Prof. Dr. Hong Cai | Framework Materials | Best Researcher Award
Supervisor | Hanshan Normal University | China
Professor Cai Hong is a distinguished chemist and Senior Member of the Chinese Chemical Society, currently serving as Professor and Master’s Supervisor at Hanshan Normal University. She earned her doctorate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Shantou University. Her academic career is marked by excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship, with over high-impact publications in journals such as J. Am. Chem. Soc., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., and Coord. Chem. Rev.. Professor Cai specializes in functional biological coordination polymers, host–guest chemistry, and their biological applications, contributing significantly to advancing the field of supramolecular chemistry. She has successfully led multiple projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Guangdong Provincial Natural Science Foundation, among others. Alongside research, she is deeply committed to education, guiding students in national and provincial competitions, and has earned multiple accolades for her outstanding teaching and mentorship.
Professional Profile
Scopus
Education
Cai Hong pursued her doctoral studies in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Shantou University, where she received her Ph.D. During her doctoral training, she developed a strong foundation in coordination chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, and their biological implications, laying the groundwork for her later research on functional coordination polymers and host–guest systems. Her education combined rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory experience, and active participation in collaborative projects, enabling her to build expertise in both experimental and applied chemistry. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, she honed her skills in molecular design, synthesis, and characterization techniques, while contributing to impactful research published in international journals. Her doctoral training also emphasized interdisciplinary approaches, bridging biochemistry, materials chemistry, and molecular biology. This academic background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance innovative research, train the next generation of scientists, and contribute to the chemical sciences community.
Experience
Professor Cai Hong has extensive research, teaching, and supervisory experience at Hanshan Normal University, where she serves as Professor and Master’s Supervisor. Her research career is highlighted by over publications in top international journals and successful leadership of projects funded by national and provincial foundations. She has presided over one National Natural Science Foundation project, three Guangdong Provincial General Projects, and multiple collaborations with key laboratories and educational institutions. Beyond research, she is a dedicated educator, teaching courses such as Biochemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Basic Chemistry Experiments, and Academic Writing. She has actively supervised undergraduate and graduate students in national and provincial innovation competitions, including the Challenge Cup and Guangdong Climbing Plan, achieving notable awards. With her dual focus on research and education, Professor Cai bridges cutting-edge scientific exploration with the development of teaching and professional skills among her students, contributing to both academic and societal advancement.
Research Focus
Professor Cai Hong’s research is centered on the design and synthesis of functional biological coordination polymers, exploring their structural versatility and potential applications in biology. Her work delves into supramolecular host–guest chemistry, focusing on molecular recognition, self-assembly, and responsive systems that address challenges in biological and medicinal chemistry. She integrates fundamental principles of coordination chemistry with innovative approaches to develop materials with tunable properties for bio-related applications. By combining synthesis, structural characterization, and functional studies, her research contributes to understanding structure–function relationships in complex molecular systems. Beyond material development, her studies emphasize translational applications, such as targeted delivery systems, sensing, and catalytic functions in biological environments. Her interdisciplinary focus bridges chemistry, biology, and material science, leading to publications in leading journals and projects supported by major funding agencies. Overall, her research contributes significantly to advancing functional materials with real-world biological and biomedical potential.
Awards and Honors
Professor Cai Hong has received numerous awards recognizing her excellence in teaching, research, and mentorship. At the institutional level, she won first prize in the university-level Young Teachers Teaching Competition, a testament to her innovative teaching style and commitment to student learning. Her dedication has also been recognized with prestigious honors such as the Teaching Excellence Award, the title of Hanjiang Scholar, and the Chaozhou Sanba-Hongqi Holder. These accolades highlight her contributions not only as a researcher but also as a transformative educator. In addition, her guidance has led students to achieve second and third prizes in the Guangdong Provincial Normal University Students Teaching Skills Competition, reflecting her effective mentorship in nurturing talent. She has also been recognized at provincial and national levels for her successful supervision of student projects, further consolidating her reputation as a scholar who integrates research and education to foster innovation and academic excellence.
Publication Top Notes
Synthesis of a zinc‑cobalt bimetallic adenine metal‑organic framework for the recognition of sulfur‑containing amino acids
Year: 2025
Specific Recognition of Cysteine in a Mixed-Valence Bimetallic Organic Framework with Unique Channel Properties
Year: 2025
Prof. Cai Hong’s impressive research experience, publication record, research funding, and teaching excellence make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With some additional interdisciplinary collaboration, global impact, and research translation, she could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in her field.