Mengxi Tan | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mengxi Tan | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Henan University of Technology | China

Dr. Mengxi Tan is a dedicated scientist and faculty member at the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan University of Technology. She specializes in the structural design and performance enhancement of photocatalysts, with research applications in sustainable energy production and environmental protection. Her expertise covers photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen generation, oxygen reduction for hydrogen peroxide production, and photocatalytic biomass conversion. She has also contributed significantly to studies on photochemical theory, charge dynamics, intermediate conversions, and surface reaction mechanisms. Her work is recognized for advancing catalytic efficiency through innovative materials engineering and interdisciplinary approaches.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Tan earned her Doctor of Philosophy degree from Beijing University of Science and Technology, where she focused on developing advanced photocatalytic systems for renewable energy applications. Her academic journey equipped her with deep knowledge of materials chemistry, photocatalytic mechanisms, and environmental catalysis.

Experience

After completing her doctoral studies, Dr. Tan joined Henan University of Technology as a faculty member in the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. She has since engaged in extensive research, leading projects on photocatalytic materials development and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across institutions. Her work also extends into joint studies involving solid oxide fuel cells, CO₂ electroreduction, and piezo-photocatalysis, broadening the impact of her expertise in both academic and industrial contexts

Research Interests

Dr. Tan’s research centers on designing novel photocatalysts and exploring their functional mechanisms for energy and environmental applications. Her work emphasizes interfacial engineering, heterojunction development, defect engineering, and kinetic optimization to improve photocatalytic performance. She has applied these principles to hydrogen evolution, hydrogen peroxide generation, pollutant degradation, and biomass conversion, aiming to contribute to sustainable energy solutions and environmental remediation technologies.

Honors

Dr. Tan has been recognized for her scientific contributions through multiple high-impact publications and collaborations with leading researchers. Her work has appeared in some of the most respected journals in chemistry and materials science, earning citations from peers worldwide. These achievements reflect her growing reputation in the global research community and her dedication to advancing clean energy technologies.

Top Noted Publications

Design of the photocatalyst for H₂O₂ production by oxygen reduction reaction-  Web of Science indexed, 2025

Boosting Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production via Interfacial Engineering on 2D Ultrathin Z-Scheme ZnIn₂S₄/g-C₃N₄ Heterojunction – Web of Science indexed, 2022

Unexpected High-Performance Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution in Co@NCNT@ZnIn₂S₄ Triggered by Directional Charge Separation and Transfer – Web of Science indexed, 2022

The 2D Van der Waals heterojunction MoC@NG@CN for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production – Web of Science indexed, 2023

In situ fabrication of MIL-68(In)@ZnIn₂S₄ heterojunction for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production – Web of Science indexed, 2023

Conclusion

Dr. Mengxi Tan is an emerging leader in photocatalysis research, combining strong theoretical knowledge with practical innovation in materials design. Her publications in high-impact journals, active research collaborations, and commitment to advancing sustainable energy technologies highlight her as a significant contributor to the global scientific community. With her expertise and drive for innovation, she is poised to make even greater advancements in renewable energy and environmental solutions in the years ahead.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Zhigang YU | Alloys Design | Best Researcher Award |

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhigang YU | Alloys Design | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor , at Shanghai University,China.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhigang Yu is a dedicated and innovative researcher in the field of materials science, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Shanghai University, China. With a strong academic background and deep expertise in computational thermodynamics, magnesium alloys, and materials informatics, Dr. Yu is contributing significantly to advancing lightweight metal research using artificial intelligence and multi-scale simulation tools. His commitment to interdisciplinary research and academic leadership has earned him recognition in both national and international scientific communities.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Yu completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science from Shanghai University in July 2019, following his Master’s degree from the same institution in August 2015. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering from Yantai University, graduating in June 2012. His educational path reflects a steady and focused progression into advanced materials design and theoretical modeling.

Experience 💼

Dr. Yu has built a solid academic career at Shanghai University, where he currently holds the position of Associate Professor since October 2022. Prior to this role, he contributed as a Postdoctoral Researcher from January 2020 to September 2022, working on cutting-edge research in alloy thermodynamics and computational methods. His experience bridges both teaching and high-impact research, demonstrating his ability to mentor students and lead innovative projects.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Yu’s research centers around the thermodynamics and design of magnesium alloys, with a strong emphasis on multi-scale computational methods, first-principles calculations, and the integration of machine learning techniques for alloy prediction and optimization. His interdisciplinary approach aims to enhance the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of next-generation materials for structural and energy-related applications.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Yu has received several accolades in recognition of his research excellence and academic contributions. Notably, he was selected as an Awardee of the Shanghai Oriental Talents Program in 2023. He also won the Best Paper Award in the Magnesium Alloy section at the 4th International Conference on Non-Ferrous Materials in 2024. In addition, he has served as an Invited Speaker at the 8th Asian Conference on Materials and Data (2024), and is currently a member of the Youth Committee of the Editorial Board for the Journal of Materials Informatics (2025–2026).

Top Noted Publications 📚

Title: Local chemical fluctuation-tailored hierarchical heterostructure overcomes strength-ductility trade-off in high entropy alloys
Authors: Cai Pengcheng, Liu Jiaheng, Luan Jun, Yu Zhigang, Chou Kuochih
Citations: 2
Index: Journal of Materials Science and Technology
Year of Publication: 2025

Title: High temperature oxidation behavior of the dual-phase AlCoCr₀.₅Fe₂.₅Ni₂.₅ and single phase Al₀.₂₅CoCrFeNi high entropy alloys
Authors: Hu Han, Li Fangjie, Liu Min, Shen Qin, Yu Zhigang
Citations: 1
Index: Intermetallics
Year of Publication: 2025

Conclusion

With a unique blend of theoretical knowledge, computational skill, and a vision for data-driven materials innovation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhigang Yu stands out as a rising leader in his field. His research not only addresses fundamental scientific questions but also contributes to practical advancements in sustainable materials development. His consistent contributions, recognition, and leadership roles make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award and a valuable asset to the global scientific community.

Dr Benoît CAGNON | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award |

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Dr. Benoît CAGNON | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award | 

Docteur , at Université d’Orléans, France.

Dr. Benoît Cagnon is an Associate Professor at the University of Orléans and a researcher at ICMN (UMR 7374 CNRS), specializing in functionalized carbon materials for environmental applications. With a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences (Process Engineering) from the University of Perpignan (2002), his research focuses on developing advanced carbon-based materials for water treatment and pollutant degradation. Over his 20+ years in academia and research, he has led and contributed to multiple regional and national projects, including APR DEPRICAME and FLUOBAT (ANR National Project). Dr. Cagnon has an extensive publication record with 52 journal articles, 95 conference papers, and two book chapters, alongside mentoring 9 PhD students and 4 postdocs. His work bridges materials science, environmental chemistry, and industrial applications, making significant contributions to sustainable water purification technologies.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Benoît Cagnon holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences (Process Engineering) from the University of Perpignan (2002). He also earned a Postgraduate Diploma (DEA) in Process Engineering and Physical Chemistry from the University of Aix-Marseille III (1999), following his Master’s (1998) and Bachelor’s degrees (1997) in Chemistry and Physics from the University of Aix-Marseille I. His academic foundation is strongly rooted in chemistry, physics, and engineering, with a specialization in process engineering.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Cagnon has been an Associate Professor at the University of Orléans since 2004, teaching at the Institute of Technology (Chemistry Department). Over the years, he has been affiliated with various leading research groups, including ICMN (since 2012), ICOA (2009-2011), and the Laboratory of Chemical Process (LPC, 2004-2009). His earlier experience includes a CNRS-Air Liquide PhD research project (1999-2002) and a role as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Perpignan (2002-2004). His 20+ years of experience span academia, industrial partnerships, and research leadership.

Research Interests 🌍

Dr. Cagnon’s research revolves around the development and functionalization of carbon-based materials for environmental applications, particularly in water treatment and advanced oxidation processes. His work includes developing activated carbons from agricultural residues for the removal of organic pollutants and studying oxidation mechanisms for sustainable water purification. As a key researcher at ICMN (UMR 7374 CNRS) since 2012, he has led and contributed to multiple national and regional projects, advancing sustainable materials for environmental applications.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Cagnon has gained recognition for his significant contributions to materials science and environmental engineering. He has been actively involved in prestigious research collaborations, such as Campus France’s Brazil-France PhD supervision program, and has participated in key regional and national research initiatives. His leadership in the APR DEPRICAME project and participation in FLUOBAT (ANR National Project) further demonstrate his impact in the field.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Understanding the role of pollutant confinement during the thermal regeneration of activated carbons
Authors: F. Olivier, S. Schaefer, K. Maiga, C.O. Ania, B. Cagnon
Journal: Carbon
Year: 2025
Citations: 0

Impregnation by hydrothermal carbonization in the presence of phosphoric acid in the activated carbon production process from hemp residus: Impact on porous properties and ibuprofen adsorption
Authors: P.F. Samba, S. Schaefer, B. Cagnon
Journal: Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry
Year: 2025
Citations: 0

Biochar characteristics and Pb²⁺/Zn²⁺ sorption capacities: the role of feedstock variation
Authors: Y. Chafik, S.H. Hassan, M. Lebrun, S.J. Bourgerie, D. Morabito
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

Activated carbons from Brazilian lignocellulosic residues from baru and jurubeba as adsorbents for removal of diethyl phthalate in aqueous phase
Authors: M.C. de Almeida, F. Pereira de Sá, A.C. de Jesus Oliveira, T.F. Ferreira de Oliveira, B. Cagnon
Journal: Desalination and Water Treatment
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

High-performance ferroelectric photocatalysts for rapid dye degradation: ZrO₂-doped LiTa₀.₅Nb₀.₅O₃ under solar UV light
Authors: N.E. Lazar, D. Mazkad, A. Moussadik, M. El Mahi, E.M. Lotfi
Journal: Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology
Year: 2024
Citations: 5

Conclusion

Benoît Cagnon is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in environmental materials and sustainable water treatment. His research productivity, leadership, and contributions to carbon-based materials for pollution control make him a significant contender. Strengthening international funding leadership and interdisciplinary impact could further enhance his competitiveness for high-profile research awards.

Prof. Dr Hongyu Mou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award |

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Prof. Dr. Hongyu Mou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award | 

professor , at Qilu Institute of Technology, China.

Prof. Dr. Hongyu Mou is an esteemed researcher and Associate Professor at the College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Qilu Institute of Technology, China. His expertise lies in green chemistry, catalysis, energy materials, and nanotechnology, with a focus on the design of deep eutectic solvents (DESs), photocatalysts, and electrocatalysts for sustainable energy applications. He holds a Ph.D. from Renmin University of China, a Master’s, and a Bachelor’s degree from Qingdao University of Science & Technology. Dr. Mou has secured multiple research grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Shandong Province, and has been recognized as part of the Youth Innovation Team of Shandong Higher Education Institutions. His research has led to high-impact Q1 journal publications and multiple patents in advanced materials and sustainable energy solutions. As a leading scientist, he continues to drive innovation in hydrogen energy, biomass energy, and ammonia-based energy systems, making significant contributions to the future of green and renewable energy technologies.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Hongyu Mou earned his Ph.D. from Renmin University of China (2017–2020), specializing in green chemistry and advanced nanomaterials. He completed his Master’s degree (2014–2017) and Bachelor’s degree (2009–2013) at Qingdao University of Science & Technology, where he built a strong foundation in catalysis, energy chemistry, and material synthesis.

Professional Experience 💼

Since January 2021, Dr. Mou has been serving as an Associate Professor at the College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Qilu Institute of Technology, China. His academic role involves mentoring young researchers, leading innovative research projects, and developing sustainable materials. His experience also includes collaborations with leading scientists in catalysis, nanotechnology, and energy storage applications.

Research Interests 🌍

Dr. Mou’s research revolves around green chemistry, energy materials, and catalysis, with a strong emphasis on sustainable technology. His key areas of expertise include the design and synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs), functional nanomaterials, photocatalysts, and electrocatalysts. His work plays a crucial role in developing fossil fuel alternatives, hydrogen energy, biomass energy, and ammonia-based energy solutions.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Mou has been recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to green chemistry and sustainable energy research. He has secured multiple prestigious grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Shandong Province, and the Qilu Institute of Technology. His work has earned him a place in the Youth Innovation Team of Shandong Higher Education Institutions in both 2021 and 2022, highlighting his leadership in pioneering research.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Title: Spartina alterniflora Biochar Coupled BiOBr with Dominant Exposed Facet and Oxygen Vacancies for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin
Authors: P. Ju, S. Yu, G. Zhang, S. Lu, J. Sun
Citations: 0
Index: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Year of Publication: 2025

Title: Niobium Phosphide-Induced Sulfur Cathode Interface with Fast Lithium-Ion Flux Enables Highly Stable Lithium–Sulfur Catalytic Conversion
Authors: P. Wang, H. Mou, Y. Wang, B. Xi, S. Xiong
Citations: 0
Index: Angewandte Chemie – International Edition
Year of Publication: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Hongyu Mou has an impressive track record with significant contributions to green chemistry and sustainable energy solutions. Their publications, patents, and funded projects make them a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award. Enhancing international collaborations, citation impact, and interdisciplinary applications would further solidify their position as a top researcher.