Dan Qiao | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dan Qiao | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

Prof. Dan Qiao is an accomplished scientist whose research has significantly advanced the field of tribo chemistry and lubrication engineering. He is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in liquid super lubrication, nano-additives, and specialized lubricating oils that have transformed both academic understanding and industrial applications. His career reflects an impressive balance of research, innovation, leadership, and mentorship. As a doctoral supervisor and senior researcher at the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Prof. Dan Qiao has made remarkable contributions to the study of interfacial reactions, tribological mechanisms, and the design of next-generation lubricants. His efforts continue to strengthen the bridge between fundamental science and applied technologies in aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Dan Qiao completed his higher studies in materials science at the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. During this period, he built a strong foundation in the fields of materials design, friction chemistry, and lubrication engineering. His academic training not only sharpened his expertise in materials research but also inspired his passion for solving industrial challenges through scientific innovation. This educational background allowed him to specialize in tribology and lubrication, disciplines that would later define his professional identity and establish him as a global authority in his field.

Experience

Prof. Dan Qiao began his career at the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, where he has steadily risen through multiple research and leadership positions. His journey from an early-stage researcher to a full professor and doctoral supervisor reflects both his dedication and his outstanding contributions to the advancement of tribological science. Over the years, he has successfully led more than ten significant scientific projects supported by national and provincial funding agencies. His expertise has also driven the development of specialized lubricants and tribological technologies that have been applied to aerospace and other high-tech industries. Beyond research, he has actively engaged in academic societies, contributed to scientific conferences, and provided mentorship to young scientists, thereby strengthening the research community both nationally and internationally.

Research Interest

Prof. Dan Qiao’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, tribology, and chemical engineering. His work focuses on tribo chemistry, liquid super lubrication, frictional catalysis, and the development of advanced lubricants incorporating nano-additives. He is particularly interested in the molecular-level mechanisms that govern interfacial interactions, tribofilm formation, and the dynamic behavior of lubricants under extreme conditions. By combining theory, experimental methods, and practical engineering applications, Prof. Dan Qiao’s research aims to create lubricating materials with superior efficiency, biodegradability, and adaptability. His studies contribute not only to the development of environmentally friendly lubricants but also to the long-term reliability of machines and equipment in demanding industries such as aerospace, energy, and precision manufacturing.

Awards

Prof. Dan Qiao has received numerous recognitions that highlight his outstanding contributions to science and technology. He has been honored as a Young Scientist of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and was selected among the most promising talents of his generation in Gansu Province. His achievements have also earned him membership in the prestigious Youth Innovation Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, along with inclusion among the Longyan Young Talents. In addition, he has been recognized as an Excellent Graduate Tutor, reflecting his dual role as both a leading researcher and an inspiring academic mentor. These awards underscore his reputation as a scientist who combines creativity with dedication, ensuring both scientific progress and the training of future leaders in materials research.

Publications

Prof. Dan Qiao has authored more than fifty peer-reviewed papers in leading international journals, with many of his works being widely cited by other researchers in the fields of tribology, chemistry, and materials engineering. His publications demonstrate both academic depth and practical significance. Some selected works include:

Tittle: Preparation and tribological performance of core-shell structured rare-earth nanocomposites as lubricating additives
Journal: Scientia Sinica Technologica
Published on: 2025

Tittle: Robust Macroscale Superlubricity Enabled by the Protic Ionic Liquid Polyol Aqueous Solution: From Interface Adsorption to Tribofilm Formation
Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
Published on: 2025

Tittle: Elucidating the Friction Catalytic Lubrication Mechanism of Ag Nanoparticles Loaded on MOFs
Journal: Advanced Materials Interfaces
Published on: 2025

Tittle: Perspective of Tribological Mechanisms for α-Alkene Molecules with Different Chain Lengths from Interface Behavior
Journal: Langmuir
Published on: 2024

Tittle: Study on the tribological properties of hexagonal boron nitride flakes composite hydrophilic/hydrophobic ionic liquids films by self-assembly
Journal: Applied Surface Science
Published on: 2024

Conclusion

Prof. Dan Qiao’s scientific journey represents the perfect blend of intellectual curiosity, innovative research, and real-world application. His pioneering contributions in tribology and lubrication science have expanded the frontiers of knowledge while delivering tangible solutions to industries that demand high-performance materials. With extensive publications, numerous patents, and impactful projects, his research continues to inspire advancements in surface engineering and energy-efficient lubrication technologies. Beyond his personal achievements, Prof. Dan Qiao is a mentor, leader, and collaborator who actively contributes to the global scientific community. His accomplishments make him a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

Ghazala Ashraf | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ghazala Ashraf | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Fudan University | China

Dr. Ghazala Ashraf is a Pakistani postdoctoral researcher (age 32) based in Shanghai, China, with expertise in nanomaterials, biosensing, and wearable diagnostics. With a Ph.D. from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and postdoc roles at Fudan University and HUST, she has published extensively in top journals (Advanced MaterialsNature CommunicationsACS Applied Materials & Interfaces). Her work focuses on innovative sensor technologies for healthcare and environmental monitoring.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Strong Academic and Research Background

    • Holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and has 4+ years of postdoctoral experience at prestigious institutions (HUST and Fudan University).

    • Research spans nanomaterials, biosensing, wearable diagnostics, and electrochemical sensors, aligning with cutting-edge scientific advancements.

  2. High-Quality Publications in Top-Tier Journals

    • First-author publications in high-impact journals (e.g., Advanced Materials, Nature Communications, Journal of Hazardous Materials, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Chemical Engineering Journal).

    • Multiple co-authored papers in Q1 journals, demonstrating collaborative research strength.

    • Google Scholar profile shows consistent citations, indicating research impact.

  3. Innovative Research Contributions

    • Developed nanomaterial-integrated microneedle patches for real-time biomarker monitoring (e.g., L-Cysteine detection).

    • Worked on MOFs, 2D materials, and nanozymes for biosensing applications, contributing to early disease diagnostics.

    • Explored wearable and microfluidic devices, a rapidly growing field in personalized healthcare.

  4. Leadership and Collaboration

    • Principal Investigator (PI) for postdoctoral research projects, securing funding and leading research directions.

    • Active collaborations with Fudan University, HUST, and international researchers.

    • Mentored PhD and Master’s students, contributing to academic development.

  5. Recognition and Awards

    • Recipient of prestigious scholarships (CSC PhD scholarship, HUST Academic Excellence Award).

    • Keynote speaker at international conferences, showcasing thought leadership in nanomaterials and biosensing.

    • Review editor and journal reviewer, contributing to peer review in analytical chemistry.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry (2020): Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), China.

  • M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry (2016): Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Experience 💼

  • Postdoctoral Researcher (2023–present): Fudan University, Shanghai.

  • Postdoctoral Researcher (2020–2023): HUST, Wuhan.

  • Research Associate (2013–2017): National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Pakistan.

Research Interests On Chemistry and Materials Science 🔍

  • Nanomaterials for Biosensing: MOFs, 2D materials, and green-engineered nanostructures for detecting biomarkers/pathogens.

  • Wearable Diagnostics: Microneedle-based devices for real-time health monitoring.

  • Electrochemical/Optical Sensors: Early disease detection and environmental analysis.

Awards & Honors 🏆

  • CSC Ph.D. Scholarship (2017–2020, China).

  • HUST Academic Excellence Award (2019).

  • HUST Honorary International Graduate Award (2020).

  • Provincial Merit Scholarship (Pakistan, 2012).

Publications 📜

Title: Hierarchical CNTs@CuMn Layered Double Hydroxide Nanohybrid with Enhanced Electrochemical Performance in H2S Detection from Live Cells
Authors: M Asif, A Aziz, Z Wang, G Ashraf, J Wang, H Luo, X Chen, F Xiao, H Liu
Year: 2019
Citations: 158

Title: A review on electrochemical biosensing platform based on layered double hydroxides for small molecule biomarkers determination
Authors: M Asif, A Aziz, M Azeem, Z Wang, G Ashraf, F Xiao, X Chen, H Liu
Year: 2018
Citations: 138

Title: The role of biosensors in coronavirus disease-2019 outbreak
Authors: M Asif, M Ajmal, G Ashraf, N Muhammad, A Aziz, T Iftikhar, J Wang, H Liu
Year: 2020
Citations: 137

Title: Self-stacking of exfoliated charged nanosheets of LDHs and graphene as biosensor with real-time tracking of dopamine from live cells
Authors: A Aziz, M Asif, M Azeem, G Ashraf, Z Wang, F Xiao, H Liu
Year: 2019
Citations: 114

Title: Advancements in electrochemical sensing of hydrogen peroxide, glucose and dopamine by using 2D nanoarchitectures of layered double hydroxides or metal dichalcogenides. A review
Authors: A Aziz, M Asif, G Ashraf, M Azeem, I Majeed, M Ajmal, J Wang, H Liu
Year: 2019
Citations: 108

Title: Facet-inspired core–shell gold nanoislands on metal oxide octadecahedral heterostructures: high sensing performance toward sulfide in biotic fluids
Authors: M Asif, A Aziz, G Ashraf, Z Wang, J Wang, M Azeem, X Chen, F Xiao, …
Year: 2018
Citations: 96

Title: Tuning Electrocatalytic Aptitude by Incorporating α-MnO2 Nanorods in Cu-MOF/rGO/CuO Hybrids: Electrochemical Sensing of Resorcinol for Practical Applications
Authors: T Iftikhar, Y Xu, A Aziz, G Ashraf, G Li, M Asif, F Xiao, H Liu
Year: 2021
Citations: 89

Title: Rice-Spikelet-like Copper Oxide Decorated with Platinum Stranded in the CNT Network for Electrochemical In Vitro Detection of Serotonin
Authors: G Ashraf, M Asif, A Aziz, T Iftikhar, H Liu
Year: 2021
Citations: 87

Title: Unveiling microbiologically influenced corrosion engineering to transfigure damages into benefits: a textile sensor for H2O2 detection in clinical cancer tissues
Authors: M Asif, A Aziz, G Ashraf, T Iftikhar, Y Sun, F Xiao, H Liu
Year: 2022
Citations: 76

Title: Trends in biosensing platforms for SARS-CoV-2 detection: A critical appraisal against standard detection tools
Authors: A Aziz, M Asif, G Ashraf, U Farooq, Q Yang, S Wang
Year: 2021
Citations: 58

Title: Engineering MOFs derived metal oxide nanohybrids: Towards electrochemical sensing of catechol in tea samples
Authors: T Iftikhar, A Aziz, G Ashraf, Y Xu, G Li, T Zhang, M Asif, F Xiao, H Liu
Year: 2022
Citations: 45

Title: Topical advances in nanomaterials based electrochemical sensors for resorcinol detection
Authors: T Iftikhar, M Asif, A Aziz, G Ashraf, S Jun, G Li, H Liu
Year: 2021
Citations: 45

Title: Boosting electrocatalytic activity of carbon fiber@ fusiform-like copper-nickel LDHs: Sensing of nitrate as biomarker for NOB detection
Authors: A Aziz, M Asif, G Ashraf, T Iftikhar, J Hu, F Xiao, S Wang
Year: 2022
Citations: 44

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Ghazala Ashraf is a dynamic researcher bridging nanotechnology and diagnostics, with accolades from China and Pakistan. Her pioneering work in wearable sensors and nanomaterials holds promise for personalized medicine and environmental safety. She actively mentors students and collaborates globally, driving innovation in analytical chemistry.

Lei Tao | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lei Tao | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor | Tsinghua University | China

Lei Tao, is an accomplished chemist specializing in polymer science and engineering. Currently an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, his research focuses on multicomponent reactions and self-healing hydrogels. With over 200 publications and more than 16,000 citations, his work has gained international recognition.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Pioneering Research: Lei Tao has made remarkable contributions to polymer chemistry, focusing on multicomponent reactions, self-healing hydrogels, and bio-applications.
  • Publication Excellence: With over 200 SCI papers and more than 16,000 citations, his H-index of 68 highlights the substantial impact of his research.
  • Recognitions and Awards: Notable accolades include being a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher in 2018 and 2019, and receiving the Outstanding Reviewer award for Polymer Chemistry in 2021.
  • Leadership Roles: Editorial roles at Molecules and Polymer Chemistry reflect his influence in the academic community.
  • Interdisciplinary Impact: His work bridges chemistry, biology, and materials science, with innovative applications in UV protection, heavy metal damage prevention, and bacterial resistance.

🎓 Education

Lei Tao earned his BS (1994-1999) and MS (1999-2002) degrees from the University of Science and Technology of China in Polymer Science and Engineering, under the supervision of Prof. Caiyuan Pan. He completed his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Warwick (2003-2006), mentored by Prof. David Haddleton.

💼 Experience

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Tao undertook postdoctoral research at the University of California, Los Angeles (2006-2008) with Prof. Heather Maynard and at the University of New South Wales, Australia (2008-2010) with Prof. Thomas Davis. Since 2010, he has been an Associate Professor at Tsinghua University.

🔬 Research Interests On Chemistry

Dr. Tao’s research focuses on:

  • Multicomponent reactions for new functional polymers.
  • Self-healing hydrogels for bio-applications.

📝 Awards

  • 2021: Outstanding Reviewer of Polymer Chemistry (Journal).
  • 2019: Outstanding Employee of Tsinghua University.
  • 2019: Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (Cross-field); Top Peer Reviewer.
  • 2018: Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (Cross-field).
  • 2018: First Prize, 8th Young Teachers Teaching Competition, Tsinghua University.

📖 Publications

  1. Synthesis and Performance of Epoxy-Terminated Hyperbranched Polymers Based on Epoxidized Soybean Oil

    • Year: 2025
    • Authors: Guang-Zhao Li, Qiuhong Wang, Chongyu Zhu, Shuai Zhang, Fumei Wang, Lei Tao, Youqi Jiang, Qiang Zhang, Wenyan Wang, Rui Han
    • DOI: 10.3390/molecules30030583
  2. Cold-resistant, highly stretchable ionic conductive hydrogels for intelligent motion recognition in winter sports

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Tongda Lei, Jiajun Pan, Ning Wang, Zhaopeng Xia, Qingsong Zhang, Jie Fan, Lei Tao, Wan Shou, Yu Gao
    • DOI: 10.1039/D3MH02013D
  3. Hydrogels constructed by multicomponent reactions

  4. Highly transparent UV-shielding film via Hantzsch’s reaction to prevent artwork from UV bleaching

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Siyu Pan, Xianzhe He, Chongyu Zhu, Zeyu Ma, Yingkai Liu, Yen Wei, Rui Yuan, Lei Tao
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.102257
  5. Ferrocene-Based Antioxidant Self-Healing Hydrogel via the Biginelli Reaction for Wound Healing

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Rui Yuan, Zhao Fang, Fang Liu, Xianzhe He, Sa Du, Nan Zhang, Qiang Zeng, Yen Wei, Yuwei Wu, Lei Tao
    • DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00063
  6. Recent Developments in Functional Polymers via the Kabachnik–Fields Reaction: The State of the Art

  7. Polymeric Copper Chelator for Long-term Inhibition of Breast Cancer Proliferation and Lung Metastasis

  8. Superhydrophobic Coatings Composed of Multifunctional Polymers Synthesized Using Successive Modification of Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-thione

  9. Poly(vinyl alcohol) Modified via the Hantzsch Reaction for Biosafe Antioxidant Self-Healing Hydrogel

  10. Coral-friendly and non-transdermal polymeric UV filter via the Biginelli reaction for in vivo UV protection

🌍 Conclusion:

Dr. Lei Tao is a leading figure in polymer chemistry, pioneering multicomponent reactions and self-healing hydrogels. His influential work continues to inspire advancements in materials science and bio-applications.

Ping Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ping Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

China Institute of Atomic Energy | China

Dr. Ping Chen is an accomplished assistant researcher at the China Institute of Atomic Energy, specializing in nuclear chemistry and geochemistry. Her work focuses on the synthesis and analysis of high-purity uranium oxides, redox behavior of uranium on Beishan granite, and the migration and diffusion of technetium-99 in clay. With extensive experience in handling unsealed radioactive sources and advanced analytical techniques, she has contributed significantly to understanding radionuclide behavior in geological environments.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Outstanding Academic Background: Ping Chen’s education spans top institutions, from East China University of Technology to the University of Bern, covering radiation protection, nuclear chemistry, and earth chemistry.
  • Diverse Research Experience: Extensive research in nuclear chemistry and geochemistry, with a focus on uranium oxides, redox behavior, adsorption processes, and radionuclide migration, demonstrates a deep understanding of critical topics in environmental safety and nuclear waste management.
  • Impressive Publication Record: With six publications in high-impact journals such as Applied Geochemistry and Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry, Ping Chen has made significant contributions to understanding nuclear material behavior.
  • International Collaboration: Research conducted with global institutions, including collaborations with PSI (Paul Scherrer Institute), shows the ability to work across borders, enriching scientific perspectives.
  • Technical Proficiency: Mastery of techniques like SEM, XPS, XAS, ICP-OES, and PHREEQC modeling reflects a robust skillset for cutting-edge research.
  • Recognized Excellence: Multiple scholarships, including from the Chinese Scholarship Council, highlight consistent academic excellence.
  • Practical Experience: Hands-on experience with unsealed radioactive sources and work in controlled environments ensures practical expertise in handling sensitive materials.

🎓 Education

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Radiation Protection and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology (2010.09-2014.06)
  • Master’s Degree in Nuclear Science and Technology/Nuclear Chemistry, Sun-Yat University (2014.09-2017.06)
  • PhD in Earth Chemistry, University of Bern (2018.08-Present)

💼 Experience

  • Internship: Institute of Radiation Protection, China (2013.05-2013.06)
  • Lecturer: East China University of Technology (2023.12-2024.04)
  • Assistant Researcher: China Institute of Atomic Energy (2024.05-Present)

🔬 Research Interests On Chemistry

  • Synthesis and analysis of high-purity uranium oxides
  • Redox behavior of uranium on Beishan granite
  • Adsorption of divalent iron on illite
  • Migration and diffusion of technetium-99 in clay

🏆 Awards

  • Scholarship awarded by the Chinese Scholarship Council (2018-2021)
  • First Prize Scholarship (2015, 2016, 2017)
  • National Encouragement Scholarship (2011)

🔖 Publications

  • Chen, P., Van Loon, L.R., Koch, S., Alt-Epping, P., Reich, T., & Churakov, S.V. (2024). “Reactive transport modeling of diffusive mobility and retention of TcO₄⁻ in Opalinus clay.” Applied Clay Science, 251, 107327.

    • Authors: Ping Chen, Luc R. Van Loon, Steffen Koch, Peter Alt-Epping, Tobias Reich, Sergey V. Churakov.
    • Publication Year: 2024
  • Shengchao Li, Duo Zhou, Mingfang Zhou, Hongyun Liu, & Ping Chen. (2025). “Research on electromigration of Sr²⁺ in mudstone: diffusion and modelling.” Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry.

    • Authors: Shengchao Li, Duo Zhou, Mingfang Zhou, Hongyun Liu, Ping Chen.
    • Publication Year: 2025
  • Chen, P., Churakov, S.V., Glaus, M., & Van Loon, L.R. (2023). “Impact of Fe(II) on ⁹⁹Tc diffusion behavior in illite.” Applied Geochemistry, 56, 105759.

    • Authors: Ping Chen, Sergey V. Churakov, Martin Glaus, Luc R. Van Loon.
    • Publication Year: 2023
  • Chen, P., Van Loon, L.R., Marques Fernandes, M., & Churakov, S.V. (2022). “Sorption mechanism of Fe(II) on illite: Sorption and modelling.” Applied Geochemistry, 143, 105389.

    • Authors: Ping Chen, Luc R. Van Loon, Maria Marques Fernandes, Sergey V. Churakov.
    • Publication Year: 2022
  • Chen, P., Ma, Y., Kang, M., Shang, C., Song, Y., Xu, F., Wang, J., Song, G., & Yang, Y. (2020). “The redox behavior of uranium on Beishan granite: Effect of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ content.” Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, 217, 106208.

    • Authors: Ping Chen, Yue Ma, Mingliang Kang, Chengming Shang, Yang Song, Fengqi Xu, Ju Wang, Gang Song, Yongqiang Yang.
    • Publication Year: 2020
  • Chen, P., Huang, D., Chen, C., Suzuki-Muresan, T., Kang, M., Wang, J., Song, G., & Wang, B. (2017). “Investigation of reaction conditions on synthesis of UO₂.₃₄ and UO₂ via hydrothermal route.” Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry, 313(1), 229-237.

    • Authors: Ping Chen, Dongyu Huang, Chenchen Chen, Tomo Suzuki-Muresan, Mingliang Kang, Jin Wang, Gang Song, Biao Wang.
    • Publication Year: 2017

Conclusion

Ping Chen’s dedication to nuclear chemistry and geochemistry has led to remarkable insights into radionuclide behavior in geological environments. Her research has contributed significantly to the understanding of uranium oxidation states, iron adsorption, and technetium-99 diffusion, paving the way for advancements in radioactive waste management and environmental safety.