Tianchao Niu | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Dr. Tianchao Niu | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Beihang University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Prof. Dr. Tianchao Niu is a distinguished researcher in the field of low-dimensional materials, with expertise in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), and surface/interface physicochemical properties. His research focuses on the controllable preparation of semiconductor materials and optimization of device-related interface properties, making significant contributions to nanotechnology and materials science.

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Niu began his academic journey at Ludong University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry Education (2002-2006). He then pursued a Master’s degree (2006-2009) at Suzhou University, focusing on electrochemical and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy studies of ionic liquid/metal interface structures. His passion for surface science and nanomaterials led him to the National University of Singapore (2009-2013), where he obtained a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Chen Wei. His doctoral research, centered on low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy studies of molecular dipole self-assembly on surfaces, laid the foundation for his future work in nanomaterials and interface engineering.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Niu has built an impressive career, holding academic and research positions in renowned institutions across China and the United States. His professional journey includes a postdoctoral fellowship (2016-2017) at the Brookhaven National Laboratory, USA, where he worked at the Center for Functional Nanotechnology. From 2013 to 2016, he was an Assistant Researcher at the Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, contributing to research in superconductivity and surface science. He later joined Nanjing University of Science and Technology (2017-2020) as a Professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering before becoming a Tenured Associate Professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (2020-2021). Currently, he serves as an Associate Professor at the International Innovation Institute, Beihang University (since 2021), where he continues his pioneering research on low-dimensional materials and nanotechnology.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Niu’s research is centered on the growth mechanisms, characterization, and application of low-dimensional semiconductor materials. His work integrates STM characterization, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and MBE techniques to investigate the surface and interface properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials. Additionally, he specializes in vacuum system design, interconnection, and construction, contributing to the development of high-performance nanodevices. His studies have led to advancements in next-generation electronics, optoelectronics, and quantum materials, with a strong emphasis on device optimization and novel material synthesis.

📚 Impact and Influence

As a leading scientist in materials research, Dr. Niu has authored over 40 research papers and review articles as the first or corresponding author in high-impact journals such as Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS), Nano Today, Advanced Materials, ACS Nano, Progress in Surface Science, and 2D Materials. His publications provide groundbreaking insights into nanomaterial growth and interface engineering, influencing researchers and industries in nanoelectronics, energy storage, and advanced material applications. His high citation index reflects the significant impact of his research in the global scientific community.

🛠️ Technical Expertise

Dr. Niu has mastered a wide range of cutting-edge experimental techniques essential for nanomaterial research. His expertise includes low-temperature to high-pressure scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for surface chemical analysis, and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for thin-film growth. He is also skilled in vacuum system design and integration, allowing for precise control over material fabrication processes. His technical proficiency has enabled the development of high-quality, application-oriented nanomaterials.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

Beyond his research, Dr. Niu is an active educator and mentor at Beihang University. He is dedicated to training the next generation of material scientists and engineers, emphasizing hands-on experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation in nanotechnology. He has supervised numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, guiding them in advanced materials research and applications. His teaching approach bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, fostering scientific curiosity and technical excellence among his students.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Niu’s future research endeavors aim to expand the capabilities of semiconductor materials for flexible electronics and quantum computing. He continues to develop novel methodologies for precise control of 2D material properties, which could lead to breakthroughs in nanoscale device performance and functionality. His vision includes strengthening global collaborations in nanoscience to accelerate technological advancements and push the boundaries of materials innovation. His pioneering work not only enhances scientific understanding but also paves the way for transformative applications in next-generation technology.

📖Notable Publications

One-dimensional topological phase and tunable soliton states in atomic nanolines on Si(001) surface
Authors: B. Song, Biyu; G. Zhi, Guoxiang; C. Hua, Chenqiang; T. Li, Tianzhao; T. Niu, Tianchao
Journal: npj Quantum Materials
Year: 2024

Epitaxial Growth of 2D Binary Phosphides
Authors: W. Gao, Wenjin; W. Dou, Wenzhen; D. Zhou, Dechun; C. Hua, Chenqiang; A.T. Wee, Andrew T.S.
Journal: Small Methods
Year: 2024

Atomically Precise Bottom-Up Fabrication of Ultra-Narrow Semiconducting Zigzag BiP Nanoribbons
Authors: D. Zhou, Dechun; Y. Feng, Yisui; L. Zhang, Lei; H. Li, Hui; T. Niu, Tianchao
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2024

Growth of Single Crystalline 2D Materials beyond Graphene on Non-metallic Substrates
Authors: W. Gao, Wenjin; G. Zhi, Guoxiang; T. Niu, Tianchao
Journal: Small
Year: 2024

Room-temperature magnetic higher-order topological states in two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides and dihalogenides
Authors: C. Hua, Chenqiang; D. Shao, Dexi; W. Wu, Weikang; T. Niu, Tianchao; S.A. Yang, Shengyuan A.
Journal: Physical Review B
Year: 2024

Anisotropic Strain-Mediated Growth of Monatomic Co Chains on Unreconstructed Regions of the Au(111) Surface
Authors: B. Song, Biyu; W. Gao, Wenjin; G. Zhi, Guoxiang; M. Wu, Meimei; T. Niu, Tianchao
Journal: Chemistry of Materials
Year: 2024

Mary Higby Schweitzer | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Mary Higby Schweitzer | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

North Carolina State University, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🏛️ Early Academic Pursuits

Mary Higby Schweitzer’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Communicative Disorders from Utah State University in 1977. However, her passion for science and education led her to pursue a Certificate in Secondary Education with a focus on Broadfield Science at Montana State University in 1988. Her growing interest in paleontology and biology propelled her towards a Ph.D. in Biology from Montana State University in 1995, where she began her groundbreaking research into biomolecules. This phase of her academic life set the foundation for her future contributions to science.

🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Schweitzer’s professional career has been marked by a steady progression through prestigious academic and research institutions. She has been a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Carolina State University since 2015 and has served as a Visiting Professor at Lund University, Sweden, since 2014. In addition, she has held the role of Research Associate at the Museum of the Rockies since 2018, where she continues to collaborate on vertebrate paleontology studies. Prior to this, she worked in various capacities at Montana State University and North Carolina State University, transitioning from an assistant professor to a leading faculty member in the fields of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences. Her long-standing association with the North Carolina State Museum of Natural Sciences as a Research Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology since 2003 reflects her dedication to both research and public science communication.

🏆 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Schweitzer is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking discovery of soft tissues, proteins, and potential DNA remnants in fossilized dinosaur bones. This finding challenged traditional assumptions about fossilization and opened up new possibilities for studying ancient biomolecules. Her research has demonstrated that biomolecules such as collagen proteins can persist for millions of years, providing direct biochemical evidence of evolutionary links between dinosaurs and modern birds. Her work in molecular paleontology, vertebrate taphonomy, and protein preservation has not only expanded our understanding of how biological materials endure over time but has also introduced new methodologies for studying ancient life at the molecular level.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Schweitzer’s work has significantly influenced paleontology, evolutionary biology, andbiomolecules. Her research has been pivotal in demonstrating that organic materials can survive fossilization, reshaping our understanding of ancient life and its preservation. By uncovering biochemical links between extinct species and their modern relatives, her discoveries have provided strong molecular evidence supporting evolutionary theory. Beyond her own research, she has played a key role in shaping the scientific landscape as a reviewer for high-impact journals such as Nature, Science, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and PLOS Biology. Her contributions have ensured that new discoveries in the field maintain the highest standards of scientific rigor.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

With an extensive portfolio of highly cited papers, Dr. Schweitzer’s research continues to be a cornerstone of molecular paleontology. Her honorary doctorate from Lund University in Sweden is a testament to her international recognition and influence in the field. Her publications have been widely referenced by paleontologists, biologists, and geochemists, further highlighting the multidisciplinary impact of her work.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Schweitzer possesses expertise in a wide range of advanced scientific techniques, including immunohistochemistry, paleohistology, microscopy, and geochemical analysis. Her ability to extract and analyze ancient proteins and biomolecules has been instrumental in confirming the preservation of soft tissues in fossils. Her technical skills also extend to spectroscopy, molecular imaging, and biochemical analysis, allowing her to identify and characterize ancient biological materials with high precision.

🎓 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Schweitzer has trained and guided numerous graduate and Ph.D. students throughout her career. She has held teaching positions at Montana State University and North Carolina State University, where she has inspired students to explore the intersections of biology, paleontology, and molecular science. Through her mentorship, she has played a vital role in fostering the next generation of researchers who continue to push the boundaries of scientific discovery.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Schweitzer’s revolutionary research has reshaped the field of paleontology and will continue to influence scientific inquiry for years to come. Her discoveries have bridged the gap between biology and paleontology, offering new insights into how ancient life is preserved at the molecular level. Moving forward, her research could unlock even more secrets about extinct species, further deepening our understanding of Earth’s biological history. Her commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovative methodologies ensures that her legacy will endure, paving the way for future scientific breakthroughs in fossil preservation and molecular evolution. 🚀🔬

📖Notable Publications

Melanosomes and ancient coloration re-examined: A response to Vinther 2015

Authors: Mary Higby Schweitzer, Johan Lindgren, Alison E. Moyer

Journal: BioEssays

Year: 2015

Interpreting melanin-based coloration through deep time: A critical review

Authors: Johan Lindgren, Alison E. Moyer, Mary Higby Schweitzer, Bo Pagh Schultz, Benjamin P. Kear

Journal: Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences

Year: 2015

Biologically and diagenetically derived peptide modifications in moa collagens

Authors: Timothy P. Cleland, Elena R. Schroeter, Mary Higby Schweitzer

Journal: Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences

Year: 2015

A pelomedusoid turtle from the Paleocene-Eocene of Colombia exhibiting preservation of blood vessels and osteocytes

Authors: Edwin A. Cadena, Mary Higby Schweitzer

Journal: Journal of Herpetology

Year: 2014

Synchrotron chemical and structural analysis of Tyrannosaurus rex blood vessels: The contribution of collagen hypercrosslinking to tissue longevity

Authors: Elizabeth M. Boatman, Mark B. Goodwin, Hoi Ying N. Holman, Ronald Gronsky, John R. Horner

Journal: Microscopy and Microanalysis

Year: 2014

Xin-Hua Deng | Materials Physics and Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Xin-Hua Deng | Materials Physics and Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Nanchang University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Xin-Hua Deng's journey in academia began with a strong foundation in physics, earning a B.S. from Jinggangshan University in 2000. He advanced to theoretical physics, completing an M.S. at Nanchang University in 2004, and culminated his studies with a Ph.D. in Materials Physics and Chemistry. His dissertation, supervised by Prof. Nian-Hua Liu, explored the optical transmission properties of photonic crystals containing metamaterials, setting the stage for his research in cutting-edge materials science.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

He has been a pivotal figure at Nanchang University, transitioning from an assistant to a professor. His international exposure includes research stints at the State Key Laboratory of Millimeter Waves and the State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, and a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, Berkeley.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

A recognized expert in metamaterials, photonic crystals, and graphene, His work bridges fundamental physics and practical applications. His studies on advanced material properties have influenced the development of novel optical and electromagnetic systems, fostering innovation in photonics.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His groundbreaking research has earned significant accolades, including two provincial-level science and technology awards in Jiangxi, reflecting his impact on both academia and industry. His contributions enhance the scientific community's understanding of advanced materials.

📊 Academic Cites and Recognitions

As a respected scholar, Prof. Deng serves as a referee for esteemed journals such as Optics Letters and Progress in Electromagnetic Research, affirming his expertise in evaluating and advancing critical research in his field.

🔬 Technical Skills

His technical expertise spans material characterization, theoretical modeling, and optical simulation, underscoring his multidisciplinary approach to solving complex scientific problems.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

A dedicated educator, He  has received accolades like the Young and Middle-Aged Excellent Teachers Award, highlighting his commitment to nurturing future physicists through innovative pedagogy.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a robust foundation in physics and materials science, Prof. Deng continues to inspire innovation. His ongoing research in metamaterials and graphene promises transformative advancements, cementing his legacy as a leader in materials physics.

📖Notable Publications

 

Azadeh Hamedi | Medicinal Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Assoc Prof Dr. Azadeh Hamedi | Medicinal Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry Award

Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran

 Profiles👨‍🎓

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Azadeh Hamedi embarked on her academic journey with a Pharmacy Doctorate (Pharm D) from the School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran (1997-2003). This foundation in pharmacy was further refined with her Ph.D. in Pharmacognosy from Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (2003-2008). Her dedication to pharmacognosy was evident early in her studies, setting the stage for her career.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Her career showcases a strong commitment to pharmacognosy and pharmaceutical research. She began as an Assistant Professor at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, teaching and researching within the Department of Pharmacognosy from 2009 to 2015. Her position advanced to Associate Professor in 2015, where she continues to instruct and lead research initiatives. Additionally, She serves as a Research Leader at the Medicinal Processing Research Center since 2014, directing crucial projects in medicinal plant processing and application.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research spans various aspects of pharmacognosy, with a focus on medicinal plants, glycomics, and their pharmacological applications. Her postdoctoral fellowship at Griffith University's Institute for Glycomics (2007-2008) highlights her expertise in glycoscience and collaborative research. Dr. Hamedi has authored 79 publications, which reflect her deep exploration into the therapeutic potentials of bioactive compounds in plants.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Her research has made substantial contributions to pharmacognosy and related disciplines, influencing the academic community and impacting practical medicinal applications. Her published work has fostered new directions in pharmacognosy, particularly within Iran’s pharmaceutical sciences, contributing to both national and international advancements in the understanding of medicinal plants.

📈 Academic Cites and Recognitions

Dr. Hamedi’s publications have garnered numerous citations, underscoring her work's influence. Her contributions are well-regarded in the academic community, and she continues to receive recognition for her impactful studies and findings in pharmacognosy.

🛠 Technical Skills

Dr. Hamedi possesses extensive skills in medicinal plant processing, analytical methods in pharmacognosy, and glycomics. Her background in these advanced techniques is instrumental in her research and allows her to make meaningful advancements in her field.

🏫 Teaching Experience

As a faculty member at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, She has a rich teaching history. She has educated and mentored numerous students, passing on her expertise in pharmacognosy and related sciences. Her teaching contributions support the next generation of researchers and healthcare professionals.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Her legacy lies in her dedication to pharmacognosy and her contributions to medicinal plant research. With her continued focus on high-impact research and mentorship, her future contributions promise to further advance the field of pharmacognosy and inspire upcoming scientists. Her ongoing leadership in medicinal research initiatives positions her as an influential figure in the field.

📖Notable Publications