Yantao Xu | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yantao Xu | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Agricultural and Forestry University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yantao Xu began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Engineering in Wood Science & Engineering from Shandong Agricultural University (2013–2017). His passion for sustainable materials and bio-based innovations led him to pursue a Master’s and subsequently a Ph.D. in Forestry Engineering, specializing in Wood Science and Technology at Beijing Forestry University. Under the mentorship of Prof. Qiang Gao and Prof. Jianzhang Li, he developed a groundbreaking dissertation on Bioinspired Multifunctional Soy Protein Adhesives for Sustainable Wood Composites, laying a solid foundation for his research career.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Master's Supervisor at Zhejiang A&F University since 2022, Dr. Xu is at the forefront of wood and bamboo material modification and bio-adhesive development. His responsibilities extend beyond research, encompassing teaching graduate-level courses such as Wood Processing & Environmental Protection, and mentoring over 10 graduate students on thesis research and innovation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Xu’s research portfolio is deeply rooted in the development of bioinspired wood adhesives and multifunctional wood composites. His core expertise includes the formulation of soy protein and chlorine oxide cement adhesive systems, engineering composites with enhanced flame-retardant and mildew-resistant properties, and translating these technologies into industrial applications. Notably, his patented formaldehyde-free resin technologies exemplify his dedication to eco-friendly innovation.

🌟 Impact and Influence

With over 20 published articles—including 7 in Q1 TOP-SCI journals as first or corresponding author, and an average Impact Factor exceeding 10—Dr. Xu has cemented his position as a significant contributor to sustainable materials science. His highly cited paper in Chemical Engineering Journal (IF: 16.7) is recognized in the TOP 1% globally. In addition to scholarly publications, he has secured five patents (four granted), directly influencing both academia and industry.

📚 Academic Cites & Publications

Dr. Xu’s standout works include:

  • A triple-network organic-inorganic hybrid adhesive featured in Chemical Engineering Journal (2022),

  • The first nacre-mimetic soy adhesive for strength-toughness synergy in Composites Part B (2021),

  • An industry-focused bamboo modification method in Polymers (2023),

  • And a high-performance, low-viscosity adhesive for particleboards in Journal of Cleaner Production (2020).

🧪 Technical Skills

He brings hands-on proficiency with a suite of analytical tools and processing techniques, including FTIR, XRD, SEM, rheological analysis, and composite manufacturing. Additionally, Dr. Xu is adept with software tools such as Origin, AutoCAD, and ImageJ for data analysis and structural visualization.

🎓 Teaching Experience

In his academic role, Dr. Xu seamlessly blends research with teaching, delivering impactful courses in wood science while guiding graduate students through complex experimental design, data interpretation, and thesis development. His mentorship plays a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of materials scientists.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

As an Outstanding Doctoral Graduate (2022) and National Talent Program Scholar (2021), Dr. Xu is recognized for his academic excellence and innovative thinking. His work bridges the gap between research and real-world application, particularly through his collaboration with Shandong Yixin Chemical Co., where he contributed to the industrial scaling of bio-adhesives. Looking ahead, Dr. Xu aims to further explore the intersection of sustainability and performance in bio-composite materials, driving forward China’s green material revolution and inspiring international collaboration.

📖Notable Publications

  1. Publication: Designed organic-inorganic hybrid adhesive with triple-network structure
    Authors: Xu, Y.* et al.
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
    Year: 2022

  2. Publication: First nacre-mimetic soy adhesive with strength-toughness synergy
    Authors: Xu, Y. et al.
    Journal: Composites Part B: Engineering
    Year: 2021

  3. Publication: Industry-applied bamboo modification
    Authors: Xu, Y.* et al.
    Journal: Polymers
    Year: 2023

  4. Publication: High-performance low-viscosity adhesive for particleboard manufacturing
    Authors: Xu, Y. et al.
    Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
    Year: 2020

 

Berrichi Amina | Materials Chemistry | Women Researcher Award -2003

Prof. Berrichi Amina | Materials Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

University of Ain Temouchent, Algeria

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Berrichi Amina began her academic journey with a strong foundation in process engineering, obtaining her State Engineering Degree in Process Engineering in 2010. She further pursued a Master’s degree in Catalysis and Green Chemistry in 2011, highlighting her early interest in sustainable and environmentally conscious chemistry. Her passion for catalysis research led her to complete a Ph.D. in Catalysis and Green Chemistry in 2015, focusing on innovative and eco-friendly chemical processes. In recognition of her academic excellence and research contributions, she earned her University Habilitation in 2019, acquiring the rank of Maître de Conférence A (Associate Professor).

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Berrichi serves as an enseignante-chercheure (teaching-researcher) at the University of Ain Temouchent in Algeria, where she has been actively involved in teaching, mentoring, and scientific research. Her dual role enables her to shape future generations of chemists while simultaneously contributing to the advancement of green chemistry and catalysis.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Her core research revolves around heterogeneous catalysis, nanomaterials, and green chemistry approaches for organic synthesis. A notable highlight of her doctoral research includes the synthesis of propargylamines using gold nanoparticle-based catalysts, an area with promising applications in pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries. Prof. Berrichi has explored the development of novel catalytic systems and eco-compatible reaction pathways, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

🌍 International and Industrial Exposure

Prof. Berrichi enriched her academic training through various internships, including a final-year research placement at Université Laval in Québec, Canada, within the Department of Soil and Agro-Food Engineering, where she worked at the agro-food engineering laboratory. She also undertook short-term industry-oriented internships, such as at Hassi Messaoud’s Sonatrach BASP Unit in 2010, gaining firsthand experience in the energy sector. More recently, she participated in a short-term research stage at the UCCS Catalysis and Solid State Chemistry Laboratory (2022–2023), further advancing her expertise in catalyst design and application.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Her technical expertise spans a wide spectrum of catalysis-related skills, including the synthesis and characterization of supported nanoparticles, reaction mechanism studies, and green chemical process optimization. She is also skilled in handling advanced analytical instruments and conducting interdisciplinary research connecting catalysis with environmental and industrial chemistry.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

With years of experience as a university lecturer, Prof. Berrichi has been deeply engaged in undergraduate and postgraduate education. She supervises doctoral students and master’s theses, guiding them in both theoretical knowledge and experimental research in green chemistry and catalysis. Her mentorship has contributed to cultivating a new generation of skilled and environmentally conscious chemists.

📚 Impact and Influence

Through her academic and research activities, Prof. Berrichi plays a vital role in promoting sustainable chemical practices in Algeria and the broader scientific community. Her work supports the development of greener synthesis routes, contributing to environmental protection and responsible chemical production. Her commitment to knowledge dissemination and cross-border academic collaboration is evident in her international training and research efforts.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Amina Berrichi continues to be a significant figure in the field of green catalysis and nanostructured materials. Her future contributions are expected to delve deeper into the use of innovative nanocatalysts for sustainable transformations, bridging fundamental research and real-world application. With her blend of teaching, research, and international collaboration, she is shaping both the academic landscape and the future of green chemistry in Algeria and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

Green Synthesis of Bioactive Pyrrole Derivatives via Heterogeneous Catalysts Since 2010
Authors: Berrichi Amina, Bachir Redouane
Journal: Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
Year: 2025

The first gold nanoparticles supported SBA-15 functionalized aminopropylsylane as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of β-acetamido ketone derivatives
Authors: Yadi Hind, Bailiche Zahra, Berrichi Amina, Bachir Redoaune
Journal: Reaction Kinetics, Mechanisms and Catalysis
Year: 2024

Catalysts For Propargylamines Synthesis Via A3, AHA, and KA2 Coupling – A Review
Authors: Amina Berrichi, Redouane Bachir, Sumeya Bedrane
Journal: Current Organic Chemistry
Year: 2023

Advances in Pyrazoles Rings’ Syntheses by Heterogeneous Catalysts, Ionic Liquids, and Multicomponent Reactions – A Review
Authors: Nassima Medjahed, Zahira Kibou, Amina Berrichi, Noureddine Choukchou-Braham
Journal: Current Organic Chemistry
Year: 2023

Iron phosphate nanoparticles as an effective catalyst for propargylamine synthesis
Authors: Mohammed El Amine Drici, Berrichi Amina, Bachir Redouane, Beldjilali Mohammed, Bedrane Sumeya, Mansour Debdab
Journal: Reaction Kinetics, Mechanisms and Catalysis
Year: 2023

Xuexue Pan | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xuexue Pan | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Zhongshan Polytechnic, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Xuexue Pan’s academic journey began with a Ph.D. from Poznan University of Technology, Poland, where he studied under Professor François Béguin, a globally recognized expert in supercapacitors. His research focused on metal ion capacitors and the mechanisms of two-dimensional graphene-like materials in storing metal ions. He worked extensively on pre-metallization technology, multifunctional efficiency-enhancing materials, and hybrid capacitors, aiming to overcome the low capacitance and energy density limitations of traditional supercapacitors. These early research endeavors laid the groundwork for his future contributions to the field of electrochemical energy storage.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Pan continued his research as a postdoctoral fellow at Poznan University of Technology (2021-2023), collaborating with Professor Qamar Abbas on the development of hybrid ion capacitors. Since June 2023, he has been a visiting associate researcher at the Functional Nanomaterials Laboratory of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, where he focuses on hybrid fluid capacitors and battery technology. In addition to his research, he serves as a full-time teacher at Zhongshan Polytechnic, actively contributing to the academic and scientific community. He work in energy storage has earned international recognition, including his leadership in various natural science fund projects and participation in prestigious scientific research initiatives.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Pan’s research is centered on electrochemical energy storage, metal ion capacitors, and hybrid ion capacitors. He specializes in developing two-dimensional graphene-like materials for efficient ion storage, advancing pre-metallization techniques for organic metal ion capacitors, and optimizing the structural design of hybrid metal ion capacitors. His innovative work has provided solutions to challenges in energy storage, including low capacitance, poor energy efficiency, and limited industrial scalability. Additionally, his expertise extends to battery electrode materials, gas-free oxidation technology, and pre-treatment processes that enhance the performance of energy storage devices. His research has been instrumental in bridging the gap between fundamental science and industrial applications.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Pan’s contributions have been widely recognized, both nationally and internationally. He has received prestigious honors such as the Young Scientist Award from the Institute of Combustion in Kazakhstan and the Best Research Award from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. Additionally, he has won multiple national and provincial innovation and entrepreneurship awards, including the second prize in the 8th National Vocational College Polymer Materials Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition and the second prize in the “Challenge Cup” Green Guangdong Special Competition. These accolades highlight his significant impact on the development of electrochemical energy storage technologies.

Academic Citations and Research Contributions 📚

Dr. Pan has an impressive publication record, having authored 31 high-impact journal papers in leading scientific journals such as Energy Storage Materials, Chemical Engineering Journal, and the Journal of Power Sources. He has also filed 10 national patents related to battery technology and capacitors, participated in 10 international conferences, and played a key role in four domestic research projects. Additionally, he has contributed to two major international research funds, including projects supported by the European Regional Development Fund – Polish Science Fund and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan. His research is widely cited, further establishing his as an influential figure in the field of electrochemical energy storage.

Technical Skills and Expertise ⚙️

Dr. Pan possesses extensive technical expertise in electrochemical analysis, material characterization, and energy storage systems. He is proficient in techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and BET surface area analysis. His knowledge of battery electrode materials, gas-free oxidation processes, and pre-metallization techniques has contributed to advancements in next-generation energy storage solutions. These technical skills have played a crucial role in the development of high-performance capacitors and batteries.

Teaching Experience and Mentorship 📖

As an educator, Dr. Pan is committed to mentoring young researchers and students. At Zhongshan Polytechnic, he integrates cutting-edge research into teaching, fostering a scientific mindset among students. His mentorship has led to numerous student achievements in innovation and entrepreneurship competitions. By bridging the gap between academic research and real-world applications, he continues to nurture the next generation of scientists in the field of electrochemical energy storage.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking ahead, Dr. Pan is dedicated to furthering his contributions to the field of electrochemical energy storage and sustainable energy solutions. He aims to expand research on hybrid capacitors, develop advanced electrode materials, and collaborate with international research institutions to accelerate industrial applications. With his strong research background, technical expertise, and passion for innovation, he is set to play a pivotal role in the advancement of high-performance supercapacitors and batteries, driving the future of sustainable energy storage technologies.

📖Notable Publications

Hydrothermal synthesis and photoluminescence of single-crystalline LaVO4:Eu3+ nanorods/nanosheaves
Authors: J. Wang, X. Pan, Z. Li, J. Ke, Z.A. Supiyeva
Journal: MRS Communications
Year: 2024

Microcrystalline-Fe2P4O12 as eco-friendly and efficient anode for high-performance dual-ion battery
Authors: Y. He, X. Pan, Q. Long, C. Li, Q. Abbas
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2024

Cryolithionite-Based Pseudocapacitive Electrode for Sustainable Lithium-ion Capacitors
Authors: L. Ladenstein, X. Pan, H.Q. Nguyen, Q. Abbas, D. Rettenwander
Journal: Batteries and Supercaps
Year: 2024

Using metal–organic frameworks to create carbon-encased Ni@Ni(OH)2 for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: J. Wang, X. Pan, P. Peng, Z.A. Supiyeva, Q. Liu
Journal: Journal of Nanoparticle Research
Year: 2024

Thi Sinh Vo | Chemical Engineering | Material Chemistry Award

Ms. Thi Sinh Vo | Chemical Engineering | Material Chemistry Award

Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

She demonstrated a passion for materials science and engineering early in her academic journey. She earned her B.S. in Materials Science from Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City – University of Science (2014), where she developed a foundational understanding of advanced materials. Pursuing further specialization, she obtained her M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Daegu University, South Korea (2018), supported by a prestigious full scholarship. Her academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea (2023), where she delved deeply into polymer-composite materials.

💼 Professional Endeavors

She has cultivated a dynamic research career, currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Sungkyunkwan University. Prior to this, she was a Research Assistant at the Complex Materials Engineering & Systems (COME) Lab, where she contributed to groundbreaking advancements in flexible composites, biosensors, and filtration membranes. Her role extended beyond research to mentoring graduate students and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, reflecting her commitment to academic and professional growth.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research centers on polymer-composite materials, with applications spanning: Electromechanical Sensors: Flexible composites for human motion sensing. Biosensors: Nanocomposite-based solutions for detecting diabetes and Alzheimer’s diseases. Water Treatment: Development of composite membranes for dye removal and water filtration. Her work combines materials science, engineering, and chemistry to tackle pressing challenges in healthcare and environmental sustainability. Through projects supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea, she has contributed to pioneering innovations in these domains.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 35 peer-reviewed publications and 550+ citations, Her research has gained global recognition. Her findings have advanced the fields of functional composites and sensors, earning her multiple prestigious awards such as the Best Paper Award and Scientific Excellence Achievement Award. Notably, her article in ACS Applied Bio Materials was featured on the cover page, highlighting the impact and originality of her work.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Her scholarly contributions have been widely cited, reflecting her influence on the academic community. Her articles are featured in leading journals, and her research has been recognized with numerous accolades, including: International Research Awards for innovations in nanomaterials and biosensors. Best Researcher Awards across various fields like Materials Science and Chemical Engineering. Excellence in Academic Contributions, showcasing her leadership in interdisciplinary research.

🛠️ Technical Skills

She is proficient in an array of advanced analytical techniques, including: Material Characterization: XRD, SEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and mechanical testing. Electrochemical Analysis: Tafel polarization, impedance spectroscopy, and biosensing performance evaluation. Her expertise ensures a comprehensive approach to assessing and enhancing the properties of composite materials.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

Throughout her academic journey, She has mentored graduate students, fostering their growth in research methodologies and professional development. Her role as a mentor underscores her dedication to creating a collaborative and supportive research environment.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Her work has established her as a leader in materials science and engineering. Her contributions to sustainable technologies, particularly in healthcare and water treatment, are paving the way for innovative solutions to global challenges. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her research into emerging composite technologies and inspire future scientists through teaching and mentorship.

📖Notable Publications