Jing Li | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jing Li | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Hainan University, China

Dr. Jing Li is an accomplished researcher currently serving as an associate researcher at the School of Marine Science and Engineering, Hainan University. With a strong foundation in chemical and energy engineering, she focuses her research on hydrogen production technologies, particularly through water electrolysis and seawater electrolysis. Her work contributes significantly to the development of clean and renewable energy systems, aligning with global goals for sustainable energy and decarbonization. Dr. Li is deeply involved in investigating the mechanisms behind seawater electrolysis, aiming to enhance its efficiency and feasibility for practical applications. She combines theoretical analysis with experimental methods to advance the field of hydrogen energy, while also contributing to the design and optimization of related electrochemical devices. Her scientific contributions are becoming increasingly relevant as nations seek alternatives to fossil fuels and move toward hydrogen-based energy systems. Through her commitment to excellence and innovation, Dr. Li has emerged as a key contributor to the field of green hydrogen research. Her dedication to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency reflects in her work, making her a valuable asset to her institution and the broader scientific community. She represents a new generation of researchers addressing urgent global challenges through advanced science and technology.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jing Li received her Ph.D. degree from South China University of Technology, a leading institution in the fields of chemical engineering and materials science. During her doctoral studies, she focused on electrochemical energy conversion systems, developing a strong background in hydrogen production technologies and electrolysis processes. Her doctoral research laid a solid foundation for her future work on hydrogen generation and device optimization. The rigorous training she received at South China University of Technology equipped her with comprehensive knowledge of physical chemistry, materials synthesis, electrochemical mechanisms, and energy systems. Her academic path emphasized both theoretical modeling and hands-on laboratory experimentation, preparing her to tackle complex problems in energy conversion and sustainability. The curriculum and research environment of her alma mater encouraged innovation, cross-disciplinary integration, and critical thinking—skills that are now central to her research endeavors. As a result, Dr. Li emerged from her Ph.D. studies with a well-rounded academic background, capable of contributing original and impactful research to the field of renewable energy. Her advanced education continues to be the driving force behind her current projects and scientific achievements in marine-based hydrogen technologies.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jing Li currently holds the position of Associate Researcher at the School of Marine Science and Engineering, Hainan University. In this role, she leads and contributes to multiple research projects focused on hydrogen production and electrochemical energy systems. Her responsibilities include the design and optimization of experimental protocols for seawater electrolysis, analysis of reaction mechanisms, and development of innovative device architectures. Prior to her current role, she gained valuable research experience through academic and industrial collaborations during her doctoral studies, participating in joint projects that combined advanced materials science with sustainable energy applications. At Hainan University, she actively mentors graduate students, fosters interdisciplinary research, and contributes to the university’s growing reputation in marine engineering and clean energy. She is involved in securing research funding, publishing peer-reviewed articles, and presenting her findings at national and international conferences. Her academic career is marked by a clear trajectory of research focus and practical innovation. Dr. Li’s professional journey reflects her commitment to addressing global energy challenges through scientific rigor, collaborative teamwork, and a passion for renewable energy solutions, positioning her as a rising expert in hydrogen energy systems and electrochemical engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Jing Li’s primary research interests revolve around hydrogen energy production, particularly through electrochemical methods such as water and seawater electrolysis. She is deeply focused on advancing the fundamental understanding and practical efficiency of hydrogen generation technologies, which play a pivotal role in global strategies for achieving carbon neutrality. Her specific interests include the development of novel catalysts and electrodes for electrolysis, the optimization of electrochemical devices, and the study of reaction pathways and mechanisms involved in seawater splitting. Her work aims to overcome critical barriers such as low efficiency, high energy consumption, and corrosion challenges associated with seawater electrolysis. In addition, Dr. Li is interested in sustainable device engineering and system integration for on-site hydrogen generation, particularly in marine and coastal environments. She explores new materials and surface treatments to improve the durability and output of electrolysis systems. Her interdisciplinary approach draws from materials science, electrochemistry, environmental science, and marine engineering, positioning her research at the intersection of clean energy and sustainable water resources. Ultimately, Dr. Li’s research contributes to building a hydrogen-based energy economy by developing cost-effective, scalable, and eco-friendly solutions for renewable hydrogen production from natural water sources.

Research Skills

Dr. Jing Li possesses a comprehensive set of research skills essential for advanced studies in hydrogen production and electrochemical systems. Her expertise includes electrochemical characterization techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and chronoamperometry, which she uses to investigate reaction kinetics and evaluate catalyst performance. She is proficient in synthesizing and modifying electrocatalyst materials, utilizing both wet chemistry and solid-state methods. Additionally, she is skilled in the structural and surface characterization of materials using tools such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Her research also involves the design and fabrication of prototype electrolysis cells and custom test platforms for real-time performance assessment. Dr. Li has experience with computational modeling and data analysis, enabling her to link experimental results with theoretical insights. Her laboratory management skills include supervising junior researchers, ensuring safety compliance, and maintaining the quality and reproducibility of experimental protocols. She is also adept at scientific writing and communication, regularly contributing to peer-reviewed publications and technical reports. Overall, her diverse technical and analytical competencies enable her to lead innovative research in clean hydrogen energy with precision, depth, and scientific integrity.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Jing Li has received recognition for her promising contributions to sustainable energy research through awards and institutional support, although she is still in the early stages of accumulating large-scale accolades. During her Ph.D. studies, she was awarded scholarships and research grants that supported her work in electrochemical energy conversion. Her research excellence has been acknowledged through conference presentations, invitations to collaborative projects, and institutional funding for emerging researchers at Hainan University. These honors reflect her growing impact and the scientific merit of her research topics. She has also been nominated for early-career researcher awards within university-level initiatives and has gained positive peer recognition for her work on seawater electrolysis. While her list of international or national awards is still developing, her consistent scientific output and growing portfolio of research projects suggest she is on a strong trajectory toward more prestigious recognitions. As her career advances and her contributions to hydrogen energy research expand, Dr. Li is well-positioned to receive further awards and honors that reflect her dedication, innovation, and potential to drive meaningful change in the field of clean energy technology.

Conclusion

Dr. Jing Li is a dedicated and emerging researcher in the field of hydrogen energy, with a clear focus on water and seawater electrolysis. Her work is contributing to one of the most pressing challenges of our time: the transition to clean and sustainable energy. With a strong academic background, growing publication record, and hands-on expertise in electrochemical systems, she is steadily building a research profile that addresses both theoretical and practical aspects of hydrogen production. Her commitment to advancing fundamental understanding while developing scalable technologies demonstrates a balanced and forward-thinking research philosophy. While she would benefit from expanded collaborations, a broader international presence, and increased visibility through publications and patents, she has already shown a strong capacity for impactful innovation. Dr. Li represents the next generation of energy researchers who are not only contributing to academic knowledge but also offering real-world solutions. Her continued progress and dedication make her a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, and recognition at this stage would further support and motivate her promising research career in the energy sciences.

Publications Top Notes

1. Tip carbon encapsulation customizes cationic enrichment and valence stabilization for low K+ acidic CO2 electroreduction

Authors: Zhitong Wang, Dongyu Liu, Chenfeng Xia, … Bao Yu Xia, Xinlong Tian

Journal: Nature Communications

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

2. Plant derived multifunctional binders for shuttle-free zinc-iodine batteries

Authors: Jiahao Zhu, Shan Guo, Yang Zhang, … Xinlong Tian, Xiaodong Shi

Journal: Nano Energy

Year: 2025

3. Pyrrole-type TM-N3 sites as high-efficient bifunctional oxygen reactions electrocatalysts: From theoretical prediction to experimental validation

Authors: Chunxia Wu, Yanhui Yu, Yiming Song, … Xinlong Tian, Daoxiong Wu

Journal: Journal of Energy Chemistry

Year: 2025

Citations: 2

4. Oxygen-Coordinated Cr Single-Atom Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel CellsAuthors: Junming Luo, Yating Zhang, Zhe Lü, … Zhengpei Miao, Xinlong Tian

Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition

Year: 2025

5. Ni-N-C support boosts PtRu sub-nanocluster for effective methanol oxidation reaction

Authors: Xue Zhang, Chunxia Wu, Ye Bu, … Xinlong Tian, Peilin Deng

Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

Year: 2025

6. Layered Organic Molecular Crystal with One-Dimensional Ion Migration Channel for Durable Magnesium-Based Dual-Ion Batteries

Authors: Yanzeng Ge, Baoquan Liu, Daoxiong Wu, … Xinlong Tian, Jinlin Yang

Journal: ACS Energy Letters

Year: 2025

Citations: 2

7. Hard Lewis acid induced chloride repulsion for durable neutral seawater electrolysis (Review)

Authors: Suyang Feng, Gai Li, Qingyi Wei, … Xinlong Tian, Zhenye Kang

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

8. Iridium-based electrocatalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction (Review)

Authors: Yanhui Yu, Gai Li, Yutong Xiao, … Xinlong Tian, Yuliang Yuan

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

9. Recent advances of CuSbS₂ and CuPbSbS₃ as photocatalyst in the application of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and degradation (Review)

Authors: Xinlong Zheng, Zhongyun Shao, Jiaxin Lin, … Xinlong Tian, Yuhao Liu

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

10. Sulfonated Lignin Binder Blocks Active Iodine Dissolution and Polyiodide Shuttle Toward Durable Zinc-Iodine Batteries

Authors: Zhixiang Chen, Jie Zhang, Chuancong Zhou, … Xinlong Tian, Xiaodong Shi

Journal: Advanced Energy Materials

Year: 2025

Citations: 4

Denise Fungaro | Chemistry | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Denise Fungaro | Chemistry | Distinguished Scientist Award

Researcher from Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research, Brazil

Dr. Denise Alves Fungaro is a distinguished researcher in environmental chemistry with a strong focus on sustainable materials and waste valorization. She is currently a researcher at the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute in São Paulo, Brazil. Her work has significantly contributed to the development of innovative materials from industrial and agricultural waste, particularly in the synthesis of zeolites and silica-based materials. Over the years, she has established herself as a leading scientist in environmental sustainability, with a strong publication record, numerous patents, and an extensive history of mentoring students. Her contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally, earning her several prestigious awards. Dr. Fungaro’s research not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for waste management, water treatment, and environmental conservation. With over 80 publications and multiple industry partnerships, she has successfully combined scientific innovation with real-world applications. Her leadership in academic initiatives, including the Planetary Health Ambassadors Program at the University of São Paulo, further underscores her commitment to education and sustainability. Through her extensive research, mentorship, and industry collaborations, Dr. Fungaro has demonstrated excellence in her field, making her a well-respected figure in environmental research and material science.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Fungaro has an extensive academic background in chemistry, specializing in analytical and environmental chemistry. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of São Paulo in 1983, followed by a Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry from the same institution in 1987. Her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge led her to pursue a PhD in Analytical Chemistry at the University of São Paulo, which she completed in 1994. Her doctoral research focused on innovative chemical analysis techniques that laid the foundation for her later work in environmental applications. To further expand her expertise, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Coimbra University in Portugal in 1998, where she deepened her knowledge of sustainable materials and advanced analytical methods. This diverse academic background provided her with a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied chemistry, equipping her with the skills necessary to tackle pressing environmental challenges. Her education has been instrumental in shaping her research direction, enabling her to bridge the gap between chemistry and environmental sustainability.

Professional Experience

Dr. Fungaro has built an impressive career as a researcher, primarily focusing on environmental chemistry and material science. She is currently a researcher at the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN) in São Paulo, Brazil, where she has worked for several years. In this role, she has led multiple research projects aimed at developing sustainable solutions for waste management and environmental remediation. Throughout her career, she has actively collaborated with academic institutions, governmental organizations, and industry partners to advance research in sustainable materials. Her expertise has also led her to serve as a mentor, having supervised 17 master’s students and 6 PhD candidates. She has also been an active participant in scientific committees, editorial boards, and international conferences. As the coordinator of the Planetary Health Ambassadors Program at the Institute of Advanced Studies of the University of São Paulo, she has played a key role in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives. Her professional experience is marked by a combination of research excellence, mentorship, and leadership, making her a respected figure in both academic and industrial scientific communities.

Research Interests

Dr. Fungaro’s primary research interests lie in environmental chemistry, waste valorization, and sustainable materials development. She is particularly focused on the synthesis of zeolites from industrial byproducts, such as coal fly ash, to be used in environmental applications, including wastewater treatment and air pollution control. Her work also extends to the development of high-purity silica gel and nanosilica from sugarcane biomass ash, which has significant potential for commercialization. Another key area of her research involves bioplastics and biodegradable films, where she investigates the role of renewable silica powder in improving the properties of starch-based plastics. Additionally, she has explored the use of mesoporous materials for removing contaminants like pharmaceuticals and heavy metals from water sources. Her research is deeply interdisciplinary, integrating analytical chemistry, environmental science, and material engineering to address global sustainability challenges. Through her work, Dr. Fungaro aims to provide practical, scalable solutions that contribute to environmental conservation and resource efficiency.

Research Skills

Dr. Fungaro possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in analytical chemistry, materials science, and environmental engineering. She is highly proficient in synthesizing and characterizing advanced materials, particularly zeolites and silica-based compounds derived from industrial waste. Her expertise in waste valorization has enabled her to develop sustainable materials with applications in water treatment, pollution control, and eco-friendly construction. She is skilled in advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which are essential for analyzing material properties. Dr. Fungaro also has significant experience in chemical process development, from laboratory-scale experimentation to pilot-scale implementation. Additionally, she has strong research project management skills, successfully leading multi-institutional collaborations and industry partnerships. Her ability to combine theoretical research with practical applications demonstrates her innovative approach to addressing environmental challenges.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Fungaro has received numerous national and international awards in recognition of her contributions to environmental chemistry and sustainable materials research. Some of her most notable accolades include the Kurt Politzer Award for Technology (2016), awarded for her groundbreaking work on high-purity silica gel and nanosilica from sugarcane biomass ash. She also won the International Cannes Water Great Prize (2006) for her research on using synthesized zeolites for wastewater decontamination. In 2023, she was honored with the USP Alumni Award for her contributions to human relations and social inclusion. Other significant awards include the Fernando Cerviño Lopez Award for Recycling Techniques (2007 & 2005) and the Yes to Racial Equality Award (2021). Her research has also earned recognition at international conferences, including the SETAC Australasia Congress (2013), where her supervised doctoral work won the best student research poster in ecotoxicology. These awards highlight her dedication to scientific excellence, sustainability, and societal impact.

Conclusion

Dr. Denise Alves Fungaro is an accomplished researcher with a strong track record in environmental sustainability, waste valorization, and materials science. Her extensive academic background, professional experience, and pioneering research have earned her national and international recognition. She has significantly contributed to the development of sustainable solutions for industrial waste management, including the synthesis of zeolites, biodegradable materials, and innovative water treatment methods. Her research impact is reflected in her numerous publications, patents, and mentorship of graduate students. Beyond her scientific achievements, she has demonstrated a commitment to promoting sustainability through her leadership in academic and environmental initiatives. While increasing global collaborations and commercializing her patented technologies could further elevate her impact, her existing contributions make her a highly deserving candidate for the Distinguished Scientist Award. Her work exemplifies the fusion of scientific innovation and real-world application, reinforcing her status as a leader in environmental research and sustainable materials development.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Effect of wood sawdust-derived biochar as a substrate component on leachate water quality
    Authors: Daniele de Andrade Villarim Lima; Thamiris Brandino Stellato; Joao Cristiano Ulrich; Danilo Lopes Costa e Silva; Fabiana Abreu de Rezende; Denise Alves Fungaro
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Thermal evaluation of a Cs-loaded waste vitrification
    Authors: Danilo Lopes Costa e Silva; Mariana Silva Araújo; Denise Alves Fungaro; Sonia Mello-Castanho
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Byproduct-based zeolite type A as absorbent material for decontamination of simulated radioactive wastewater
    Authors: M.S. Araujo; D.L. Costa-Silva; S.R. Mello Castanho; D.A. Fungaro
    Year: 2025

  4. Title: Assessing immobilization matrices for nuclear effluent treatment: Cs case study
    Authors: Danilo Lopes Costa e Silva; Denise Alves Fungaro; Alexandre Las Casas; Paulo Sergio Cardoso da Silva; Roberto Vicente; Mariana Silva de Araujo; Juliana Carvalho Izidoro; Sonia Mello-Castanho
    Year: 2025

  5. Title: Zeolite Synthesized from Solid Waste for Eco-System Remediation: Selective Adsorption in Wastewater
    Authors: Mariana S. Araujo; Danilo Costa-Silva; Juliana C. Izidoro; Denise A. Fungaro; Sonia Mello Castanho
    Year: 2024

  6. Title: The Flue Gas Desulfurization Gypsum Applications in Production of Eco-Friendly Cementitious Matrices
    Authors: R. H. N. Bibiano; Juliana de Carvalho Izidoro; Denise Alves Fungaro
    Year: 2023

  7. Title: Optimization of Pelleting Parameters for Producing Composite Pellets Using Zeolitic Material From Fly Ash
    Authors: Denise Alves Fungaro; Tharcila Bertolini
    Year: 2023

  8. Title: The influence of separately and combined bentonite and kaolinite as binders for pelletization of NaA zeolite from coal fly ash
    Authors: T. C. R. Bertolini; D. A. Fungaro; A. E. D. Mahmoud
    Year: 2022

  9. Title: Brine sludge waste from a Chlor-alkali industry: characterization and its application for non-structural and structural construction materials
    Authors: Juliana De Carvalho Izidoro; Denise Alves Fungaro; Luciana Cristina Viviani; Rogério Da Costa Silva
    Year: 2021

  10. Title: Aluminium Tertiary Industry Waste and Ashes Samples for Development of Zeolitic Material Synthesis
    Authors: Denise Alves Fungaro; Kátia Cruz Silva; Alaa El Din Mahmoud
    Year: 2021