Chuan-Jun Wang | Material Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Chuan-Jun Wang | Material Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Shandong Agricultural University, China

Professor Wang Chuanjun is a distinguished academic and researcher currently serving at Shandong Agricultural University. With a deep-rooted background in chemistry and catalysis, his work primarily focuses on advancing sustainable energy solutions through photo- and electrocatalytic processes. Prof. Wang’s scholarly journey is marked by excellence and international collaboration, having undergone postdoctoral research at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) in Spain—a globally recognized hub for chemical innovation. His contributions span green catalysis, nitrogen conversion, and biomass valorization, all critical for a low-carbon future. He has published over 30 research articles in high-impact journals indexed in SCI and Scopus and has secured 6 patents, reflecting a strong translational aspect to his research. With a citation index exceeding 1800, his work is widely acknowledged by peers in the scientific community. Prof. Wang leads national and provincial projects focused on catalytic ammonia synthesis, showcasing his capacity to spearhead innovative and impactful research. His portfolio also includes participation in international collaborations and consultancies, adding depth to his academic profile. Passionate about scientific development and knowledge dissemination, Prof. Wang continues to drive meaningful progress in sustainable technologies and energy conversion systems.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Wang Chuanjun’s academic foundation reflects a consistent pursuit of excellence in chemistry and material science. He began his undergraduate studies at Shandong Agricultural University (2006–2010), majoring in chemistry, where he laid the groundwork for his future in catalysis and green technology. He then advanced to the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (TIPC-CAS), completing both his Master’s (2010–2012) and Doctoral (2012–2015) degrees. At TIPC-CAS, he specialized in electrochemical systems and advanced materials, gaining hands-on experience in catalytic reactions, particularly those involving nitrogen and hydrogen transformations. Eager to broaden his research perspective, Prof. Wang undertook a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship (2015–2018) at the Institut Català d’Investigació Química (ICIQ) in Tarragona, Spain. During this time, he engaged with world-leading researchers and technologies, deepening his expertise in molecular catalysis and photoinduced reactions. This international exposure has significantly influenced his methodological approach and innovation in his later projects. His academic path has been integral to shaping his current focus areas, including green catalysis, nanomaterial development, and electrocatalytic processes for sustainable energy solutions.

Professional Experience

Prof. Wang Chuanjun’s professional career is a testament to his dedication to scientific research and education. He has been a full-time Professor at Shandong Agricultural University since January 2019, where he teaches, supervises postgraduate research, and leads several national and provincial scientific projects. His current position allows him to explore catalytic solutions for global challenges, such as clean ammonia synthesis and nitrogen fixation, by integrating metal-based nanomaterials and advanced light-driven systems. Prior to this role, he served as a postdoctoral researcher at ICIQ, Spain (2015–2018), where he worked on photochemical and organometallic catalysis, gaining invaluable international exposure and enhancing his collaborative research skills. His time at ICIQ built a strong foundation in synthetic methodology and catalysis that he has since translated into practical, scalable energy applications in China. Earlier, as a graduate and doctoral student at the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry (TIPC-CAS), he conducted pioneering studies on electrochemical materials and reaction mechanisms. With experience that spans both academic institutions and cross-border scientific initiatives, Prof. Wang has developed a dynamic professional portfolio, combining teaching excellence with real-world research impact in energy science and sustainable chemistry.

Research Interests

Prof. Wang Chuanjun’s research interests are centered on catalysis-driven solutions for sustainable energy and environmental systems. His work focuses on the synthesis and application of nanostructured metal phosphides and transition metal complexes for photo- and electrocatalytic nitrogen conversion, aiming to produce ammonia and hydrogen under mild conditions. He is particularly interested in green catalysis strategies that mimic natural enzymatic processes, especially nitrogenase-like systems that enable low-energy nitrogen fixation. His work also explores biomass conversion, utilizing renewable sources for energy and chemical production. A core area of his research is the design of photocatalytic systems for enhanced solar-driven reactions, integrating light harvesting with catalytic processes for higher efficiency and selectivity. Additionally, Prof. Wang investigates the fundamental kinetics and mechanistic pathways involved in these transformations, leveraging spectroscopy and electrochemical analysis to refine catalytic designs. Through collaborations and interdisciplinary approaches, he aims to bridge material synthesis, reaction engineering, and environmental science. His research not only contributes to academic understanding but also has potential implications for industrial ammonia production and sustainable agricultural practices.

Research Skills

Prof. Wang Chuanjun possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that span synthetic chemistry, catalysis, material characterization, and electrochemical analysis. He is highly proficient in the synthesis of nanostructured metal phosphides, transition metal complexes, and functionalized photocatalysts, which are central to his work on nitrogen fixation and hydrogen evolution. His expertise includes the use of advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and spectroscopy (UV-Vis, FTIR, NMR), which he employs to elucidate material structures and reaction mechanisms. In electrochemistry, he is adept in cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, allowing detailed insights into charge transfer processes and catalytic activity. His skills also encompass computational modeling and mechanistic studies to simulate catalytic pathways and optimize energy efficiency. Prof. Wang’s research is strengthened by his ability to integrate lab-scale findings with scalable design, often considering industrial relevance and sustainability. His multidisciplinary competencies make him a versatile and forward-thinking scientist capable of addressing complex challenges in green chemistry and renewable energy technologies.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Prof. Wang Chuanjun has been recognized for his contributions to the field of catalysis and green chemistry. He has received funding and honors from prominent institutions, including the Youth Project of the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province, where he serves as the project lead on electrocatalytic nitrate/nitrite reduction to ammonia. Additionally, he was awarded the Shandong Provincial High-level Foreign Experts Project to explore visible-light-driven synthesis of nanomaterials for nitrogen conversion—a prestigious recognition of his innovative research in sustainable materials. He also participated in the Shandong University Youth Talent Promotion Project on green catalysis and synthesis, further validating his expertise in eco-friendly chemical processes. Prof. Wang has published 33 papers in international peer-reviewed journals and has a citation index of over 1800, reflecting his scientific impact. He holds six patents and has provided consultancy services to industry, demonstrating the practical applicability of his work. These accolades underscore his leadership in the field and his commitment to developing next-generation technologies for energy and environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Prof. Wang Chuanjun is an accomplished researcher whose work exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and academic rigor in the field of chemical catalysis. His academic background, international research experience, and ongoing leadership in multiple funded projects position him as a valuable contributor to the scientific community. With research spanning nitrogen conversion, biomass utilization, and green energy, Prof. Wang’s efforts address urgent global challenges in clean energy and environmental stewardship. His skillset integrates material science, electrochemical analysis, and catalytic system design, bridging fundamental research with real-world impact. The high citation index and patent record highlight both scholarly influence and practical relevance. While expanding editorial involvement and global scientific engagement could enhance his profile further, his current contributions already make him a strong candidate for high-level recognition. His leadership in provincial and international projects, combined with a commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary research, affirms his suitability for the Best Researcher Award. Prof. Wang represents the next generation of chemists driving transformative advances in sustainable science.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Hyaluronic acid-functionalized nanoarmor enhances the stable colonization ability of Paenibacillus polymyxa JF_P68 and boosts its biological control efficacy against pear anthracnose
    Journal: Pest Management Science, 2025
    Authors: Du, J.; Li, H.; Wu, L.; Liu, Y.; Sun, F.; Tian, X.; Lu, N.; Jiao, Y.; Liu, S.; Zhao, X.; Wang, C.-J.

  2. Synergistic Pd-CoFe sites for efficient and selective electrooxidation of glycerol to glyceric acid coupled with H₂ evolution
    Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2025
    Authors: Zhou, J.; Shi, R.; Gao, Q.; Liu, F.; Chen, Y.; Chen, J.; Guo, Z.; Tse, E.C.M.; Zhao, X.; Wang, C.-J.

  3. Facile construction of CuFe-based metal phosphides for synergistic NOₓ⁻ reduction to NH₃ and Zn–nitrite batteries in electrochemical cell
    Journal: Small, 2024
    Authors: Wang, G.; Wang, C.; Liu, S.; Zhao, X.; Xu, J.; Tian, X.; Li, Q.; Waterhouse, G.I.N.

  4. Methane sulfonic acid-assisted synthesis of g-C₃N₄/Ni₂P/Ni foam: Efficient, stable and recyclable for photocatalytic nitrogen fixation under visible light
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 2024
    Authors: Gao, X.; Zhang, B.; Cao, L.; Liu, F.; Fan, H.; Wang, C.; Xu, J.

  5. Visible light-driven synthesis of PtCu alloy nanodendrites for electrocatalytic nitrogen-conversion reactions
    Journal: Advanced Sustainable Systems, 2024
    Authors: Wang, G.; Wang, C.; Zhao, X.; Liu, S.; Zhang, Y.; Lv, X.; Xu, J.; Waterhouse, G.I.N.

  6. Glufosinate ammonium-loaded halloysite nanotubes for slow-release weeding polymer mulch films
    Journal: ACS Applied Nano Materials, 2023
    Authors: Jia, X.; Zhang, K.; Wang, C.; You, X.; Yang, S.; Wang, J.; Zhang, B.; Xu, J.; Yan, Y.; Wang, Y.

  7. CoP nanowires on carbon cloth for electrocatalytic NOₓ⁻ reduction to ammonia
    Journal: Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, 2022
    Authors: Zhang, H.; Wang, G.; Wang, C.; Liu, Y.; Yang, Y.; Jiang, W.; Fu, L.; Xu, J.

  8. Electrochemical ammonia synthesis from nitrite assisted by in situ generated hydrogen atoms on a nickel phosphide catalyst
    Journal: Chemical Communications, 2021
    Authors: Yang, X.; Liu, F.; Chen, Y.; Kang, L.; Wang, C.-J.

 

Danhui Zhang | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Danhui Zhang | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Linyi University, China

Zhang Danhui is an accomplished associate professor at the School of Mechanical and Vehicle Engineering, Linyi University, with a distinguished background in engineering and nanomaterials research. Since earning her Ph.D. in Engineering from Nanjing University of Science and Technology in 2012, she has developed a robust research portfolio focused on inorganic nanofunctional materials, polymer composites, and carbon-based nanostructures. With over 40 academic publications, more than 30 of which are indexed in SCI, Dr. Zhang has contributed significantly to fields including surface-enhanced Raman scattering, molecular dynamic simulations, and fluorescence sensors. Her dedication to academic excellence is evident in her active participation in national and provincial research projects, authorship of a scientific monograph, and mentorship of student-led research, resulting in SCI papers and patent grants. In addition to her research work, she is a committed educator, delivering core undergraduate and graduate courses across thermodynamics, chemistry, and physics. She has been recognized with multiple awards for academic and instructional excellence, as well as one registered utility model patent. Dr. Zhang continues to be a key figure in applied materials research and education, combining theoretical innovation with practical applications. Her scholarly contributions position her as a leading candidate for research honors at the national level.

Professional Profile

Education

Zhang Danhui completed her doctoral studies in Engineering at Nanjing University of Science and Technology in 2012. Her doctoral research focused on the synthesis, structure, and properties of functional nanomaterials, specifically targeting noble metal and carbon-based composites. The strong academic foundation laid during her Ph.D. studies has equipped her with a deep understanding of both experimental and theoretical aspects of materials engineering. Prior to her doctoral studies, she had acquired a comprehensive background in science and engineering disciplines, including chemistry, materials science, and applied physics. Her education emphasizes interdisciplinary integration, a feature that is clearly reflected in her ongoing research. The curriculum and training received at Nanjing University of Science and Technology, one of China’s top-tier technical institutions, prepared her for a career that bridges molecular science, nanotechnology, and engineering applications. Furthermore, her academic background has been instrumental in enabling her to teach advanced subjects such as Engineering Thermodynamics, University Physics, and Engineering Chemistry. Her educational path reflects a consistent trajectory of scientific rigor, analytical skill development, and innovation—all of which continue to inform and strengthen her research and academic contributions.

Professional Experience

Since July 2012, Zhang Danhui has served as an associate professor at the School of Mechanical and Vehicle Engineering, Linyi University. Over the years, she has developed an impressive teaching and research portfolio. Her professional duties include lecturing core undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Engineering Thermodynamics, Advanced Mathematics, Engineering Chemistry, and University Physics. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, she actively supervises student research and project development. Under her mentorship, students have produced multiple scientific outcomes, including the publication of an SCI-indexed paper and the authorization of a utility model patent. She has led and participated in several significant national and provincial research initiatives, including projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province. Dr. Zhang has also contributed as a co-investigator in studies involving nonlinear dynamics, rod pumping systems, and nanomaterial simulations. Her role at Linyi University underscores a blend of academic instruction, mentorship, and scientific investigation. Her contributions to institutional research and education have been acknowledged through various awards and recognitions, marking her as a key faculty member within her department. Her continuous commitment to science and education exemplifies the standards of academic excellence.

Research Interest

Zhang Danhui’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, materials science, and polymer engineering. Her primary focus is on the chemical preparation and structural characterization of inorganic nanofunctional materials. She has explored complex material behaviors at the atomic level through molecular dynamic simulations, particularly focusing on polymer composites and graphene-based structures. Another central area of her work involves the design, synthesis, and application of new carbon materials, such as carbon nanotubes and graphene derivatives, which are known for their potential in electronics, sensors, and energy storage. Her research has extended into surface-enhanced Raman scattering, fluorescence sensors, and the structural formation of hybrid nanomaterials like silver and platinum-coated carbon structures. Her theoretical modeling work, especially in simulating the curling and core-shell formations of carbon nanostructures, has advanced the understanding of their functional properties in applied settings. She combines simulation studies with experimental synthesis, aiming for practical applications in catalysis, optics, and electronics. This dual approach ensures that her work remains both scientifically grounded and technologically relevant. Dr. Zhang’s research is interdisciplinary, combining chemistry, physics, and materials engineering to explore novel material functionalities and applications.

Research Skills

Dr. Zhang Danhui possesses a versatile and advanced skill set in materials research, particularly within the realms of nanomaterials and polymer simulations. Her core skills include chemical synthesis of metallic and carbon-based nanostructures, advanced molecular dynamics simulation, surface functionalization, and nanomaterial characterization. She is proficient in applying computational techniques to study molecular behavior, bonding interactions, and mechanical stability of composite structures. Her experimental capabilities span a range of modern techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, XRD, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, often used to validate her simulation results. Furthermore, she has expertise in modeling structural transitions and diffusion dynamics at the nanoscale, contributing to predictive understanding in the design of new materials. Her skillset extends into academic writing, scientific reporting, and the preparation of grant proposals, as evidenced by her extensive publication record and successful project leadership. In addition, her experience in supervising research students has enabled her to develop strong mentoring, analytical problem-solving, and collaborative project management skills. She has effectively bridged theoretical and applied research, a rare and valuable competency that enhances the innovation and impact of her scientific work.

Awards and Honors

Zhang Danhui has received multiple honors that reflect her academic excellence and contributions to research and education. She has been recognized with two municipal and departmental awards for outstanding scientific achievements, which underscore the significance and quality of her research output in the field of nanomaterials and materials engineering. Additionally, she earned an Outstanding Instructor Award, highlighting her excellence in academic mentorship and student guidance. These accolades demonstrate not only her ability to conduct high-level research but also her dedication to teaching and capacity to inspire young researchers. Her efforts in guiding student-led projects have led to notable achievements, including a published SCI-indexed paper and an authorized utility model patent, further confirming her strength in nurturing academic growth and innovation. Moreover, she holds a patent titled “An energy-saving power bank”, registered in China (ZL2019 2 0847842.9), reflecting her inclination toward real-world applications of research. Her professional recognition spans both scientific innovation and educational impact, making her a well-rounded scholar. These honors affirm her status as a leading researcher and educator within her institution and beyond, contributing meaningfully to national and regional scientific progress.

Conclusion

Zhang Danhui exemplifies a rare blend of academic excellence, research innovation, and educational commitment. With a strong foundation in engineering and a focused research agenda in nanofunctional materials and polymer composites, she has consistently demonstrated high-impact scientific productivity. Her robust publication record, leadership in funded projects, and expertise in molecular simulations and material synthesis position her as a leading contributor in her field. Beyond research, her dedication to student mentorship and instruction in core engineering subjects underscores her value as an educator. Her work reflects a dynamic integration of theoretical understanding and practical innovation, bridging gaps between computation, experimentation, and application. Recognition through awards, patents, and institutional accolades further attests to her wide-ranging influence. Dr. Zhang’s contributions not only advance the frontiers of nanotechnology and materials science but also help shape the next generation of engineers and researchers. Her professional journey, characterized by dedication, innovation, and impact, makes her an outstanding candidate for prestigious research awards. Moving forward, greater international collaboration and industry engagement could further amplify her global influence and the real-world application of her discoveries. Her career serves as a model of excellence in interdisciplinary research and academic leadership.

Publications Top Notes

1. Self-assembly behaviour of heterocyclic polymers induced by multiple carbon cone molecules

  • Authors: Xiangkang Zhang, Danhui Zhang, Wenqiang Hu, Houbo Yang, Zhongkui Liu, Xiangfei Ji, Dengbo Zhang

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Journal of Solid State Chemistry

2. Autonomous assembly behavior of polypyrrole induced by carbon cone[2,3]

  • Authors: Mingchen Gong, Danhui Zhang, Houbo Yang, Liu Yang, Dengbo Zhang, Ruquan Liang, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Inorganic Chemistry Communications

3. Multiple fullerene C70s induce polyacetylene to form a fish-like structure

  • Authors: Houbo Yang, Danhui Zhang, Ruquan Liang, Chenglei Zhang, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2021

  • Journal: Solid State Communications

4. Formation of “hemp flowers” structures from polyphenyl induced by C70

  • Authors: Danhui Zhang, Ruquan Liang, Houbo Yang, Yuanmei Song, Jianhui Shi, Dengbo Zhang, Liu Yang, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2021

  • Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces

5. Formation of Multiple‐Helical Core‐Shell Structure from Polyphenyl and Boron Nitride Nanotube

  • Authors: Houbo Yang, Danhui Zhang, Ruquan Liang, Zhongkui Liu, Yuanmei Song, Liu Yang, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2021

  • Journal: Advanced Theory and Simulations

6. Research on the Interfacial Interaction between Polyacetylene and Silver Nanowire

  • Authors: Danhui Zhang, Ruquan Liang, Zhongkui Liu, Houbo Yang, Jianhui Shi, Yuanmei Song, Dengbo Zhang, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2020

  • Journal: Macromolecular Theory and Simulations

7. Molecular dynamics simulations of single-walled carbon nanotubes and polynylon66

  • Authors: Danhui Zhang, Houbo Yang, Zhongkui Liu, Anmin Liu

  • Year: 2019

  • Journal: International Journal of Modern Physics B