Tsz Lok Wan | Postdoctoral Fellow | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan | Water-Energy Nexus | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Alberta, Canada

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in computational materials science, with a focus on clean energy, environmental sustainability, and advanced catalysis. He holds a Ph.D. from Queensland University of Technology, where he earned multiple prestigious scholarships and the High Achiever Award. His research integrates chemistry, physics, and engineering to design and simulate innovative materials using advanced first-principles calculations and modeling tools. Dr. Wan has authored several high-impact publications in top-tier journals such as Nanoscale, Advanced Materials Technologies, and Journal of Materials Chemistry A, contributing significantly to the understanding of ferroelectric materials and their role in energy and environmental applications. With international research experience across Australia, Hong Kong, and Canada, and active participation in major scientific conferences, he demonstrates strong global engagement and academic leadership. Currently serving as a Young Editorial Board Member at the University of Alberta, Dr. Wan exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking and impactful researcher, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan has a robust academic background in engineering and materials science, beginning with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering from Queensland University of Technology, where he conducted theoretical investigations into the mechanical properties of graphene and carbon nanotube-based nanomaterials. He further advanced his expertise by completing a Master of Engineering Science in Mechanical Engineering at The University of Queensland, focusing his thesis on characterizing the surface force of nanowires. Building on this foundation, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy from Queensland University of Technology, where his research centered on ferroelectric-controllable gas capture and catalysis for environmental and energy applications. His doctoral studies were supported by several prestigious scholarships, including the ARC Discovery Scholarship, QUT HDR Tuition Fee Sponsorship, and the Faculty Write-Up Scholarship, and culminated in receiving the High Achiever Award in 2022 for outstanding academic performance.

Professional Experience

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan has accumulated diverse professional experience across academia and industry, reflecting a strong foundation in research, innovation, and engineering practice. He is currently serving as a Young Editorial Board Member at the University of Alberta’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, contributing to academic leadership and scholarly review. In parallel, he is involved in a carbon neutralization research initiative, further aligning his work with global sustainability goals. Previously, he held a postdoctoral fellowship at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, where he contributed to advanced image analysis and software development for medical applications. His earlier experiences include research internships at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he worked on electrocardiograph circuit development and 3D ultrasound image analysis, respectively. Additionally, he gained hands-on engineering experience during an internship at Po Shing Construction Limited, where he calibrated engineering drawings and supported site workflow procedures. These roles have collectively equipped Dr. Wan with a blend of theoretical acumen and practical skills across computational modeling, biomedical engineering, and construction technology.

Research Interest

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan’s research interests lie at the dynamic intersection of chemistry, physics, and engineering, with a primary focus on the development of advanced materials for clean energy, environmental sustainability, and electronic applications. He is particularly interested in the use of computational modeling and first-principles calculations, such as Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics (AIMD), to understand and predict the behavior of materials at the atomic scale. His work explores ferroelectric-controlled catalysis, gas adsorption, and the design of two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures for applications such as hydrogen evolution and nitrogen reduction reactions. By simulating chemical reactions and material interactions that are difficult to observe experimentally, Dr. Wan aims to accelerate the discovery of efficient, sustainable catalysts and contribute to the global transition toward low-carbon technologies.

Award and Honor

Dr. Tsz Lok Wan has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his academic excellence and research contributions. During his doctoral studies at Queensland University of Technology, he was the recipient of the ARC Discovery Scholarship, the QUT HDR Tuition Fee Sponsorship, and the Faculty Write-Up Scholarship, reflecting his strong academic standing and research potential. In 2022, he was honored with the High Achiever Award, acknowledging his outstanding performance and impact in the field of computational materials science. These accolades underscore his dedication to advancing knowledge in clean energy and environmental applications through innovative theoretical research.

Conclusion

Tsz Lok Wan demonstrates exemplary academic performance, technical proficiency, and research productivity in high-impact areas like sustainable catalysis and clean energy materials. While there is room to strengthen leadership and translational aspects of his research, his consistent contributions, especially in computational materials science, make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the early-to-mid career category.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Catalysis based on ferroelectrics: controllable chemical reaction with boosted efficiency
    Authors: TL Wan, L Ge, Y Pan, Q Yuan, L Liu, S Sarina, L Kou
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 50

  • Title: Rational design of 2D ferroelectric heterogeneous catalysts for controllable hydrogen evolution reaction
    Authors: TL Wan, J Liu, X Tan, T Liao, Y Gu, A Du, S Smith, L Kou
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 15

  • Title: Ferroelectric Controlled Gas Adsorption in Doped Graphene/In2Se3 Heterostructure
    Authors: TL Wan, J Shang, Y Gu, L Kou
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 12

  • Title: Density Functional Theory Studies on Magnetic Manipulation in NiI2 Layers
    Authors: M Liu, L Zhang, J Liu, TL Wan, A Du, Y Gu, L Kou
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 11

  • Title: Synergistic engineering of heterovalent states and sulfur-vacancy defects in Co/O co-doped ZnS for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
    Authors: L Chen, B Wu, X Wu, DH Kuo, TL Wan, B Yang, P Zhang, Z Su, J Lin, D Lu, X Chen
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 7

  • Title: Bimetallic conjugated metal–organic frameworks as bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting
    Authors: TL Wan, J Liu, X Tan, M Liu, S Smith, L Kou
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 4

  • Title: Enhanced Activity and Selectivity for Nitrogen Reduction Reaction in Electrides‐Based Heterostructures: A DFT Computational Study
    Authors: H Wijesingha, TL Wan, J Liu, L Kou
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 3

  • Title: Magnetic skyrmions and their manipulations in a 2D multiferroic CuCrP₂Te₆ monolayer
    Authors: M Liu, TL Wan, K Dou, L Zhang, W Sun, J Jiang, Y Ma, Y Gu, L Kou
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 3

  • Title: Mo-cation/O-anion doping strategy for creating vacancy defects and cation multivalency to enhance the hydrogen evolution of ZnS under visible light
    Authors: X Wu, TL Wan, B Yang, DH Kuo, P Zhang, M Liu, SN Adawara, D Fang Lu, J Lin, X Chen
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Not available yet

  • Title: Ferroelectric controllable gas capture and catalysis for environmental and energy application (PhD Thesis)
    Author: TL Wan
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Not applicable

  • Title: Ferroelectric Controlled Gas Adsorption in Doped Graphene/In2Se3 Heterostructure (Duplicate journal entry in Adv. Mater. Technol.)
    Authors: TL Wan, J Shang, Y Gu, L Kou
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Not listed separately (already counted above)

  • Title: Characterizing of Surface Forces of Nanowires (Master’s Thesis)
    Author: TL Wan
    Year: 2020
    Citation: Not applicable

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Guanhua Huang | Agricultural Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Guanhua Huang | Agricultural Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Hydrology at China Agricultural University, China

Prof. Guanhua Huang is a distinguished expert in irrigation, drainage, and subsurface hydrology, currently serving as a Professor at China Agricultural University and Director of the Chinese-Israeli International Center for Research and Training in Agriculture. With a PhD in Irrigation and Drainage from Wuhan University, his research spans agricultural water management, water-saving irrigation, agro-hydrological modeling, and the environmental impacts of climate change on water productivity. He has led over 40 national and international research projects and published more than 260 peer-reviewed papers, including over 130 in international journals. His work has earned him prestigious honors such as the Cheung Kong Scholars Chair Professorship and the Distinguished Young Scholar Award from the National Natural Science Foundation of China. A prolific innovator with 8 patents and 6 software copyrights, he has also received five ministry-level research prizes. Prof. Huang holds editorial roles in several leading journals and has made significant contributions to international scientific collaboration and leadership within professional societies.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Guanhua Huang received his Ph.D. in Irrigation and Drainage from Wuhan University in 1995, where he specialized in agricultural water management and hydrological processes. His advanced education laid the foundation for his extensive research in subsurface hydrology, water-saving irrigation technologies, and the environmental impacts of agricultural water use. Throughout his academic journey, he has continuously expanded his expertise through national and international collaborations, which have further enriched his knowledge and influence in the field of agricultural engineering and water resources.

Professional Experience

Prof. Guanhua Huang has had an extensive and impactful professional career in the field of irrigation and agricultural water management. Since 1997, he has served as an Associate Professor and later as a full Professor at the Department of Irrigation and Drainage at China Agricultural University (CAU). He also held the position of Dean of the International College Beijing from 2010 to 2020, where he played a key role in promoting global academic exchange. Since 1998, he has been the Director of the Chinese-Israeli International Center for Research and Training in Agriculture, fostering international collaboration in sustainable agriculture. In addition, he has held prominent leadership roles, including Chairman of Agricultural Land and Water Engineering under the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering (2014–2022), and Chairman of the Land and Water Section of the International Commission of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (CIGR) from 2010 to 2014. His editorial contributions include serving as Associate Editor for Vadose Zone Journal and Irrigation Science, along with editorial roles in several other international and national journals.

Research Interest

Prof. Guanhua Huang’s research interests are centered around agricultural water management, with a strong emphasis on water-saving irrigation technologies and their environmental and ecological impacts. He is deeply engaged in the modeling of agro-hydrological processes, aiming to improve the understanding and efficiency of water use in agriculture. His work also explores the interactions between climate change, human activity, and water productivity, seeking sustainable solutions to water scarcity and environmental stress in agricultural systems. By integrating theoretical modeling with practical applications, his research contributes to the development of innovative strategies for enhancing water use efficiency and supporting sustainable agriculture under changing environmental conditions.

Award and Honor

Prof. Guanhua Huang has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to agricultural engineering and water resources management. In 2012, he was appointed as a Chair Professor under the Cheung Kong Scholars Program by the Ministry of Education of China—one of the highest academic honors in the country. He was also awarded the title of Distinguished Young Scholar by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) in 2011, highlighting his early and sustained excellence in research. Throughout his career, he has been honored with five ministry-level prizes for research achievements, demonstrating national recognition of the practical impact and innovation of his work. His leadership and academic reputation are further reflected in his roles within international scientific societies and editorial boards of prominent journals.

Conclusion

Prof. Guanhua Huang is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.His significant contributions to agricultural water management, innovation in irrigation technologies, leadership in international collaboration, and strong record of research and applied impact make him a very strong candidate. If complemented with citation metrics and highlights of recent major breakthroughs, his nomination would be even more compelling.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Title: Enhancing the representation of multi-level canal systems and reactive transport of nitrate in agro-hydrological modelling of arid irrigation districts
    Authors: R. Wang, D. Ren, S. Jessen, K.H. Jensen, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  2. Title: Multi-objective optimization of agronomic practices to balance soil fertility, water productivity, and economic returns in saline-alkali farmlands
    Authors: L. Sun, J. He, P. Qi, Q. Huang, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  3. Title: How do integrated agronomic practices enhance sunflower productivity and stability in saline-alkali soils of arid regions? Evidence from China
    Authors: L. Sun, Y. Wu, Y. Fan, Q. Huang, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  4. Title: Effects of subsurface drainage and year-round irrigation on crop water-salt stress and yield in an arid region
    Authors: J. Liu, Q. Huang, Z. Hou, F. Xue, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  5. Title: Contribution of Moisture Recycling to Water Availability in China
    Authors: Q. An, L. Liu, L. Wang, J. Liu, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  6. Title: Analytical expressions of specific yield for shallow groundwater estimation and modeling
    Authors: X. Xiao, Y. Yang, D. Mu, G. Huang, X. Xu
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  7. Title: Impact of Land Use Conversion on Soil Structure and Hydropedological Functions in an Arid Region
    Authors: J. Han, C. Pan, Y. Sun, Y. Xiong, G. Huang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  8. Title: Assessment of meteorological factors and human activities impact on wheat and maize water requirements in the Yellow River Basin
    Authors: X. Chen, Y. Lou, S. Hong, Q. Huang, G. Huang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  9. Title: Soil microbial community and associated functions response to salt stresses: Resistance and resilience
    Authors: Z. Chen, T. Zhou, G. Huang, Y. Xiong
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  10. Title: Mechanistic Simulation of Salt-Affected Soil-Plant-Atmosphere Continuum Dynamics in Seasonally Frozen Regions
    Authors: Y. Xun, X. Xu, B.L. Kurylyk, D. Mu, G. Huang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

 

Zeling Zhao | Sustainable Water Use | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zeling Zhao | Sustainable Water Use | Best Researcher Award

College of Mechanical & Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, china

Zeling Zhao is a dedicated researcher in the field of mechanical engineering, specializing in material plastic forming and precision hydraulic transmission. Affiliated with the College of Mechanical & Energy Engineering at Beijing University of Technology, Zhao has contributed to the conservation and efficient utilization of non-ferrous metal resources through innovative research on titanium chip recycling. Their work includes the development of a double-toothed roller crusher, which has resulted in a published patent and two peer-reviewed SCI journal articles. While Zhao’s research demonstrates clear technical depth and industrial relevance, expanding academic output, collaborations, and professional engagement would further strengthen their research profile and broader impact in the field.

Professional Profile 

Education

Zeling Zhao has an academic background in mechanical engineering, with a focus on material plastic forming and precision hydraulic transmission. Their education has provided a strong foundation in the principles of mechanical systems and advanced manufacturing processes, equipping them with the technical skills necessary for conducting specialized research in material forming technologies. This educational grounding has enabled Zhao to pursue innovative work in the development of equipment for recycling titanium scraps, aligning with both industrial application and sustainable engineering practices.

Professional Experience

Zeling Zhao has professional experience rooted in academic research within the field of mechanical engineering, particularly focusing on material plastic forming and precision hydraulic transmission. Their work at the College of Mechanical & Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, has centered on the development of innovative solutions for the efficient recycling of titanium waste. Notably, Zhao has led research on the design and optimization of a double-toothed roller crusher, contributing to both theoretical advancements and practical engineering applications. Although their profile does not currently include consultancy or industry project experience, Zhao’s contributions reflect a strong commitment to applied research and technological innovation.

Research Interest

Zeling Zhao’s research interests lie in the areas of material plastic forming and precision hydraulic transmission, with a particular focus on the recycling and utilization of non-ferrous metal resources. Their work aims to develop efficient mechanical solutions for processing industrial waste, such as titanium chips, through advanced forming techniques and equipment design. Zhao is especially interested in the optimization of crushing processes and the simulation of material behavior under mechanical stress, as demonstrated in their study and development of a double-toothed roller crusher. These interests reflect a strong commitment to sustainable engineering practices and the advancement of manufacturing technologies.

Award and Honor

As of now, Zeling Zhao has not listed any formal awards or honors in their academic or professional profile. However, their contributions to the field of mechanical engineering—particularly through the publication of SCI-indexed journal articles and the development of a patented double-toothed roller crusher for titanium chip recycling—reflect a growing recognition of their research potential. Zhao’s work demonstrates innovation and relevance, positioning them as a promising candidate for future awards and honors in engineering research and sustainable technology development.

Conclusion

Zeling Zhao shows promising potential as a researcher with a clear technical focus and innovative contributions, particularly in materials engineering and sustainability-focused applications. However, for the Best Researcher Award, which typically recognizes outstanding and wide-reaching academic and research contributions, Zhao’s current profile may be considered emerging rather than established.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Finite Element Simulation and Optimization of Process Parameters for Titanium Chip Crusher

    • Authors: Jianghua Huang; Zeling Zhao; Xiaomin Huang; Tao Liu; Ji Hongchao

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: Materials

    • DOI: 10.3390/ma18091894

    • Citation: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute

  1. Mechanical Properties and Fracture Behavior of a TC4 Titanium Alloy Sheet

    • Authors: Zeling Zhao; Ji Hongchao; Yingzhuo Zhong; Chun Han; Xuefeng Tang

    • Year: 2022

    • Journal: Materials

    • DOI: 10.3390/ma15238589

    • Citation: Part of ISSN: 1996-1944

  1. Johnson-Cook Model for TC4 Titanium Alloy Based on Compression Experiment

    • Author: Zeling Zhao

    • Year: Not specified (likely 2023 based on sequence)

    • Journal: Metalurgija

    • Citation: Zeling Zhao (Preferred Source)

 

Caixiang Zhang | Groundwater Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Caixiang Zhang | Groundwater Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at China University of Geosciences, China

Professor Caixiang Zhang is a distinguished academic in Environmental Science and Engineering at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), with a strong focus on the migration and transformation of pollutants in groundwater systems and innovative methods for pollution control and remediation. He has led four National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects and contributed to several major national research initiatives, including four National “863” Projects and a National Key R&D Project. With over 40 SCI-indexed journal publications, a published monograph, and two patents, Professor Zhang has made substantial contributions to environmental research. He is a recipient of the Second Prize of Science and Technology Progress of Hubei Province and an active member of the AGU Society of America, highlighting both national recognition and international engagement. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to scientific advancement and environmental sustainability.

Professional Profile 

Education

Professor Caixiang Zhang holds a solid academic background in environmental sciences, having pursued his higher education with a focus on Environmental Science and Engineering. His academic journey laid a strong foundation for his research in groundwater pollution control, geomicrobiology, and environmental remediation. Currently affiliated with the State Key Laboratory of Geomicrobiology and Environmental Changes at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Professor Zhang’s educational qualifications have been instrumental in shaping his expertise in addressing complex environmental challenges through advanced scientific research and innovation.

Professional Experience

Professor Caixiang Zhang has amassed extensive professional experience in the field of Environmental Science and Engineering, currently serving as a professor at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan). Over the years, he has led and participated in numerous high-impact national research projects, including four National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects, four National “863” Projects, and a National Key Research and Development Project. His professional journey reflects a strong emphasis on groundwater pollution, soil remediation, and environmental change, with over 40 publications in SCI-indexed journals, a published monograph, and two patents. His contributions have been recognized through prestigious honors such as the Second Prize of Science and Technology Progress of Hubei Province, highlighting his leadership and impact in the environmental research community.

Research Interest

Professor Caixiang Zhang’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental science, hydrogeology, and pollution remediation, with a particular focus on the migration and transformation behavior of pollutants in groundwater systems. He is dedicated to developing and applying innovative methods for the control and remediation of soil–groundwater pollution, addressing pressing environmental challenges related to water quality and ecosystem health. His work integrates field investigations, laboratory experiments, and modeling approaches to understand contaminant behavior and to design effective remediation strategies. Professor Zhang’s research contributes to advancing sustainable environmental management and protecting water resources at both national and global levels.

Award and Honor

Professor Caixiang Zhang has received notable recognition for his contributions to environmental science and engineering. Among his achievements, he was honored with the Second Prize of Science and Technology Progress of Hubei Province, a prestigious award that underscores the impact and innovation of his research in groundwater pollution and environmental remediation. This accolade reflects his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and developing practical solutions to complex environmental issues. His work continues to earn respect within the academic and scientific communities, both in China and internationally.

Conclusion

Professor Caixiang Zhang is a highly competent and accomplished researcher with a strong track record in environmental science and engineering. His sustained involvement in nationally funded research, publication record, and award recognition clearly position him as a serious contender for the Best Researcher Award. With some improvements in presenting industry impact and clarifying affiliations and roles, his application could be even more compelling.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Comparing the abiotic removal of glyphosate by β-MnO₂ and δ-MnO₂ colloids: Insights into kinetics and mechanisms
    Authors: Xiong, Ruihan; Zhang, Caixiang; Xiong, Hanxiang; Huang, Shuxin; Li, Jiasen
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Sedimentation kinetics and stability mechanisms of iron and manganese colloids in simulated groundwater
    Authors: Huang, Shuxin; Zhang, Caixiang; Chen, Lu; Fan, Zenghui; Lv, You
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: The degradation of a nonylphenol isomer in water and soil of typical sewage irrigation area in China
    Authors: Liu, Min; Zhao, Liangyuan; Deng, Wei; Hu, Yuan; Wu, Mengmeng
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0

  • Title: Human Health Risk Assessment of Elevated Fe and Mn Intake in Groundwater in Yangtze Catchment
    Authors: Tan, Haoyan; Zhang, Caixiang; Li, Jiasen; Zeng, Ming; Cheng, Yikang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Occurrence and influencing factors of high groundwater manganese in the oxbow lakes of the middle reaches of Yangtze River
    Authors: Li, Jiasen; Zhang, Caixiang; Tan, Haoyan; Zeng, Ming; Cheng, Yikang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4