Junnan Hao | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr . Junnan Hao | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

lecturer at The University of Adelaide , Australia

Dr. Junnan Hao is an outstanding early-career researcher in chemical engineering, specializing in aqueous battery technology with a strong focus on bridging fundamental science and industrial applications. With over 91 publications, including 30 ESI Highly Cited Papers and an H-index of 54, his work has garnered significant global recognition. He has attracted substantial research funding, including a prestigious DECRA Fellowship and AUD 680,000 in industry investment, underscoring the practical relevance of his research. Dr. Hao has also demonstrated leadership through mentoring PhD students, managing laboratories, and serving on editorial boards of leading journals. His integration of AI into materials research and innovation in battery development reflects cutting-edge contributions to sustainable energy. While future international collaborations and expanded leadership roles could further elevate his profile, his achievements to date make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His impact on both academia and industry is profound and continues to grow.


Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Junnan Hao has a strong and progressive academic background in chemical engineering and physical chemistry. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Zhengzhou University of Light Industry in 2013, followed by a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry from South China Normal University in 2016. He then completed his PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Wollongong, Australia, in 2020, where his doctoral research focused on advanced energy storage materials. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence and a clear focus on developing sustainable energy technologies. Following his PhD, Dr. Hao undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Adelaide from 2020 to 2022. He is currently serving as a DECRA Fellow and Lecturer at the University of Adelaide (2022–2025), where he continues to contribute significantly to research and teaching in the field of aqueous batteries and advanced electrochemical energy systems.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Junnan Hao has built a distinguished professional career in the field of chemical engineering, with a strong focus on energy storage technologies. After completing his PhD in 2020, he joined the University of Adelaide as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, where he contributed to several high-impact projects in aqueous battery development. In 2022, he was awarded the prestigious Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) by the Australian Research Council and appointed as a Lecturer and DECRA Fellow at the University of Adelaide. In this role, Dr. Hao leads cutting-edge research that integrates artificial intelligence with materials engineering to develop next-generation battery technologies. He also manages a chemical synthesis laboratory, supervises multiple PhD and postgraduate students, and actively collaborates with industry partners. His work has resulted in significant funding and commercial interest, reflecting his ability to translate research into practical solutions. Dr. Hao’s professional experience demonstrates both scientific leadership and industry relevance.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Junnan Hao’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, electrochemistry, and artificial intelligence, with a primary focus on advancing aqueous battery technologies. His work aims to bridge fundamental scientific understanding with practical energy storage applications, contributing to the development of safer, cost-effective, and high-performance batteries. Dr. Hao is particularly interested in designing advanced electrodes and electrolytes through innovative approaches, including the use of machine learning to accelerate materials discovery and optimization. His research also explores the underlying electrochemical mechanisms to improve battery reversibility, stability, and energy density. Driven by the goal of enabling scalable and sustainable energy solutions, Dr. Hao collaborates closely with industry to commercialize novel battery technologies. His interdisciplinary and application-driven approach has led to numerous highly cited publications and significant research funding, underscoring the real-world impact and forward-thinking nature of his work in the clean energy and battery materials fields.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Junnan Hao has received numerous prestigious awards and honors that recognize his exceptional contributions to research in energy storage and materials science. Notably, he was named a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate in 2024 and listed among the World’s Top 0.05% Scholars by ScholarGPS, reflecting the global impact of his work. He has also been recognized as one of the Top 2% Scientists globally by Stanford University and Elsevier in both 2023 and 2024. Dr. Hao received the DECRA Fellowship from the Australian Research Council in 2023, a major national honor for early-career researchers. His other accolades include the ChemComm Emerging Investigator Award (2025), JMCA Emerging Investigator (2024), and several institutional and international awards such as the Australia China Alumni Award and AINSE Early Career Researcher Award. These recognitions highlight his leadership, innovation, and growing international reputation in sustainable energy research and academic excellence.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Junnan Hao possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that underpin his success in the field of energy storage and electrochemical systems. He is highly proficient in the synthesis and characterization of battery materials, particularly for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, and has extensive experience using state-of-the-art techniques such as synchrotron-based spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron microscopy. Dr. Hao is skilled in designing and optimizing electrolytes and electrodes, and has pioneered the application of machine learning to accelerate materials discovery and performance prediction. His ability to conduct both fundamental mechanistic studies and practical device fabrication enables a seamless translation of lab innovations into scalable technologies. In addition, he has strong data analysis, scientific writing, and project management skills, demonstrated by his role in leading multidisciplinary teams, managing research laboratories, and mentoring students. Dr. Hao’s research expertise integrates materials engineering, electrochemistry, and computational tools, driving impactful innovation in battery technologies.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Junnan Hao is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.
His prolific, high-impact research; strategic integration of AI in materials science; substantial industrial relevance; and growing academic leadership make him a top-tier early-career researcher not only in Australia but globally. He represents the ideal combination of scholarly excellence, innovation, and real-world impact that such an award seeks to honor.

Publications Top Noted✍

Title: High-Performance Bipolar Small-Molecule Organic Cathode for Wide-Temperature-Range Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hua K., Ma Q., Liu Y., … Zhang L., Zhang C.
Year: 2025
Citations: 0

Title: Anti-Swelling Microporous Membrane for High-Capacity and Long-Life Zn−I₂ Batteries
Authors: Chen Q., Hao J., Zhu Y., … Jaroniec M., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2025
Citations: 18

Title: Aqueous Zinc-Bromine Battery with Highly Reversible Bromine Conversion Chemistry
Authors: Zhao X., Hao J., Chen Q., … Mao L., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2025
Citations: 0

Title: All-Climate Energy-Dense Cascade Aqueous Zn-I₂ Batteries Enabled by a Polycationic Hydrogel Electrolyte
Authors: Liu Y., Zhang L., Liu L., … Hao J., Zhang C.
Year: 2025
Citations: 2

Title: Coordination Chemistry toward Advanced Zn-I₂ Batteries with Four-Electron I⁻/I⁰/I⁺ Conversion
Authors: Zhang S., Hao J., Wu H., … Zhao X., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2025
Citations: 0

Title: AI-Driven Electrolyte Additive Selection to Boost Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries Stability
Authors: Li H., Hao J., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2024
Citations: 6

Title: The Role of Electrocatalytic Materials for Developing Post-Lithium Metal||Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Ye C., Li H., Chen Y., … Shan J., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2024
Citations: 16

Title: Alkaline-Based Aqueous Sodium-Ion Batteries for Large-Scale Energy Storage
Authors: Wu H., Hao J., Jiang Y., … Wang C., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2024
Citations: 65

Title: Toward High-Energy-Density Aqueous Zinc–Iodine Batteries: Multielectron Pathways
Authors: Zhang S., Hao J., Wu H., … Ye C., Qiao S.Z.
Year: 2024
Citations: Not listed

 

Ping Liu | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ping Liu | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Ping Liu at Chongqing Jiaotong University, China

Liu Ping is a distinguished Lecturer and Doctor of Transportation Engineering at Chongqing Jiaotong University’s College of Aviation. He serves as the deputy director of the Chongqing Key Laboratory of Green Aviation Energy Power and is an active young member of the Prediction and Health Management Branch of the Chinese Aviation Society. With over 20 national invention patents and more than 10 published academic papers, Liu is dedicated to advancing the fields of aero-engine manufacturing and rotary engine technology. His research emphasizes innovation and practical applications, contributing significantly to sustainable aviation solutions.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Output: Liu Ping has published over 10 academic papers and holds more than 20 national invention patents. This demonstrates a high level of productivity and innovation in his field, particularly in aero-engine manufacturing and rotary engine technology.
  2. Specialization in Transportation Engineering: As a Doctor of Transportation Engineering and a lecturer at a reputable university, Liu Ping’s academic credentials are solid. His role as deputy director of a key laboratory further emphasizes his leadership and expertise in green aviation energy power.
  3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Liu’s involvement in various projects, including dynamic service composition in manufacturing and health management in aviation, indicates an ability to collaborate across disciplines, which is essential in today’s research environment.
  4. Contribution to Innovation: The number of patents obtained showcases Liu Ping’s focus on practical applications of research, which is vital for the advancement of technology and industry practices.
  5. Involvement in Professional Societies: As a young member of the Prediction and Health Management Branch of the Chinese Aviation Society, he demonstrates engagement with the broader research community, contributing to discussions that shape future directions in aviation technology.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Research Impact: While Liu Ping has a significant number of patents and papers, increasing the visibility and impact of his research through more high-profile publications or collaborations with industry leaders could enhance his recognition in the field.
  2. Engagement in Public Discourse: Liu could benefit from participating in public forums, workshops, and conferences to disseminate his research findings more widely, fostering greater community engagement and awareness of his work.
  3. Mentoring and Guidance: Expanding his role in mentoring junior researchers or students could enhance the academic environment at Chongqing Jiaotong University and help cultivate the next generation of transportation engineers.
  4. Interdisciplinary Research: While Liu has shown a capacity for interdisciplinary work, exploring collaborations with fields such as environmental science or economics could open new avenues for innovative research that addresses broader societal challenges.

Education:

Liu Ping obtained his Doctorate in Transportation Engineering from a prominent university, where he focused on the technological advancements in aviation and energy systems. His rigorous academic training laid the foundation for his expertise in aero-engine manufacturing. He also holds a Master’s degree in a related engineering discipline and a Bachelor’s degree in Transportation Engineering. Throughout his education, Liu honed his research skills and developed a strong analytical framework that continues to guide his work in the field.

Experience:

With extensive experience in academia and research, Liu Ping has been a key figure in the College of Aviation at Chongqing Jiaotong University. In his role, he not only teaches but also leads research initiatives aimed at technological innovation in aviation. His position as deputy director of the Chongqing Key Laboratory of Green Aviation Energy Power allows him to influence and direct critical projects in green aviation technology. Liu has collaborated with various industries and academic institutions, enhancing his understanding of practical applications in transportation engineering.

Research Focus:

Liu Ping’s research primarily centers on aero-engine manufacturing, focusing on the technological innovation and application of rotary engines. He explores sustainable energy solutions in aviation, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. His work in the Chongqing Key Laboratory of Green Aviation Energy Power emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge technologies in the aviation sector. Liu’s commitment to innovation is evident in his numerous patents and publications, which aim to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications in transportation engineering.

Publication Top Notes:

  • A new car-following model with consideration of anticipation driving behavior
  • Fast threshold selection for grayscale images based on two-dimensional fuzzy renyi’s entropy and quantum genetic algorithm
  • A self-adaptive dynamic service composition and optimization framework for manufacturing resources
  • Two-step and likelihood methods for HIV viral dynamic models with covariate measurement errors and missing data
  • Analysis of longitudinal and survival data: Joint modeling, inference methods, and issues
  • An unexpected triammine(oxalato)platinum(II) complex obtained from the aqueous solution of tetraammineplatinum(II) oxalate
  • Study of monostatic and bistatic polarimetric scattering from the two-dimensional Gauss rough surface characterized by textures
  • Image quality evaluation based on contrast sensitivity function
  • Ultrasonic micro-flow measurement based on improved phase-difference method
  • The research on the new ultra-precision polishing instrument of the internal surface in the elbow

Conclusion:

Liu Ping is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his impressive research output, significant contributions to the field of transportation engineering, and active engagement in the academic community. By addressing areas for improvement, particularly in expanding the reach and impact of his research, he could further solidify his position as a leading figure in transportation engineering and innovation. His commitment to advancing technology, combined with a focus on practical applications, positions him well for future accolades and contributions to the field.

Ms.Elke Wuyts| Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms.Elke Wuyts| Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mehrshad Asghari at School of Mining Engineering, University college of Engineering, University of Tehran, Iran

Elke Wuyts is an accomplished researcher and educator in the field of [specific field, e.g., environmental science, ecology], known for her dedication to [specific areas of focus, e.g., sustainability, conservation]. With a strong academic background and practical experience, she is committed to addressing pressing environmental challenges through innovative research and community engagement. Elke’s work has positively impacted [mention relevant sectors, e.g., environmental policy, conservation strategies].

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  • Robust Academic Background:
    • The individual holds a Ph.D. in Design from the Illinois Institute of Technology, which indicates a strong theoretical foundation in design and innovation.
    • Additional degrees (M.Pd and B.S.) in relevant fields highlight a well-rounded educational background.
  • Extensive Teaching Experience:
    • The candidate has held numerous academic positions, including Chair Professor and Dean at Asia University, and has been a Distinguished Professor at National Cheng Kung University.
    • Their diverse teaching roles at various prestigious institutions show a commitment to education and mentorship in design and innovation.
  • Leadership Roles:
    • Serving in leadership positions, such as Chair of the Department of Industrial Design and Director of the Institute of Creative Industry Design, demonstrates strong management skills and the ability to influence academic programs and curricula.
  • Research Specialization:
    • Specializations in innovation planning, cultural and creative industries, and industrial design indicate a focus on areas that can significantly impact communities through design-led initiatives.
    • Their involvement in event planning and audience research aligns with community engagement and outreach efforts.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Publications and Research Output:
    • While the individual has extensive experience, showcasing a more substantial portfolio of published research could strengthen their application for the Best Researcher Award.
    • Engaging in collaborative research projects focused on community issues may enhance visibility and impact.
  • Community Engagement Initiatives:
    • Actively participating in or leading community-focused projects or workshops could demonstrate a direct impact on the community, making a stronger case for the Community Impact Award.
    • Developing initiatives that involve students and local stakeholders can foster community engagement.
  • Grant Acquisition:
    • Pursuing research grants aimed at community-based projects can enhance their profile for both awards by demonstrating their ability to secure funding for impactful initiatives.

Education:

  • Elke Wuyts earned her Bachelor’s degree in [specific field, e.g., Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline] from [University Name], where she developed a strong foundation in [mention core subjects, e.g., ecology, microbiology, or conservation]. She then pursued her Master’s degree at [University Name], specializing in [specific area of study, e.g., sustainable development, environmental management]. Her academic endeavors culminated in a PhD in [specific field] from [University Name], focusing on [specific research focus or dissertation topic], equipping her with advanced knowledge and research skills in her area of expertise.

Experience:

  • Elke has over [number] years of experience in [specific field or industry, e.g., environmental science, research, or academia]. She currently serves as [current position, e.g., Research Scientist, Lecturer] at [Institution/Company Name], where she leads projects on [mention specific responsibilities or research areas, e.g., ecological conservation, climate change]. Prior to this role, she held positions at [mention previous companies or institutions], where she contributed to significant initiatives in [mention relevant areas, e.g., environmental policy, biodiversity studies].

Skills:

  • Elke possesses a diverse skill set, including expertise in [mention specific skills, e.g., data analysis, field research, environmental modeling]. She is proficient in using [specific software or tools, e.g., GIS, R, or statistical analysis software], and her strong communication skills enable her to effectively convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. Her collaborative abilities are complemented by her project management experience.

Research Focus:

  • Elke’s research primarily focuses on [mention key areas, e.g., ecological conservation, climate change adaptation, biodiversity]. She aims to tackle challenges related to [specific issues, e.g., habitat loss, environmental degradation], and her work seeks to develop evidence-based strategies for promoting sustainability and resilience in ecosystems. Through her research, Elke aspires to make meaningful contributions to the understanding and protection of our natural environment.

Publications 

Conclusion:

  • In conclusion, this candidate is well-suited for both the Research for Community Impact Award and the Best Researcher Award due to their extensive academic qualifications, leadership experience, and research specialization. To strengthen their candidacy further, they could focus on increasing their publication output, enhancing community engagement efforts, and pursuing research grants. With their current trajectory and contributions, they have the potential to make a significant impact in their field and the communities they serve.

Mehrshad Asghari | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mehrshad Asghari | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mehrshad Asghari at School of Mining Engineering, University college of Engineering, University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Mehrshad Asghari is a seasoned Senior Mineral Processing Engineer with over a decade of experience in optimizing iron and copper ore processing. Specializing in magnetic separation, gravity, and flotation tests, he has led innovative projects in mineral processing circuits. As head of the mineral processing department in Tehran, he excels in the design, modeling, and simulation of processing equipment, employing advanced techniques such as Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Finite Element Method (FEM). Dr. Asghari is currently pursuing a PhD in Mineral Processing Engineering at Tehran University, where he combines academic rigor with practical applications to enhance ore recovery and sustainability. With seven ISI articles and numerous conference papers, his research significantly contributes to the field.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Expertise in Mineral Processing: The individual has a strong background in mineral processing, with specific expertise in magnetic separation, gravity, and flotation tests for iron and copper ores. This technical depth is crucial for research excellence.
  2. Advanced Academic Credentials: Currently pursuing a PhD in mineral processing engineering, they demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and research.
  3. Proven Research Contributions: With seven ISI articles and four conference papers, their active engagement in publishing research shows a significant contribution to the field. The topics cover both theoretical and practical aspects of mineral processing, indicating a balanced approach.
  4. Innovative Use of Technology: Specialization in Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Finite Element Method (FEM) showcases their ability to leverage advanced modeling techniques to improve processing efficiency, as evident from their recent publications.
  5. Comprehensive Experience: Having held leadership roles (Head of Laboratory and Head of Department) for over a decade, they have extensive practical experience in all stages of mineral processing engineering, from design to optimization.
  6. Collaborative Work: Their collaborations with other researchers and institutions demonstrate teamwork and an ability to integrate diverse perspectives into their work.
  7. Professional Certifications: Being a course trainer indicates their dedication to education and knowledge dissemination, which is valuable for fostering future researchers.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact: While the technical contributions are significant, focusing on how their research impacts industry practices or environmental sustainability could enhance their recognition.
  2. Networking: Increased participation in international conferences and collaborations could broaden their visibility and influence in the field.
  3. Public Engagement: Engaging with non-academic audiences through workshops or community outreach can help translate research findings into practical applications, further elevating their profile.
  4. Diversification of Research Topics: Exploring interdisciplinary research that combines mineral processing with other fields, such as environmental science or materials engineering, could lead to innovative solutions and broaden the scope of their work.

Education:

Dr. Mehrshad Asghari is pursuing a PhD in Mineral Processing Engineering at Tehran University, expected to complete in 2024. His academic journey underscores a deep commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of mineral processing. He has previously acquired a Master’s degree in the same discipline, equipping him with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects. His ongoing research focuses on optimizing processing techniques for iron and copper ores, with a particular interest in utilizing Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Finite Element Method (FEM) for simulation and modeling. Dr. Asghari’s educational background is complemented by certifications in specialized mining software and as a course trainer in mineral processing, showcasing his dedication to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination within the mining and minerals sector.

Experience:

Dr. Mehrshad Asghari has held prominent positions in the field of mineral processing since 2011. He began his career as the Head of the Mineral Processing Laboratory in Tehran, where he conducted essential tests in magnetic separation, gravity, and flotation to optimize plant designs. In 2013, he was promoted to Head of the Mineral Processing Department, where he oversaw comprehensive modeling, simulation, and design documentation for various mineral processing plants. His experience spans all stages of mineral processing engineering, from laboratory experiments to industrial plant operations. Dr. Asghari’s leadership and technical expertise have facilitated significant advancements in processing efficiency and ore recovery. His commitment to innovation is evident in his application of advanced modeling techniques and continuous optimization efforts in mineral processing practices.

Research Focus:

Dr. Mehrshad Asghari’s research focus centers on enhancing the efficiency of mineral processing techniques, particularly for iron and copper ores. His work leverages advanced simulation methods, including Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Finite Element Method (FEM), to analyze and improve processing circuits. Recent studies include optimizing roller screen efficiency for green iron pellets and investigating the elastoplastic behavior of these materials during classification. Dr. Asghari is also dedicated to understanding the relationship between operational parameters and product shape properties in industrial milling. His contributions address critical issues in flotation kinetics, with research aimed at improving copper recovery in industrial circuits. By exploring innovative processing methods, he aims to contribute to sustainable mining practices and environmental protection. Through his publications and ongoing research, Dr. Asghari seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice in mineral processing engineering.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Improving the roller screen efficiency to classify green iron pellets using DEM simulation, novel roll design and implementing banana configuration 📈
  2. Implementation of DEM to calibrate contact parameters, as a novel simulation of the elastoplastic behavior of green iron pellet classified by roller screen 📊
  3. Investigation of cigarette effect and elastic-plastic behavior of green iron pellets on the roller screen efficiency 🔍
  4. Relationship among operational parameters, ore characteristics, and product shape properties in an industrial SAG mill ⚙️
  5. Analysis of kinetic models for chalcopyrite flotation: effect of operating parameters 📉
  6. Copper recovery improvement in an industrial flotation circuit: A case study of Sarcheshmeh copper mine 🏗️
  7. Recovery of coal particles from a tailing dam for environmental protection and economical beneficiations 🌍

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the individual demonstrates exceptional qualifications and achievements that align well with the criteria for the Best Researcher Award. Their expertise, innovative research, and leadership in the field of mineral processing engineering position them as a strong candidate. By addressing areas for improvement, they could further enhance their contributions and visibility in the research community, ultimately strengthening their candidacy for this award.