Li Yan | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Li Yan | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Researcher from Beijing University of Technology, China

Dr. Yan Li is an accomplished researcher in the field of energy materials, currently serving as an Assistant Researcher at Beijing University of Technology. With a strong academic background and postdoctoral training at one of China’s most prestigious universities, he has developed expertise in designing and synthesizing advanced cathode materials for both lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. His work focuses on improving battery performance, safety, and understanding degradation mechanisms through cutting-edge in situ and operando transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Dr. Li’s contribution lies not only in material synthesis but also in developing novel characterization methods to address the fundamental scientific challenges related to energy storage systems. His multidisciplinary approach combines materials science, electrochemistry, and electron microscopy to explore next-generation battery technologies. Dr. Li is emerging as a strong presence in the research community, known for his technical depth, innovative thinking, and commitment to solving real-world energy problems. His current research aims to enhance the reliability and lifespan of battery systems, which are crucial for applications in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage. Dr. Yan Li continues to make substantial contributions to the scientific community and has the potential to influence global advancements in sustainable energy technologies.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yan Li obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in 2016 from Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, China, where he specialized in the field of materials science and engineering with a particular emphasis on electrochemical energy storage systems. His academic journey began with a solid foundation in chemistry and material science, which later evolved into specialized research in battery technologies. During his Ph.D. studies, Dr. Li gained rigorous training in materials synthesis, electrochemical analysis, and structural characterization, setting the groundwork for his future innovations in energy storage. His doctoral thesis likely explored aspects of material behavior under electrochemical conditions, especially within battery systems. His academic excellence and research potential were evident early on, leading to postdoctoral opportunities at leading institutions. Dr. Li’s commitment to academic rigor and continuous learning has enabled him to stay at the forefront of energy research. The comprehensive nature of his education has played a critical role in shaping his ability to address complex challenges in the development of high-performance and safe battery materials, making him a valuable asset in both academic and industrial research environments.

Professional Experience

Dr. Yan Li is currently employed as an Assistant Researcher at Beijing University of Technology, where he is actively involved in energy materials research. Before his current role, he worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Automotive Department at Tsinghua University, one of China’s top-tier institutions. During his postdoctoral tenure, he contributed to projects that explored the performance and safety of batteries in vehicular applications, particularly electric vehicles. His responsibilities included not only experimental research but also data analysis, project planning, and collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams. These roles provided him with invaluable experience in applying academic research to real-world industrial needs. At Beijing University of Technology, Dr. Li continues to expand his research on lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery technologies. His professional work integrates both fundamental research and applied science, offering insights into battery degradation, safety, and longevity. This professional journey underscores his ability to contribute to high-impact research projects while also nurturing the skills required for academic leadership and innovation. Through these experiences, Dr. Li has built a strong foundation for further academic achievements and collaborative ventures in the global energy research community.

Research Interest

Dr. Yan Li’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, electrochemistry, and energy storage systems. He is particularly focused on the design, synthesis, and optimization of cathode materials for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. These energy storage technologies are pivotal for the future of electric vehicles, renewable energy integration, and portable electronic devices. His research explores new material chemistries that offer higher energy density, better thermal stability, and longer cycle life. One of the most distinctive aspects of Dr. Li’s work is his application of in situ and operando transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the real-time structural and chemical changes occurring in battery materials during operation. This technique allows for the direct observation of degradation mechanisms, providing critical insights that can lead to safer and more durable battery systems. Additionally, Dr. Li is interested in exploring environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to conventional battery materials. His multidisciplinary approach and continuous pursuit of innovation highlight his dedication to solving pressing energy challenges and advancing battery technology for broader societal impact.

Research Skills

Dr. Yan Li possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that make him a leading expert in the field of energy storage materials. His core competencies include advanced materials synthesis, especially in the development of cathode materials for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. He is proficient in a wide array of characterization techniques, with specialized expertise in in situ and operando transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which allows him to analyze material transformations and degradation processes in real-time during battery operation. His skills also encompass electrochemical testing, such as cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements, and impedance spectroscopy, which are essential for evaluating the performance of battery materials. Dr. Li has hands-on experience with battery fabrication techniques, including electrode preparation, coin-cell assembly, and safety testing protocols. Additionally, he is skilled in data analysis, scientific writing, and project management, making him capable of leading and executing comprehensive research projects. His ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with experimental practice enables him to develop innovative solutions in the realm of energy storage, ensuring both academic excellence and industrial relevance.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors received by Dr. Yan Li have not been publicly listed, his academic and professional trajectory suggests a strong record of recognition and merit. Being selected for a postdoctoral position at Tsinghua University, a globally recognized institution, is itself an indicator of high academic standing and research potential. His current appointment as an Assistant Researcher at Beijing University of Technology also reflects his capabilities and the trust placed in him by academic peers and senior faculty. It is likely that he has received institutional and project-based acknowledgments for his work on battery materials and electrochemical analysis. Furthermore, Dr. Li’s contributions to cutting-edge topics such as in situ characterization and energy storage mechanisms may have positioned him to receive future recognitions in the form of research grants, invitations to conferences, and publication awards. As his research output grows and gains visibility, he is well-positioned to earn national and international honors that further validate his contributions to the field of materials science and energy technology.

Conclusion

Dr. Yan Li is a promising and capable researcher with a strong academic foundation, diverse professional experience, and clear research focus in the field of advanced energy storage systems. His work on lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery cathode materials, combined with his innovative application of in situ and operando TEM, places him at the forefront of modern materials research. Dr. Li exhibits a balanced skill set that includes experimental technique, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. While he is still in the early stages of his independent research career, his track record shows a consistent trajectory of growth and excellence. To further strengthen his global research profile, increased publication in high-impact journals, active international collaboration, and participation in global energy forums will be advantageous. Overall, Dr. Yan Li is highly suitable for recognition through a Best Researcher Award. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also addresses critical challenges in sustainable energy storage, making his research impactful both scientifically and societally. He represents the next generation of materials scientists capable of driving innovation in the energy sector.

Publication Top Notes

1. Removal of residual contaminants by minute-level washing facilitates the direct regeneration of spent cathodes from retired EV Li-ion batteries

  • Authors: Guo, Yi; Li, Yang; Qiu, Kai; Li, Yan; Yuan, Weijing; Li, Chenxi; Rui, Xinyu; Shi, Lewei; Hou, Yukun; Liu, Saiyue et al.

  • Year: 2025

2. Cryo-Sampling Enables Precise Evaluation of Thermal Stability of a Ni-Rich Layered Cathode

  • Authors: Mindi Zhang; Yan Li; Manling Sui; Pengfei Yan

  • Year: 2025

3. Cross-scale deciphering thermal failure process of Ni-rich layered cathode

  • Authors: Ding, Yang; Li, Yan; Xu, Ruoyu; Han, Xiao; Huang, Kai; Ke, Xiaoxing; Wang, Bo; Sui, Manling; Yan, Pengfei

  • Year: 2024

4. Early-stage latent thermal failure of single-crystal Ni-rich layered cathode

  • Authors: Han, Xiao; Xu, Ruoyu; Li, Yan; Ding, Yang; Zhang, Manchen; Wang, Bo; Ke, Xiaoxing; Sui, Manling; Yan, Pengfei

  • Year: 2024

5. Selective core-shell doping enabling high performance 4.6 V-LiCoO₂

  • Authors: Xia, Yueming; Feng, Jianrui; Li, Jinhui; Li, Yan; Zhang, Zhengfeng; Wang, Xiaoqi; Shao, Jianli; Sui, Manling; Yan, Pengfei

  • Year: 2024

6. Toward a high-voltage practical lithium ion batteries with ultraconformal interphases and enhanced battery safety

  • Authors: Li, Yan; Li, Jinhui; Ding, Yang; Feng, Xuning; Liu, Xiang; Yan, Pengfei; Sui, Manling; Ouyang, Minggao

  • Year: 2024

7. Advanced characterization guiding rational design of regeneration protocol for spent-LiCoO₂

  • Authors: Mu, Xulin; Huang, Kai; Zhu, Genxiang; Li, Yan; Liu, Conghui; Hui, Xiaojuan; Sui, Manling; Yan, Pengfei

  • Year: 2023

8. Mitigating Twin Boundary-Induced Cracking for Enhanced Cycling Stability of Layered Cathodes

  • Authors: Mu, Xulin; Hui, Xiaojuan; Wang, Mingming; Wang, Kuan; Li, Yan; Zhang, Yuefei; Sui, Manling; Yan, Pengfei

  • Year: 2023

9. Development of cathode-electrolyte-interphase for safer lithium batteries

  • Authors: Wu, Yu; Liu, Xiang; Wang, Li; Feng, Xuning; Ren, Dongsheng; Li, Yan; Rui, Xinyu; Wang, Yan; Han, Xuebing; Xu, Gui-Liang et al.

  • Year: 2021

10. Unlocking the self-supported thermal runaway of high-energy lithium-ion batteries

  • Authors: Hou, Junxian; Feng, Xuning; Wang, Li; Liu, Xiang; Ohma, Atsushi; Lu, Languang; Ren, Dongsheng; Huang, Wensheng; Li, Yan; Yi, Mengchao et al.

  • Year: 2021

 

 

 

Yige Zhao | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yige Zhao | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yige Zhao is an accomplished Associate Professor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, with a research focus on advanced energy materials and devices. Her work spans the development of innovative solutions in hydrogen energy, electrocatalysis, and next-generation energy storage systems such as metal-air and lithium-sulfur batteries. With a strong educational foundation from Beijing University of Chemical Technology and rich professional experience in academia, Dr. Zhao has established herself as a leading expert in clean energy research. She has been at the forefront of several major research initiatives, including national and provincial-level projects, and maintains active collaborations with industry partners to ensure practical application of her work. In addition to her robust research profile, Dr. Zhao is a dedicated educator, delivering core undergraduate and innovation-based courses and mentoring graduate students. She has contributed significantly to academic literature with publications in high-impact journals and holds patents on novel electrocatalysts. Recognized for her excellence in both research and teaching, Dr. Zhao has received multiple honors and awards at the university and provincial levels. Her contributions are shaping the future of sustainable energy technologies in China and beyond, demonstrating her commitment to scientific innovation, education, and real-world impact.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yige Zhao’s academic journey began at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, where she earned both her bachelor’s and doctoral degrees in Materials Science and Engineering. From 2009 to 2013, she pursued her undergraduate studies, laying a strong foundation in material chemistry, polymer science, and electrochemical systems. Following her bachelor’s degree, she continued her education at the same institution, completing her Ph.D. in 2018. During her doctoral research, she delved deeply into the synthesis and characterization of energy-related materials, with a specific focus on their application in sustainable technologies such as fuel cells and water-splitting devices. Her rigorous academic training equipped her with comprehensive knowledge in materials processing, advanced characterization techniques, and catalytic mechanisms. The Ph.D. experience also fostered her ability to independently manage research projects and collaborate across disciplines. Her formal education, combined with hands-on lab experience and participation in national-level projects during her doctoral studies, has been crucial in shaping her future career in academia and research. The excellence of her academic record not only underscores her technical competence but also reflects her persistent dedication to addressing global energy challenges through scientific innovation.

Professional Experience

Since July 2018, Dr. Yige Zhao has been affiliated with Zhengzhou University’s School of Materials Science and Engineering, initially joining as a lecturer and subsequently promoted to the role of Associate Professor. Her professional experience in this capacity has been defined by her leadership in academic instruction, research innovation, and student mentorship. She has played a pivotal role in developing and teaching core undergraduate courses such as Electrochemistry, New Energy Device Innovation Practice, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training. These courses are aligned with her research specializations and have been instrumental in preparing students for careers in clean energy technologies. In addition to her teaching duties, Dr. Zhao has successfully led several funded research projects sponsored by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Henan Provincial Science and Technology Department, and other institutional platforms. Her involvement with industrial projects through horizontal enterprise collaborations further reflects her practical orientation and commitment to technology transfer. She also supervises graduate research through the National Joint Research Center for Low-Carbon Environmental Protection Materials. With an emphasis on collaborative innovation, Dr. Zhao’s professional journey demonstrates a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and application-driven research, marking her as a dynamic contributor to China’s sustainable energy ambitions.

Research Interest

Dr. Zhao’s research interests are centered around the synthesis, modification, and application of advanced materials for clean energy conversion and storage. Her work addresses critical challenges in hydrogen energy production, storage, and utilization, as well as the development of efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution and reduction reactions. She has a particular interest in the design of bifunctional materials that enable high-performance metal-air batteries and overall water splitting devices. Dr. Zhao’s investigations extend to lithium-sulfur and zinc-air battery systems, aiming to enhance their stability, conductivity, and charge-discharge efficiency through nanostructuring and surface engineering. She is especially adept at designing carbon-based nanomaterials doped with transition metals and heteroatoms to boost electrocatalytic activity. Her work also involves in situ characterization techniques to explore the underlying mechanisms of energy storage reactions. These multidisciplinary efforts integrate chemistry, materials science, and environmental engineering to create novel solutions for next-generation energy needs. Dr. Zhao’s long-term goal is to contribute to the global transition to low-carbon technologies by developing scalable and cost-effective materials that support sustainable energy systems. Her research is both fundamental and applied, providing innovative directions in material design for clean energy technologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Yige Zhao possesses an advanced skill set in both experimental and analytical aspects of materials research, particularly in the field of electrocatalysis and energy storage devices. Her expertise includes the synthesis of nanostructured materials such as doped carbon nanofibers, porous carbon matrices, and hybrid composites with metal-based active sites. She is highly proficient in techniques like electrospinning, chemical vapor deposition, and hydrothermal synthesis. Dr. Zhao also brings deep experience in utilizing high-end characterization tools such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and in situ electrochemical methods to probe catalytic mechanisms. She is skilled in electrochemical testing techniques, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), crucial for evaluating electrocatalyst performance. Additionally, she has a demonstrated ability to design experimental systems for full-cell battery evaluation, including zinc-air and lithium-sulfur batteries. Dr. Zhao’s interdisciplinary skills enable her to bridge material design with device integration, allowing a holistic approach to innovation in energy technologies. Her ability to conduct mechanistic studies, coupled with process optimization and scale-up, reflects a rare blend of theoretical insight and practical implementation capacity.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Yige Zhao has received numerous accolades recognizing her contributions to scientific research and education. Among the most prestigious is the Henan Provincial Department of Education Science and Technology Achievement Award, which highlights the significance of her innovations in energy materials. She was also awarded the First Prize for Excellent Scientific Papers by the same department, reflecting the high academic quality and impact of her publications. Her role as a Mentor for the National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program for University Students underlines her commitment to fostering research talent and promoting creativity among the next generation. At Zhengzhou University, Dr. Zhao has been consistently recognized for her excellence in student mentorship and academic leadership, earning titles such as Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis Advisor and Excellent Class Advisor. These honors are a testament to her holistic contributions—not just in laboratory research but also in education, leadership, and student engagement. The range of awards from both institutional and governmental levels affirms her status as a prominent figure in the field of energy materials and highlights her ongoing influence in advancing both academic scholarship and sustainable technologies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Yige Zhao stands out as a highly accomplished researcher and academic leader in the field of new energy materials and devices. Her comprehensive educational background, innovative research contributions, and dedication to teaching make her an exemplary candidate for recognition in any competitive award platform. She has made significant strides in addressing pressing energy challenges through her work on hydrogen energy, metal-air batteries, and electrocatalysis, combining fundamental science with practical applications. Her published work in top-tier journals and patent contributions underscore her scientific excellence, while her success in securing national and provincial research funding demonstrates her leadership and credibility in the research community. Additionally, her active involvement in student development and academic instruction reflects a deep commitment to knowledge transfer and mentorship. As global energy systems shift toward sustainability, the work of scientists like Dr. Zhao becomes increasingly vital. Her interdisciplinary approach, strategic vision, and hands-on research skills position her as a driving force in clean energy innovation. Dr. Zhao not only meets but exceeds the criteria for the Best Researcher Award, making her a deserving candidate whose contributions are already making a meaningful impact in the field of sustainable energy science.

Publications Top Notes

A Parallel Array Structured Cobalt Sulfide/Nitrogen Doped Carbon Nanocage/Carbon Fiber Composite Based on Microfluidic Spinning Technology

  • Authors: Yige Zhao, Ting Li, Qing Wang, Yinyin Ai, Ruohan Hou, Aneela Habib, Guosheng Shao, Feng Wang, Peng Zhang

  • Year: 2024

2. Bead-Structured Triple-Doped Carbon Nanocage/Carbon Nanofiber Composite as a Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalyst for Zn–Air Batteries

  • Authors: Qing Wang, Yige Zhao, Bo Zhang, Yukun Li, Xiang Li, Guosheng Shao, Peng Zhang

  • Year: 2024

3. One-Pot Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Porous Carbon Derived from the Siraitia grosvenorii Peel for Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries

  • Authors: Lu Li, Mengyao Zhao, Bo Zhang, Guosheng Shao, Yige Zhao

  • Year: 2023

4. Li Intercalation in an MoSe₂ Electrocatalyst: In Situ Observation and Modulation of Its Precisely Controllable Phase Engineering for a High‐Performance Flexible Li‐S Battery

  • Authors: Yunke Wang, Yige Zhao, Kangli Liu, Shaobin Wang, Neng Li, Guosheng Shao, Feng Wang, Peng Zhang

  • Year: 2023

5. Watermelon Peel‐Derived Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Carbon as a Superior Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalyst for Zinc‐Air Batteries

  • Authors: Lu Li, Zhiheng Wu, Jin Zhang, Yige Zhao, Guosheng Shao

  • Year: 2021

6. Sponge Tofu-like Graphene-Carbon Hybrid Supporting Pt–Co Nanocrystals for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Zn–Air Battery

  • Authors: Yige Zhao, Lu Li, Dengke Liu, Zhiheng Wu, Yongxie Wang, Jingjun Liu, Guosheng Shao

  • Year: 2021

7. Nitrogen-Doped Vertical Graphene Nanosheets by High-Flux Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition as Efficient Oxygen Reduction Catalysts for Zn–Air Batteries

  • Authors: Zhiheng Wu, Yongshang Zhang, Lu Li, Yige Zhao, Yonglong Shen, Shaobin Wang, Guosheng Shao

  • Year: 2020

8. Adding Refractory 5d Transition Metal W into PtCo System: An Advanced Ternary Alloy for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction

  • Authors: Yige Zhao et al.

  • Year: 2018

9. PDA-Assisted Formation of Ordered Intermetallic CoPt₃ Catalysts with Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Activity and Stability

  • Authors: Yige Zhao et al.

  • Year: 2018

10. Dependent Relationship between Quantitative Lattice Contraction and Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Activity over Pt–Cu Alloy Catalysts

  • Authors: Yige Zhao et al.

  • Year: 2017