Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaoqing Tian | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hangzhou Dianzi University | China

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian is an accomplished academic and researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, China. With a strong foundation in hydrodynamics and its applications, she has made significant contributions to the development of underwater vehicles, propeller systems, and marine engineering innovations. Her educational background combines rigorous training in fluid machinery, mechanical engineering, and international research exposure, enabling her to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical technological advancements. Dr. Tian’s research excellence is evidenced by her extensive portfolio of patents, including more than ten granted patents such as a U.S. and Luxembourg patent, along with over twenty high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals. Her work emphasizes hydrodynamic optimization, underwater robotics, and environmental applications, fostering solutions that bridge engineering challenges with sustainable maritime practices. Beyond her academic achievements, she has been recognized as a Zhejiang Province Overseas High-level Talent, a D-type Talent of Zhejiang Province, and a Qiantang Scholar of Hangzhou, reflecting her influence and leadership in her field. With a career that blends innovation, teaching, and applied research, Dr. Tian stands as a leading figure in advancing the boundaries of marine and mechanical engineering technologies.D

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s academic journey reflects a progressive and multidisciplinary approach to engineering, combining mechanical, electrical, and hydrodynamic expertise. She began her studies with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering from the Henan Institute of Science and Technology, China. where she developed a foundational understanding of integrated engineering systems. Building on this, she earned a Master’s degree in Fluid Machinery and Engineering from the College of Mechanical Engineering at Hangzhou Dianzi University, China. focusing on fluid dynamics and mechanical system design. Her doctoral studies at the College of Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering, Hohai University, China. centered on advanced topics in fluid machinery and engineering, deepening her expertise in hydrodynamic modeling and marine applications. Notably, between, she conducted international research at the University of Helsinki, Finland, specializing in hydrodynamics and its environmental applications. This overseas experience broadened her perspective, allowing her to collaborate with global experts and explore the cross-disciplinary impacts of fluid mechanics on environmental science. Collectively, her academic background equips her with the technical knowledge, analytical skills, and global outlook necessary to address complex engineering challenges in both theoretical and applied contexts.

Professional Experience

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian has built an impressive professional career that blends teaching, research, and innovation in marine and mechanical engineering. Since December, she has served as a Lecturer and later an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, China, where she teaches core engineering subjects, supervises graduate students, and leads research projects in hydrodynamics and underwater vehicle design. Her role involves both academic instruction and the development of innovative technologies aimed at solving practical engineering problems. she expanded her research portfolio through a postdoctoral position at the Ocean College, Zhejiang University, China, where she worked on advanced projects involving underwater robotics, propulsion systems, and hydrodynamic performance optimization. she undertook international research at the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland, focusing on hydrodynamics applications in environmental and water systems. This combination of domestic and international experience has enabled her to cultivate a global research network, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and translate academic research into real-world engineering solutions. Her professional trajectory reflects a dedication to advancing knowledge while fostering innovation in marine engineering technology.

Research Interests

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s research interests span a wide range of topics in hydrodynamics, marine engineering, and mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on practical applications in underwater technologies. Her primary focus lies in the optimization of hydrodynamic performance for underwater vehicles and propulsion systems, including autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and towed bodies. She is particularly interested in the integration of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations with experimental testing to enhance propulsion efficiency, stability, and maneuverability. Her work also explores the development of novel propeller designs and hydrophobic coatings to improve performance in marine environments. Beyond vehicle propulsion, Dr. Tian investigates underwater sensing systems, such as magnetometer-equipped towed bodies, to support oceanographic surveys and environmental monitoring. She is also engaged in research on water quality improvement technologies, including artificially induced downwelling aeration systems. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to bridge mechanical engineering principles with environmental science applications, ensuring that her innovations contribute to both technological advancement and sustainable marine resource management. By combining numerical modeling, prototype development, and field testing, Dr. Tian addresses real-world maritime challenges while advancing the scientific understanding of hydrodynamic systems.

Research Skills

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian possesses a robust set of research skills that enable her to conduct high-quality and impactful studies in marine and mechanical engineering. Her expertise includes hydrodynamic modeling, propeller performance analysis, and underwater vehicle design, supported by advanced use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. She has strong capabilities in designing and optimizing propulsion systems, integrating novel features such as hydrophobic coatings and guide flow devices to enhance efficiency. Dr. Tian is experienced in the development and testing of underwater towed bodies, including those equipped with environmental sensing devices like magnetometers. Her skills extend to mechanical system prototyping, laboratory experimentation, and large-scale field trials, ensuring that her work bridges theoretical models with real-world performance. In addition to technical competencies, she is proficient in patent development, having secured more than ten patents, including international ones, as the first inventor. Her research methodology combines creativity, precision, and multidisciplinary collaboration, enabling her to work across engineering, oceanography, and environmental science domains. Furthermore, her ability to manage complex projects, lead research teams, and publish extensively in high-impact journals underscores her effectiveness as both a scientist and innovator in her field.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s contributions to marine and mechanical engineering have been recognized through several prestigious awards and honors, reflecting her status as a leading expert in her field. She has been named a Zhejiang Province Overseas High-level Talent, a designation awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to scientific and technological innovation while fostering international collaboration. Additionally, she has been recognized as a D-type Talent of Zhejiang Province, highlighting her role in advancing regional research and innovation capacity. Her designation as a Qiantang Scholar of Hangzhou further underscores her academic excellence, leadership, and contributions to the local and national engineering community. These honors not only acknowledge her individual achievements but also her commitment to mentoring young researchers, driving technological progress, and addressing real-world engineering challenges. They also serve as a testament to her ability to integrate high-level research with societal impact, aligning her professional work with broader goals in innovation, sustainability, and economic development. Collectively, these awards solidify Dr. Tian’s reputation as a respected scholar, inventor, and leader within the global marine engineering research community.

Publication Top Notes

1. Calibration-free optical wave guide bending sensor for soft robots, 2025
2. Study on the hydrodynamic characteristics of an outboard engine propeller with hydrophobic coating, 2025
3. Laboratory Investigations on Parametric Configurations of Artificially Down welling Aerations in Stratified Water, 2023
4. Study on the Resistance of a Large Pure Car Truck Carrier with Bulbous Bow and Transom Stern, 2023
5. Numerical verification for a new type of UV disinfection reactor, 2020

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Xiaoqing Tian embodies the qualities of an accomplished researcher, innovative engineer, and dedicated academic. Her career reflects a deliberate and consistent pursuit of excellence across multiple dimensions — from education and professional development to research innovation and community engagement. With an extensive academic background in fluid machinery, mechanical engineering, and hydrodynamics, complemented by valuable international research experience, she has developed a skill set that is both technically advanced and globally informed. Her work on underwater vehicle systems, propeller optimization, and environmental hydrodynamics demonstrates a unique ability to merge scientific insight with practical engineering solutions. The numerous patents and peer-reviewed publications she has produced serve as evidence of her commitment to technological advancement, while her awards and honors confirm her leadership in the field. Beyond her technical achievements, Dr. Tian contributes to the growth of future engineers through teaching, mentorship, and research collaboration. Looking ahead, she remains committed to expanding the frontiers of marine engineering research, promoting sustainable innovation, and making meaningful contributions to both the academic community and society at large. Her professional journey serves as an inspiring model for aspiring scientists and engineers worldwide.