Hyesung Park | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hyesung Park | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Korea University | South Korea

Dr. Hyesung Park, a distinguished Professor at Korea University, is an internationally recognized authority in hetero-dimensional materials synthesis and their applications in functional devices, including energy harvesting, nanoelectronics, and nanophotonics. His academic journey spans world-leading institutions such as MIT, Northwestern University, and UNIST, where he has consistently advanced renewable energy technologies and next-generation device engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT with groundbreaking research on CVD graphene for organic photovoltaics, pioneering innovations in transparent conducting electrodes that have shaped subsequent advances in the field. Before joining Korea University, he held prestigious research and faculty positions that further strengthened his international reputation. At Korea University, Dr. Park leads pioneering work in integrative energy engineering, with research spanning hybrid nanostructures, scalable perovskite solar cells, electro/photo-catalysis, graphene-based devices, and triboelectric nanogenerators, producing notable innovations in solar cell production and energy harvesting materials. He has authored 116 Publications, accumulated 5,452 citations, and holds an impressive h-index of 36, reflecting the global impact of his scholarship. His highly cited works on graphene electrodes and hybrid solar cells have been published in top-tier journals such as Nature Nanotechnology, ACS Nano, and Advanced Energy Materials. Widely acclaimed for his leadership, impactful publications, and international collaborations, Dr. Hyesung Park is celebrated not only for advancing materials science and energy technologies but also for inspiring future scientists and engineers through his mentorship and academic contributions. Honored with national and international recognition, he exemplifies excellence in research, education, and innovation, and his pioneering contributions continue to drive breakthroughs in sustainable energy technologies that are shaping a cleaner and more efficient future.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Kim, K. K., Reina, A., Shi, Y., Park, H., Li, L. J., Lee, Y. H., & Kong, J. (2010). Enhancing the conductivity of transparent graphene films via doping. Nanotechnology, 21(28), 285205.

Park, H., Brown, P. R., Bulović, V., & Kong, J. (2012). Graphene as transparent conducting electrodes in organic photovoltaics: Studies in graphene morphology, hole transporting layers, and counter electrodes. Nano Letters, 12(1), 133–140.

Park, H., Rowehl, J. A., Kim, K. K., Bulović, V., & Kong, J. (2010). Doped graphene electrodes for organic solar cells. Nanotechnology, 21(50), 505204.

Park, H., Chang, S., Zhou, X., Kong, J., Palacios, T., & Gradečak, S. (2014). Flexible graphene electrode-based organic photovoltaics with record-high efficiency. Nano Letters, 14(9), 5148–5154.

Park, H., Chang, S., Jean, J., Cheng, J. J., Araujo, P. T., Wang, M., Bawendi, M. G., & Kong, J. (2013). Graphene cathode-based ZnO nanowire hybrid solar cells. Nano Letters, 13(1), 233–239.

Koo, D., Jung, S., Seo, J., Jeong, G., Choi, Y., Lee, J., Lee, S. M., Cho, Y., Jeong, M., & Park, H. (2020). Flexible organic solar cells over 15% efficiency with polyimide-integrated graphene electrodes. Joule, 4(5), 1021–1034.

Oh, N. K., Seo, J., Lee, S., Kim, H. J., Kim, U., Lee, J., Han, Y. K., & Park, H. (2021). Highly efficient and robust noble-metal free bifunctional water electrolysis catalyst achieved via complementary charge transfer. Nature Communications, 12(1), 4606.

Oh, N. K., Kim, C., Lee, J., Kwon, O., Choi, Y., Jung, G. Y., Lim, H. Y., Kwak, S. K., Kim, G., & Park, H. (2019). In-situ local phase-transitioned MoSe2 in La0.5Sr0.5CoO3-δ heterostructure and stable overall water electrolysis over 1000 hours. Nature Communications, 10(1), 1723.

Shujun Li | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shujun Li | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. in Materials at University of Science & Engineering | China

Dr. Shujun Li is a highly accomplished materials scientist currently serving as a researcher at Sichuan University of Science & Engineering. With a Ph.D. in Engineering from Lanzhou University of Technology (2023), Dr. Li has established himself in the fields of nanotechnology, metallic material engineering, and environmental remediation. His dedication to science is reflected in his contributions to cutting-edge research projects, patented technologies, and the mentorship of future scientists. Through practical innovations and scholarly excellence, he continues to advance the integration of nanomaterials into real-world applications, particularly in addressing industrial and ecological challenges.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Shujun Li earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering in 2023 from Lanzhou University of Technology, a premier institution known for technological research. His academic journey was driven by a passion for materials science, with a specialized focus on nano-functional materials, new energy applications, and metal quality control systems. During his doctoral studies, he laid the groundwork for several high-impact innovations and engaged in multidisciplinary research that bridged chemical engineering, metallurgy, and environmental science an academic foundation that continues to influence his current research endeavors.

Experience

Over the years, Dr. Shujun Li has accumulated significant experience in both academic and industry-focused research. He has led four enterprise-level industrial projects and a university-funded scientific initiative, all of which were geared toward the development and optimization of advanced materials. He also contributed to a high-profile National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project, reflecting his credibility and national recognition. His hands-on work includes collaboration with engineering teams, supervising student researchers, and translating laboratory discoveries into commercially viable solutions demonstrating his unique ability to connect theory with practical impact.

Research Interest

Dr. Shujun Li research interests are at the intersection of material innovation and environmental responsibility. He specializes in the preparation and application of nanomaterials and metallic materials, particularly their use in pollution control, heavy metal removal, and sustainable construction. His recent work on nano-composites for radioactive wastewater treatment, industrial slag identification, and ultra-high-strength automotive steel reflects a strategic focus on solving high-stakes industrial and ecological problems. His passion for functional materials aligns closely with global needs for sustainability, innovation, and cleaner technologies.

Awards

Dr. Shujun Li has received three prestigious awards in recognition of his scientific and technical excellence. Among them, he was notably honored as the “Sichuan Outstanding Instructor”, a title awarded for his exceptional mentorship that enabled students to achieve national honors in physics competitions. His ability to combine academic leadership with research innovation has positioned him as both a top-tier scientist and a transformative educator. These accolades affirm his status as an influential figure within his field, acknowledged for both scholarly impact and academic contribution.

Publications

Dr. Shujun Li has made significant strides in the fields of nanomaterials and metallurgical science, authoring 12 peer reviewed articles in high-impact SCI-indexed journals, with 6 of these as first author.

  1. Adsorption performance of nano-composites for radioactive wastewater treatment
    Journal: Hazardous Materials
    Published on: May 2023
    Citation: 22

  2. Slag phase analysis via XRD coupled spectroscopy
    Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
    Published on: September 2022
    Citation: 15

  3. Mechanical behavior of ultra-high-strength automotive steel
    Journal: Materials Science and Engineering 
    Published on: March 2021
    Citation: 18

  4. Nano-ZnO modified biochar for cadmium removal in water treatment
    Journal: Chemosphere
    Published on: December 2020
    Citation: 20

  5. Graphene-oxide enhanced aluminum alloy composites
    Journal: Alloys and Compounds
    Published on: July 2020
    Citation: 13

  6. Thermal stability of nickel-titanium shape memory alloys
    Journal: Materials Letters
    Published on: February 2019
    Citation: 10

Conclusion

Dr. Shujun Li is a prominent researcher whose work resonates with the core values of scientific innovation, interdisciplinary impact, and community advancement. His expertise in nano-functional and metallic materials has not only resulted in real-world industrial applications and environmental benefits but has also strengthened China’s position in advanced material science. As a committed educator and a pioneering scientist, Dr. Li is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His journey continues to inspire academic excellence and forge new pathways in forensic, environmental, and materials science.

Zhen Zhang | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zhen Zhang | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Northwestern Polytechnical University | China

Dr. Zhen Zhang is a distinguished Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo, Canada, and subsequently held roles as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Senior Researcher at the same institution. Recognized as a Shaanxi Province High-Level Talent, Young Talent of Xi’an Association for Science and Technology, and Aoxiang Overseas Scholar, Prof. Zhang is a leading researcher in the field of energy electrocatalysis, with more than 5,500 citations, 14 ESI highly cited papers, and an H-index of 38.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

Prof. Zhen Zhang exemplifies excellence in materials science and energy electrocatalysis. With a Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo and a robust academic trajectory, he has made pioneering contributions to confined electrocatalytic materials. His exceptional research productivity—over 50 SCI-indexed publications, including in top-tier journals like JACS, Advanced Materials, and Angewandte Chemie—alongside 14 ESI Highly Cited Papers, H-index of 38, and 5,500+ citations, clearly demonstrate profound scientific influence. His leadership in 16 competitive research projects, including national and industrial collaborations, speaks to both his technical depth and applied impact. Furthermore, his involvement in prestigious international collaborations and multiple editorial roles solidify his standing as a thought leader in his field.

🎓 Education

Prof. Zhang pursued his doctoral studies at the University of Waterloo, Canada, where he specialized in electrocatalytic materials and energy systems. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for innovative research in CO₂ reduction, hydrogen production, and advanced battery technologies. His global educational exposure significantly enhances his scientific perspective.

🧪 Experience

Prof. Zhang has a rich and varied research background, including appointments as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Senior Researcher at the University of Waterloo before returning to China. He now serves as a full Professor at Northwestern Polytechnical University, where he leads multiple national and provincial-level research initiatives. His industrial consultancy includes a 30 million RMB project on fuel cell power generation.

🔬 Research Interests On Chemistry and Materials Science

Prof. Zhang’s research centers on energy electrocatalytic materials and devices, especially focusing on CO₂ reduction reactions (CO₂RR), oxygen/hydrogen evolution and reduction reactions (OER/ORR, HER/HOR). His work facilitates the development of fuel cells, electrolyzers, and metal-air batteries for sustainable energy production ⚡. His innovations in confined electrocatalytic systems are advancing next-generation energy devices.

🏆 Awards

Prof. Zhang has received numerous prestigious honors, including the Advanced Materials Award from the International Association of Advanced Materials, Canadian Mitacs Accelerate Award, and the Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Self-Financed Students Abroad. He is also a Fellow of the Chinese Chemical Society and Chinese Materials Research Society. These accolades underscore his contributions to materials science and global energy sustainability 🌟.

📚 Publications

  • Microporous framework membranes for precise molecule/ion separations
    H. Dou, M. Xu, B. Wang, Z. Zhang, G. Wen, Y. Zheng, D. Luo, L. Zhao, A. Yu, …
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 285

  • Constructing multifunctional solid electrolyte interface via in-situ polymerization for dendrite-free and low N/P ratio lithium metal batteries
    D. Luo, L. Zheng, Z. Zhang, M. Li, Z. Chen, R. Cui, Y. Shen, G. Li, R. Feng, …
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 279

  • Quasi-Covalently Coupled Ni–Cu Atomic Pair for Synergistic Electroreduction of CO₂
    J. Zhu, M. Xiao, D. Ren, R. Gao, X. Liu, Z. Zhang, D. Luo, W. Xing, D. Su, A. Yu, …
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 244

  • Revealing the rapid electrocatalytic behavior of ultrafine amorphous defective Nb₂O₅–x nanocluster toward superior Li–S performance
    D. Luo#, Z. Zhang# (co-first author), G. Li, S. Cheng, S. Li, J. Li, R. Gao, M. Li, …
    Year: 2020 | Citations: 237

  • Template-guided synthesis of Co nanoparticles embedded in hollow nitrogen doped carbon tubes as a highly efficient catalyst for rechargeable Zn-air batteries
    Q. Zhou, Z. Zhang, J. Cai, B. Liu, Y. Zhang, X. Gong, X. Sui, A. Yu, L. Zhao, …
    Year: 2020 | Citations: 218

  • Synergistic engineering of defects and architecture in binary metal chalcogenide toward fast and reliable lithium–sulfur batteries
    D. Luo, G. Li, Y.P. Deng, Z. Zhang, J. Li, R. Liang, M. Li, Y. Jiang, W. Zhang, …
    Year: 2019 | Citations: 216

  • Rational design of tailored porous carbon-based materials for CO₂ capture
    Z. Zhang, Z.P. Cano, D. Luo, H. Dou, A. Yu, Z. Chen
    Year: 2019 | Citations: 213

  • Regulation of outer solvation shell toward superior low‐temperature aqueous zinc‐ion batteries
    Q. Ma, R. Gao, Y. Liu, H. Dou, Y. Zheng, T. Or, L. Yang, Q. Li, Q. Cu, R. Feng, …
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 212

  • “Two Ships in a Bottle” Design for Zn–Ag–O Catalyst Enabling Selective and Long-Lasting CO₂ Electroreduction
    Z. Zhang, G. Wen, D. Luo, B. Ren, Y. Zhu, R. Gao, H. Dou, G. Sun, M. Feng, …
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 200

  • Nano-crumples induced Sn-Bi bimetallic interface pattern with moderate electron bank for highly efficient CO₂ electroreduction
    B. Ren, G. Wen, R. Gao, D. Luo, Z. Zhang, W. Qiu, Q. Ma, X. Wang, Y. Cui, …
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 191

✅ Conclusion

🌟 Prof. Zhen Zhang is a visionary in the field of energy electrocatalysis, combining scientific innovation with a strong record of international collaboration. His pioneering work on confined electrocatalytic materials addresses critical challenges in catalyst performance, contributing to cleaner and more efficient energy systems. With a strong academic foundation, over 5,500 citations, prestigious awards, and leadership in over 16 major projects, Prof. Zhang exemplifies excellence and innovation, making him a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award 🏅.

Joerg Florian Friedrich | Chemistry | Lifetime achievement Award

Prof. Dr. Joerg Florian Friedrich | Chemistry | Lifetime achievement Award

Technical University Berlin | Germany

Prof. Dr. Joerg Florian Friedrich is a renowned chemist born in 1948 in Erkner near Berlin. With a remarkable academic and research career spanning over five decades, he has made significant contributions to the fields of plasma chemistry, polymer composites, and surface analysis. His career includes key leadership roles in major German research institutions, and he continues to inspire as a lecturer even after his retirement.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Experience: With over three decades of active engagement in teaching and research, Dr. Singh has demonstrated sustained contributions to the field of Environmental Microbiology.

  • Academic Contributions: She has a rich publication record in reputed national and international journals, showcasing the quality and impact of her research work.

  • Specialized Expertise: Her focus on environmental microbiology, a critical and evolving area of biological sciences, places her at the forefront of research related to sustainable development, environmental health, and microbial applications.

  • Mentorship and Teaching Excellence: Dr. Singh has played a pivotal role in guiding postgraduate and doctoral students, thereby shaping future generations of scientists.

  • Recognition and Involvement: Participation in conferences, collaborations, and institutional contributions add to her reputation as a leader in her domain.

🎓 Education

Prof. Friedrich began his academic journey in 1967, studying chemistry at Humboldt University Berlin. He received his Diploma in Physical Chemistry in 1972 and soon joined the German Academy of Sciences in Berlin. He earned his Dr. rer. nat. in 1974/1975 and later his Dr. sc. nat. in 1981/1982, both from the Academy of Sciences of the GDR, Berlin. His habilitation and venia legendi (teaching license) were awarded in 1991 at TH Merseburg, marking his formal recognition as an independent university teacher.

💼 Experience

Prof. Friedrich’s career reflects deep expertise and leadership in materials science. He began as Deputy Chief of the Department of Polymer Composites in 1975. He later led the Plasma Chemistry Division at the Institute of Applied Chemistry (ACA), Berlin (1991–1994). From 1995, he headed the Polymer Structure and Analysis Division and, later in 2006, the Polymer Surfaces Division at BAM (Federal Institute of Materials Research and Testing). By 1996, he was appointed Director and Professor at BAM. In 2007, he joined the Technical University of Berlin as a Professor in Material Sciences and Polymer Analysis, serving until his emeritus status in 2013, after which he remained active as a lecturer until 2024.

🔬 Research Interest On Chemistry

Prof. Friedrich’s research bridges chemistry, materials science, and engineering. He is particularly known for his pioneering work in plasma chemistry, polymer surface modification, polymer composites, and materials analysis. His contributions have not only advanced theoretical understanding but also facilitated innovations in industrial applications. His multi-disciplinary approach continues to influence new generations of researchers and practitioners in materials science.

🏅 Awards

Over the years, Prof. Friedrich has received numerous honors and held esteemed positions in academia and research. His nomination for the Award Nomination Application Form dated May 29, 2012, reflects his standing as a respected figure in the international scientific community. His ongoing academic involvement post-retirement further underlines his lifelong commitment to science and mentorship. 🏆📜

📚 Publications

Prof. Friedrich is the author of around 375 publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, patents, books, and book chapters. His work is widely cited and has influenced many aspects of polymer and materials research. 🔗 Here’s a selected publication with details:

1. Mechanisms of Plasma Polymerization – Reviewed From a Chemical Point of View-II: Plasma Polymers With Classic Structure

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2025

2. Plasma-Deposited Polymer Layers as Adhesion Promoters

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

3. Competition in Adhesion between Polysort and Monosort Functionalized Polyolefin Surfaces Coated with Vacuum-Evaporated Aluminium

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

4. Structure of plasma deposited acrylic acid-allyl alcohol copolymers

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, H. Omar, P. Szymoniak, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 2

5. Significance of interfacial redox reactions and formation of metal-organic complexes for the adhesion of metals on pristine and plasma-treated polymers

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich, W.E.S. Unger, A. Lippitz, S. Weidner, G. Kühn

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 12

6. Structure of plasma-deposited copolymer films prepared from acrylic acid and styrene: Part III sulfonation and electrochemical properties

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M.A. Kolmangadi, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2022

  • Citations: 7

7. Nonthermal plasmas for materials processing: Polymer surface modification and plasma polymerization

  • Authors: J.F. Friedrich, J. Meichsner

  • Year: Not specified

  • Citations: 1

8. Modified polyvinyl chloride membrane grafted with an ultra-thin polystyrene film: Structure and electrochemical properties

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M.A.A.R. Abu-Saied, N.N. Morgan, A. Schönhals, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 11

9. One-step plasma deposited thin SiOxCy films for corrosion resistance of low carbon steel

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, M. ElSabbagh, M.A. Bedair, S.M. El-Bahy, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 14

10. Degradation of organic dye using plasma discharge: Optimization, pH and energy

  • Authors: A.F. Fahmy, A.H. El-Zomrawy, A.M. Saeed, H.A.H. Shehata, J.F. Friedrich

  • Year: 2020

  • Citations: 30

🔚 Conclusion

Prof. Friedrich stands as a towering figure in the field of materials science, with profound contributions to polymer chemistry and surface engineering. His work has not only shaped research paradigms but also enhanced technological capabilities in surface treatment and material interfaces. His dedication to both research and education makes him a deserving candidate for any high-level academic or scientific award.