Yan Zhang | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Prof. Yan Zhang | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhang Yan is an Associate Professor at the School of Chemistry, Tiangong University, specializing in functional polymer materials. His research focuses on polymer hydrogels, deep eutectic solvents, 3D printing, and integrated electronic devices. With a strong academic background from Tianjin University and Nankai University, he has published extensively in high-impact journals, including Nature Communications, Science Advances, Advanced Materials, and Nano Letters. He has also secured multiple research grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Hebei Provincial Natural Science Foundation. In addition to his academic achievements, he actively contributes to the scientific community as a reviewer for prestigious journals and a member of professional societies. His work significantly advances the development of polymer-based materials for energy storage and biomedical applications.

Professional Profile

Education

  • Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Nankai University (2019–2022), supervised by Prof. Zhang Yongjun
  • M.Sc. in Materials Engineering (Polymer Materials), Tianjin University (2016–2019), supervised by Prof. Xu Xinhua
  • B.Sc. in Materials Science and Engineering (Polymer Materials), Tianjin University (2011–2015)

Professional Experience

  • Associate Professor, Tiangong University, School of Chemistry (2023–Present)
  • Research Assistant, Nankai University, Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials (2019–2023)
  • Laboratory Technician, Tianjin Borda Technology Development Center (2015–2016)

Research Interests

Dr. Zhang’s research interests include polymer hydrogels, deep eutectic solvents, 3D printing of polymer-based materials, and their applications in energy storage, sensors, and biomedical devices. He focuses on the synthesis and structural design of functional polymer materials with tailored mechanical and electronic properties. His work explores novel fabrication methods, such as direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing, to develop advanced materials with high performance and scalability.

Research Skills

Dr. Zhang possesses expertise in polymer synthesis, hydrogel fabrication, 3D printing technologies, electrochemical analysis, and structural characterization. He is proficient in advanced analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and rheological testing. His skills extend to the design of smart polymer materials for energy and biomedical applications.

Awards and Honors

  • Recipient of the “Tiangong Hundred Talents” Research Start-up Fund
  • Principal Investigator of multiple research grants from NSFC and Hebei Science Foundation
  • One of his papers recognized as an ESI Highly Cited Paper
  • Active member of the Chinese Chemical Society and Chinese Materials Society

Conclusion

Dr. Zhang Yan is a dedicated researcher in functional polymer materials, with significant contributions to hydrogels, 3D printing, and energy storage applications. His extensive publication record, research funding, and involvement in scientific societies establish him as a leading figure in his field. His work has the potential to impact material science, particularly in the development of next-generation electronic and biomedical materials.

Publication Top Notes

  1. “Multi-scale pore structured porous carbon nanofiber with light-limited domains for highly efficient photothermal membrane distillation”

    • Authors: Yan Zhang, Jiali Shi, Jingge Ju, Yanfei Chen, Jiacheng Han, Jingwei Xie, Guomin Zhao, Weimin Kang
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 2

  2. “Identification of a Potent and Selective CDK9 Degrader as a Targeted Therapeutic Option for the Treatment of Small-Cell Lung Cancer”

    • Authors: Yubo Wang, Mengmeng Wang, Kaichao Yang, Shuangwei Liu, Guang Yang
    • Year: 2025

  3. “Ligand Effect of PdRu on Pt-Enriched Surface for Glucose Complete Electro-Oxidation to Carbon Dioxide and Abiotic Direct Glucose Fuel Cells”

    • Authors: Yichi Guan, Dezhi Su, Yan Zhang, Xijun Liu, Jia He
    • Year: 2025

  4. “Enhancing the efficiency of CZTSSe solar cells via binary solvent induced microstructure regulation”

    • Authors: Sijie Ge, Xuanzhi He, Qianli Zhang, Yan Zhang, Xianzhong Lin
    • Year: 2025

  5. “Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of Solvent Polarity Effect on ESIPT Mechanism in 4′-N,N-diethylamino-3-hydroxybenzoflavone”

    • Authors: Yanglin Jiang, Mingqing Chen, Min Liang, Peng Wang, Jianping Zhang
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 1

  6. “Nonmetallic catalysts with high activity and selectivity for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ to CO”

    • Authors: Yingfei Ma, Guodong Sun, Jiangyi Shi, Kaiyang Zhao, Qihuan Lei
    • Year: 2025

  7. “Pure Zwitterionic Hydrogel with Mechanical Robustness and Dynamic Tunability Enabled by Synergistic Non-Covalent Interactions”

    • Authors: Xiaohui Li, Yu Wu, Mengdi Wu, Tengling Wu, Hui Gao
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 5

  8. “Construction of PTFE/PI-PI/PANI-PA composite nanofibrous membrane for efficient photothermal membrane distillation and VOCs interception”

    • Authors: Jingge Ju, Jun Yu, Tiantian Zhang, Ying Sun, Weimin Kang
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1

  9. “Enhancing the permeability and selectivity of graphene oxide membrane through polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane intercalation for textile wastewater treatment”

    • Authors: Yingxian Wang, Yan Zhang, Hongfen Zuo, Genghao Gong, Yunxia Hu
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 2

  10. “In Situ Cu Nanoparticle Deposition on a Graphite Felt Cathode Enabling Diverse Electrochemical Oxidative Functionalization Cyclization of Alkynes”

    • Authors: Feng Zhang, Yan Zhang, Weixing Chang, Lingyan Liu, Jing Li
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1

 

Ding Yuan | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Prof. Ding Yuan | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor, at University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China.

Dr. Ding Yuan is a distinguished researcher specializing in ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) materials for energy storage and conversion. She earned her Ph.D. from Griffith University in 2021 under the mentorship of Prof. Shanqing Zhang and Prof. Huijun Zhao. Following her doctorate, she conducted postdoctoral research at Griffith University and the University of Wollongong before joining the Shanghai University of Science and Technology in 2023 as a Specially Appointed Professor. Her research focuses on defect chemistry in ultrathin 2D materials, pioneering methods to enhance lithium/sodium-ion battery performance and electrocatalysis. She has published over 40 papers in high-impact journals, receiving more than 1,500 citations. Dr. Yuan has secured multiple national and provincial-level research grants, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and Shanghai Leading Talent Award. Her contributions have been widely recognized, earning prestigious awards and extensive media coverage.

Professional Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Ding Yuan has a strong academic foundation in chemistry and materials science. She earned her Bachelor’s (2014) and Master’s (2017) degrees in Chemical Engineering from Jiangsu University, where she researched photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. She pursued her Ph.D. (2018-2021) at Griffith University, Australia, focusing on atomic-level ultrathin materials for next-generation rechargeable batteries. Under the supervision of Prof. Shanqing Zhang and Prof. Huijun Zhao, she developed innovative synthesis methods for ultrathin transition metal oxides and chalcogenides, significantly enhancing their electrochemical performance. Her doctoral work laid the groundwork for her pioneering research on defect chemistry. She later expanded her expertise through postdoctoral research at Griffith University and the University of Wollongong, exploring electronic structure modulation of 2D materials for energy applications. In 2023, she joined Shanghai University of Science and Technology as a faculty member, furthering her research in energy storage and conversion.

💼 Experience

Dr. Ding Yuan’s career spans academia and research leadership. She is currently a Specially Appointed Professor at Shanghai University of Science and Technology, leading projects on ultrathin 2D energy materials. Before this, she held postdoctoral research positions at the University of Wollongong (2021-2023) and Griffith University (2021), focusing on electronic structure modulation of ultrathin materials for electrocatalysis and energy storage. Throughout her career, Dr. Yuan has spearheaded multiple research initiatives, collaborating with leading scholars such as Academicians Shi Dou and Huakun Liu. Her expertise in soft-template synthesis, self-assembly, and defect engineering has led to significant advancements in battery technology and electrocatalysis. She has also actively participated in national and international research collaborations, contributing to several high-impact research projects funded by organizations like the Australian Research Council and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ding Yuan’s research focuses on the controlled synthesis and defect engineering of ultrathin 2D materials for energy applications. She explores atomic-level strategies, such as vacancy engineering, heterostructure construction, and element doping, to enhance the performance of materials in lithium/sodium-ion batteries, electrocatalysis, and hydrogen production. Her work aims to improve the energy density and power output of rechargeable batteries while optimizing catalytic activity and stability. She employs advanced techniques like self-assembly, soft-template methods, and topological transformations to fabricate high-performance materials. Dr. Yuan’s interdisciplinary approach integrates materials science, electrochemistry, and nanotechnology, driving innovations in renewable energy storage and conversion. Her research has gained significant recognition, contributing to the development of next-generation energy technologies with real-world applications in sustainable energy systems.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Ding Yuan has received numerous prestigious awards for her contributions to energy materials research. Notably, she was selected for the Young Talent Support Program by the China Association for Science and Technology (2023-2026), a highly competitive national-level recognition. She has also been awarded the National Natural Science Foundation Youth Grant (2025-2027) and the Shanghai Leading Talent (Overseas) Award (2023-2026), highlighting her impact in the field of materials science. Additionally, she received the Hujiang Leading Talent Award (2023-2026) from Shanghai University of Science and Technology. Her academic excellence has been recognized through university-level honors, including the Outstanding Union Activist Award (2024) and the Excellence in Teaching Assistant Award (2023). These accolades underscore her leadership in advancing nanomaterials for energy applications.

📖 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Ding Yuan has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals, with more than 1,500 citations. Some of her most notable publications include:

  • Yuan, D., et al. (2023). “Defect Engineering in Ultrathin 2D Materials for Energy Storage.” Chemical Reviews. DOI | Cited by: 200+ articles.
  • Yuan, D., et al. (2022). “Heterostructure Engineering of Transition Metal Chalcogenides for High-Performance Batteries.” Advanced Materials. DOI | Cited by: 180+ articles.
  • Yuan, D., et al. (2021). “Atomically Thin 2D Transition Metal Oxides for Water Splitting.” Angewandte Chemie International Edition. DOI | Cited by: 160+ articles.
  • Yuan, D., et al. (2021). “Boosting Pseudocapacitive Behavior in Sodium-Ion Batteries with Vacancy-Engineered 2D Materials.” Cell Reports Physical Science. DOI | Cited by: 140+ articles.
  • Yuan, D., et al. (2020). “Soft-Template Synthesis of Ultrathin Layered Double Hydroxides for High-Performance Supercapacitors.” Chemical Engineering Journal. DOI | Cited by: 120+ articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Yuan Ding is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award.” Her strong research impact, prestigious funding, international collaborations, and leadership in 2D materials for energy applications make her a strong candidate. With continued industry collaboration and further leadership in global scientific communities, she has the potential to become a top-tier scientist in the energy materials field.

 

Yuhai Dou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Prof. Dr. Yuhai Dou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Vice President, at University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China.

Dr. Yu Hai Dou is a Professor at Shanghai University of Science and Technology (USST), where he serves as the Executive Vice Dean of the Department of Hydrogen Energy and Fuel Cells. He is an expert in atomic-level ultra-thin two-dimensional new energy materials, focusing on hydrogen energy and fuel cells. With extensive experience in advanced materials science and nanotechnology, Dr. Dou has worked as a researcher and collaborator with renowned institutions like Griffith University and the University of Wollongong. His leadership and expertise have garnered numerous national and international awards, solidifying his place as a key figure in materials science research. He has contributed significantly to hydrogen production and energy storage solutions, aiming for sustainable energy advancements.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Dou completed his undergraduate and master’s studies in Materials Science and Engineering at Central South University, China, specializing in powder metallurgy. He then pursued his Ph.D. at the University of Wollongong, Australia, under the supervision of Academician Shih and Professor Ziqi Sun, where he focused on atomic-level ultra-thin two-dimensional materials for lithium/sodium-ion batteries and electrocatalysis for oxygen evolution. His academic journey continued with significant postdoctoral work at Griffith University, collaborating with Professor Huijun Zhao on innovative catalysts for hydrogen production and advanced energy storage technologies. His educational background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of energy materials and catalysis at the atomic scale.

Experience 💼

Dr. Dou’s professional career spans several prestigious institutions and research roles. As a Professor at USST, he is a driving force in the development of hydrogen energy and fuel cell technology. He has also been involved in cutting-edge research projects at Griffith University and the University of Wollongong, where he led pioneering work on atomic-level catalysts and energy-efficient materials. In addition, Dr. Dou has contributed to the development of several high-impact projects, including national and international collaborations on hydrogen energy and fuel cell advancements. His roles have also included serving as the Chair of the Materials Science Research Center and the Academic Committee at Shandong Advanced Technology Institute, China.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Dou’s research is centered on atomic-level ultra-thin two-dimensional materials, particularly in the areas of hydrogen energy, fuel cells, and energy storage. His work includes the development of efficient electrocatalysts for water splitting, hydrogen production, and advanced energy storage systems like sodium-ion batteries. Additionally, he is interested in designing innovative materials for renewable energy applications, including those used in fuel cells and energy conversion technologies. His pioneering work on single-atom catalysts and defect engineering has significantly advanced the field of materials science, making strides toward more sustainable energy solutions.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Dou’s career has been marked by numerous prestigious awards. He received the “Overseas Postdoctoral Talent Introduction Project” from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security in China, as well as several national-level recognitions such as the “Excellent Young Scientist” award from Australia and the “Taishan Scholar” award from Shandong Province. In 2020, his paper won the China Top Cited Paper Award, and he was also nominated for the World Advanced Materials Association Youth Scientist Gold Award. His accolades reflect his impact on both national and international levels, particularly in the field of materials science and energy research.

Top Noted Publications 📝

Dr. Dou has published extensively in high-impact journals on materials science, catalysis, and energy storage. His work includes groundbreaking research on atomic-level catalysts and ultra-thin two-dimensional materials. His publications have been cited in numerous international articles, showcasing his contributions to the advancement of hydrogen energy and catalysis. Some of his key papers include:

  • “Single-Atom Catalysts on Atomically Thin Nanomaterials for H₂O₂ Production” (2021, Nature Communications).
  • “Atomically Thin 3d Transition Metal Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting” (2020, Advanced Materials).
    For further exploration of his work, his published articles can be accessed via the journal links.

Conclusion

Dr. Yu Hai Dou exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher in the realm of energy materials and sustainable technologies. His impressive list of awards, significant research funding, and collaborative work in high-impact projects make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to hydrogen energy research and electrocatalysis are critical to advancing renewable energy technologies. With continued expansion into industry applications and fostering young talent, Dr. Dou can further amplify his already substantial impact on the scientific community and beyond.

Yongzhi Wang | Information Security | Best Scholar Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Dr. Yongzhi Wang | Information Security | Best Scholar Award

Assistant Professor of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, United States .

Dr. Yongzhi Wang is an accomplished computer scientist and educator with a robust background in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and blockchain technologies. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi, where he conducts cutting-edge research, teaches computer science courses, and mentors students in academic and research pursuits. Dr. Wang’s academic journey includes significant roles at Park University and Xidian University, where he contributed to research initiatives and academic programs. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Computer Science from Florida International University, with a focus on secure outsourced computing frameworks in cloud environments. Throughout his career, Dr. Wang has received prestigious awards, including the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award and Best Paper Award, recognizing his exceptional scholarship and research contributions. His research interests encompass cloud computing security, blockchain applications, cybersecurity, and virtualized lab environments for computer education. Dr. Wang’s passion for advancing secure computing technologies and nurturing future computer scientists underscores his leadership and impact in the field of computer science.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Dr. Yongzhi Wang has pursued an extensive academic journey, culminating in advanced degrees in computer science from prestigious institutions. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degrees in Computer Science from Florida International University in Miami, Florida, U.S.A., with a focus on secure outsourced computing frameworks in cloud environments. Dr. Wang also holds a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Computer Science from Xidian University in China and a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Computer Science from the same institution. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Wang demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, reflected in his high academic achievements with a GPA of 3.91 for both his Ph.D. and M.S. degrees. His educational background underscores his expertise in computer science, particularly in areas related to cloud computing, cybersecurity, and advanced technologies. Dr. Wang’s academic foundation has positioned him as a leading researcher and educator in the field of computer science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Yongzhi Wang has amassed a wealth of professional experience across academia, research, and industry, reflecting his deep expertise in computer science and related disciplines. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi, where he conducts cutting-edge research, teaches computer science courses, and mentors students in academic and research endeavors. Prior to this role, Dr. Wang held positions as an Associate Professor and Assistant Professor at Park University, contributing significantly to research initiatives and academic programs. Before his academic appointments, Dr. Wang served as an Assistant Professor at Xidian University in China, where he conducted research, taught courses, and supervised graduate students. His professional journey also includes roles as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at Florida International University and as a Staff Software Engineer at IBM, where he applied his technical expertise in software development and project management. Dr. Wang’s diverse professional background underscores his leadership, dedication, and impact in advancing computer science education, research, and innovation.

Research Interest

Dr. Yongzhi Wang’s research interests span several critical areas in computer science and related disciplines. His primary focus includes cloud computing and security, where he explores secure computing frameworks and protocols to address data privacy and integrity challenges in cloud environments. Dr. Wang is also engaged in research on blockchain technologies, investigating their applications in enhancing security and transparency across various industries. Another significant aspect of Dr. Wang’s research is cybersecurity, encompassing threat detection, risk management, and intrusion detection systems to safeguard critical infrastructures from cyber threats. He also delves into big data and data privacy, developing techniques for preserving data privacy and ensuring the integrity of sensitive information in large-scale data environments. Moreover, Dr. Wang’s interest extends to virtualized lab environments for computer education, aiming to enhance practical learning experiences and accessibility to computing resources. Through his research, Dr. Wang contributes to advancing secure and efficient computing technologies, addressing contemporary challenges in the digital age.

Award and Honors

Dr. Yongzhi Wang’s exemplary contributions to computer science have been recognized through prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. Notably, his research article was acknowledged as a Trending Article in IEEE Transactions on Computers, reflecting the relevance and impact of his work in the field. He was also honored with the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award at Park University, recognizing his outstanding scholarship and academic contributions. In addition, Dr. Wang received the Best Paper Award at the 2017 International Conference on Networking and Network Applications for his significant research achievements. His excellence in teaching was acknowledged with a second-place finish in the Faculty Teaching Competition at Xidian University. Furthermore, he was awarded the Dissertation Year Fellowship at Florida International University in recognition of his exceptional doctoral research. These accolades highlight Dr. Wang’s dedication to advancing computer science through innovative research, teaching excellence, and scholarly pursuits, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.

Research Skills

Dr. Yongzhi Wang’s distinguished career in computer science has been marked by several prestigious awards and honors that underscore his outstanding contributions to the field. Notably, his research article was recognized as a Trending Article in IEEE Transactions on Computers, demonstrating the impact and relevance of his work within the academic community. Additionally, Dr. Wang received the esteemed Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award at Park University, acknowledging his exceptional scholarship and academic leadership. Further highlighting his research excellence, Dr. Wang was honored with the Best Paper Award at the 2017 International Conference on Networking and Network Applications for his significant contributions to the field. His dedication to teaching was also celebrated with a second-place finish in the Faculty Teaching Competition at Xidian University. Moreover, his exceptional doctoral research was recognized with the Dissertation Year Fellowship at Florida International University. These accolades reflect Dr. Wang’s commitment to advancing computer science through innovative research, teaching excellence, and scholarly achievements, positioning him as a distinguished leader in the field.

Publications

  1. Microthings: A generic IoT architecture for flexible data aggregation and scalable service cooperation
    Authors: Y. Shen, T. Zhang, Y. Wang, H. Wang, X. Jiang
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 76
  2. Viaf: Verification-based integrity assurance framework for MapReduce
    Authors: Y. Wang, J. Wei
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 76
  3. Secure -NN Query on Encrypted Cloud Data with Multiple Keys
    Authors: K. Cheng, L. Wang, Y. Shen, H. Wang, Y. Wang, X. Jiang, H. Zhong
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 71
  4. Special issue on security and privacy in network computing
    Authors: H. Wang, Y. Wang, T. Taleb, X. Jiang
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 69
  5. MTMR: Ensuring MapReduce computation integrity with Merkle tree-based verifications
    Authors: Y. Wang, Y. Shen, H. Wang, J. Cao, X. Jiang
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 46
  6. Result integrity check for MapReduce computation on hybrid clouds
    Authors: Y. Wang, J. Wei, M. Srivatsa
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 30
  7. IntegrityMR: Integrity assurance framework for big data analytics and management applications
    Authors: Y. Wang, J. Wei, M. Srivatsa, Y. Duan, W. Du
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 28
  8. CryptSQLite: SQLite with high data security
    Authors: Y. Wang, Y. Shen, C. Su, J. Ma, L. Liu, X. Dong
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 19
  9. Strongly secure and efficient range queries in cloud databases under multiple keys
    Authors: K. Cheng, Y. Shen, Y. Wang, L. Wang, J. Ma, X. Jiang, C. Su
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 18
  10. Trustworthy service composition with secure data transmission in sensor networks
    Authors: T. Zhang, L. Zheng, Y. Wang, Y. Shen, N. Xi, J. Ma, J. Yong
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 15

 

Malik Ashtar | Optoelectronic Materials | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Dr. Malik Ashtar | Optoelectronic Materials | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Fellow of Jiangsu University, China .

Dr. Malik Ashtar is a skilled researcher specializing in condensed matter physics and materials science. He earned his Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), focusing on rare-earth-based frustrated magnets. Dr. Ashtar’s research interests include geometrically frustrated magnetic quantum systems, correlated electron materials, and optoelectronic devices. Currently a post-doctoral fellow at Jiangsu University, Dr. Ashtar is enhancing the performance of ferroelectric-based photodetectors for self-powered operation. He received prestigious awards such as the China Government Scholarship for academic excellence. Dr. Ashtar’s expertise spans experimental techniques, magnetic and optical measurements, computational modeling, and data analysis. With a passion for scientific exploration and a commitment to advancing knowledge, Dr. Ashtar contributes significantly to the field of condensed matter physics, bridging fundamental research with practical applications in materials science.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Dr. Malik Ashtar has achieved significant milestones in his academic journey, culminating in a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) completed between 2017 and 2021. His doctoral research centered on the synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of novel rare-earth-based frustrated magnets, contributing to the advancement of magnetic materials science. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Ashtar earned a Master of Science degree in Condensed Matter Physics from Air University Islamabad, where he conducted research under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Asghari Maqsood. His educational background also includes a Master of Science in General Physics from Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Peshawar. Dr. Ashtar’s academic trajectory reflects his specialization and expertise in condensed matter physics, particularly in the areas of magnetic quantum systems and correlated electron materials.

Professional Experience

Dr. Malik Ashtar has accumulated valuable professional experience in the field of condensed matter physics through his research positions and academic roles. Currently serving as a post-doctoral fellow in the Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering at Jiangsu University (since 2022), Dr. Ashtar focuses on enhancing the performance of ferroelectric-based photodetectors for self-powered operation under the supervision of Prof. Cao Dawie. Previously, he served as a graduate research assistant at Air University Islamabad (2014-2015), conducting research under Prof. Asghari Maqsood in the area of condensed matter physics, likely specializing in geometrically frustrated magnetic quantum systems and correlated electron materials. Dr. Ashtar’s professional journey underscores his expertise in optoelectronic materials and devices, as well as his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge through research and academic pursuits.

Research Interest

Dr. Malik Ashtar’s research interests encompass a diverse range of topics within condensed matter physics and optoelectronic materials. He is particularly focused on studying geometrically frustrated magnetic quantum systems to understand unique magnetic behaviors arising from competing interactions. Additionally, Dr. Ashtar explores the magnetocaloric effect in rare-earth based magnetic materials for potential applications in energy-efficient cooling technologies. His research extends to correlated quantum spin systems, metallic magnetic materials, and multiferroic materials exhibiting coupled magnetic and ferroelectric properties. Currently, he is dedicated to enhancing the performance of ferroelectric-based photodetectors for self-powered operation, aiming to optimize their sensitivity and efficiency for optical sensing applications. Dr. Ashtar’s interdisciplinary approach integrates theoretical investigations, materials synthesis, and advanced characterization techniques, contributing to the advancement of fundamental understanding and technological development in condensed matter physics and materials science.

Award and Honors

Dr. Malik Ashtar has received notable awards and honors, including the China Government Scholarship (CGS/CSC) for his doctoral studies at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), showcasing his academic excellence and research potential. He was also recognized with Academic Excellence Awards during his doctoral tenure at HUST. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Ashtar received a Postgraduate Scholarship from Air University Islamabad for his outstanding performance in the Master’s program, where he was awarded a Gold Medal for academic excellence. These accolades highlight Dr. Ashtar’s exceptional dedication to condensed matter physics and optoelectronic materials research. His achievements underscore his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and academic excellence. Dr. Ashtar’s contributions to the field are recognized both nationally and internationally, reflecting his leadership and expertise in the realm of condensed matter physics and materials science.

Research Skills

Dr. Malik Ashtar possesses a wide range of research skills essential for conducting innovative studies in condensed matter physics and materials science. He is proficient in advanced experimental techniques, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), for structural characterization of materials. Dr. Ashtar is skilled in magnetic measurements using tools such as the Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) and SQUID magnetometer, allowing precise investigation of magnetic properties at low temperatures. He also has expertise in optical measurements using UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometry and source-measure units for studying optical properties. In addition to experimental skills, Dr. Ashtar is proficient in computational techniques, utilizing VASP for first principle calculations and simulation of material properties. His strong data analysis capabilities using software like GSAS, Materials Studio, and Origin enable thorough interpretation and presentation of research findings. Dr. Ashtar’s comprehensive skill set empowers him to tackle complex research challenges and contribute to advancements in condensed matter physics through interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative problem-solving approaches.

Publications

  1. Publication Title: “Polymer matrix nanocomposites with 1D ceramic nanofillers for energy storage capacitor applications”
    • Authors: H Zhang, MA Marwat, B Xie, M Ashtar, K Liu, Y Zhu, L Zhang, P Fan, …
    • Journal: ACS applied materials & interfaces 12 (1), 1-37
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 168
  2. Publication Title: “Advanced catalysts for photoelectrochemical water splitting”
    • Authors: MA Marwat, M Humayun, MW Afridi, H Zhang, MR Abdul Karim, M Ashtar, …
    • Journal: ACS Applied Energy Materials 4 (11), 12007-12031
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 96
  3. Publication Title: “Largely enhanced discharge energy density in linear polymer nanocomposites by designing a sandwich structure”
    • Authors: MA Marwat, B Xie, Y Zhu, P Fan, W Ma, H Liu, M Ashtar, J Xiao, …
    • Journal: Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing 121, 115-122
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 74
  4. Publication Title: “Sandwich structure-assisted significantly improved discharge energy density in linear polymer nanocomposites with high thermal stability”
    • Authors: MA Marwat, B Xie, Y Zhu, P Fan, K Liu, M Shen, M Ashtar, S Kongparakul, …
    • Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects 581, 123802
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 44
  5. Publication Title: “Effect of chromium substitution on the dielectric properties of mixed Ni-Zn ferrite prepared by WOWS sol–gel technique”
    • Authors: M Ashtar, A Munir, M Anis-ur-Rehman, A Maqsood
    • Journal: Materials Research Bulletin 79, 14-21
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 43
  6. Publication Title: “High remnant polarization, high dielectric constant and impedance performance of Nb/In Co-doped Bi0. 49La0. 01Na0. 49Li0. 01TiO3-δ ceramics”
    • Authors: MA Marwat, B Xie, M Ashtar, Y Zhu, P Fan, H Zhang
    • Journal: Ceramics International 44 (6), 6843-6850
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 27
  7. Publication Title: “A New Family of Disorder-Free Rare-Earth-Based Kagome Lattice Magnets: Structure and Magnetic Characterizations of RE3BWO9 (RE = Pr, Nd, Gd–Ho …”
    • Authors: M Ashtar, J Guo, Z Wan, Y Wang, G Gong, Y Liu, Y Su, Z Tian
    • Journal: Inorganic Chemistry 59 (8), 5368-5376
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 26
  8. Publication Title: “REZnAl 11 O 19 (RE= Pr, Nd, Sm–Tb): a new family of ideal 2D triangular lattice frustrated magnets”
    • Authors: M Ashtar, MA Marwat, YX Gao, ZT Zhang, L Pi, SL Yuan, ZM Tian
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry C 7 (32), 10073-10081
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 24
  9. Publication Title: “Structure and Magnetic Properties of Melilite-Type Compounds RE2Be2GeO7 (RE = Pr, Nd, Gd–Yb) with Rare-Earth Ions on Shastry–Sutherland Lattice”
    • Authors: ZT Malik Ashtar, Yuming Bai, Longmeng Xu, Zongtang Wan, Zijun Wei, Yong Liu …
    • Journal: Inorganic Chemistry 60 (6), 3626–3634
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 16
  10. Publication Title: “Field pulse induced magnetic memory effect at room temperature in exchange coupled NiFe2O4/NiO nanocomposites”
    • Authors: L Xu, Y Gao, A Malik, Y Liu, G Gong, Y Wang, Z Tian, S Yuan
    • Journal: Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials 469, 504-509
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 13