Gen-Qiang Chen | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gen-Qiang Chen | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Southern University of Science and Technology, China

Gen-Qiang Chen is a distinguished researcher and Professor at the Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology. Renowned for his expertise in asymmetric catalysis, ligand design, and total synthesis of complex molecules, he has made substantial contributions to both fundamental research and industrial applications. His work has been published extensively in prestigious journals, including Nature Chemistry, Nature Communications, Journal of the American Chemical Society, Angewandte Chemie, and Science Advances. Chen’s research achievements have directly contributed to significant industrial advancements, such as the asymmetric synthesis of Sacubitril, a drug for heart failure treatment, which has led to the production of over 20 tons of intermediates and generated approximately 40 million yuan in industrial output. Recognized nationally, he has received competitive grants, awards, and honors, including the Guangdong Outstanding Youth Fund and the Shenzhen Natural Science First Prize. His work has been highlighted by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and featured by international research platforms like Synfacts. Chen’s balanced approach, integrating rigorous academic inquiry with practical, scalable applications, positions him as a leader in modern organic chemistry. He is actively engaged in reviewing for top journals, contributing to the scientific community’s advancement and maintaining high research standards.

Professional Profile

Education

Gen-Qiang Chen’s academic journey reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence in organic chemistry. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Lanzhou University, one of China’s most respected institutions, where he developed a strong foundation in chemical sciences. Driven by a passion for advanced research, he pursued a PhD at the Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, completing his doctorate in 2012. His doctoral work focused on the development of new catalytic systems and the synthesis of bioactive molecules, setting the stage for his future research trajectory. Following his PhD, Chen undertook postdoctoral research at the prestigious California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in the United States. There, he worked under the mentorship of renowned chemists, expanding his expertise in asymmetric catalysis and gaining exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies and international collaboration. This blend of top-tier Chinese and international education provided Chen with a robust theoretical and experimental foundation, allowing him to bridge Eastern and Western research traditions. His educational path has not only equipped him with deep technical knowledge but also shaped his scientific perspective, enabling him to tackle complex research problems with innovative solutions and to mentor the next generation of scientists.

Professional Experience

Gen-Qiang Chen currently holds a professorship at the Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, where he leads a dynamic research group focused on asymmetric catalysis, ligand design, and total synthesis. Prior to this role, Chen gained valuable international experience during his postdoctoral work at Caltech, where he honed his skills in advanced catalytic methodologies and expanded his professional network. Upon returning to China, Chen took on faculty positions that allowed him to establish his independent research program, attracting competitive funding and assembling a talented team of researchers and students. Over the years, Chen has built strong collaborations with both academic and industrial partners, integrating fundamental research with real-world applications. His group has successfully designed novel chiral ligands, such as O-SDP, which have been adopted in industrial settings for the synthesis of important pharmaceuticals. Chen is also deeply involved in academic service, acting as a reviewer for leading journals and contributing to the organization of scientific conferences and workshops. His professional experience reflects a well-rounded combination of academic leadership, international collaboration, industrial engagement, and community service, marking him as an influential figure in the field of organic chemistry.

Research Interests

Gen-Qiang Chen’s research interests center on the design and development of new catalytic systems, particularly in asymmetric catalysis, which enables the selective production of chiral molecules. His work focuses on creating novel chiral ligands and catalysts that can surpass existing commercial systems in terms of efficiency, selectivity, and scalability. A major area of interest is the application of these catalysts in complex molecule synthesis, including the total synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals such as prostaglandins and Sacubitril. Chen is also keenly interested in understanding catalytic mechanisms at a fundamental level, using both experimental and computational tools to uncover the principles driving selectivity and reactivity. His research bridges the gap between fundamental chemistry and industrial application, ensuring that discoveries in the lab can be translated into real-world solutions. Additionally, Chen explores the development of highly selective catalysts for challenging transformations, such as asymmetric hydroformylation, which has broad implications for fine chemical production and material science. His work contributes to the advancement of green chemistry by aiming for more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective processes, aligning with global efforts to reduce waste and improve chemical manufacturing practices.

Research Skills

Gen-Qiang Chen possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span synthetic organic chemistry, asymmetric catalysis, ligand design, and mechanistic studies. He is highly skilled in designing and synthesizing chiral ligands and catalysts, demonstrating expertise in optimizing reaction conditions to achieve high selectivity and efficiency. Chen is adept at conducting total synthesis projects, including multi-step syntheses of complex natural products and pharmaceuticals, requiring advanced planning, problem-solving, and analytical techniques. He is proficient in using modern spectroscopic and chromatographic methods, such as NMR, HPLC, and mass spectrometry, to characterize reaction intermediates and products with precision. Additionally, Chen integrates computational chemistry approaches to investigate catalytic mechanisms, allowing his team to understand the molecular-level details that drive reactivity and selectivity. He has strong project management skills, overseeing multiple research projects simultaneously and guiding a team of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Chen’s ability to translate laboratory discoveries into industrial applications demonstrates his practical know-how and innovation. His experience in drafting patents and publishing high-impact research further reflects his skill in communicating scientific advances to both academic and industrial audiences, making him a versatile and impactful researcher.

Awards and Honors

Gen-Qiang Chen has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to organic chemistry and catalysis research. Notably, he has been awarded the Guangdong Outstanding Youth Fund, a highly competitive grant that supports exceptional young scientists in advancing innovative research projects. He has also received the Shenzhen Natural Science First Prize, which acknowledges his groundbreaking work in developing chiral ligands and asymmetric catalytic methods with significant industrial applications. Chen’s research achievements have been repeatedly highlighted by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, underscoring his national prominence. Internationally, his work has been featured multiple times by Synfacts and Organic Chemistry Highlights, reflecting the global relevance and impact of his research. Additionally, Chen holds several patents for novel catalytic systems, further demonstrating the practical significance of his innovations. His role as a frequent reviewer for leading international journals and his participation in high-profile conferences and workshops attest to his strong standing in the scientific community. These recognitions not only celebrate his past achievements but also signal his potential to continue driving innovation and excellence in the field of asymmetric catalysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gen-Qiang Chen exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher in modern organic chemistry, combining deep scientific insight with practical innovation. His prolific publication record, cutting-edge catalytic systems, and impactful industrial collaborations highlight his ability to translate fundamental discoveries into real-world applications. Chen’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in his research output but also in his mentorship of young scientists, his service to the academic community, and his contribution to advancing chemical manufacturing processes. Recognized nationally and internationally, his achievements have positioned him as a rising star in the field, with the potential to influence the direction of asymmetric catalysis and ligand design for years to come. Chen’s balanced focus on both fundamental science and industrial relevance aligns with global priorities for sustainable and efficient chemical production. As he continues to expand his research portfolio and build international collaborations, his work will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of organic synthesis. Gen-Qiang Chen’s exceptional track record and ongoing innovation make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting his significant contributions to science and society.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Nano‐Scale Anti‐Cancer Drug Delivery by a Zn‐Based Metal Organic Framework Carrier
    Authors: P. Das, G. Chakraborty, J. Kaur, S.K. Mandal
    Journal: Small, 2408810
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Decoding Dual‐Functionality in N‐doped Defective Carbon: Unveiling Active Sites for Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysis
    Authors: S. Bhardwaj, A. Pathak, S.K. Das, P. Das, R. Thapa, R.S. Dey
    Journal: Small, 2411035
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Synthesis of Doped g‐C₃N₄ Photonic Crystals for Enhanced Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production from Catalytic Water‐Splitting
    Authors: S.Y. Djoko T., S. Kwon, P. Das, V. Weigelt, W. Tahir, B. Radhakrishnan, …
    Journal: Advanced Energy and Sustainability Research 5 (12), 2400181
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Two-Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks: Structural Insights across Different Length Scales and Their Impact on Photocatalytic Efficiency
    Authors: I.E. Khalil, P. Das, A. Thomas
    Journal: Accounts of Chemical Research 57 (21), 3138–3150
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 9

  • Title: Hierarchical Porous Covalent Organic Frameworks: The Influence of Additional Macropores on Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution and Hydrogen Peroxide Production
    Authors: I.E. Khalil, P. Das, H. Küçükkeçeci, V. Dippold, J. Rabeah, W. Tahir, …
    Journal: Chemistry of Materials 36 (17), 8330–8337
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 8

  • Title: The Effect of Pore Functionality in Multicomponent Covalent Organic Frameworks on Stable Long‐Term Photocatalytic H₂ Production
    Authors: P. Das, G. Chakraborty, J. Yang, J. Roeser, H. Küçükkeçeci, A.D. Nguyen, …
    Journal: Advanced Energy Materials, 2501193
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Heteropolyaromatic Covalent Organic Frameworks via One-Pot Multicomponent Reactions
    Authors: P. Das, G. Chakraborty, N. Friese, J. Roeser, C. Prinz, F. Emmerling, …
    Journal: Journal of the American Chemical Society 146 (25), 17131–17139
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 9

  • Title: Reversible Solvent Interactions with UiO-67 Metal–Organic Frameworks
    Authors: E.B. Isabella Goodenough, M.C. Boyanich, R.P. McDonnell, L. McDonnell, …
    Journal: The Journal of Chemical Physics 160 (4)
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Zeolitic MOFs Get a Facelift
    Authors: N.L. Rosi, P. Das
    Journal: Nature Synthesis 3 (1), 5–6
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Polyoxometalate (POM) Boosting the Light-Harvesting Ability of Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
    Authors: E. Njoyim, A.D. Nguyen, J. Yang, H. Küçükkeçeci, E.M. Kutorglo, …
    Journal: Catalysis Science & Technology 14 (8), 2114–2129
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

 

 

Yaojia Jiang | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Mr. Yaojia Jiang | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Guizhou University, China

Yaojia Jiang is an accomplished chemist with a strong academic and research background in radical chemistry, carbene and nitrene chemistry, and biological sciences. His academic journey showcases steady growth under the mentorship of highly respected scholars and at leading institutions. After earning his Master’s degree at Soochow University in 2010, he pursued a Ph.D. at Nanyang Technological University, completing it in 2014. During his doctoral studies, he specialized in carbene and nitrene transformations, a highly significant area of research with broad applications in organic synthesis. Jiang then expanded his expertise through postdoctoral work in biological sciences, which added a multidisciplinary dimension to his research profile. His independent career began in 2015 at Nanjing Tech University, focusing on carbene transformations, and later advanced at Guizhou University, where his work centers on modular single-carbon insertion reactions and sustainable pesticide development. His research combines fundamental chemistry with applications that address real-world problems, particularly in agriculture and green chemistry. Yaojia Jiang’s career path highlights not only technical expertise but also innovation, adaptability, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability and atom-economical processes. His diverse experiences position him as a leading figure in advancing chemical sciences in environmentally conscious ways.

Professional Profile

Education

Yaojia Jiang’s educational journey reflects strong academic foundations and strategic specialization in areas of growing scientific importance. He earned his Master’s degree in 2010 from Soochow University under the supervision of Professor Jian-Ping Zou, specializing in radical chemistry. This early focus provided him with a rigorous understanding of reactive intermediates and set the stage for his future contributions to the field. In 2014, he completed his Ph.D. at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, one of Asia’s leading research institutions. His doctoral research, supervised by Professors Cheol-Min Park and Teck-Peng Loh, delved into the chemistry of carbenes and nitrenes, reactive species crucial in modern organic synthesis. His Ph.D. work significantly enhanced his expertise in reaction mechanisms and synthetic methods, skills essential for high-level chemical innovation. Jiang’s educational experiences at two prominent institutions, combined with mentorship from globally respected scientists, provided him with both theoretical depth and practical skills. His academic background was further diversified through postdoctoral research in biological sciences, broadening his interdisciplinary knowledge and positioning him well for independent research that bridges chemistry and applied life sciences.

Professional Experience

Yaojia Jiang began his independent academic career shortly after completing his postdoctoral studies. In 2015, he joined Nanjing Tech University, where he focused on carbene transformations, contributing important research on highly reactive intermediates and their controlled manipulation for synthetic applications. His early years as an independent researcher showcased a rapid transition from trainee to research leader, reflecting his ability to design, lead, and execute complex chemical research projects. Subsequently, Jiang moved to Guizhou University, a rising hub for scientific research in China. At Guizhou University, he expanded his research portfolio by focusing on modular single-carbon insertion reactions and their applications in pesticide design. His work at Guizhou emphasizes green chemistry principles and atom-economical strategies, aligning his research with global calls for sustainable innovation. Over the course of his professional career, Jiang has demonstrated a unique combination of deep technical expertise and practical application, consistently pushing the boundaries of synthetic chemistry. His progression from graduate student to a respected academic researcher in a relatively short span reflects both his scientific excellence and leadership capabilities.

Research Interest

Yaojia Jiang’s research interests center around reactive intermediates, especially carbenes and nitrenes, and their controlled transformations for synthetic applications. His early work in radical chemistry laid the foundation for a deep understanding of highly reactive species, leading to advanced exploration of carbene and nitrene chemistries during his Ph.D. training. Jiang is particularly fascinated by modular single-carbon insertion reactions, which offer precise control over molecular architecture and have significant implications in developing functional molecules. His current research aims to apply these reactions toward the design of new, environmentally friendly pesticides using green and atom-economical processes. This focus bridges fundamental organic chemistry with real-world applications in agriculture and environmental protection. His interdisciplinary approach, integrating organic synthesis with biological insights from his postdoctoral experience, allows him to pursue research topics that are both intellectually challenging and socially impactful. In an era where sustainable chemical processes are increasingly vital, Jiang’s research direction positions him at the forefront of green innovation in synthetic chemistry. His ongoing projects reflect a balance of fundamental scientific curiosity and a commitment to contributing solutions to pressing global challenges.

Research Skills

Yaojia Jiang possesses an extensive range of research skills that make him highly effective as a synthetic chemist and innovator. His expertise in radical, carbene, and nitrene chemistry provides him with a strong foundation in handling reactive intermediates and understanding complex reaction mechanisms. He is skilled in the design and execution of multi-step organic synthesis, employing both classical methods and cutting-edge techniques. His experience with biological sciences during his postdoctoral training broadened his technical capabilities to include interdisciplinary methods, blending chemistry with biological systems analysis. Jiang’s research emphasizes green chemistry and atom-economical strategies, requiring a keen understanding of reaction efficiency, catalyst design, and sustainable process development. His work also demonstrates strong skills in experimental planning, data analysis, and scientific writing, evidenced by his successful transition into independent research leadership. Jiang has shown proficiency in mentoring younger researchers and managing laboratory activities, essential skills for building and maintaining a productive research team. His methodological rigor, creativity in problem-solving, and adaptability to new research challenges underscore his profile as a highly skilled and versatile researcher ready for larger international scientific collaborations and leadership roles.

Award and Honors

Although specific awards and honors for Yaojia Jiang were not listed in the provided information, his career progression itself is a testament to his excellence. Successfully obtaining a Ph.D. from a prestigious institution such as Nanyang Technological University under the mentorship of world-renowned scientists is a strong indicator of his academic and research capabilities. Securing independent research positions at respected universities like Nanjing Tech University and Guizhou University reflects institutional recognition of his potential and contributions. His rapid transition to an independent career and his ability to sustain and develop research programs in competitive environments suggest that he has earned professional respect in the field of synthetic and green chemistry. In future stages of his career, additional formal recognitions such as international awards, research grants, or leadership appointments in scientific societies could further highlight his achievements. Overall, Yaojia Jiang’s track record positions him well for future honors as he continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of chemical sciences and sustainable technologies.

Conclusion

Yaojia Jiang exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking and highly capable researcher in the field of synthetic and green chemistry. His strong academic background, diverse research experiences, and focus on addressing real-world challenges through innovative chemical processes make him a standout figure in modern scientific research. His work on carbene transformations and modular single-carbon insertion reactions, with applications in sustainable pesticide development, reflects a rare combination of deep scientific understanding and social responsibility. While his profile would be further strengthened by greater international recognition and large-scale collaborations, his current achievements already demonstrate significant excellence and impact. Yaojia Jiang is on a clear path toward becoming a global leader in green chemistry and synthetic innovation. His ongoing dedication to sustainable chemical solutions and his ability to adapt and expand his research interests mark him as an ideal candidate for future prestigious awards and broader academic leadership roles.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Discovery of Novel Antibacterial Agents against Plant Pathogens: Design, Synthesis, Antibacterial Activity, and Mechanism of Action of 1,2,4-Thiadiazole Derivatives Containing a Sulfone Moiety

    • Authors: Zou Yue, Zhu Mei, Zhu Zongnan, Jiang Yaojia, Chen Jixiang

    • Year: 2025

  2. Title: Synthesis of Functionalized Cycloheptadienones Starting from Phenols and Using a Rhodium/Boron Asymmetric Catalytic System

    • Authors: Han Jiabin, Fan Yaxin, Yang Xiaoyan, Hao Gefei, Jiang Yaojia

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 1

  3. Title: Pd(II) Auxiliary Assembling and Diverse Transformations via Inert C(sp³)-H Bond Activation

    • Authors: Luo Jiangbin, Chen Jie, Yang Xiaoyan, Hao Gefei, Jiang Yaojia

    • Year: 2025

  4. Title: Nickel-Catalyzed Multicomponent Assembly of Alkynes Toward α‑CF₃‑Alkenes

    • Authors: Li Ling, Li Yingmei, Yan Chongchong, Zhang Jian, Jiang Yaojia

    • Year: 2024