Qinhong Wei | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qinhong Wei | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Ocean University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Qinhong Wei began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering at Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, China. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Industrial Catalysis at the same institution, cultivating a foundational understanding of chemical processes and catalyst design. Driven by a keen interest in advanced materials and catalysis, he advanced to earn his Ph.D. in Nano New Functional Materials Science from the University of Toyama, Japan. During this period, Dr. Wei developed expertise in the synthesis and application of nano-scale materials, setting the stage for his future specialization in heterogeneous catalysis.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Wei joined the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Coal Chemistry as a Postdoctoral Researcher, where he worked on catalytic transformations of carbon-based feedstocks. He was later appointed as Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China. In this leadership role, Dr. Wei not only drives research initiatives but also oversees the academic and developmental direction of the department.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wei’s research revolves around the design of catalytic materials, reaction pathway engineering, and catalytic conversion of low-carbon molecules. His work integrates heterogeneous catalysis, especially in C1 chemistry, and extensively employs in-situ characterization techniques to probe catalyst behavior under real conditions. He has made significant contributions in areas such as:

  • Hydrogenation of syngas and CO₂ to produce liquid fuels and value-added chemicals (e.g., olefins, aromatics, and oxygenates)

  • Propane dehydrogenation (PDH) to yield propylene, a critical feedstock in the polymer industry

  • Methane conversion for enhanced utilization of natural gas

  • Catalyst design for sustainable energy solutions aligned with green chemistry principles

📊 Research Projects and Honors

Dr. Wei has led over 10 research projects, securing competitive funding from prestigious bodies including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, and Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation. His excellence in scientific innovation has earned him numerous accolades, such as the Leading Talent (Young Excellent Talent) distinction in Zhejiang Province and two Zhoushan Natural Science Excellent Paper Awards, reinforcing his reputation as a forward-thinking leader in chemical engineering.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 30 publications in top-tier international journals, such as Nature Communications, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Fuel, Dr. Wei’s research significantly advances the field of low-carbon catalytic conversion. His work provides both theoretical insights and practical pathways for clean fuel synthesis, carbon dioxide utilization, and natural gas valorization, directly contributing to global sustainability goals and carbon neutrality efforts.

📚 Academic Citations and Collaborations

Dr. Wei’s growing citation record and publication impact demonstrate the high value of his research in the academic community. His collaboration with both domestic and international research institutions strengthens cross-border scientific exchange and facilitates the integration of cutting-edge catalytic techniques into industrial applications.

🧠 Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Wei is proficient in the synthesis and in-situ analysis of catalytic systems, with technical strengths spanning material characterization, reaction engineering, and mechanistic investigation of catalytic pathways. His ability to bridge the gap between material science and industrial catalysis allows him to design catalysts with high selectivity, stability, and energy efficiency.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As Head of Department at Zhejiang Ocean University, Dr. Wei actively contributes to curriculum development, student mentoring, and research training. His commitment to academic excellence is reflected in his support for young researchers, guiding them through experimental work, thesis development, and participation in funded research projects.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Wei aims to expand his contributions in the fields of green catalysis, CO₂ reduction, and circular carbon economy technologies. His research vision emphasizes integrated energy systems, advanced materials for clean fuels, and mechanistic studies that push the frontiers of catalytic science. With a strong foundation of academic rigor, industrial relevance, and mentorship, Dr. Wei is poised to make enduring contributions to chemical engineering and sustainable development.

📖Notable Publications

Pre-phase transition of a Cu₂−xS template enables polymorph selective synthesis of MS (M = Zn, Cd, Mn) nanocrystals via cation exchange reactions
Authors: Yan Zhang, Shaobo He, Qingxia Zhang, Hongtao Zhang, Jinchen Zhou, Xing Yang, Qinhong Wei, Lihui Chen
Journal: Nanoscale
Year: 2024

Electronic structure modulation of metallic Co via N-doped carbon shell and Cu-doping for enhanced semi-hydrogenation of phenylacetylene to styrene
Authors: Feixiang Chang, Yize Wang, Haoting Yan, Jiashi Wang, Renkun Zhang, Xianmin Zheng, Qinhong Wei, Luhui Wang, Jing Xu
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Year: 2024

Atomically dispersed Feδ⁺ anchored on nitrogen-rich carbon for enhancing benzyl alcohol oxidation through Mott-Schottky effect
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Jiashi Wang, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
Year: 2021

Metal 3D printing technology for functional integration of catalytic system
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Hangjie Li, Guoguo Liu, Yingluo He, Yang Wang, Yen Ee Tan, Ding Wang, Xiaobo Peng, Guohui Yang, Noritatsu Tsubaki
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2020

Constructing Co@N-doped graphene shell catalyst via Mott-Schottky effect for selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxylmethylfurfural
Authors: Jiashi Wang, Qinhong Wei, Qingxiang Ma, Zhongya Guo, Fangfang Qin, Zinfer R. Ismagilov, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
Year: 2020

Coal tar- and residual oil-derived porous carbon as metal-free catalyst for nitroarene reduction to aminoarene
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Fangfang Qin, Qingxiang Ma, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2019

Metal-free honeycomb-like porous carbon as catalyst for direct oxidation of benzene to phenol
Authors: Qinhong Wei, Huailin Fan, Fangfang Qin, Qingxiang Ma, Wenzhong Shen
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2018

Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

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Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq | Catalysis | Material Chemistry Award

University of Gujrat, Pakistan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq completed her Master of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Gujrat, Pakistan, achieving an impressive CGPA of 3.72/4.0. Her thesis focused on the Investigation of MoS2 Based Nanomaterials for Efficient Photocatalytic Performance, highlighting her early dedication to advanced materials science. Prior to this, she earned her BS Honors in Physics from the University of Central Punjab. Her solid academic foundation laid the groundwork for her research in nanomaterials and their multifaceted applications.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Mushtaq has demonstrated extensive experience in synthesizing and optimizing nanomaterials, particularly focusing on MoS2, Ta-MoS2, and MoS2/MnO2/WO3 composites. Her work encompasses practical applications in photocatalysis, specifically targeting environmental remediation through degradation of dyes like Methylene Blue and pharmaceutical contaminants such as Metformin. Beyond photocatalysis, she has explored nanomaterials’ roles in energy storage, antimicrobial properties, and shelf-life extension, revealing a broad and impactful research portfolio.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research contributions extend to authoring and co-authoring scientific papers and delivering presentations in academic settings, showcasing her effective communication skills in disseminating scientific knowledge. Notably, she has authored a book titled “Influence of Nobel Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies” (Springer, 2025), emphasizing her expertise and contribution to the field of sustainable energy and nanotechnology. Her primary research interests include materials science, photocatalytic activity, energy storage, antimicrobial applications, and shelf-life enhancement using nanomaterials.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Ms. Mushtaq’s work in synthesizing novel nanomaterials and applying them to environmental and energy challenges places her at the forefront of sustainable nanotechnology research. Her scientific findings contribute not only to academic advancement but also have practical implications for environmental cleanup and energy technologies. By combining experimental research with scientific communication, she significantly influences both her academic peers and the wider scientific community.

📈 Academic Citations

While specific citation metrics are not detailed here, her published research papers and book authorship demonstrate recognition and relevance in the scientific community, particularly in nanomaterials and photocatalysis research fields.

🛠️ Technical Skills

She possesses proficiency in a range of software and instrumentation critical to materials research, including OriginLab, Xpert Highscore Plus, Image J, Endnote, MS Office, and COMSOL Multiphysics. She is skilled in operating analytical tools such as the UV-Visible Spectrometer and Photoluminescence Spectrometer for UV-Vis and PL analysis, enabling her to perform detailed characterization of nanomaterials.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Alongside her research, Ms. Mushtaq has engaged in academic research supervision, teaching, and consultation, managing theses and interdisciplinary projects. Her strong communication skills in English and Urdu facilitate effective knowledge transfer and mentorship within academic environments.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ms. Ayesha Mushtaq is poised to continue advancing the field of nanomaterials with a focus on sustainable energy and environmental applications. Her upcoming book and ongoing research reflect a commitment to driving innovative solutions through nanotechnology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring future scientists. Her legacy is set to inspire developments in photocatalytic materials, energy storage, and antimicrobial technologies, impacting both science and society.

📖Notable Publications

Photocatalytic detoxification of Lemon Yellow food additive by Novel AC@ZnO/CuO/WO3 quaternary composites via Citrus Sinensis and Solid-State-Reaction method
Authors: Hassan Imam Rizvi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Zain Ashfaq, Nabil Al-Zaqri, Ismail Warad
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2025

Influence of Noble Metal Nanoparticles in Sustainable Energy Technologies
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq
Book Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland
Year: 2025
ISBN: 9783031809828, 9783031809835

Facile Strategies to Fabricate MoS2/Bi2O3 Nanocomposites; A Nano Engineered Material for Photoassisted Degradation of Ciprofloxacin and Their Antibacterial Performance
Authors: Muhammad Tauseef Qureshi, Ayesha Mushtaq, Umer Farooq, Abdul Basit, Tahir Iqbal, Ayesha Younas, Mahmoud Al Elaimi, Hira Affan, Mohamed S. Othman, Ghazala Yunus, et al.
Journal: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Year: 2024

Cobalt doped MoS2: A photoactivated nanomaterial for removal of methylene blue and phenol
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Abdul Basit, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Hind A. AL-Shwaiman, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Yousaf, Sumera Afsheen, Ayesha Mushtaq, Rana Mustansar Munir
Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
Year: 2024

Enhancing apple shelf life: A comparative analysis of photocatalytic activity in pure and manganese-doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Tahir Iqbal, Maria Afzal, Bandar Ali Al-Asbahi, Sumera Afsheen, Iqra Maryam, Ayesha Mushtaq, Sabah Kausar, Aqsa Ashraf
Journal: Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing
Year: 2024

Nini Wen | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nini Wen | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Nini Wen began her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering and materials science, culminating in the award of her Ph.D. in 2023. Shortly thereafter, she joined Zhejiang Sci-Tech University as a lecturer, where she continues to advance research at the intersection of environmental catalysis and materials chemistry.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since her appointment, Dr. Wen has dedicated her academic career to the study and development of Selective Catalytic Reduction-Hydrocarbon (SCR-HC) catalysts, particularly focusing on novel catalytic systems like metal oxides, pillared interlayered clays (PILC), layered double hydroxides (LDHs), and atomic clusters. Her methodical approach integrates catalyst design with advanced characterization techniques to uncover fundamental catalytic properties and reaction mechanisms. She has completed one foundational research project and currently leads two additional national-level foundation projects, underscoring her growing research independence and leadership.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wen’s cutting-edge research lies in environmental pollution control and catalytic materials, particularly LDH-based catalysts for SCR-HC reactions. LDHs, known as emerging 2D layered materials, have seldom been utilized in this field. Her innovative work includes designing binary and ternary LDH catalysts, which leverage the synergistic effects of multi-metal components to enhance catalytic activity. She has thoroughly explored the impact of synergy on both the intrinsic physicochemical properties and catalytic mechanisms. Furthermore, her studies address real-world challenges by investigating how poisoning species such as H₂O, SO₂, and alkali metals influence catalyst performance and structural stability, making her contributions highly relevant for industrial applications.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Wen has made a significant mark in the catalysis community with over 20 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals including the Chemical Engineering Journal, Fuel, Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, and Molecular Catalysis. Her work continues to inspire new approaches in designing resilient and efficient environmental catalysts, positioning her as a promising young scholar in the field of applied catalysis.

📈 Academic Citations

Although early in her independent career, Dr. Wen’s publications are gaining recognition in the academic world, with citations steadily increasing. Her focus on mechanistic insight and application-driven research makes her work valuable for both academic studies and industrial implementations in pollution mitigation technologies.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Wen possesses a broad suite of experimental and analytical techniques essential to modern catalysis research. These include X-ray diffraction (XRD), BET surface area analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), temperature-programmed desorption/reduction (TPD/TPR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), among others. These tools support her rigorous examination of structure-performance relationships in catalytic systems.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As a lecturer, Dr. Wen is actively involved in undergraduate and graduate instruction. She integrates her research findings into the classroom to foster scientific curiosity and train students in environmental engineering and materials chemistry, laying the groundwork for future researchers.

🤝 Professional Memberships

Dr. Wen is a member of the Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China, through which she engages in professional development and collaborative opportunities, staying current with trends in catalysis and environmental remediation technologies.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wen’s pioneering work in LDH-based SCR-HC catalysis and pollution control positions her at the forefront of sustainable environmental technologies. Her future plans include exploring atomically dispersed catalysts, enhancing low-temperature catalytic activity, and developing next-generation catalyst systems with improved tolerance to industrial poisons. Her work is expected to play a vital role in the global effort to reduce industrial emissions and transition toward greener technologies.

📖Notable Publications

Preparation and de-NOₓ performance of C₃H₆-SCR over Cu-SAPO-44 catalyst
Authors: Zhou, H.; Zhang, H.; Wen, N.; Wang, X.; Xu, L.; Li, W.; Su, Y.
Journal: Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress
Year: 2023

Research on resistance of CuxNiyFez-LDHs derived catalysts to poisoning components and insight into the complex role of SO₂ on C₃H₆-SCR performance
Authors: Wen, N.; Zhou, H.; Ning, S.; Hu, M.; Deng, W.; Zhao, B.; Su, Y.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
Year: 2023

Research progress on supported Cu-based zeolite catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NOₓ with hydrocarbons
Authors: Ning, S.; Su, Y.; Yang, H.; Wen, N.
Journal: Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress
Year: 2023

Selective catalytic reduction of nitric oxide with propylene over one-step synthesized Cu-SAPO-44 catalysts
Authors: Zhang, H.; Zhou, H.; Wen, N.-N.; Wang, X.-R.; Xu, L.; Su, Y.-X.
Journal: Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology
Year: 2022

Study on CH₄-SCR performance by Ga-Fe catalysts supported on Ti-pillared interlayered clays (Ti-PILC)
Authors: Xu, G.-Q.; Su, Y.-X.; Wen, N.-N.; Zhang, H.; Liu, Q.; Deng, W.-Y.; Zhou, H.
Journal: Journal of Molecular Catalysis
Year: 2022

Synergy of CuNiFe-LDH based catalysts for enhancing low-temperature SCR-C₃H₆ performance: Surface properties and reaction mechanism
Authors: Wen, N.; Su, Y.; Deng, W.; Zhou, H.; Hu, M.; Zhao, B.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2022

 

Wei Zhao | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Wei Zhao | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shenzhen University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Wei Zhao's academic journey began with a strong foundation in physical sciences. He completed his B.Sc. in Applied Physics at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) in 2006. He then continued his studies at USTC, earning an M.Sc. in Physical Chemistry in 2009, where he worked under the guidance of Prof. Junfa Zhu at the National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory. His pursuit of further knowledge led him to Germany, where he earned a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in 2013. His doctoral research, supervised by Prof. Hans-Peter Steinrueck, was focused on advanced topics in physical chemistry, setting the stage for his future research endeavors.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Zhao's professional career is marked by his significant contributions to academic research and teaching. In 2014, he began a postdoctoral fellowship at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, where he worked under Prof. Nian Lin. This experience helped refine his research skills in the area of physical chemistry and materials science. By 2015, Dr. Zhao moved to the University of Washington as a Research Associate in the Chemistry Department, collaborating with Prof. Charles T. Campbell. His work there led to numerous discoveries in surface chemistry and nanomaterials. In 2018, Dr. Zhao transitioned to Shenzhen University, first as an Assistant Professor and later as an Associate Professor. At the Institute for Advanced Study, he is now a Principal Investigator (PI), leading his research group in exploring innovative solutions in physical chemistry and nanomaterials.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Zhao’s research focuses on the study of surface reactions, nanomaterials, and catalysis, with an emphasis on their potential applications in energy conversion and storage. His research uses a combination of theoretical and experimental techniques to investigate the fundamental processes that govern material behaviors at the nanoscale. His work aims to develop novel materials that can enhance the efficiency of various chemical processes, such as hydrogen production and carbon dioxide reduction. His innovative approaches in surface chemistry and nanomaterials design have contributed to advancing the field of sustainable energy technologies.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Zhao’s work has had a profound impact on both the scientific community and industry. Through his research, he has contributed to the development of new materials and technologies that hold promise for addressing global challenges such as energy sustainability and environmental protection. His studies have been widely cited in leading scientific journals, indicating the relevance and importance of his work. Dr. Zhao is recognized not only for his research contributions but also for his role in shaping the future of chemical and material sciences.

Academic Cites 📚

Dr. Zhao’s research output has been well-received by the academic community, with his work frequently cited in high-impact publications. His innovative findings in the fields of surface chemistry and nanomaterials have earned him recognition from scholars worldwide. As of 2024, his work has been cited numerous times, further cementing his position as a leading researcher in his field.

Technical Skills ⚙️

Dr. Zhao is highly skilled in a variety of experimental and computational techniques. His expertise includes surface science, spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and synchrotron radiation techniques. These skills allow him to conduct in-depth analyses of materials at the atomic and molecular level, providing valuable insights into their properties and behaviors. His technical proficiency is essential to the success of his research projects, which often involve complex experimental setups and cutting-edge technologies.

Teaching Experience 👩‍🏫

As an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, Dr. Zhao is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students at Shenzhen University. He is known for his dedication to educating the next generation of scientists and researchers. Dr. Zhao offers courses on physical chemistry, nanomaterials, and surface science, and he supervises both undergraduate and graduate students. His mentorship extends beyond the classroom, as he actively guides students in their research projects, helping them develop the skills necessary to succeed in academia and industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Looking forward, Dr. Zhao aims to continue his pioneering work in the field of physical chemistry and nanomaterials. His research will likely lead to further advancements in energy storage and conversion technologies, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. He envisions his work contributing to the development of green technologies that can address pressing global challenges. Dr. Zhao’s dedication to scientific inquiry and innovation positions him as a key figure in the future of material science and energy research.

📖Notable Publications