Chi He | Air Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Prof . Chi He | Air Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Xi’an Jiaotong University, China

Dr. Chi He is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of environmental engineering, currently serving as a Full Professor at Xi’an Jiaotong University, China. With a robust portfolio of over 260 publications and more than 12,000 citations, he has earned international recognition for his contributions to environmental catalysis, air pollution control, and functional nanomaterials. His scholarly excellence is underscored by a high H-index of 66, and multiple ESI highly cited papers. Dr. He’s research aims to tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges through the design of novel catalytic materials and pollution remediation strategies. He is actively involved in national and international collaborations and holds leadership roles as Dean of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering and Director of the Center of Environmental Materials and Pollution Prevention Technology. He is also affiliated with the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences as an adjunct professor. In addition to his academic work, Dr. He has filed 48 patents, 21 of which have been authorized, and contributed to several textbooks. His career is marked by a dynamic fusion of scientific rigor, innovation, and dedication to environmental sustainability, making him a strong candidate for accolades such as the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Chi He obtained his Doctorate in Environmental Engineering from the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in 2010, one of China’s most prestigious institutions for environmental research. His doctoral studies laid a strong foundation in environmental chemistry, catalysis, and pollution control technologies. During this period, he engaged in rigorous scientific training and made early contributions to air pollution remediation. His academic journey reflects a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research, blending material science, chemistry, and environmental engineering. To further enhance his global academic perspective, Dr. He later joined Cardiff University in the United Kingdom in 2016 as a visiting scholar under the mentorship of Professor Graham John Hutchings. This international exposure enriched his research outlook and facilitated cross-cultural academic collaboration. Dr. He’s educational trajectory showcases a blend of academic excellence, technical depth, and global research engagement. It has enabled him to address complex environmental issues with advanced, innovative methodologies. His early focus on functional nanomaterials and catalytic degradation of pollutants continues to influence his present research themes. This solid educational background has been instrumental in shaping Dr. He into a leading researcher, educator, and thought leader in the field of environmental science and engineering.

Professional Experience

Dr. Chi He holds several prominent roles in academia and environmental science in China. He is currently a Full Professor at the State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Flow in Power Engineering, a highly prestigious research institution at Xi’an Jiaotong University. He also serves as the Dean of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering and Director of the Center of Environmental Materials and Pollution Prevention Technology at the same university. These roles underscore his leadership and expertise in advancing interdisciplinary research and education in environmental engineering. Additionally, since 2018, Dr. He has served as an adjunct professor at the National Engineering Laboratory for VOCs Pollution Control Material & Technology, affiliated with the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. His academic influence is further strengthened by his international experience as a visiting scholar at Cardiff University, where he collaborated on advanced environmental catalysis under the mentorship of Professor Graham John Hutchings. Through these positions, Dr. He has managed over 40 major research projects funded by the NSFC, MOST of China, and industrial partners. His career is a remarkable example of integrating academic excellence, scientific research, and administrative leadership, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in environmental pollution control technologies.

Research Interests

Dr. Chi He’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental chemistry, materials science, and pollution remediation. His work primarily focuses on the design and application of functional nanomaterials for the mitigation of air pollutants, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and other hazardous substances. Environmental catalysis is a cornerstone of his research, where he develops novel catalytic systems to enhance degradation efficiency, water resistance, and selectivity. His group also works on optimizing the interfacial environments of multi-phase catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation, methanol oxidation, and deep destruction of industrial pollutants. Dr. He’s research extends to single-atom catalysis, hierarchical porous composites, and bifunctional catalytic systems, contributing to fundamental understanding and real-world applications. He is particularly interested in achieving breakthroughs in the selectivity and durability of catalysts under varying environmental conditions. His studies are highly practical and are supported by collaborations with industries and government projects. By bridging laboratory research with environmental policy and engineering applications, Dr. He aims to create sustainable, scalable technologies for air pollution control. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to applied research position him as a leader in combating environmental challenges through scientific innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Chi He possesses a wide range of research skills, particularly in environmental catalysis, materials science, and chemical engineering. He has extensive expertise in the synthesis and structural tuning of functional nanomaterials, enabling the development of catalysts with enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability. Dr. He is proficient in advanced material characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and surface area analysis, which are crucial for understanding the properties of catalytic systems. His work in catalytic oxidation, hydrodealkylation, and hydrogenation reactions involves both experimental design and kinetic modeling. He has demonstrated significant competence in managing large-scale research projects, applying both laboratory and pilot-scale methodologies. Additionally, Dr. He has contributed to the writing and editing of academic texts, scientific reviews, and technology transfer proposals. His practical experience extends to the invention and application of pollution control technologies, with 48 patent applications and 21 authorized patents. These reflect his capacity to bridge fundamental research with industrial innovation. Dr. He’s collaborative abilities, international research experience, and multidisciplinary problem-solving approaches make him exceptionally skilled in leading high-impact environmental research.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Chi He has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding research contributions and academic leadership. Among his most notable accolades is the Excellent Young Scholar Award from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), which acknowledges promising early-career scientists. He was also named a K.C. Wong Young Scholar in 2019, further underscoring his national recognition as an emerging leader in environmental science. Dr. He’s work has been recognized by multiple professional societies and governmental bodies. He received the First Prize in Environmental Protection Science and Technology from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China, as well as the Special Prize in Science and Technology awarded by the China Environmental Protection Federation. His commitment to innovation and excellence was further recognized by the Young Scientist Award from the Chinese Society of Environmental Sciences, and the First Youth Innovation Award by the Volatile Organic Matter Control Special Committee. At the regional level, he earned the Shaanxi Provincial Environmental Protection Youth Science and Technology Award and the Second Prize in Science and Technology of Shaanxi Province. These accolades collectively reflect Dr. He’s sustained contributions to environmental research, technological innovation, and science-based policy development.

Conclusion

Dr. Chi He is a visionary environmental researcher whose work continues to make a transformative impact on the field of air pollution control and nanomaterials-based catalysis. His extensive publication record, influential patents, and leadership roles place him at the forefront of environmental engineering both in China and globally. His research not only advances scientific understanding but also yields practical solutions for real-world environmental challenges. By fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations and aligning academic work with industry and government needs, Dr. He exemplifies the qualities of a modern scientific leader. His international experience and role as an educator and administrator further enhance his profile as a holistic academic professional. Although there is always room for deeper engagement in global collaborations and greater visibility in international scientific forums, Dr. He has already established an outstanding foundation. His trajectory points to continued innovation and impact. Considering his significant scholarly contributions, leadership in environmental research, and dedication to sustainability, Dr. Chi He is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His career is a benchmark for excellence in environmental science, and he stands as a role model for aspiring researchers in the field.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: A new scheme for boosting in situ Fenton-like reaction in plant pathogenic tissues for selective structural degradation of capsid proteins
    Authors: J. Ma, Jun; M. Chen, Ming; Y. Wang, Yujie; C. He, Chi; J.P. Chen, Jiaping Paul
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: An unexpected increase in PM2.5 levels in Xi’an during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions: The interplay of anthropogenic and natural factors
    Authors: S. Yang, Shuqi; X. Yang, Xu; Y. Wang, Yujing; C. He, Chi; F. Liu, Fobang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  3. Title: High-efficiency toluene degradation over Co@N-doped hollow carbon by plasma catalysis: O3-induced bifunctional sites and synergy
    Authors: C. Chen, Changwei; X. Liu, Xiaohe; M. Ma, Mudi; H. Zhang, Hongna; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  4. Title: Deactivation effect of different Pb salts over Fe/Zr-W catalyst for selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3
    Authors: L. Wang, Liang; S. Ren, Shan; X. Li, Xiaodi; S. Chai, Shouning; C.C. Xu, Chunbao Charles
    Year: 2025

  5. Title: Engineering Cr−O−Ti structure towards boosted vinyl chloride destruction: Oxygen species evolution and reaction mechanism
    Authors: H. Xu, Han; Q. Yang, Qin; M. Tian, Mingjiao; R. Albilali, Reem; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025

  6. Title: Taming the acidity and redox property of phosphorylated Ca doped LaMnO3 for catalytic n-butylamine elimination: Breaking the see-saw effect of activity and N2 selectivity
    Authors: M. Ma, Mudi; Y. Chen, Yutao; Q. Liu, Qiyuan; C. Chen, Changwei; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  7. Title: Impacts of Pandemic-Associated Plastic Waste on Microplastics in Ambient PM2.5
    Authors: F. Liu, Fobang; M. Guo, Mengting; Y. Wang, Yanan; C. He, Chi; P. Wu, Pengfei
    Year: 2025

  8. Title: Rationally Fabricated Ce-Mn@ZrO2-SO42- Catalyst Boosts the Efficient Destruction of Chlorobenzene with SO2 Impurity: Synergy of Surface SO42- and Acidic Sites
    Authors: Y. Sun, Yukun; S. Xu, Shuai; B. Bai, Bo; Z. Hao, Zhengping; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025

  9. Title: Sulfur-resistant mechanism of MnOx@CeO2@MgO core-shell catalyst in simultaneous removal of NOx and chlorobenzene
    Authors: H. Pan, Hua; Z. Chen, Zhenghui; X. Feng, Xiangbo; J. Chen, Jun; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 2

  10. Title: Hydrodechlorination under O2 promotes catalytic oxidation of CVOCs over a Pt/TiO2 catalyst at low temperature
    Authors: Y. Zhao, Yonghua; Y. Yu, Yanke; J. Li, Jiahang; J. Xie, Jinmin; C. He, Chi
    Year: 2025

 

 

TING ZHU | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. TING ZHU | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Yunnan Normal University, China

Assoc/Prof. Ting Zhu is an accomplished academic in the field of materials science, specializing in energy storage and conversion. His research focuses on the design and synthesis of nanostructured functional materials, with a strong emphasis on applications like supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, and photocatalytic hydrogen production. Over the years, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the field, with over 80 peer-reviewed publications, a significant citation index, and a strong research footprint in high-impact journals. His innovative contributions have garnered widespread recognition, including prestigious awards and fellowships. Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s academic service, including editorial roles and review positions for renowned journals, further highlights his influence in the scientific community. With his deep expertise and innovative research, he continues to advance solutions to global energy challenges.

Professional Profile

Education

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s academic journey began at Sichuan University, China, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Materials of Chemistry in 2007, followed by a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering in 2009. He furthered his education at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, where he earned a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering in 2013. His solid educational foundation provided him with the necessary skills and knowledge to specialize in energy-related materials science. This combination of materials science and biomedical engineering has uniquely shaped his multidisciplinary approach to research, giving him an edge in addressing energy storage and conversion challenges through novel material design.

Professional Experience

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s professional career spans prestigious institutions across China and Singapore. He currently serves as a Professor at Yunnan Normal University (YNNU), China, a position he has held since July 2024. Prior to this, he was an Associate Professor at YNNU from December 2021 to July 2024. He also held a tenure-track professorship at Central South University, China, from January 2017 to December 2021. His international exposure includes a research fellowship at the National University of Singapore from 2013 to 2017 and an internship at Amperex Technology Limited in 2013. These experiences have honed his expertise and solidified his position as a leader in his field, enabling him to contribute to groundbreaking research in energy materials.

Research Interests

Assoc/Prof. Zhu’s primary research interests are in the design and synthesis of nanostructured functional materials for energy storage and conversion. His work focuses on applications such as supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, photocatalytic hydrogen production, and electrocatalytic water splitting. He is particularly interested in the development of materials that enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. His research bridges the gap between fundamental material design and real-world energy applications, emphasizing innovation in nanotechnology to address global energy challenges. By exploring novel material combinations and their behavior under various conditions, Assoc/Prof. Zhu aims to contribute to the development of next-generation energy storage systems that are both efficient and environmentally friendly.

Research Skills

Assoc/Prof. Zhu possesses a wide range of research skills essential for his work in materials science and energy applications. His expertise includes advanced materials synthesis techniques, characterization of nanostructures, and the application of these materials in energy storage and conversion devices. He is highly skilled in electrochemical testing, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and other characterization methods essential for understanding the properties of nanomaterials. Furthermore, he has significant experience in the design of functionalized nanomaterials and the study of their properties in real-world energy systems, such as batteries and supercapacitors. His interdisciplinary knowledge, combining chemistry, materials science, and engineering, positions him as a leading researcher in his field.

Awards and Honors

Assoc/Prof. Zhu has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, reflecting his outstanding contributions to research. Notably, he was awarded the IAAM Medal at the 30th International Assembly of Advanced Materials Congress in 2019. He also received the Best Poster Award at the 3rd International Conference for 2D Materials in 2017 and the Excellent Poster Award at the 1st Seminar for Materials Chemistry of Energy in 2016. His achievements also include prestigious research scholarships, such as the one from Nanyang Technological University. These recognitions highlight his expertise and the significant impact of his work in the field of materials science. Additionally, his editorial roles and academic service further underscore his influence in advancing research in energy and materials science.

Conclusion:

Assoc/Prof. Ting Zhu is a highly accomplished researcher, whose significant contributions to energy storage, nanomaterials, and electrocatalysis have had a notable impact on the scientific community. His extensive publication record, awards, and leadership roles in academia position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By enhancing his industry collaborations, broadening his research areas, and engaging more with the public, Assoc/Prof. Zhu could further elevate his already impressive career and continue to make impactful strides in the global scientific landscape.

Publication Top Notes

  • Spirituality and treatment choices by South and East Asian women with serious mental illness
    Authors: L Chiu, M Morrow, S Ganesan, N Clark
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 81
  • Pilot study and evaluation of postgraduate course on “the interface between spirituality, religion and psychiatry”
    Authors: A Grabovac, N Clark, M McKenna
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 72
  • Applying intersectionality with constructive grounded theory as an innovative research approach for studying complex populations: Demonstrating congruency
    Authors: S Kassam, L Marcellus, N Clark, J O’Mahony
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 53
  • Religion and spirituality in the context of bipolar disorder: A literature review
    Authors: B Pesut, N Clark, V Maxwell, EE Michalak
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 51
  • Immigrant women and mental health care: Findings from an environmental scan
    Authors: J O’Mahony, N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 46
  • Exploring community capacity: Karen refugee women’s mental health
    Author: N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 42
  • Applying critical race feminism and intersectionality to narrative inquiry: A point of resistance for Muslim nurses donning a hijab
    Authors: N Clark, N Saleh
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 39
  • Understanding how self-management interventions work for disadvantaged populations living with chronic conditions: Protocol for a realist synthesis
    Authors: SL Mills, J Pumarino, N Clark, S Carroll, S Dennis, S Koehn, T Yu, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 30
  • Exploring intersectionality as a policy tool for gender-based policy analysis: Implications for language and health literacy as key determinants of integration
    Authors: N Clark, B Vissandjée
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 15
  • Themes for evaluating the quality of initiatives to engage patients and family caregivers in decision-making in healthcare systems: A scoping review
    Authors: CB Hamilton, M Dehnadi, ME Snow, N Clark, M Lui, J McLean, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12

 

Jianwu Yan | Earth | Best Innovation Award

Mr. Jianwu Yan | Earth | Best Innovation Award

Department Chair at Shaanxi Normal University, China

Jianwu Yan, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the School of Geography and Tourism at Shaanxi Normal University in Xi’an, China. With a robust academic background and extensive research experience, he specializes in Cartography and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). His contributions to the field are evident through his numerous publications in prestigious journals, showcasing his expertise in understanding the interactions between climate change, human activities, and vegetation dynamics. Dr. Yan is known for leading significant research projects funded by national and international organizations, focusing on environmental issues in the Loess Plateau and beyond. His work has implications for sustainable land management and ecological restoration, making him a vital contributor to geographical and environmental sciences.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jianwu Yan earned his Ph.D. in Cartography and Geographical Information Systems from the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research (IGSNRR) at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2014. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Pratacultural Science at Lanzhou University and Northwest A&F University, respectively. His comprehensive education provides him with a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in geographical research. This academic journey reflects his commitment to advancing the field of geography and understanding complex environmental systems.

Professional Experience

Since December 2015, Dr. Jianwu Yan has been an Associate Professor at Shaanxi Normal University, where he has been instrumental in teaching and guiding students in geography and tourism. He previously served as a lecturer at the same institution from July 2014 to November 2015. Dr. Yan’s professional experience includes leading significant research projects focused on land surface processes and environmental changes. His expertise has contributed to the development of innovative methodologies for assessing and modeling ecological dynamics, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions of China. His roles have established him as a key figure in his department, driving academic excellence and research innovation.

Research Interests

Dr. Yan’s research interests encompass various aspects of geographical science, particularly the impacts of climate change and human activities on vegetation dynamics and land use. His work focuses on understanding the intricate relationships between natural environments and anthropogenic factors, especially in the context of the Loess Plateau in China. He employs advanced remote sensing techniques and geographic information systems to analyze environmental changes, assess ecosystem responses, and develop sustainable management strategies. Dr. Yan is also involved in studying soil moisture stratification and its effects on ecological processes, contributing to broader discussions on climate resilience and sustainable development in vulnerable regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Jianwu Yan possesses a diverse set of research skills essential for his work in geographical sciences. He is proficient in utilizing remote sensing technologies and GIS software for data collection and analysis, enabling him to model complex environmental interactions effectively. His expertise includes conducting field surveys, analyzing spatial data, and applying statistical methods to interpret research findings. Additionally, he has experience in project management, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams for various research initiatives. Dr. Yan’s strong analytical skills and proficiency in scientific writing have resulted in numerous publications in reputable journals, enhancing his reputation as a leading researcher in his field.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Jianwu Yan has received several awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to geographical research and education. His work has been acknowledged by national funding agencies, which have supported his research projects on ecological processes and environmental management. His publications in high-impact journals reflect not only his research excellence but also his commitment to advancing knowledge in geographical sciences. Dr. Yan’s achievements in research and teaching have established him as a respected figure in his academic community, inspiring students and colleagues alike to pursue innovative research in geography and environmental science.

Conclusion

Jianwu Yan, Ph.D., is an exemplary researcher whose contributions to environmental science and geography have significant implications for understanding and addressing climate change challenges. His extensive publication record, leadership in research projects, and collaborative spirit make him a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By enhancing his international collaborations, public engagement, and mentorship, Dr. Yan can further amplify his impact in the scientific community and beyond. His innovative research not only advances academic knowledge but also holds promise for practical applications in environmental policy and management.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Potential impacts of land use and land cover change (LUCC) and climate change on evapotranspiration and gross primary productivity in the Haihe River Basin, China
  • Authors: Sun, S., Chen, B., Yan, J., Fu, P., Song, Z.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
  • Volume: 476
  • Article Number: 143729

2. Reductions in Forest Resilience: Unraveling the Decoupling Between Gross Primary Productivity and Photosynthetic Efficiency

  • Authors: Zhang, Y., Liu, X., Wang, L., Li, X., Xiao, J.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: Geophysical Research Letters
  • Volume: 51
  • Issue: 16
  • Article Number: e2024GL110148

3. Changes in soil organic carbon stocks of forestlands and grasslands on the Loess Plateau, 1980–2015

  • Authors: Li, G., Sun, S., Lu, N., Han, J., Wang, Y.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
  • Volume: 428
  • Article Number: 139463

4. Classification of Urban Agricultural Functional Regions and Their Carbon Effects at the County Level in the Pearl River Delta, China

  • Authors: Song, Z., Liu, F., Lv, W., Yan, J.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue: 9
  • Article Number: 1734

5. Assessing the impacts of natural conditions and human activities on terrestrial water storage in Loess Plateau, China

  • Authors: Wang, C.-X., Yan, J.-W., Liang, W., Luo, Y.-Y., Wang, F.-J.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Journal of Mountain Science
  • Volume: 20
  • Issue: 7
  • Pages: 1921–1939

6. Vegetation Growth Response and Trends after Water Deficit Exposure in the Loess Plateau, China

  • Authors: Luo, Y., Liang, W., Yan, J., Wang, C., Liang, X.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Remote Sensing
  • Volume: 15
  • Issue: 10
  • Article Number: 2593

7. Urbanization does not endanger food security: Evidence from China’s Loess Plateau

  • Authors: Li, S., Ji, Q., Liang, W., Wang, Z., Li, Y.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
  • Volume: 871
  • Article Number: 162053

8. Quantifying spatiotemporal variations and driving factors of the energy budget in the Loess Plateau

  • Authors: Fen, G., Wei, L., Jianwu, Y., Zhao, J., Weibin, Z.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: International Journal of Climatology
  • Volume: 43
  • Issue: 5
  • Pages: 2062–2076

9. Decoupling relationship and driving effect between economic development and eco-environmental pressure in the Yellow River Basin

  • Authors: Li, S., Liang, W., Lü, Y., Yan, J., Lan, Z.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Shengtai Xuebao
  • Volume: 43
  • Issue: 13
  • Pages: 5417–5431

10. Attribution analysis of vegetation change in the Yellow River Basin based on causal network

  • Authors: LAN, Z., LIANG, W., FU, B., YAN, J., JI, Q.
  • Year: 2022
  • Journal: Progress in Geography
  • Volume: 41
  • Issue: 12
  • Pages: 2342–2355