Xuning Zhang | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xuning Zhang | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from College of Physical Science and Technology, Hebei University, China

Dr. Xuning Zhang is a distinguished expert in power electronics, currently serving at Microchip Technology Inc. With over 15 years of experience, he has significantly contributed to the design and optimization of high-efficiency power converters, EMI modeling, and renewable energy systems. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Electronic and Computer Engineering from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), where he focused on advanced power electronics research. Dr. Zhang has authored numerous publications, garnering over 1,200 citations, reflecting his impact in the field. His work is characterized by a blend of theoretical innovation and practical application, aiming to enhance the performance and reliability of power electronic systems. Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Zhang is recognized for his leadership in collaborative projects and his commitment to advancing technology in sustainable energy solutions. His contributions continue to influence the development of next-generation power systems, making him a pivotal figure in the electronics engineering community.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Zhang’s educational background lays a strong foundation for his expertise in power electronics. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Electronic and Computer Engineering from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), where he engaged in cutting-edge research on power converter design and electromagnetic interference mitigation. His doctoral studies were marked by a deep dive into the complexities of high-efficiency energy systems, preparing him for a career at the forefront of electrical engineering innovation. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Zhang completed his undergraduate studies in a related field, equipping him with the fundamental knowledge and analytical skills necessary for advanced research. Throughout his academic career, he demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence, contributing to scholarly publications and participating in projects that bridged theoretical concepts with real-world applications. This rigorous academic training has been instrumental in shaping his approach to problem-solving and innovation in the field of power electronics.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhang’s professional journey is marked by significant roles in both academia and industry. Currently, he is a key figure at Microchip Technology Inc., where he applies his extensive knowledge to develop advanced power electronic solutions. His work involves designing high-efficiency converters and optimizing electromagnetic compatibility, contributing to the company’s reputation for cutting-edge technology. Previously, Dr. Zhang served as a Lecturer at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Guangzhou, where he was involved in both teaching and research. His academic role allowed him to mentor students and lead research projects, furthering advancements in power electronics and educational technologies. Dr. Zhang’s experience also includes collaborative projects with international teams, showcasing his ability to work across cultures and disciplines. His professional trajectory reflects a balance between theoretical research and practical application, underscoring his versatility and commitment to innovation in electrical engineering.

Research Interests

Dr. Zhang’s research interests are deeply rooted in the field of power electronics, with a particular focus on high-efficiency converter design, electromagnetic interference (EMI) modeling, and renewable energy integration. He is passionate about developing systems that not only perform optimally but also adhere to stringent EMI standards, ensuring reliability and safety. His work often explores the intersection of power density optimization and thermal management, aiming to create compact yet powerful electronic systems. Additionally, Dr. Zhang is interested in the application of graph theory and indoor localization technologies, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to engineering challenges. His research endeavors are characterized by a commitment to sustainability, seeking solutions that contribute to the efficient use of energy resources. Through his investigations, Dr. Zhang aims to push the boundaries of current technology, paving the way for innovations that can be applied across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics. His contributions continue to influence the direction of research and development in power electronics.

Research Skills

Dr. Zhang possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that underpin his contributions to power electronics. His expertise includes advanced simulation techniques using MATLAB for modeling complex electrical systems, allowing for precise analysis and optimization. He is adept at designing and implementing high-efficiency power converters, with a keen understanding of the nuances involved in minimizing energy losses and enhancing performance. Dr. Zhang’s skills extend to EMI analysis, where he employs sophisticated methods to predict and mitigate interference in electronic systems. His proficiency in renewable energy technologies enables him to develop solutions that integrate seamlessly with sustainable power sources. Furthermore, his experience with inverters and power quality assessment tools positions him as a valuable asset in projects requiring meticulous attention to electrical performance. Dr. Zhang’s research skills are complemented by his ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, ensuring that his technical insights contribute meaningfully to collective goals. His methodological approach and technical acumen continue to drive innovation in the field of electrical engineering.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Zhang has received several accolades that recognize his contributions to engineering and academia. Notably, he was honored with the Thomas M. Weser Award at Vanderbilt University, acknowledging his exceptional commitment to intellectual life, cross-cultural appreciation, and personal integrity. This award is a testament to his dedication to fostering inclusive academic environments and his active participation in community service. In addition to this, Dr. Zhang has been recognized for his excellence in research and teaching during his tenure at various institutions. His achievements include being named an Excellent Graduate Student at the College of Computer (NUDT) and receiving the “Tang Lixin” Scholarship at Sichuan University, highlighting his academic prowess and leadership qualities. These honors reflect Dr. Zhang’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his impact on both the academic and professional communities. His decorated career serves as an inspiration to peers and students alike, underscoring the value of dedication, innovation, and cross-cultural engagement in the field of engineering.

Conclusion

Dr. Xuning Zhang’s illustrious career in power electronics is marked by a harmonious blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and practical application. His educational background and professional experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective that bridges theoretical concepts with real-world engineering challenges. Dr. Zhang’s research interests and skills have led to significant advancements in high-efficiency power systems, EMI mitigation, and renewable energy integration.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Efficient and stable hole-transport material for solar cells: from PEDOT:PSS to carbon nanotubes:PSS
    Authors: Y. Zhao, Q. Gao, D. Yang, D. Song, J. Chen
    Year: 2025

  2. Dissolution swelling effect-assisted interfacial morphology refinement enables high efficiency all-polymer solar cells
    Authors: W. Zhang, Y. Yue, F. Han, H. Zhou, Y. Zhang
    Year: 2024

  3. Ultrathin self-assembled monolayer for effective silicon solar cell passivation
    Authors: W. Li, Z. Zhao, J. Guo, X. Zhang, J. Chen
    Year: 2024

  4. Synergistic effect of ionic liquid and embedded QDs on 2D ferroelectric perovskite films with narrow phase distribution for self-powered and broad-band photodetectors
    Authors: L. Guo, X. Yang, Y. Liang, C. Pan, Z. Yang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 5

  5. Organic passivation-enhanced ferroelectricity in perovskite oxide films
    Authors: H. Meng, B. Chen, X.H. Dai, B. Liu, J. Chen
    Year: 2024

  6. Edge passivation: considerable improvement in photovoltaic performance of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells
    Authors: B. Chen, M. Cui, X. Wang, X. Zhang, J. Chen
    Year: 2024

  7. The development of carbon/silicon heterojunction solar cells through interface passivation (Review)
    Authors: B. Chen, X. Zhang, Q. Gao, B.S. Flavel, J. Chen
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

Li Song | Energy Materials | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Li Song | Energy Materials | Best Researcher Award

Deputy dean from Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, China

Dr. Li Song is an accomplished Associate Professor at the School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology. With a specialized focus on carbon-based materials for clean energy conversion and storage, Dr. Song’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to innovative research in materials science and sustainable energy technologies. Her extensive research experience includes prestigious international collaborations and projects supported by leading Chinese and provincial scientific foundations. Her work revolves around designing advanced carbon-based catalytic systems, aiming for improved energy efficiency and sustainability. Having published widely and participated in several key research programs, she is recognized for her interdisciplinary approach and ability to bridge theoretical design with practical application in fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and other green energy devices. Her background includes training and research at globally respected institutions like Case Western Reserve University and SUNY Buffalo, where she collaborated with world-leading experts in electrocatalysis and material engineering. With an eye toward real-world applications, Dr. Song continues to explore the intersection of nanotechnology, catalysis, and clean energy, positioning herself as a future leader in sustainable materials research.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Li Song’s academic credentials reflect her dedication to the advancement of materials science, particularly in the realm of clean energy. She earned her Ph.D. in Materials Physics and Chemistry from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics in June 2020 under the mentorship of Prof. Jianping He. Her doctoral work focused on the design of advanced carbon-based catalytic materials for green energy applications. During her Ph.D. studies, she gained valuable international exposure through a joint Ph.D. program with Case Western Reserve University (USA), where she worked under the guidance of Prof. Liming Dai, a globally recognized expert in macromolecular science and engineering. This collaboration significantly enriched her expertise in carbon nanomaterials and energy storage systems. Additionally, Dr. Song expanded her research experience as a visiting scholar at SUNY Buffalo, working with Prof. Gang Wu on highly active catalysts for fuel cells. Her academic foundation also includes dual bachelor’s degrees in Metal Material Engineering and English from Nanchang Hangkong University, completed in 2013. This multidisciplinary background not only equipped her with strong technical skills but also enhanced her communication and collaboration abilities, essential for her global research engagements and academic contributions.

Professional Experience

Dr. Li Song has cultivated a robust academic and research career rooted in innovation and international collaboration. She began her professional journey at Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology (NUIST) in 2020, initially as a Lecturer and later advancing to Associate Professor. Her current role involves leading cutting-edge research in carbon-based materials for energy conversion and storage, a field at the forefront of clean energy technology. At NUIST, she has played a central role in developing new materials and catalytic systems, contributing to the university’s reputation for advanced environmental science research. Beyond her responsibilities at NUIST, Dr. Song has gained significant global research experience. Between 2017 and 2019, she served as a joint Ph.D. researcher at Case Western Reserve University, USA, and previously as a visiting scholar at SUNY Buffalo, where she conducted high-impact research on fuel cell catalysts. These international appointments allowed her to work with leading figures in the field and exposed her to diverse, multidisciplinary methodologies. Through her academic appointments, Dr. Song has developed a deep expertise in materials science, catalysis, and sustainable energy applications, which she continues to apply in mentoring students, managing research projects, and publishing innovative scientific work.

Research Interests

Dr. Li Song’s research interests lie at the dynamic intersection of materials science, nanotechnology, and sustainable energy systems. She is particularly focused on the rational design and fabrication of carbon-based catalytic materials for clean energy conversion and storage. Her work emphasizes the creation of efficient, durable catalysts that can be implemented in devices such as fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and electrolyzers. Central to her research is the development of intrinsic active sites in carbon materials through heteroatom doping, structural modification, and topological defect engineering at the atomic scale. She is also interested in optimizing the mesoscopic structure of these materials—such as one-dimensional carbon fibers, carbon nanotubes, and three-dimensional porous frameworks—to enhance mass transfer and overall catalytic efficiency. Furthermore, Dr. Song explores the fundamental catalytic mechanisms governing these systems, aiming to correlate composition and structural features with functional performance. Her long-term goal is to design scalable, high-performance energy devices with real-world applications, thus contributing to the broader shift toward cleaner, more sustainable technologies. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, materials physics, and engineering, positions her at the forefront of energy materials research, with a clear vision for addressing contemporary environmental and energy challenges.

Research Skills

Dr. Li Song possesses a diverse and advanced skill set that supports her innovative research in energy materials. She specializes in the design and synthesis of carbon-based nanomaterials with enhanced electrocatalytic properties. Her technical expertise includes heteroatom doping, heterostructure fabrication, and defect engineering to optimize catalytic activity at the atomic level. She is highly proficient in constructing mesoscopic architectures—such as carbon fibers, nanotubes, nanosheets, and core-shell structures—which facilitate mass transfer and improve diffusion rates in catalytic systems. Dr. Song is also adept at using state-of-the-art characterization techniques, including electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and electrochemical analysis, to investigate material properties and evaluate catalytic performance. She has strong competencies in project management and proposal writing, as evidenced by her leadership in multiple grant-funded research projects. Moreover, her international collaborations have equipped her with excellent cross-cultural communication skills and a global perspective on scientific problem-solving. Her background in English, paired with technical proficiency, further enhances her ability to disseminate research through publications, presentations, and academic exchanges. These well-rounded research capabilities make Dr. Song not only a leading scientist in her domain but also a capable mentor and team leader in multidisciplinary projects focused on sustainable technologies.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Li Song’s academic and research excellence is reflected in the prestigious grants and competitive research programs she has secured. She is the principal investigator of several notable projects, including the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province-funded initiative on single-atom oxygen reduction catalysts (BK20210651, 2021–2024). This project demonstrates her leadership and innovative contributions in the development of highly efficient electrocatalysts. Earlier in her academic career, she led research supported by the Doctoral Thesis Innovation and Excellence Foundation of Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, where she explored the use of metal-organic frameworks in bifunctional electrocatalysis (2017–2018). Her work has also been recognized through the Graduate Research Innovation Plan of Jiangsu Province. Additionally, she contributed to a National Natural Science Foundation of China project (11575084) focused on advanced composite coatings and radiation resistance, showcasing her versatility in tackling both theoretical and application-driven challenges. These honors highlight her growing reputation as a researcher capable of securing funding and producing impactful work. Her ability to manage complex scientific inquiries while delivering meaningful contributions to the energy materials field makes her a strong candidate for further recognition and collaboration on both national and international levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Li Song stands out as a highly promising researcher in the field of clean energy materials. Her deep expertise in the synthesis and structural engineering of carbon-based catalysts places her at the cutting edge of sustainable energy research. Through her academic achievements, international collaborations, and leadership in grant-funded projects, she has consistently demonstrated the capacity to bridge theoretical innovations with practical applications. Dr. Song’s focus on the rational design of electrocatalysts, exploration of catalytic mechanisms, and development of scalable energy devices reflects a holistic research philosophy aligned with global sustainability goals. Her interdisciplinary skill set, coupled with strong academic training and a global perspective, equips her to make long-lasting contributions to both science and society. Furthermore, her success in securing competitive research funding and publishing in relevant areas underlines her scientific rigor and professional maturity. As clean energy becomes increasingly vital to global development, researchers like Dr. Song—who combine creativity, technical excellence, and collaborative spirit—will play an essential role. Her trajectory suggests continued innovation and leadership, positioning her as an ideal candidate for future honors and elevated academic positions in the field of materials science and environmental engineering.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: In-situ metallic Ag-doping of CFx cathode: An efficient strategy to solve the problems of high resistivity and unavoidable polarization
    Authors: J. Xu, Jianwen; H. Luo, Hao; J. Ma, Jun; L. Song, Li; Y. Jin, Yachao
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Electrochimica Acta

  2. Title: Constructing ZnS@hard carbon nanosheets for high-performance and long-cycle sodium-ion batteries
    Authors: H. Zhang, Huan; F. Yuan, Fengzhou; M. Zhang, Mingdao; H. Zheng, Hegen
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

  3. Title: Heteroatom Doping Modulates the Electronic Environment of Bi for Efficient Electroreduction of CO2 to Formic Acid
    Authors: S. Zhao, Sirui; H. Zhou, Heng; D. Cao, Dengfeng; L. Song, Li; S. Chen, Shuangming
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Chemical Research in Chinese Universities

  4. Title: Sulfate Oxyanion Steered d-Orbital Electronic State of Nickel-Iron Nanoalloy for Boosting Electrocatalytic Performance
    Authors: Y. Jin, Yachao; X. Qu, Xijun; Z. Zhou, Zihao; W. Ma, Wenqiang; M. Zhang, Mingdao
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Small

  5. Title: Tailored Heterogeneous Catalysts via Space-Confined Engineering for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution
    Authors: C. Wu, Chenxiao; C. Liu, Chuang; A. Gao, Ang; H. Guo, Haizhong; L. Gu, Lin
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Advanced Functional Materials

  6. Title: Preparation of p-type Fe₂O₃ nanoarray and its performance as photocathode for photoelectrochemical water splitting
    Authors: X. Fan, Xiaoli; F. Zhu, Fei; Z. Wang, Zeyi; J. He, Jianping; T. Wang, Tao
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Frontiers in Chemistry

  7. Title: Facile and Rapid Synthesis of Ultra-Low-Loading Pt-Based Catalyst Boosting Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Production
    Authors: W. Zhai, Wenjie; J. Wang, Jiayi; M. Zhang, Mingdao; L. Song, Li
    Year: 2025
    Journal: ChemPlusChem

  8. Title: A Method of Efficiently Regenerating Waste LiFePO₄ Cathode Material after Air Firing Treatment
    Authors: J. Ma, Jun; Z. Xu, Ziyang; T. Yao, Tianshun; L. Song, Li; M. Zhang, Mingdao
    Year: 2024
    Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces

  9. Title: Sustainable regeneration of a spent layered lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide cathode from a scrapped lithium-ion battery
    Authors: Y. Jin, Yachao; X. Qu, Xijun; L. Ju, Liyun; L. Song, Li; M. Zhang, Mingdao
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  10. Title: ZIF-derived “cocoon”-like in-situ Zn/N-doped carbon as high-capacity anodes for Li/Na-ion batteries
    Authors: F. Yuan, Fengzhou; Z. Chen, Zhe; H. Zhang, Huan; L. Song, Li; M. Zhang, Mingdao
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects

 

 

Yibo Wang | Distributed Generation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yibo Wang | Distributed Generation | Best Researcher Award

Northeastern University, China.

Yibo Wang is a dedicated researcher in electrical engineering, currently pursuing his Master’s degree at Northeastern University, China. His research centers on the stability analysis of distributed generation in cyber-energy systems, a crucial area for modern energy infrastructure. He has co-authored several high-impact papers published in top-tier journals, such as the Journal of Energy Storage and IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics, showcasing his significant contributions to the field. Yibo’s work on virtual energy storage systems and multi-inverter stability has positioned him as a promising young researcher. His collaboration with established experts like Rui Wang and Pinjia Zhang further highlights his research potential. While his academic background and research outputs are impressive, expanding his research scope and demonstrating independent project leadership could further enhance his profile as a leading researcher in the field.

Profile
Education

Yibo Wang holds a robust educational background in Electrical Engineering, beginning with his Bachelor’s degree from the Shenyang Institute of Engineering, where he studied from September 2017 to June 2022. His undergraduate studies focused on Electrical Engineering and Automation, providing him with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of electrical systems. Building on this, Yibo pursued a Master’s degree at Northeastern University, China, specializing in Electrical Engineering from September 2022 to June 2024. During his graduate studies, he delved deeper into advanced topics such as the stability analysis of distributed generation in cyber-energy systems. His academic journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a keen interest in emerging energy technologies, positioning him as a promising researcher in the field. Yibo’s education has equipped him with the technical knowledge and analytical skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the future of energy systems engineering.

Professional Experience

Yibo Wang is a dedicated researcher in the field of electrical engineering, with a particular focus on the stability analysis of distributed generation in cyber-energy systems. He has co-authored several high-impact research papers published in prestigious journals, including the Journal of Energy Storage and IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics. His work primarily explores innovative solutions in virtual energy storage systems, multi-inverter stability, and virtual asynchronous machine controllers. Yibo’s collaboration with leading experts like Rui Wang and Pinjia Zhang highlights his integration into a network of prominent researchers, further enhancing the impact of his contributions. Currently, he is advancing his academic pursuits as a Master’s degree candidate in Electrical Engineering at Northeastern University. His strong educational background, coupled with his research achievements, positions him as an emerging talent in the domain of cyber-energy systems and electrical engineering.

Research Interest

Yibo Wang’s research is centered on the stability analysis of distributed generation within cyber-energy systems, a critical area in modern electrical engineering. His work explores the intricate dynamics between energy generation, storage, and distribution, particularly focusing on virtual energy storage systems and multi-inverter networks. Yibo’s research aims to enhance the robustness and reliability of energy systems by developing advanced control strategies, such as virtual synchronous generators (VSG) and virtual asynchronous machine controllers. These strategies are designed to stabilize power systems in real-time, ensuring seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the grid. His contributions are particularly relevant in the context of increasing reliance on distributed generation and the need for resilient energy infrastructures. By addressing these challenges, Yibo Wang’s research not only advances theoretical understanding but also has practical implications for the future of sustainable energy systems.

Research Skills

Yibo Wang possesses a robust set of research skills, particularly in the field of electrical engineering and energy systems. His expertise in stability analysis of distributed generation in cyber-energy systems is evidenced by his contributions to high-impact publications. Yibo is proficient in advanced analytical techniques, such as the Guardian Map Method, which he has applied to optimize parameter selection in complex energy systems. His ability to collaborate effectively with leading researchers and contribute to significant studies on virtual energy storage and multi-inverter systems demonstrates his strong teamwork and communication skills. Additionally, Yibo’s research is grounded in a deep understanding of both theoretical principles and practical applications, allowing him to develop innovative solutions for contemporary challenges in energy infrastructure. His technical proficiency, coupled with a commitment to advancing knowledge in his field, makes him a valuable asset in any research setting.

Awards and Recognition

Yibo Wang possesses a robust set of research skills, particularly in the field of electrical engineering and energy systems. His expertise in stability analysis of distributed generation in cyber-energy systems is evidenced by his contributions to high-impact publications. Yibo is proficient in advanced analytical techniques, such as the Guardian Map Method, which he has applied to optimize parameter selection in complex energy systems. His ability to collaborate effectively with leading researchers and contribute to significant studies on virtual energy storage and multi-inverter systems demonstrates his strong teamwork and communication skills. Additionally, Yibo’s research is grounded in a deep understanding of both theoretical principles and practical applications, allowing him to develop innovative solutions for contemporary challenges in energy infrastructure. His technical proficiency, coupled with a commitment to advancing knowledge in his field, makes him a valuable asset in any research setting.

Conclusion

Yibo Wang is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the context of early-career researchers. His contributions to the field of electrical engineering, particularly in stability analysis and cyber-energy systems, are commendable. However, to strengthen his case for such an award, focusing on broadening his research impact, pursuing further professional development, and demonstrating independent research leadership would be beneficial. Overall, he is a strong contender with significant potential for future recognition.

Publications Top Notes

  1. A study of novel real-time power balance strategy with virtual asynchronous machine control for regional integrated electric-thermal energy systems
    • Authors: Wang, R., Li, M.-J., Wang, Y., Sun, Q., Zhang, P.
    • Year: 2024
  2. An Algorithm for Calculating the Parameter Selection Area of a Doubly-Fed Induction Generator Based on the Guardian Map Method
    • Authors: Wang, Y., Chen, F., Jia, W., Wang, R.
    • Year: 2024
  3. Research on Load State Sensing and Early Warning Method of Distribution Network under High Penetration Distributed Generation Access
    • Authors: Gu, C., Wang, Y., Wang, W., Gao, Y.
    • Year: 2023
  4. New Distributed Control Strategy of Power System Based on Existing Technology
    • Authors: Jia, Y., Zheng, Q., Pan, Z., Tian, R., Wang, Y.
    • Year: 2022 (presented in 2023)
  5. Distributed Optimal Control Strategy of New Energy in Novel Power Systems
    • Authors: Jia, Y., Zheng, Q., Pan, Z., Wang, Y., Tian, R.
    • Year: 2022 (presented in 2023)