YANG WANG | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr YANG WANG | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

Senior Engineer, Shanghai Geological Engineering Exploration (Group) Co., Ltd, China

Yang Wang is a dedicated researcher and engineer specializing in geotechnical and environmental engineering. With extensive experience in energy conversion, groundwater science, and COโ‚‚ geological sequestration, he has contributed significantly to the field. Currently serving as a Senior Engineer at Shanghai Geological and Mineral Engineering Survey (Group) Co., Ltd., he has led high-impact projects, mentored junior engineers, and collaborated on innovative solutions for complex geological challenges. His research focuses on energy piles, aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES), and thermo-hydro-mechanical simulations, with multiple publications in top-tier journals. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil and Hydraulic Engineering from Tongji University, complementing his M.S. from Beijing Normal University and B.S. from China University of Geosciences. His expertise and scholarly contributions have earned him recognition in the engineering community, with a strong citation record reflecting his impact.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Scopus

EDUCATION ๐ŸŽ“

๐Ÿ“ Tongji University, Shanghai, China
๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Ph.D. in Civil and Hydraulic Engineering (2020 โ€“ 2024)

  • Focused on energy geotechnics, aquifer thermal energy storage, and geotechnical simulations.

๐Ÿ“ Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
๐ŸŒŠ M.S. in Groundwater Science and Engineering (2009 โ€“ 2012)

  • Specialized in COโ‚‚ sequestration, groundwater flow modeling, and hydrological analysis.

๐Ÿ“ China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China
๐Ÿ’ง B.S. in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering (2005 โ€“ 2009)

  • Gained expertise in water resources management, hydrological modeling, and environmental sustainability.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE ๐Ÿข

๐Ÿ”น Shanghai Geological and Mineral Engineering Survey (Group) Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
๐Ÿ“Œ Senior Engineer (2014 โ€“ Present)

  • Led geotechnical and environmental engineering projects, ensuring high-quality execution.
  • Conducted advanced geotechnical modeling for subsurface conditions and environmental impacts.
  • Developed innovative solutions for geological challenges and mentored junior engineers.
  • Conducted rigorous site investigations for safer construction practices.

๐Ÿ”น Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
๐Ÿ“Œ Assistant Researcher (2012 โ€“ 2013)

  • Conducted research on energy conversion technologies and sustainable energy solutions.
  • Managed experimental setups, data collection, and analysis for research projects.
  • Contributed to scientific publications and internal reports on energy efficiency.

AWARDS & HONORS ๐Ÿ…

๐Ÿ† Recognized for excellence in geotechnical engineering research.
๐Ÿ“œ Multiple publications in high-impact scientific journals.
๐Ÿ”ฌ Contributor to groundbreaking studies in energy piles and ATES systems.
๐ŸŽ–๏ธ Active member of geotechnical and hydrology research communities.
๐Ÿ“Š Strong citation record reflecting research impact.

RESEARCH FOCUS ๐Ÿ”

๐ŸŒ Energy Geotechnics โ€“ Investigating energy piles and thermal effects in geotechnical structures.
๐Ÿ’ง Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) โ€“ Modeling thermal and hydromechanical interactions in aquifers.
๐Ÿ— Geotechnical Engineering โ€“ Advanced simulations for subsurface stability and environmental impact.
โ˜ COโ‚‚ Sequestration โ€“ Numerical analysis of COโ‚‚ storage efficiency in saline aquifers.
โšก Renewable Energy Solutions โ€“ Enhancing efficiency of geothermal and energy storage systems.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTESย ๐Ÿ“š

1๏ธโƒฃ Full-scale in-situ experimental study on the bearing capacity of energy piles under varying temperature and multiple mechanical load levels. Acta Geotechnica, 2023.
2๏ธโƒฃ Thermo-hydro-mechanical coupled simulation of land subsidence due to aquifer thermal energy storage system in soft soils. Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, 2024.
3๏ธโƒฃ Operation optimization for aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) systems based on a surrogate model-assisted method. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2025.
4๏ธโƒฃ Numerical investigation of the storage efficiency factor for COโ‚‚ geological sequestration in saline formations. Energy Procedia, 2013.
5๏ธโƒฃ Investigation of COโ‚‚ storage capacity in open saline aquifers with numerical models. Procedia Engineering, 2012.
6๏ธโƒฃ Three-dimensional heat transfer-seepage coupling simulation of large-scale buried pipe cluster ground source heat pump system. Acta Energiae Solaris Sinica, 2024.
7๏ธโƒฃ Thermomechanical analysis of energy piles using a novel load-transfer approach considering soil coupling effects. Computers and Geotechnics, 2024.

Fanghua Li | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fanghua Li | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant , Guangxi University ,China

Dr. Fanghua Li is a highly accomplished researcher in civil and communication engineering. Born on March 1, 1986, in Nanning, Guangxi, she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Guangxi University, where she has been a key figure in research and development. Dr. Li has a strong foundation in communication engineering, having completed her masterโ€™s degree at Hunan University and undergraduate studies at Xi’an University of Technology. With a unique combination of civil and communication engineering expertise, Dr. Liโ€™s work focuses on sustainable infrastructure, energy systems, and environmental impact. She has contributed significantly to several high-impact research projects, particularly those addressing urban heat islands, energy storage, and nanotechnology applications. Dr. Li’s interdisciplinary research has earned her recognition in the field of engineering, and her publications continue to influence both academic and practical applications in civil and energy systems engineering.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse and High-Impact Research Dr. Fanghua Liโ€™s research spans several critical areas, including civil engineering, communication engineering, and the application of nanotechnology in thermal energy systems. Her work on permeable concrete, urban heat island effects, roadbed reflectivity, and energy storage materials is both innovative and impactful.Notably, she has contributed to the following areas:
    • Evaporation resistance and urban heat island effects: This research addresses environmental and sustainability concerns that have wide-ranging urban applications.
    • Reflectivity of roadbeds in cold regions: The ability to regulate temperature through reflective materials can lead to more sustainable infrastructure in cold climates.
    • Thermal performance in energy systems: Her work on nanofluid behavior and thermal storage in porous media is important for enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy systems and buildings.

    These projects, especially those funded by national science foundations, demonstrate the significance and practical applications of her work.

  2. Publication Record Dr. Li has published extensively in reputable journals such as Energy and Buildings, Journal of Molecular Liquids, Powder Technology, and Cold Regions Science and Technology. Her papers cover a range of important topics from heat flux in pavement structures to the use of nanomaterials in improving thermal energy storage. Her publications have attracted significant citations (e.g., over 160 citations for one of her papers), highlighting her influence in her field.Notable publications include:
    • Energy storage and thermal management: Studies on improving heat transfer through nanomaterials in porous structures and phase change materials (PCMs) highlight her contribution to sustainable energy solutions.
    • Cooling performance of materials: Research into materials that can mitigate heat absorption in urban environments directly addresses climate change concerns.
  3. Research Leadership and Project Management Dr. Liโ€™s leadership roles in various research projects, including her position as a key laboratory manager at Guangxi University, demonstrate strong organizational and collaborative skills. She has led several successful research initiatives, evidenced by the substantial funding received for her projects and her active involvement in guiding young researchers in the field.
  4. Multidisciplinary Expertise Dr. Liโ€™s background in communication engineering, combined with her advanced studies in civil engineering, allows her to approach problems from a multidisciplinary perspective, which is essential in todayโ€™s research landscape. Her ability to bridge the gap between different fields enhances the quality and depth of her research.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Interdisciplinary Collaboration While Dr. Liโ€™s work is multidisciplinary, there could be further opportunity to collaborate with researchers in adjacent fields such as urban planning, environmental sciences, and policy to expand the practical applications of her findings. Collaborations in these areas could enhance the societal impact of her work, especially in urban sustainability.
  2. Public Engagement and Outreach Given the relevance of Dr. Liโ€™s research to current global challenges such as climate change and urban heat islands, there is a potential to improve the visibility of her work outside the academic community. Engaging with policymakers, urban planners, and the public could help translate her research into real-world solutions.
  3. Research Diversification While Dr. Li’s focus on thermal management and nanomaterials is vital, expanding her research into other emerging areas such as smart cities or advanced materials for infrastructure resilience could further elevate her profile as a researcher. Additionally, exploring more innovative technological solutions like AI-driven modeling for energy systems could be a valuable direction for future research.

Educationย 

Dr. Fanghua Li began her academic journey at Xi’an University of Technology, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Engineering (2005โ€“2009). Building on her undergraduate education, she pursued a Masterโ€™s degree in Communication Engineering at Hunan University (2009โ€“2012), where she gained expertise in communications technology. Following this, Dr. Li furthered her academic career by enrolling in a PhD program at Guangxi University (2020โ€“present), focusing on Civil Engineering. Her current doctoral research explores innovative solutions for urban sustainability, with an emphasis on materials science, thermal management, and energy-efficient infrastructures. With a background that combines communication systems and civil engineering, Dr. Li is uniquely positioned to contribute to interdisciplinary research, particularly in the fields of urban planning, environmental engineering, and energy efficiency. Her commitment to education and research exemplifies her dedication to advancing both scientific knowledge and practical applications.

Experienceย 

Dr. Fanghua Liโ€™s professional career began in 2012 when she joined the Huizhou Branch of China Mobile in Network Maintenance, where she worked until March 2013. This early role helped her develop a solid foundation in communication systems and infrastructure maintenance. In 2013, she transitioned to Guangxi University, where she took on a leadership role as the Key Laboratory Manager from 2013 to 2020. In this position, Dr. Li managed various cutting-edge research projects and was responsible for overseeing laboratory operations and fostering collaborative research initiatives. Her time at Guangxi University provided her with significant experience in managing large-scale research projects and mentoring junior researchers. Throughout her career, Dr. Li has contributed to a range of impactful research projects in civil and environmental engineering, particularly in areas related to sustainable infrastructure and energy efficiency. Her ability to bridge research with practical applications has positioned her as a leader in her field.

Awards and Honorsย 

Dr. Fanghua Li has earned multiple recognitions for her contributions to civil and environmental engineering. Notably, she was involved in NSFC Youth Projects such as โ€œEvaporation Resistance Characteristics of Permeable Concreteโ€ and โ€œReflectivity of Roadbeds in Cold Regionsโ€, both of which were ranked third in their respective categories. These projects brought her recognition in the field of urban heat island mitigation and infrastructure sustainability. In addition, Dr. Li has received funding from prestigious institutions such as the Guangxi Natural Science Foundation for her research on urban canyon reflectivity and its environmental applications. Her publications in leading academic journals, including Energy and Buildings and Journal of Molecular Liquids, have attracted significant citations, further establishing her as a recognized leader in her research areas. Her interdisciplinary expertise in civil engineering, energy systems, and nanotechnology has earned her a reputation for innovation and excellence within the academic and professional communities.

Research Focusย 

Dr. Fanghua Liโ€™s research primarily focuses on sustainable infrastructure, energy systems, and the integration of nanotechnology in civil engineering applications. Her research addresses critical environmental challenges such as the urban heat island effect, the reflectivity of roadbeds, and energy storage systems. Dr. Li has conducted extensive studies on permeable concrete and its role in mitigating urban heat, as well as nanofluids for enhancing heat transfer in energy systems. She has also explored the use of phase change materials (PCMs) and porous media for improving the efficiency of thermal energy storage. A particular area of interest is her work on energy-efficient building materials and thermal management systems, which includes developing strategies for controlling temperature variations in urban environments. Dr. Liโ€™s interdisciplinary expertise allows her to approach these problems from multiple angles, integrating civil engineering, material science, and energy technology to create practical, sustainable solutions.

Publications

  • “An innovative simplified approach for conductive heat flux in pavement structures” โ€“ Energy and Buildings, 2024 ๐Ÿ”ฅ
  • “Free convection simulation of hybrid nanomaterial in permeable cavity with inclusion of magnetic force” โ€“ Journal of Molecular Liquids, 2021 ๐Ÿ”ฌ
  • “Influences of imposed magnetic force on treatment of hybrid nanofluid involving non-Darcy porous model” โ€“ International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, 2021 ๐Ÿ’จ
  • “Melting process of nanoparticle enhanced PCM through storage cylinder incorporating fins” โ€“ Powder Technology, 2021 โ„๏ธ
  • “Performance of ventilation system involving thermal storage unit considering porous media” โ€“ Journal of Energy Storage, 2020 ๐Ÿ”‹
  • “Finned unit solidification with use of nanoparticles improved PCM” โ€“ Journal of Molecular Liquids, 2020 ๐ŸŒก๏ธ
  • “Numerical study for nanofluid behavior inside a storage finned enclosure involving melting process” โ€“ Journal of Molecular Liquids, 2020 ๐Ÿ’ง
  • “Experimental study on the cooling performance of shading boards with different emissivities at the underside” โ€“ Cold Regions Science and Technology, 2020 ๐Ÿ™๏ธ
  • “Moist curing increases the solar reflectance of concrete” โ€“ Construction and Building Materials, 2019 ๐ŸŒž
  • “The amplitude and maximum of daily pavement surface temperature increase linearly with solar absorption” โ€“ Road Materials and Pavement Design, 2017 ๐ŸŒก๏ธ

Conclusion

Dr. Fanghua Li is a highly accomplished and innovative researcher whose work addresses important environmental and energy challenges. She demonstrates excellence in both the quality and impact of her research, which is backed by substantial funding and numerous high-impact publications. Her interdisciplinary expertise, leadership skills, and contribution to sustainable infrastructure and energy solutions make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.While there is room for growth in terms of broadening interdisciplinary collaborations and engaging with external stakeholders, her research record, leadership, and significant contributions to both academia and society strongly support her candidacy for this prestigious award.

Claudio Albuquerque Frate – Renewable Energy – Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

Claudio Albuquerque Frate - Renewable Energy - Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

Federal University of Cearรก - Brazil

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

EXPERT IN DECENTRALIZED RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS

Claudio Albuquerque Frate's research focuses on decentralized renewable energy systems and their complex interactions with institutions, society, and nature. His work emphasizes the integration of low-carbon technologies using quali-quantitative methods to address diverse research questions.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS IN BRAZIL

Frate has extensively studied the adoption of photovoltaic systems in multi-unit buildings, examining agents' rationalities for supporting distributed generation diffusion in Brazil. His 2024 publication in Energy Policy highlights key factors influencing the spread of renewable energy in urban settings.

INLAND WATERWAY TRANSPORT

Another significant area of Frate's research is the development of inland waterway transport, particularly in the Brazilian Amazon. His 2023 Q-Method study on the Tocantins River, published in Case Studies on Transport Policy, explores sustainable transport solutions in this ecologically sensitive region.

TECHNO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

Frate's techno-economic analysis of PV-wind-battery systems for remote communities, such as his 2020 case study in Haiti published in Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering, provides insights into the feasibility and impact of renewable energy solutions in isolated areas.

CARBON PAYBACK AND PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER

In his 2020 article in Utilities Policy, Frate conducted a sensitivity analysis of the carbon payback time for a Brazilian photovoltaic power plant. This research underscores the environmental benefits and sustainability metrics of solar energy projects.

JUSTICE IN WIND POWER DEVELOPMENT

Frate has also explored procedural and distributive justice in the context of wind power development. His 2019 study in Energy Policy examines the subjective experiences and perceptions of local communities in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, regarding wind energy projects.

BARRIERS TO LARGE-SCALE RENEWABLE ENERGY

Understanding stakeholder perspectives on barriers to the adoption of large-scale renewable energy is another key focus of Frate's research. His 2019 and 2017 studies in Energies and Energy Policy, respectively, use Q-Method to reveal the challenges and drivers in the introduction of wind and solar power in Brazil.

ETHANOL AND AGRARIAN REFORM IN BRAZIL

Frate has investigated the social implications of Brazil's ethanol production ambitions on agrarian reform goals. His work highlights the complex interplay between biofuel policies and social equity, providing a nuanced understanding of sustainable development in the agricultural sector.