Minseong Ko | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 19/02/202519/02/2025 by Book of Award

Prof. Minseong Ko | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Pukyong National University | South Korea

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🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Minseong Ko's journey into the world of materials science and battery technology began with a strong academic foundation. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from Pukyong National University in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His passion for advanced materials led him to pursue a Master’s degree at Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology (GIST), where he focused on enhancing the sensitivity of GMR Spin Valve Sensors. He continued his academic excellence by earning a Ph.D. in Battery Science & Technology from the Ulsan National Institute of Science & Technology (UNIST). Under the guidance of esteemed mentors, including Prof. Jaephil Cho, he gained deep insights into lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and energy storage technologies. His academic journey culminated in postdoctoral research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he worked under the mentorship of Prof. Ju Li, further strengthening his expertise in nuclear science and engineering.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Prof. Minseong Ko serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgical Engineering at Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea. His professional trajectory has been marked by his contributions to battery technology and materials science. Throughout his career, he has engaged in cutting-edge research, focusing on the synthesis and functionalization of carbon materials, modification of nanomaterials, and the development of coating equipment for mass production. His role as an educator is equally significant, having taught and mentored students in advanced energy storage materials at prestigious institutions such as UNIST and Pukyong National University.

📈 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Ko’s research primarily revolves around all-solid-state batteries and lithium-ion battery (LIB) materials. His pioneering work in synthesizing cathode and anode materials aims to enhance energy storage efficiency, improve fast-charging capabilities, and ensure the non-flammability of LIBs. His expertise extends to in-situ analysis of electrode materials and HPPC (Hybrid Pulse Power Characterization) testing for electric vehicles. Additionally, he has been instrumental in the development of large-scale synthesizing equipment for commercialization, bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application.

His research interests include:

Development of high-energy and fast-charging lithium-ion batteries
Synthesis and surface modification of electrode materials
Fabrication of electrochemical full-cells (pouch and coin-type)
Commercialization and mass production of battery materials

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Ko’s contributions to battery science have been widely recognized in the academic and industrial sectors. His groundbreaking research has been published in top-tier journals, including Nature Communications, Advanced Energy Materials, ACS Nano, and Nano Letters. These publications highlight his significant contributions to the advancement of high-performance lithium-ion batteries and nanomaterial applications. His work has not only earned him academic accolades but has also positioned him as a leader in the field of energy storage technology.

🔋 Impact and Influence

Through his extensive research and publications, Prof. Ko has made a lasting impact on the field of energy storage. His studies on silicon-based anodes and high-capacity cathode materials have paved the way for more efficient and durable lithium-ion batteries, crucial for applications in electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. His collaborative approach has also contributed to global advancements in materials engineering, fostering partnerships between academia and industry to drive innovation. Beyond research, Prof. Ko is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on experimentation and industry collaboration, equipping students with the skills needed to tackle real-world challenges in battery technology.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Prof. Minseong Ko aims to further revolutionize battery technology by developing next-generation solid-state batteries with enhanced safety and performance. His research endeavors continue to focus on improving the longevity, efficiency, and sustainability of energy storage systems. As a respected scientist and mentor, he is set to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of materials science and electrochemical energy storage. With his unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence, Prof. Ko’s contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of sustainable energy solutions, benefiting industries and societies worldwide.

Publications

📄 "Morphology Control of Al Oxide Coating to Suppress Interfacial Degradation in Ultra-high Nickel Cathode Materials"

Authors: Minseong Kim, Jiyun Park, Taewan Kim, Byeonggu Kang, Jaegeon Im, Minseong Ko, Sujong Chae
Journal: Electrochimica Acta
Year: 2025

📄 "Binder-free CNT-implanted Carbon Cloth and Carbon Felt as Cathode Modifier for Bioelectricity Generation in Sediment Microbial Fuel Cells"

Authors: Nurfarhana Nabila Mohd Noor, Rashida Misali, Minseong Kim, Jeongmok Park, Minseong Ko, In-Cheol Lee, Tadashi Hibino, Kyunghoi Kim
Journal: Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers
Year: 2025

Shengyang Dong | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 26/11/202427/11/2024 by Book of Award

Prof. Shengyang Dong | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology | China

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Prof. Shengyang Dong embarked on his academic journey at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, where he earned his Doctor of Engineering degree in June 2019. During his Ph.D., he had the invaluable opportunity to study as an exchange scholar at Oregon State University under the guidance of Prof. Xiulei Ji (2016–2017). This exposure enriched his expertise and broadened his research horizons. He later joined Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, marking the start of an illustrious academic career. Prof. Dong’s academic roots laid the foundation for his groundbreaking work in sustainable energy storage and conversion systems.

Professional Endeavors 🏛️

After joining Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Prof. Dong dedicated himself to advancing research in energy storage. As a Macao Young Scholar (2023–2025), he expanded his professional experience at the University of Macau. His efforts have resulted in the successful completion of seven research projects and the publication of 61 SCI papers, garnering over 5,300 citations. Prof. Dong has also made significant contributions through consultancy projects, editorial roles, and collaborations with renowned researchers worldwide. His professional journey reflects a blend of academic rigor and innovative vision.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Dong’s research primarily targets sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies, focusing on aqueous batteries, Na-ion batteries, and dual-ion batteries. He pioneered studies on the electrode–charge carrier ion interaction, revealing its profound impact on electrochemical performance. By exploring the role of chemical bonding, such as hydrogen bonds in NH4+ and metal oxide systems, he introduced novel factors influencing battery design. These findings have paved new paths for optimizing electrode and charge carrier interactions, offering a transformative approach to energy storage device development.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Prof. Dong's achievements have earned him recognition in academic and professional circles. He holds nine patents and has contributed chapters to two notable books, enhancing the understanding of energy storage systems. He serves on the editorial boards of leading journals like Materials Research Letters and Rare Metals. His contributions to the field are widely acknowledged, with collaborators spanning institutions such as Zhejiang University, Nanjing Tech University, and the City University of Hong Kong. Prof. Dong’s work continues to inspire innovation and collaboration in energy storage research.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The impact of Prof. Dong’s research extends beyond academic publications. His insights into electrode–ion interactions have reshaped the design principles for electrochemical storage devices, influencing both theoretical studies and practical applications. By addressing challenges in sustainability and performance, his work contributes significantly to global efforts in developing efficient energy storage solutions. His patents and consultancy projects underscore the translational impact of his research, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As an academic leader, Prof. Dong’s legacy lies in his transformative contributions to sustainable energy technologies. His dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists, collaborating with global experts, and exploring innovative research avenues ensures a lasting impact. Looking ahead, his work promises to drive advancements in energy storage solutions, aligning with the world’s transition to renewable energy systems. With a robust foundation and a visionary approach, Prof. Dong is poised to leave an enduring mark on the field of energy storage and beyond.

Publications

📄Fast synthesis of high-entropy oxides for lithium-ion storage
Author(s): Ren, R., Xiong, Y., Xu, Z., Yin, K., Dong, S.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2024

📄Ru-induced lattice expansion of metallic Co with favorable surface property for high-efficiency water electrolysis
Author(s): Shen, J., Zhang, M., Huang, Y., Wang, S., Shao, H.
Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
Year: 2024

📄Aqueous “rocking-chair” Mn-ion battery based on an industrial pigment anode
Author(s): Dong, S., Xu, Z., Cao, Z., Li, J., Dong, X.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2024

📄Synthesis of spinel (Mg₀.₂Co₀.₂Ni₀.₂Cu₀.₂Zn₀.₂)Fe₂O₄ in seconds for lithium-ion battery anodes
Author(s): Ren, R., Wu, D., Zhang, J., Zhang, Y., Dong, S.
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
Year: 2024

📄3D Printing of MXene-Enhanced Ferroelectric Polymer for Ultrastable Zinc Anodes
Author(s): Zhu, G., Zhang, H., Lu, J., Pang, H., Zhang, Y.
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2024

Shehzad Ahmed | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 06/11/202406/11/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Shehzad Ahmed | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Shenzhen University | China

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Shehzad Ahmed's academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Physics from Kohat University of Science and Technology in Pakistan, where he researched thin film deposition techniques. This foundational interest propelled him toward a Master’s in Applied Physics at the International Islamic University in Islamabad, where he delved into the fascinating dynamics of magnetic nanoparticles. His early work here ignited his passion for materials science, especially in understanding complex material behaviors at the atomic level.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Dr. Ahmed has held diverse roles, including Lecturer and Research Assistant at the International Islamic University, where he taught physics and developed expertise in nanotechnology research. He later served as an Assistant Professor at Sarhad University in Pakistan, delivering advanced courses in chemistry and supervising student research. His international experience includes a Visiting Fellowship at the Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, where he currently explores innovative materials for energy applications.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ahmed's primary research centers on the atomic structure and behavior of amorphous phase-change memory materials. He explores how structural disorder impacts the electrical, optical, and bonding properties of materials. His extensive work on Sb-Te phase-change memory materials aims to advance next-generation memory devices. Dr. Ahmed also investigates energy materials, batteries, catalysis, and nanotechnology, publishing numerous papers in top-tier scientific journals.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Ahmed's research achievements have been recognized through invitations to prestigious conferences, including the World Young Scientist Summit in Wenzhou and multiple Sino-German Bilateral Symposia on electronic and memory materials. His work has also earned him positions on international research collaborations, highlighting his impact within the global scientific community.

Impact and Influence 🌐

Dr. Ahmed's contributions to phase-change memory and amorphous materials science have paved the way for advancements in memory technology and sustainable energy solutions. His research is influential in guiding the design of high-performance materials, inspiring young scientists and students who look to his work as a foundation in materials science.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Dr. Ahmed envisions a career focused on pioneering discoveries in condensed matter physics and materials science, aiming to bridge academic research with industrial applications. His commitment to understanding and innovating materials for energy storage and catalysis positions him as a driving force for future advancements, ensuring a lasting legacy in the field of materials science.

Publications

📄 "Polarization insensitive non-interleaved frequency multiplexed dual-band Terahertz coding metasurface for independent control of reflected waves"
Authors: Iqbal, S., Noor, A., Ullah, N., Nisar, M.S., Wong, S.-W.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2024

📄 "Enhanced As-COF nanochannels as a high-capacity anode for K and Ca-ion batteries"
Authors: Ahmed, S., Ghani, A., Muhammad, I., Tian, X., Yakobson, B.
Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Year: 2024

📄 "Revealing half-metallicity: Predicting large bandgaps in halogen-based full-Heusler alloys"
Authors: Muhammad, I., Ahmed, S., Ullah, N., Tian, X., Zhang, J.-M.
Journal: Results in Physics
Year: 2024

📄 "Unveiling the potential of aluminum-decorated 3D phosphorus graphdiyne as a catalyst for N₂O reduction"
Authors: Ahmed, S., Khan, A.A., Khan, D., Xiaoqing, T., Muhammad, I.
Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Year: 2024

📄"Giant Thermomechanical Bandgap Modulation in Quasi-2D Tellurium"
Authors: Hussain, N., Ahmed, S., Tepe, H.U., Wu, H., Shcherbakov, M.R.
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2024

Giovanna Maresca | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 10/07/202411/07/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Giovanna Maresca | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Customs Agency and Monopolies | Italy

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Giovanna Maresca pursued her higher education with a focus on chemistry and materials science. She engaged in significant research from the outset of her career, beginning with her involvement in the project "Hyrides as high-capacity anodes for lithium ion batteries" at "La Sapienza" University of Rome. Her academic journey included synthesizing and studying electrolytic systems compatible with high-capacity hydride-based anodes, laying a strong foundation for her future research endeavors in battery technology.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Maresca has accumulated extensive professional experience through various prestigious fellowships and research grants across multiple countries:

* Chemist at Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), Bologna, Italy (04/18/2022 – CURRENT): Dr. Maresca currently works in this role, applying her expertise in chemistry within the regulatory framework of excise, customs, and monopolies.

* Visiting Fellow at Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland (01/05/2023 – 30/06/2023): She worked on characterizing post-mortem silicon, hard carbon, and Na-NMO electrodes through XPS and FE-SEM analyses under the supervision of Kevin M. Ryan.

* Research Grant at ENEA Casaccia, Cesano, Italy (04/03/2021 – 18/04/2022): Participated in the European project Si-Drive, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of ionic liquids and innovative electrolytes for lithium batteries. She worked under the guidance of Dr. Giovanni Battista Appetecchi and Prof. Sergio Brutti.

* Samsung Research Fellow at "La Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy (09/30/2016 – 10/30/2020): Worked on the project "Solid-state batteries using novel composite anodes" in collaboration with SAMSUNG, focusing on the synthesis and optimization of electrode composite materials. This fellowship included a period as a visiting fellow at Samsung R&D Institute Japan, studying electrode materials for solid-state batteries under the supervision of Seitaro Ito and Yuichi Aihara.

Research Fellow at Politecnico di Turin DISAT – Applied Science Department Technology/ENEA Casaccia, Turin, Italy (15/03/2014 – 14/03/2015): Engaged in the European project MARS-EV, working on the synthesis and characterization of ionic liquids and innovative electrolytes for lithium batteries.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Maresca's research primarily focuses on the development and optimization of materials for energy storage, particularly lithium-ion and solid-state batteries. Her contributions include:

* Synthesis and characterization of innovative electrolytes and electrode materials.

* Development of high-capacity anodes and optimization of composite materials for solid-state batteries.

* Extensive chemical-physical characterization and electrochemical testing of battery components.

* Pioneering research on post-mortem analysis of battery electrodes to improve their performance and longevity.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Maresca has been recognized for her significant contributions to battery technology and materials science through prestigious fellowships and research grants. Her collaborations with leading institutions and corporations such as Samsung and ENEA underscore her impact in the field.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Maresca's work has had a profound impact on the development of next-generation energy storage solutions. Her research on high-capacity anodes and solid-state batteries contributes to advancements in electric vehicle technology and sustainable energy storage systems. Her collaborative efforts with international research institutions have also facilitated the exchange of knowledge and innovation in materials science.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Maresca's continued research and professional activities promise to further enhance the performance and safety of battery technologies. Her ongoing work at the Customs and Monopolies Agency, along with her involvement in cutting-edge research projects, positions her as a key contributor to the future of sustainable energy storage solutions. Her legacy lies in her commitment to advancing battery technology, paving the way for more efficient and durable energy storage systems in the years to come.

Notable Publications

Improved Compatibility of α‐NaMnO2 Cathodes at the Interface with Ionic Liquid Electrolytes 2024

Outstanding Compatibility of Hard-Carbon Anodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries in Ionic Liquid Electrolytes 2023 (1)

Silicon‐Based Composite Anodes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Ion Batteries Conceived by a Mixture Design Approach 2023 (5)

Sodium-Conducting Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: Electrochemical Stability Investigation 2022 (8)

Soundharrajan Vaiyapuri | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 10/06/202410/06/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Soundharrajan Vaiyapuri | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Chungnam Nationan University | South Korea

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Soundharrajan Vaiyapuri's academic journey began with a strong foundation in Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering. He completed his Bachelor of Technology at the Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CECRI) in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India. His passion for energy storage technology led him to pursue a combined master's and doctoral course at Chonnam National University, South Korea, where he earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. His thesis, titled "Rapid fabrication and evaluation of high-energy cathodes for Sodium-Ion Battery," laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors in the field of energy storage.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Vaiyapuri's professional career is marked by significant contributions to the field of material chemistry and energy storage. He began his career as a Processing Engineer at Micropack Pvt Ltd in Bangalore, India, where he honed his skills in process control and development. His journey in academia and research took a major leap when he joined Chonnam National University as a Postdoctoral Researcher, leading the Engineering Research Center grant, the biggest research grant in South Korea. He later joined MEET - Münster Electrochemical Energy Technology in Germany, working on high-energy-density and safe zero-Co Li-Ion batteries using non-critical raw materials and green processes. Currently, he is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Chungnam National University, South Korea, leading a team in the BK-21 research grant for future batteries.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Vaiyapuri's research focuses on the design and implementation of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and aqueous-ion batteries. His expertise encompasses various aspects of battery fabrication and characterization, including material synthesis, electrochemistry, and advanced battery analysis. He has developed high-energy inorganic cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries and aqueous-ion batteries, contributing significantly to the advancement of energy storage technology. His innovative approaches include the development of a new synthesis method for high-energy polyanion cathodes for sodium-ion batteries and the establishment of patents for novel cathode materials.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Vaiyapuri has received numerous accolades and recognition for his contributions to the field of energy storage. Notably, he was awarded the Best Poster Award at the 2020 Virtual MRS Spring/Fall Meeting & Exhibit for his work on aqueous rechargeable Zn-Ion batteries. His research has been presented at prestigious international conferences, including the 4th International Conference on New Energy and Future Energy Systems in Macao, China, and the 6th International Symposium on Advanced Electromaterials in Jeju, South Korea.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Vaiyapuri's work has had a profound impact on the field of energy storage, particularly in the development of eco-friendly energy storage devices and high-energy cathodes for sodium-ion batteries. His innovative research has led to the improvement of energy efficiency and cost reduction in battery materials, contributing to the sustainability and advancement of energy storage technologies. His mentoring and leadership in guiding master's and Ph.D. students have also played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of researchers in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Vaiyapuri's legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in material chemistry and energy storage. His contributions have paved the way for future advancements in battery technology, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. As he continues to lead and inspire research in the field, his future contributions are anticipated to drive significant breakthroughs in energy storage solutions, further cementing his position as a pioneering researcher in material chemistry.

Notable Publications

Two in one: The use of hexagonal copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticles as a bifunctional high-performance cathode and as a reinforced electrolyte additive for an all-solid-state lithium battery 2024

Decoding the Manganese-Ion Storage Properties of Na1.25V3O8 Nanorods 2024 (1)

Pentlandite Compound-Anchored CuSCN as a Stable Electrocatalyst in Highly Alkaline Solutions 2024

Exploring low-cost high energy NASICON cathodes for sodium-ion batteries via a combined machine-learning, ab initio, and experimental approach 2023 (6)