Guoqin Cao | Surface Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Guoqin Cao | Surface Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Zhengzhou University | China

Dr. Guoqin Cao is an Associate Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Zhengzhou University and a member of the National Key Laboratory. His research focuses on advanced surface coatings and metallurgical mechanisms for metallic materials operating in extreme environments, particularly nuclear and high-temperature marine conditions. He has developed Zr–Si multi-interface kinetic modulation strategies and proposed the “siliconization–oxidation” phase selection theory, enabling atomic-scale control of oxidation and phase evolution. His work has significantly advanced oxidation-resistant, high-entropy, and amorphous coating systems. Dr. Cao has published over 40 papers, holds multiple patents, secured national funding, and actively mentors students and serves on international journal editorial boards.

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Jiqiang Hu | Surface Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jiqiang Hu | Surface Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Harbin Institute of Technology | China

Jiqiang Hu is an Associate Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at the Institute of Composite Materials and Structures, School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Harbin Institute of Technology. His research focuses on the development, performance characterization, and engineering application of lightweight polymer and fiber-reinforced composites for aerospace and advanced structural applications. He specializes in interfacial modification strategies, damage and fracture mechanics, and thermomechanical behavior of thermoplastic composites such as CF/PPS, CF/PEEK, and carbon nanofiber-reinforced systems. Dr. Hu’s work integrates advanced experimental techniques with multiscale theoretical modeling and numerical methods, including FFT-based frameworks and non-local elastic–plastic damage models, to understand structure–property relationships and failure mechanisms. His research has led to significant improvements in interlaminar shear strength, fracture toughness, and interfacial adhesion through surface functionalization and molecular-level design. He has published over 20 SCI papers in leading journals such as Composites Part B, Composites Science and Technology, Engineering Fracture Mechanics, and ACS Applied Nano Materials. As principal investigator, he has led multiple projects funded by national foundations and postdoctoral programs, contributing to high-performance composite technologies for next-generation aerospace structures.

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Oumarou Savadogo | Electrochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Oumarou Savadogo | Electrochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Polytechnique Montreal | Canada

Professor Oumarou Savadogo is a distinguished researcher whose pioneering contributions span materials science, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy technologies. With advanced training in physics, materials engineering, and metallurgical engineering, he has dedicated his career to developing innovative materials and processes that advance clean and renewable energy systems. His expertise encompasses energy materials, solar photovoltaic and thermal technologies, electrochemical energy storage including batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors hydrogen production and utilization, biomaterials, corrosion science, and physico-chemical characterization of complex materials. As Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Engineering: Applied Solar Technologies and Head of the Laboratory of New Materials for Energy and Electrochemistry, Professor Savadogo leads multidisciplinary programs focused on the design and optimization of advanced electrochemical materials. His research includes breakthroughs in oxygen cathode development for PEM fuel cells, new formalisms for understanding electrocatalytic reactions, and advanced simulation methods for adsorption–desorption processes. His work also extends to thin-film semiconductors for solar cells, corrosion-resistant coatings, nanostructured electrodes, conducting membranes, and biomaterial surface engineering demonstrating remarkable breadth and impact. Professor Savadogo’s scientific productivity is exceptional, with more than 180 peer-reviewed journal articles, influential book chapters, a 2024 book on nanostructured lithium-ion battery materials, and two foundational patents spanning biomedical implants and hydrogen fuel cell electrocatalysts. Recent publications highlight his leadership in emerging research areas, including techno-economic analyses of hydrogen production systems, bio-derived electrode materials for batteries, catalytic pathways for CO₂ reduction, molten carbonate fuel cells, and composite coatings with enhanced corrosion resistance. Beyond his research, Professor Savadogo serves the global scientific community through longstanding roles on advisory and editorial boards in electrochemical energy science and hydrogen technologies. His work continues to shape the future of sustainable energy materials, combining scientific rigor, innovation, and societal relevance. His contributions stand as a model of excellence in advancing technologies central to a low-carbon and sustainable global energy future.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Zemane, W.-W. A., & Savadogo, O. (2025). Electrochemical performances of Li-ion batteries based on LiFePO₄ cathodes supported by bio-sourced activated carbon from millet cob (MC) and water hyacinth (WH). Batteries, 11(10), 361.

2. Mihin, T., Savadogo, O., & Tartakovsky, B. (2025). Impact of non-noble bimetallic oxides on bioelectrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to volatile fatty acids. Process Biochemistry, 159, 51–63.

3. Shanian, S., & Savadogo, O. (2024). A critical review of the techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production from water electrolysers using multi-criteria decision making (MCDM). Journal of New Materials for Electrochemical Systems, 27(2), 107–134.

4. Thiam, B., & Savadogo, O. (2024). Effects of silico-tungstic acid on the pseudocapacitive properties of manganese oxide for electrochemical capacitor applications. DeCarbon, Article 100066.

5. Shanian, S., & Savadogo, O. (2024). Techno-economic analysis of electrolytic hydrogen production by alkaline and PEM electrolysers using MCDM methods. Discover Energy, 4(1), 23. )

Tun Naw Sut | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tun Naw Sut | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Sungkyunkwan University | South Korea

Dr. Sut Tun Naw is an accomplished interdisciplinary researcher whose work advances the frontiers of nanotechnology, biomimetic materials, and lipid-based membrane engineering for biomedical and diagnostic applications. With a dual Ph.D. in Nanomedicine from Nanyang Technological University and Chemical Engineering from Sungkyunkwan University, he brings a uniquely integrated perspective to studying molecular interactions at biointerfaces. His research focuses on lipid self-assembly, supported lipid bilayers, membrane biophysics, plasmonic biosensing, antimicrobial nanostructures, and virus–membrane interactions. Dr. Sut’s contributions have significantly deepened scientific understanding of how lipid organization, membrane curvature, cholesterol content, and multivalency govern nanoscale membrane behavior. Using advanced biophysical tools including QCM-D, nanoplasmonic sensing, and engineered membrane platforms he has elucidated mechanisms underlying vesicle deformation, antimicrobial lipid synergy, protein adsorption, and virus-mimicking membrane disruption. His innovative work includes designing lipid bicelle nanostructures for antibacterial applications, developing solvent-free fabrication of antimicrobial lipid nanoparticles, and engineering hybrid supported lipid bilayers for biosensing and antiviral technologies. He has also contributed to translational research through the development of next-generation plasmonic sensor platforms for virus detection, lipid-based coatings for diagnostic assays, and membrane-mimetic structures for therapeutic delivery. With over 50 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as ACS Nano, Advanced Healthcare Materials, Langmuir, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Applied Materials Today, Dr. Sut has established himself as a leading young scientist in membrane engineering and nanobiotechnology. His roles as Guest Editor and Topic Editor further reflect his influence within the scientific community. Through creativity, rigorous experimentation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Sut Tun Naw continues to pioneer breakthroughs with broad implications for diagnostics, virology, nanomedicine, and biomolecular engineering.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Sut, T. N., Yoon, B. K., & Jackman, J. A. (2025). Synergistic membrane disruption of E. coli tethered lipid bilayers by antimicrobial lipid mixtures. Biomimetics, 10, 739.

Lee, C. J., Jannah, F., Sut, T. N., Haris, M., & Jackman, J. A. (2025). Curvature-sensing peptides for virus and extracellular vesicle applications. ACS Nano, 19, 36845–36875.

Kim, D., Baek, H., Lim, S. Y., Lee, M. S., Lyu, S., Lee, J., Sut, T. N., Gonçalves, M., Kang, J. Y., Jackman, J. A., & Kim, J. W. (2025). Mechanobiologically engineered mimicry of extracellular vesicles for improved systemic biodistribution and anti-inflammatory treatment efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis. Advanced Healthcare Materials, 14, 2500795.

Molla, A., Sut, T. N., Yoon, B. K., & Jackman, J. A. (2025). Headgroup-driven binding selectivity of alkylphospholipids to anionic lipid bilayers. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 255, 114964.

Ruano, M., Sut, T. N., Tan, S. W., Mullen, A. B., Kelemen, D., Ferro, V. A., & Jackman, J. A. (2025). Solvent-free microfluidic fabrication of antimicrobial lipid nanoparticles. ACS Applied Bio Materials, 8, 2194–2203.

 

Reza Ahmadi | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Mr. Reza Ahmadi | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Spain

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Reza Ahmadi’s academic journey began with a High School Diploma in Mathematics and Physics from Nabi Akram High School in Iran, where he laid a strong foundation in analytical and scientific thinking. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering at Malayer University (2013–2017), achieving a commendable GPA of 16.8/20 in his final year. Demonstrating a deep interest in materials science, he secured a top 30 national rank among over 50,000 candidates in the highly competitive Iranian Nationwide Matriculation Exam (Konkoor) in 2017. This exceptional performance led him to the Sharif University of Technology, one of Iran’s top institutions, where he completed his Master’s in Materials Engineering with a specialization in Corrosion and Materials Protection (GPA: 15.34/20). His academic excellence and persistent curiosity paved the way for his current pursuit of a PhD in Chemical Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Spain, starting in 2024, under the Molecular and Industrial Biotechnology (GBMI) Group.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Reza’s academic and research journey reflects a seamless blend of theory and application. His Master’s research focused on advanced corrosion protection, while his doctoral studies at UPC emphasize biomaterials innovation, integrating molecular biology, nanotechnology, and chemical engineering. Throughout his academic career, Reza has engaged in hands-on lab work, interdisciplinary collaborations, and advanced materials characterization—preparing him to tackle challenges at the interface of materials science, healthcare, and biotechnology.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Ahmadi’s research is centered around the design, synthesis, and characterization of biomaterials with potential applications in antibacterial surfaces, chronic wound treatment, drug delivery, and bone regeneration implants. He has delved into the development of nanomaterials for antibacterial applications and explored the intricate interactions between cells and biomaterials through in vitro studies and cell culture. His comprehensive approach spans from fundamental material design to biological evaluation, making his contributions highly relevant to biomedical engineering and translational medicine.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Reza’s interdisciplinary work bridges the gap between engineering and medicine. His innovative strategies in hydrogel-based wound dressings, cancer-targeted drug delivery systems, and biocompatible implants not only contribute to academic advancements but also have promising societal impact. His technical understanding and lab experience allow him to contribute to real-world healthcare solutions, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and biocompatibility.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

While currently in the early stages of his PhD, Reza’s past academic accomplishments—such as ranking 30th nationally in the Iranian engineering entrance exam—demonstrate his consistent excellence and potential for significant contributions. As his doctoral research progresses, his work is expected to result in high-quality journal publications, conference presentations, and international collaborations, increasing his academic visibility and citation record.

🛠️ Technical Expertise

Reza has developed strong laboratory and instrumentation skills essential to his research. He is proficient in X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FTIR spectroscopy, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Polarization testing using Autolab, pull-off adhesion testing for bio-coatings, and basic AAS/ICP techniques. His software proficiency includes Xpert HighScore for XRD analysis, Nova for EIS and corrosion data, OriginPro for data visualization, Clemex for microscope image analysis, SolidWorks for CAD design, and standard Microsoft Office tools for documentation and presentation.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentoring Experience

While primarily focused on research, Mr. Ahmadi has contributed to academic settings through peer mentoring, lab support, and collaborative student-led projects during his Master’s and early PhD years. His clear communication skills, combined with a passion for applied science, equip him well for future roles in higher education teaching, seminar delivery, and student research supervision.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Mr. Reza Ahmadi is committed to advancing the field of biomedical materials and nanotechnology. His long-term vision includes contributing to biomedical device innovation, sustainable material development, and interdisciplinary scientific collaboration. Through research, mentorship, and applied engineering, he aspires to bridge scientific knowledge with patient care, leaving a lasting impact on both academic and healthcare landscapes.

📖Notable Publications

In vitro study: Bond strength, electrochemical and biocompatibility evaluations of TiO₂/Al₂O₃ reinforced hydroxyapatite sol–gel coatings on 316L SS
Authors: R. Ahmadi, A. Afshar
Journal: Surface and Coatings Technology, Vol. 405, Article 126594
Year: 2021

In vitro study: Synthesis and evaluation of Fe₃O₄/CQD magnetic/fluorescent nanocomposites for targeted drug delivery, MRI, and cancer cell labeling
Authors: R. Fattahi Nafchi, R. Ahmadi, M. Heydari, M.R. Rahimipour, M.J. Molaei, et al.
Journal: Langmuir, Vol. 38(12), pp. 3804–3816
Year: 2022

In vitro study: Evaluation of mechanical behavior, corrosion resistance, antibacterial properties and biocompatibility of HAp/TiO₂/Ag coating on Ti6Al4V/TiO₂ substrate
Authors: R. Ahmadi, N. Asadpourchallou, B.K. Kaleji
Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces, Vol. 24, Article 101072
Year: 2021

Development of HAp/GO/Ag coating on 316 LVM implant for medical applications
Authors: R. Ahmadi, S. Izanloo
Journal: Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, Vol. 126, Article 105075
Year: 2022

Peng Yao | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Peng Yao | Surface Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shandong University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🏛️ Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Peng Yao embarked on his academic journey at Northeastern University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree (1998-2002) in Mechanical Engineering and Automation. His keen interest in mechanical systems and automation drove him to further specialize in Mechanical Manufacturing and Automation, earning his Master’s degree (2002-2005) from the same university. His passion for research and advanced engineering led him to Tohoku University, Japan, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Nanomechanics (2008-2011). This academic path equipped him with a deep understanding of mechanical structures, automation techniques, and nanomechanical properties, shaping his future research endeavors.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Yao is currently a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, China. His career has been marked by an extensive engagement with mechanical engineering, precision manufacturing, and automation. His work focuses on integrating advanced nanomechanics principles into modern manufacturing techniques, bridging the gap between theoretical research and industrial applications. Over the years, he has contributed to the enhancement of automated manufacturing systems, precision engineering, and mechanical design, ensuring efficiency and innovation in the field.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Yao’s research primarily revolves around nanomechanics, with a strong focus on material behavior at the nanoscale. His expertise extends to precision manufacturing, material engineering, and automation in mechanical systems. His studies have led to advancements in high-performance materials, micro-manufacturing processes, and AI-driven automation systems. By integrating nanomechanical insights into manufacturing and automation, his research has paved the way for innovative solutions in industrial production, robotics, and material science. His work plays a crucial role in developing next-generation materials with enhanced strength, flexibility, and durability.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Yao’s contributions have had a far-reaching impact on both academia and industry. His research in nanomechanics and automation has influenced the development of high-precision industrial applications, leading to the improvement of manufacturing efficiency and product reliability. His cross-border collaborations, particularly between China and Japan, have strengthened global research partnerships in mechanical engineering. Beyond research, he has inspired and mentored a new generation of engineers and researchers, contributing to the global advancement of mechanical automation and material science.

📖 Academic Citations & Recognitions

Prof. Yao's scholarly contributions have been widely recognized through numerous academic citations and research publications. His work is frequently referenced in studies related to nanomechanical materials, automation systems, and precision engineering. His publications have contributed significantly to scientific advancements in mechanical behavior at the nanoscale, strengthening his reputation as a leading researcher in the field. His research has gained attention in high-impact mechanical engineering and materials science journals, reflecting his influence in advancing industrial and scientific applications.

🛠️ Technical Skills

With an extensive background in mechanical engineering and nanomechanics, Prof. Yao possesses a strong command of advanced computational tools and experimental techniques. His expertise includes computational nanomechanics, finite element analysis (FEA), robotics and automation, and high-precision manufacturing systems. His skills in integrating artificial intelligence with mechanical automation have positioned him at the forefront of technological advancements in intelligent manufacturing. His technical proficiency allows him to develop cutting-edge solutions for industrial applications, ensuring greater efficiency and accuracy in engineering processes.

🎓 Teaching Experience

As a professor at Shandong University, Prof. Yao has played a vital role in shaping the academic and professional careers of his students. His teaching focuses on advanced mechanical design, automation engineering, and nanomechanics, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Through research guidance and mentorship, he has helped numerous graduate and doctoral students achieve academic excellence and industry readiness. His approach to education bridges the gap between scientific research and industrial needs, ensuring that his students remain at the forefront of engineering innovation.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Peng Yao’s legacy is defined by his pioneering work in mechanical automation and nanomechanics, contributing significantly to the progress of modern manufacturing technologies. Looking ahead, his research aims to develop AI-driven automation systems, enhance nanomaterial applications, and foster global research collaborations. His commitment to scientific advancement and education ensures that his contributions will continue to shape the future of mechanical engineering and precision manufacturing. Through his work, he is not only pushing the boundaries of technology but also inspiring the next generation of researchers to explore the possibilities of nanomechanics and intelligent automation.

📖Notable Publications

Grinding quality evaluation and removal mechanism of resin-coated SiC and 2.5D-C-SiCs surface strategies
Authors: S. Qu, L. Li, Y. Yang, Z. Yin, P. Yao
Journal: Tribology International
Year: 2024

Intelligent rolling bearing compound fault diagnosis based on frequency-domain Gramian angular field and convolutional neural networks with imbalanced data
Authors: F. Zhang, P. Yao, X. Geng, M.S. Jiang, L. Jia
Journal: Journal of Vibration and Control
Year: 2024

Laser-assisted water jet machining of high quality micro-trap structures on stainless steel surfaces
Authors: L. Liu, P. Yao, D. Chu, S. Qu, C. Huang
Journal: Chinese Optics
Year: 2024

Temperature field in the crack-free ductile dry grinding of fused silica based on wheel wear topographies
Authors: W. Wang, Z. Li, H. Yin, S. Yu, P. Yao
Journal: Journal of Materials Processing Technology
Year: 2024

Ultra-precision grinding damage suppression strategy for 2.5D-Cf-SiCs by resin coating protection
Authors: L. Li, S. Qu, Y. Yang, G. Peng, Z. Yin
Journal: Tribology International
Year: 2024

Effect of arc deposition process on mechanical properties and microstructure of TiAlSiN gradient coatings
Authors: L. Ji, H.L. Liu, C. Huang, Y. Liu, P. Yao
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2024