zhejiang University. His international experience includes visiting positions at Nanyang Technological University and Cambridge University, enhancing his expertise in hydrogen energy and electrical engineering.

Research Interests

🔋 Research Interests: His research interests encompass hydrogen production from renewable energy sources, enhancement of hydrogen production using electric and magnetic fields, hydrogen electrolysis power sources, microgrids, distribution networks, advanced control in power conversion, and stability analysis of new-type power systems.

Awards

🏆 Awards: Prof. Xia has received several prestigious awards, including the Zhu Kezhen Scholarship, Excellent Doctoral Dissertation of Zhejiang University/Zhejiang Province, and various first prizes in science and technology, such as the Zhejiang Science and Technology Progress Award and the China Electric Power Science and Technology Progress Award.

Publications

Here are some of Prof. Yanghong Xia’s notable publications:

Hydrogen Production from Renewable Energy Sources: A Comprehensive Review

Electric Field and Magnetic Field Effects on Hydrogen Production

Stability Analysis of AC/DC Hybrid Distribution Networks

Advanced Control Strategies for Power Conversion in Microgrids

The Role of Hydrogen in Future Energy Systems

 

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh | Li-Ion Batteries | Best Researcher Award

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Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh | Li-Ion Batteries | Best Researcher Award

Academician/Research Scholar at Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh in Iran

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh, born in Tabriz, Iran, in 1985, is an esteemed researcher and assistant professor in the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran. With a strong foundation in applied chemistry, she has dedicated her career to advancing knowledge in nanomaterials and molecular dynamics. Throughout her academic journey, she has demonstrated exceptional talent, consistently ranking among the top students in her field. Her contributions extend beyond research, as she actively engages in teaching and mentoring students, fostering the next generation of scientists.

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Academic Excellence:
    • Consistently achieved high GPAs across all educational levels (BSc: 17.03, MSc: 17.97, PhD: 18.83).
    • Notable performance in comprehensive exams, scoring 19/20 during her PhD.
  2. Distinguished Awards:
    • Recognized as the top student at various academic levels and awarded “Top Researcher” in 2014 at Amirkabir University.
    • Received accolades for being a distinguished graduate at each educational stage.
  3. Diverse Teaching Experience:
    • Extensive teaching background across multiple universities, indicating strong pedagogical skills and the ability to engage with students at various academic levels.
  4. Research Contributions:
    • Authored numerous impactful publications in reputable journals, focusing on nanomaterials, molecular dynamics simulation, and drug delivery systems.
    • Collaborated on significant studies that contribute to advancements in materials science and engineering.
  5. Management and Leadership:
    • Served as the Physical Chemistry Laboratory Manager, showcasing leadership and management abilities in a research environment.
    • Current role as an Assistant Professor allows her to guide and mentor the next generation of researchers.
  6. Technical Skills:
    • Proficient in various programming languages and software tools essential for materials science research, demonstrating versatility and a strong foundation in computational methods.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Collaboration:
    • Engaging in interdisciplinary projects with researchers from different fields could enhance her research portfolio and open new avenues for innovation.
  2. Increased Public Engagement:
    • Actively participating in public science communication or outreach programs could enhance the visibility of her research and its societal impacts.
  3. Grant Acquisition:
    • While her research is robust, focusing on acquiring external funding for her projects could provide resources for larger studies and collaborations.

Education

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh completed her BSc in Applied Chemistry at Islamic Azad University of Tabriz (2003-2006) with a GPA of 17.03/20. She pursued her MSc at Amirkabir University of Technology (2007-2009), achieving a GPA of 17.97/20. For her PhD, she remained at Amirkabir University (2010-2013), where she excelled with a GPA of 18.83/20 and scored 19/20 on her comprehensive exam. Her doctoral research focused on drug delivery systems utilizing dendrimers with metallic nanoparticle cores. Following her PhD, she undertook postdoctoral studies at the same institution (2014-2016), further solidifying her expertise in applied chemistry and materials science.

Experience

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh has an extensive teaching background, having served at multiple universities since 2010. Currently, she is an assistant professor in the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at Amirkabir University of Technology (2021-present). Previously, she taught in the Chemical Engineering Department at the same university from 2010 to 2020 and held positions at various other institutions, including Payam Nour University and Islamic Azad University. Between 2014 and 2020, she managed the Physical Chemistry Laboratory at Amirkabir University, showcasing her leadership skills in academic settings. Her diverse experience in teaching, research management, and mentoring has significantly contributed to the academic community and enriched the educational experience for her students.

Awards and Honors

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh has received numerous accolades throughout her academic career. She ranked 3rd among 60 BSc chemistry students in 2006 and achieved 1st rank during her MSc and PhD studies at Amirkabir University. In 2014, she was recognized as the top graduate student across all disciplines at Amirkabir University, earning the title of “Top Researcher.” Her academic excellence has also been acknowledged through distinguished graduate honors at each educational level. In 2017, she was awarded “Top Employee” as a Laboratory Instructor, reflecting her dedication and contributions to the academic environment. These awards highlight her commitment to excellence in research and education, establishing her as a leading figure in her field.

Research Focus

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh’s research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of organic, inorganic, and magnetic nanomaterials, alongside molecular dynamics simulations. Her work encompasses a range of topics, including electroless plating, water treatment, gas separation procedures, and enhanced oil recovery. She explores the transport properties of penetrant gases in silica particle-filled membranes and investigates the interactions of drug delivery systems using molecular dynamics. Her publications in esteemed journals reflect her contributions to understanding nanostructure characterizations and their applications in various fields. Amjad-Iranagh’s research not only advances fundamental knowledge but also has practical implications in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental engineering.

Publication Top Notes

  • Study of nano composite materials on electroless coating and its effect on physico-chemical properties of substrates 🌟
  • Drug delivery Dendrimer with metallic nanoparticles core: synthesis and study of molecular dynamics 💊
  • Molecular dynamics simulation study of chitosan and gemcitabine as a drug delivery system 📦
  • Adsorption and encapsulation of the drug doxorubicin on covalent functionalized carbon nanotubes 🧬
  • Separation of gases by using pristine, composite and nanocomposite polymeric membranes 🌬️
  • Carbon nanotube-encapsulated drug penetration through the cell membrane 🚪
  • Synthesis, characterization, and CO₂ adsorption properties of metal organic framework Fe-BDC 🧪
  • Interaction of PEGylated anti-hypertensive drugs with lipid bilayer membrane 💧
  • Self-accumulation of uncharged polyaromatic surfactants at crude oil–water interface 🌊
  • Molecular dynamics simulation of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in a lipid bilayer membrane 💊
  • Molecular dynamics simulation of coarse-grained poly (L-lysine) dendrimers 🔬
  • Effect of pristine and functionalized carbon nanotubes on CO₂ separation of mixed matrix membranes 🌱
  • Evaluation of density, viscosity, surface tension, and CO₂ solubility for ionic liquids solutions 🌡️
  • Synthesis of MnO₂-polyaniline nanofiber composites to produce high conductive polymer ⚡
  • Nanofibrous and nanoparticle materials as drug-delivery systems 🧪
  • Prediction of thermophysical properties for binary mixtures of ionic liquids with water or alcohol 🔍

Conclusion

Sepideh Amjad-Iranagh is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her exceptional academic record, significant research contributions, and commitment to teaching. Her leadership roles and technical expertise further enhance her candidacy. With opportunities for broader collaboration and public engagement, she is poised to make even more substantial contributions to the field of materials and metallurgical engineering. Her trajectory indicates a strong potential for continued impact in her research areas.