Xiankun Zhang | materials science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xiankun Zhang | materials science | Best Researcher Award

professor at  University of Science and Technology Beijing, China

📜 Xiankun Zhang is a leading researcher at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, specializing in two-dimensional materials, optoelectronic devices, and transition metal dichalcogenides. With over 44 publications and a high h-index of 22, Zhang has made significant contributions to advanced functional materials and nanoscale photodetectors. Passionate about integrating innovation into silicon-compatible technology, Zhang is a key figure in the field of material science.

Professional Profiles:

scopus

scholar

Education🎓

PhD in Material Science, University of Science and Technology Beijing, China Master’s Degree in Physics, Tsinghua University, China Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Physics, Peking University, China Focused on emerging materials and their optoelectronic applications, Zhang’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in interdisciplinary research.

Experience💼 

Senior Researcher, University of Science and Technology Beijing Visiting Scholar, MIT Nano Research Lab Research Fellow, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology Zhang has actively collaborated with global leaders in the nanotechnology domain, showcasing excellence in research and innovation.

Awards and Honors🏅

National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars Outstanding Researcher in Nanotechnology, China Materials Congress Highly Cited Researcher Award, Clarivate Analytics Recognized for transformative work in nanoscale photodetectors and 2D materials.

Research Focus🔬

Two-dimensional materials and heterojunctionsHigh-efficiency photodetectorsTransition metal dichalcogenidesSilicon-compatible optoelectronics Zhang’s work focuses on bridging the gap between traditional materials and next-generation electronic devices.

✍️Publications Top Note :

“Poly (4-styrenesulfonate)-induced sulfur vacancy self-healing strategy for monolayer MoS2 homojunction photodiode”
Published in Nature Communications, this paper has been cited 234 times, emphasizing a groundbreaking sulfur vacancy healing strategy for improved photodiodes.

“Manganese-Based Materials for Rechargeable Batteries Beyond Lithium-Ion”
Published in Advanced Energy Materials, this work, cited 153 times, advances manganese-based materials for next-generation batteries.

“Near-Ideal van der Waals Rectifiers Based on All-Two-Dimensional Schottky Junctions”
Another Nature Communications article, cited 153 times, discusses advancements in two-dimensional rectifiers.

“Interfacial Charge Behavior Modulation in Perovskite Quantum Dot-Monolayer MoS2 Heterostructures”
With 148 citations, this Advanced Functional Materials paper explores charge behavior in hybrid heterostructures.

“Defect-Engineered Atomically Thin MoS2 Homogeneous Electronics for Logic Inverters”
Published in Advanced Materials, cited 134 times, highlighting defect engineering in MoS2 for logic applications.

“Strain-Engineered van der Waals Interfaces of Mixed-Dimensional Heterostructure Arrays”
An ACS Nano publication with 116 citations, focusing on heterostructure arrays for enhanced device performance.

“Integrated High-Performance Infrared Phototransistor Arrays Composed of Nonlayered PbS–MoS2 Heterostructures”
Featured in Nano Letters, this study has 113 citations, addressing high-performance infrared photodetection.

“Hidden Vacancy Benefit in Monolayer 2D Semiconductors”
Advanced Materials work with 86 citations, detailing vacancy benefits in 2D semiconductors.

“Piezotronic Effect on Interfacial Charge Modulation in Mixed-Dimensional van der Waals Heterostructures”
Cited 82 times in Nano Energy, examining the piezotronic effect for flexible photodetectors.

“Self-Healing Originated van der Waals Homojunctions with Strong Interlayer Coupling for High-Performance Photodiodes”
Published in ACS Nano, cited 80 times, discussing self-healing junctions.

Conclusion

Xiankun Zhang’s prolific research output, significant citations, and impactful work in advanced materials science make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing areas such as broader dissemination, interdisciplinary applications, and community engagement could further solidify his standing as a leader in his field. His research aligns well with the award’s goals of recognizing innovation, collaboration, and impact in academia.

Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer / Researcher at University of the Free State, South Africa

Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Free State (UFS), QwaQwa Campus, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Science (2015) from UFS, where she also obtained her M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees. Her research focuses on polymer-titania nanocomposites and sustainable polymers. As an NRF Y2-rated Emerging Researcher (2021-2025), Dr. Mofokeng is recognized for her contributions to polymer science, receiving the Best Emerging Researcher award in Natural and Agricultural Sciences (QwaQwa Campus) in 2016.

Publication Profile

orcid

scopus

Academic and Research Contributions

Dr. Mofokeng teaches Honours-level modules in Physical Polymer Science and Polymer Testing and Characterization at UFS. She supervises Honours, Master’s, and Ph.D. students, actively publishing research in polymer science. In her roles, she oversees the research laboratory, sources research funding, and contributes to curriculum development.

Professional Experience

Since 2019, Dr. Mofokeng has been a Senior Lecturer, previously serving as a Lecturer (2017–2018), Officer in Professional Services (2011–2017), and Research Assistant (1999–2011). Her extensive experience in research operations has involved hands-on roles in laboratory management, equipment maintenance, student training, and conducting complex polymer analyses.

Skills and Expertise

Dr. Mofokeng is proficient in a variety of scientific instruments, including DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA, and rheometers, essential for polymer characterization and analysis. She has experience with SEM, TEM, and STEM techniques and is skilled in synthesizing polymers, composites, and nanocomposites.

Publication  Top Notes

 

Preparation of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Polymer Composites, 2024

Focus: Develops PLA/PHBV/GO composites specifically for selectively removing Pb(II) ions from water.

Synthesis of Graphene Oxide for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Carbon Trends, 2024

Focus: Details the synthesis and properties of GO aimed at lead ion adsorption in water.

Morphology and Thermal Properties of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites

Publication: Polymer Engineering and Science, 2024

Focus: Analyzes structural and thermal aspects of PLA/PHBV/GO composites.

Properties of Polybutylene Succinate-Pineapple Leaf Fiber Composites

Publication: Heliyon, 2023

Focus: Discusses chemical and thermal properties of eco-friendly PBS composites using waste fibers.

Review on Graphene-Based Biodegradable Polymer Composites

Publication: Materials, 2023

Focus: Reviews the use of graphene in polymer composites for heavy metal adsorption in water.

Polysiloxane in Guar Gum-Polyaniline Matrix

Publication: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2018

Focus: Studies the effect of polysiloxane on the thermal and optical properties of a modified guar gum matrix.

LDPE with Carbon Black, Zinc, and Paraffin Wax

Publication: Journal of Polymer Research, 2017

Focus: Investigates the thermo-switch properties of LDPE composites with various additives.

Thermal Stability of PCL/PLA Composites with Layered Silicates

Publication: Polymer Testing, 2016

Focus: Explores thermal stability enhancements in PCL/PLA composites.

PLA/PHBV Nanocomposites with TiO₂ as Filler

Publication: Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2015

Focus: Analyzes the thermal degradation and morphology of PLA/PHBV blends with TiO₂ fillers.

Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Various Biodegradable Polymer Blends

Publication: Thermochimica Acta, 2015

Focus: Examines mechanical properties of PLA/PHBV, PLA/PCL, and PHBV/PCL blends with TiO₂ nanofillers.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Mofokeng’s achievements and dedication make her a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her contributions to polymer science, leadership in academia, and consistent service to the University of the Free State highlight her commitment to her field and inspire future women researchers. With continued efforts to expand her international research footprint, she stands poised to make an even greater impact in polymer science.

Juan Bai | Materials and Structures | Women Researcher Award

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Dr.  Queensland university of technology, Australia

Dr. Bai J. is an ARC DECRA Fellow and Lecturer at Queensland University of Technology, with a strong background in material physics and chemistry. Their research is centered on designing and synthesizing functional nanostructured materials for electrochemistry and energy conversion, particularly in fuel cells and electrocatalysis. Dr. Bai has published 24 papers in leading SCI journals such as Advanced Materials and ACS Energy Letters. Recognized for their contributions, they have received prestigious awards, including the Australian Research Council DECRA and Discovery Projects awards. Dr. Bai holds a Ph.D. from Shaanxi Normal University and has extensive expertise in electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices.

Professional Profiles:

Google scholar

 

🎓 Education

Feb. 2024 – Present:
ARC DECRA Fellow/Lecturer, School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.Apr. 2020 – Jan. 2024:
Postdoc in Electrocatalysis, School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
Supervisors: Prof. Ziqi Sun, Jun MeiSep. 2016 – Jun. 2019:
Ph.D. in Material Physics and Chemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an, China.
Supervisors: Prof. Yu Chen, Jinghui ZengSep. 2012 – Jun. 2015:
M.S. in Physical Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China.
Supervisors: Prof. Dongmei Sun, Yu Chen, Tianhong LuSep. 2008 – Jun. 2012:
B.S. in Science Education, Department of Applied Chemistry, Yuncheng University, Yuncheng, China.

🔬 Research Objectives

My research is centered on the design and synthesis of functional nanostructured materials for applications in electrochemistry and energy conversion devices. Key areas of focus include:Anodic and Cathodic Reactions of Fuel Cells: ORR, MOR, EOR, and FAORElectrocatalysts: Noble metal-based (Pt, Pd, Rh) nanoparticles for HER, OER, and NRRAs the first/co-first/corresponding author, I have published 24 papers in top-tier SCI Journals such as Advanced Materials, ACS Energy Letters, and Advanced Energy Materials.

🏆 Awards and Honors

2023: Australian Research Council Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) – $448,407.002023: Australian Research Council Discovery Projects – $404,530.002018: National Scholarship for Graduate Students (Ph.D.)2017: Research Individual Award by Shaanxi Normal University2017: Ji-Xue Scholarship by Shaanxi Normal University2016: Yuan-Ding Scholarship by Shaanxi Normal University2015: Excellent Student Award by Nanjing Normal University

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience: The candidate has a strong background in material physics and chemistry, with a focus on nanostructured materials and their applications in electrochemical energy conversion. This expertise is highly relevant to the award, as it demonstrates a deep understanding of a critical field in modern science.
  2. Publication Record: With 24 papers published in high-impact SCI journals such as Advanced Materials, ACS Energy Letters, and Advanced Energy Materials, the candidate has established herself as a leading researcher in her field. This prolific publication record underscores her ability to contribute original and significant research to the scientific community.
  3. Award and Recognition: The candidate has received prestigious awards, including the 2023 Australian Research Council Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) and substantial research funding. These accolades reflect her recognized potential and achievements within the scientific community.
  4. Research Focus on Sustainability: The candidate’s work on electrocatalysts and fuel cells, especially in the context of sustainable energy, aligns with global priorities in renewable energy and environmental protection. This makes her research not only innovative but also socially and environmentally impactful.
  5. Professional Skills: The candidate has demonstrated a high level of expertise in experimental techniques, theoretical knowledge, and the use of advanced instrumentation. These skills are essential for conducting cutting-edge research in electrochemistry and material science.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Outreach: While the candidate has an impressive academic and research background, there is limited information on her involvement in outreach activities, mentoring, or promoting women in science. Increasing visibility and engagement in these areas could enhance her candidacy for a Women Researcher Award, which often considers contributions beyond academic achievements.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: While the candidate’s research is highly specialized, further collaboration across disciplines could lead to broader applications of her work and increase its overall impact. Engaging in interdisciplinary projects or collaborations with industry could further elevate her profile.

 

✍️Publications Top Note :

Nanocatalysts for Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Ethanol
Authors: J. Bai, D. Liu, J. Yang, Y. Chen
Journal: ChemSusChem, 12(10), 2117-2132, 2019
Citations: 170
🧪 Focus: Ethanol oxidation using nanocatalysts.

Polyallylamine-Functionalized Platinum Tripods: Enhancement of Hydrogen Evolution Reaction by Proton Carriers
Authors: G.R. Xu, J. Bai, L. Yao, Q. Xue, J.X. Jiang, J.H. Zeng, Y. Chen, J.M. Lee
Journal: ACS Catalysis, 7(1), 452-458, 2017
Citations: 147
🔋 Focus: Hydrogen evolution reaction.

Bimetallic Platinum–Rhodium Alloy Nanodendrites as Highly Active Electrocatalyst for the Ethanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: J. Bai, X. Xiao, Y.Y. Xue, J.X. Jiang, J.H. Zeng, X.F. Li, Y. Chen
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 10(23), 19755-19763, 2018
Citations: 145
⚗️ Focus: Platinum-rhodium alloy for ethanol oxidation.

Atomically Ultrathin RhCo Alloy Nanosheet Aggregates for Efficient Water Electrolysis in Broad pH Range
Authors: Y. Zhao, J. Bai, X.R. Wu, P. Chen, P.J. Jin, H.C. Yao, Y. Chen
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 7(27), 16437-16446, 2019
Citations: 143
🌊 Focus: Water electrolysis using RhCo alloy nanosheets.

Au Nanowires@Pd-Polyethylenimine Nanohybrids as Highly Active and Methanol-Tolerant Electrocatalysts Toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Q. Xue, J. Bai, C. Han, P. Chen, J.X. Jiang, Y. Chen
Journal: ACS Catalysis, 8(12), 11287-11295, 2018
Citations: 133
🧪 Focus: Oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline media.

Polyethyleneimine Functionalized Platinum Superstructures: Enhancing Hydrogen Evolution Performance by Morphological and Interfacial Control
Authors: G.R. Xu, J. Bai, J.X. Jiang, J.M. Lee, Y. Chen
Journal: Chemical Science, 8(12), 8411-8418, 2017
Citations: 115
⚛️ Focus: Hydrogen evolution through platinum superstructures.

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Catalytic Application of Ultrathin Rhodium Nanosheet Nanoassemblies
Authors: J. Bai, G.R. Xu, S.H. Xing, J.H. Zeng, J.X. Jiang, Y. Chen
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 8(49), 33635-33641, 2016
Citations: 96
🔬 Focus: Rhodium nanosheet for catalytic applications.

Molybdenum‐Promoted Surface Reconstruction in Polymorphic Cobalt for Initiating Rapid Oxygen Evolution
Authors: J. Bai, J. Mei, T. Liao, Q. Sun, Z.G. Chen, Z. Sun
Journal: Advanced Energy Materials, 12(5), 2103247, 2022
Citations: 87
⚡ Focus: Oxygen evolution in cobalt.

One-Pot Fabrication of Hollow and Porous Pd–Cu Alloy Nanospheres and Their Remarkably Improved Catalytic Performance for Hexavalent Chromium Reduction
Authors: S.H. Han, J. Bai, H.M. Liu, J.H. Zeng, J.X. Jiang, Y. Chen, J.M. Lee
Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 8(45), 30948-30955, 2016
Citations: 85
🌍 Focus: Catalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium.

Glycerol Oxidation Assisted Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction: Ammonia and Glyceraldehyde Co-Production on Bimetallic RhCu Ultrathin Nanoflake Nanoaggregates
Authors: J. Bai, H. Huang, F.M. Li, Y. Zhao, P. Chen, P.J. Jin, S.N. Li, H.C. Yao, J.H. Zeng
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 7(37), 21149-21156, 2019
Citations: 84

Conclusion

The candidate is exceptionally well-suited for the Women Researcher Award, given her extensive research experience, strong publication record, and recognized achievements in the field of electrochemistry and materials science. Her work is not only innovative but also highly relevant to global challenges, particularly in sustainable energy. To further strengthen her candidacy, the candidate might consider expanding her impact through outreach, mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration.