Donglin Zu | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Donglin Zu | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award

Peking University | China

Prof. Donglin Zu is a distinguished physicist whose career spans pioneering contributions to electromagnetics, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and, more recently, photon structure theory. His early work involved teaching electromagnetics and developing an independent NMR magnetometer, along with solving key control challenges in high-voltage electrostatic accelerators. His international research experience includes studying RF superconducting cavities at Cornell University, followed by leading a major project on the practical design of niobium cavities. Over two decades, he made significant advances in MRI engineering, contributing to wavelet-based medical image fusion, high-resolution NMR spectral reconstruction, shim coil design, permanent-magnet MRI optimization, and low-noise preamplifier development. He authored influential textbooks on electrodynamics and MRI, widely adopted in advanced training and research. His extensive publication record encompasses innovations in superconducting magnets, ferromagnetic shimming, pulse sequence optimization, image contrast mechanisms, and magnet design methodologies. As a long-term consultant to MRI industries, he helped translate theoretical principles into practical imaging technologies. In recent years, his research has shifted toward foundational physics, producing breakthrough models on single-photon structures, standing-wave photon behavior in constrained spaces, and multi-photon composite systems, marking a new phase of theoretical advancement with impactful emerging publications.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Zu, D. (2025). Standing wave photon structures in constraint spaces. Photonics.

Zu, D. (2025). Standing wave photon structures in constraint spaces [Preprint].

Zu, D. (2025). Single photon structure model and multi-photon composite monomer. Optics Express.

Zu, D. (2016). Electrodynamics (Rev. ed.). Tsinghua University Press.

Zu, D. (2015). Nuclear magnetic resonance imager. Science Press.

Zu, D., & Gao, J. (2014). Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Peking University Press.

Liu, W., Casanova, F., Blümich, B., & Zu, D. (2012). An efficacious target-field approach to design shim coils for Halbach magnet of mobile NMR sensors. Applied Magnetic Resonance.

Zhao, X., Wen, Z., Huang, F., Lu, S., Wang, X., Hu, S., Zu, D., & Zhou, J. (2011). Saturation power dependence of amide proton transfer image contrasts in human brain tumors and strokes at 3 T. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Cao, X., Zu, D., Zhao, X., Fan, Y., & Gao, J. (2011). The design of a low-noise preamplifier for MRI. Science China Technological Sciences.

Tang, X., Zu, D., Wang, T., & Han, B. (2010). An optimizing design method for a compact iron-shielded superconducting magnet for use in MRI. Superconductor Science and Technology.

Tang, X., Li-Ming, H., & Zu, D.-L. (2010). Active ferromagnetic shimming of the permanent magnet for magnetic resonance imaging scanner. Chinese Physics B.

Zhao, X., Chen, M., Zhang, C., Hu, S., & Zu, D. (2010). Experimental evaluation of dual acceptance window weighting function for right coronary MR angiography at 3.0 T. Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Zu, D., Liming, H., Xueming, C., & Xin, T. (2010). Analysis on background magnetic field to generate eddy current by pulsed gradient of permanent-magnet MRI. Science China Series E.

Elisa Placidi | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Elisa Placidi | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS |Italy

Dr. Elisa Placidi is a distinguished researcher in medical physics and interventional radiotherapy, with a strong publication record reflected in 785 citations, an h-index of 16, and 26 i10-index publications. Her research focuses on advancing modern brachytherapy, improving dosimetric accuracy, and integrating innovative technologies such as 3D-printed applicators and image-guided systems. She has contributed extensively to studies evaluating the dosimetric impact of air gaps in high-dose-rate contact radiotherapy for non-melanoma skin cancers, the transition from PDR to HDR techniques for head and neck tumors, and the development of multilayer, high-density shielding applicators for personalized treatment. Her work also includes retrospective comparisons of HDR brachytherapy versus VMAT and electron beam therapy, investigations into patient-reported outcomes in nasal vestibule treatments, and characterization of plastic scintillator detectors for in vivo dosimetry. In her clinical role as a medical physicist, she supports treatment planning and optimization for external beam and interventional radiotherapy, contributing to high-precision cancer care. Complementing her clinical and research activities, she is involved in quality assurance and the academic training of future professionals in physics and radiological safety.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Rosa, E., Fionda, B., Vaccaro, M., Placidi, E., Lancellotta, V., Napolitano, A., Pastore, F., Greco, F., Dragonetti, P., La Milia, M. C., et al. (2025). Dosimetric impact of air gaps in high-dose-rate contact interventional radiotherapy (modern brachytherapy) for non-melanoma skin cancer of the ear. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(21).

van Noortwijk, R., Kroon, P., Kastelijns, M., Jürgenliemk-Schulz, I., Verduijn, G., Kolkman-Deurloo, I.-K., Tagliaferri, L., Fionda, B., Placidi, E., Al-Mamgani, A., et al. (2025). A review on the transition from PDR to HDR brachytherapy (interventional radiotherapy) for treatment of head and neck cancer: Clinical and practical aspects. Brachytherapy.

Rosa, E., Raponi, S., Fionda, B., Vaccaro, M., Napolitano, A., Lancellotta, V., Pastore, F., Ciasca, G., Siebert, F.-A., Tagliaferri, L., et al. (2025). Intensity-modulated interventional radiotherapy using 3D-printed applicators with multilayer geometry and high-density shielding materials for NMSC treatment. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 15(10).

Rosa, E., Raponi, S., Fionda, B., Vaccaro, M., Lancellotta, V., Napolitano, A., Ciasca, G., Bannoni, L., Cornacchione, P., Tagliaferri, L., et al. (2025). 3D-printed devices in interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy) applications: A literature review. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 15(6).

Tagliaferri, L., Manfrida, S., Fionda, B., Dinapoli, N., Barbaro, B., De Luca, V., Placidi, E., Bertolini, R., Marazzi, F., Lancellotta, V., et al. (2025). High-tailored anal canal radiotherapy (HIT-ART): Long-term results of MR image-guided interventional radiotherapy boost. Brachytherapy.

Placidi, E., Fionda, B., Rosa, E., Lancellotta, V., Napolitano, A., De Angeli, M., Ciasca, G., Pastore, F., Gambacorta, M. A., Tagliaferri, L., et al. (2024). Retrospective dosimetric comparison of HDR interventional radiotherapy versus planning with VMAT and electron beam therapy for non-melanoma skin cancer treatment. Applied Sciences, 14(22).

Tagliaferri, L., Sciurti, E., Fionda, B., Loperfido, A., Lancellotta, V., Placidi, E., Parrilla, C., La Milia, M. C., Rosa, E., Rigante, M., et al. (2024). PRO-NOVELTY: Patient-reported outcomes in nose vestibule interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy). Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(16).

Herreros, A., Pérez-Calatayud, J., Ballester, F., Abellana, R., Neves, J., Melo, J., Moutinho, L., Tarrats-Rosell, J., Serrano-Rueda, S., Tagliaferri, L., et al. (2024). Characterization of plastic scintillator detector for in vivo dosimetry in gynecologic brachytherapy. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 14(3).

Anthony Thomas AC | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Anthony Thomas AC | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

The University of Adelaide | Australia

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Anthony Thomas embarked on his academic journey with a Ph.D. from Flinders University of South Australia in 1974, followed by a prestigious Killam Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of British Columbia from 1973 to 1975. His early dedication to theoretical physics laid the foundation for a remarkable career in nuclear and particle physics. Recognized for his academic excellence, he was awarded the University Medal from Flinders University in 1971.

🏫 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Thomas has held numerous esteemed positions, demonstrating his leadership in the scientific community. Since 1989, he has served as the Elder Professor of Physics at the University of Adelaide, following his tenure as a Professor of Physics from 1984 to 1989. His global impact includes serving as a staff member in the Theory Division at CERN (1982–1984) and the Theory Group at TRIUMF in Vancouver (1976–1984). He also played an instrumental role as Chief Scientist at Jefferson Lab (2004–2009) and as Associate Director for Theoretical and Computational Physics, where he spearheaded scientific initiatives at one of the most significant nuclear physics facilities in the United States.

🌍 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Thomas has made groundbreaking contributions to nuclear and particle physics, particularly in the areas of the subatomic structure of matter, dark matter physics, and quantum chromodynamics. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of nuclear forces and hadron structure. As Chief Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics (2021–2027) and a key figure in the ARC Centre of Excellence in Particle Physics at the Tera-scale, he has been at the forefront of cutting-edge research initiatives. His leadership in theoretical physics is also evident from his directorship of the ARC Special Research Centre for the Subatomic Structure of Matter.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Thomas' exemplary contributions have earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Companion of the Order of Australia (2020), the highest civilian honor in the country. He was named South Australian Scientist of the Year in 2014 for his extraordinary scientific leadership. His accolades also include the Harrie Massey Medal (2000), the Thomas Ranken Lyle Medal (1997), and the Walter Boas Medal (1987). He has been a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science since 1990, a Fellow of the American Physical Society since 1987, and a Fellow of the Institute of Physics (UK) since 1996.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Prof. Thomas' influence extends far beyond his research. He has played a pivotal role in shaping international collaborations in nuclear physics. As Chair of the IUPAP Working Group on International Cooperation in Nuclear Physics, he facilitated the formation of new regional associations like the Asian Nuclear Physics Association (ANPhA) and ALAFNA. His leadership ensured that major funding agencies engaged in discussions on global nuclear physics projects, reinforcing Australia's role in the international scientific community.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

With over 38,000 citations and an h-index of 98, Prof. Thomas' scholarly impact is undeniable. His role in securing a US$300 million upgrade for Jefferson Lab and organizing international conferences such as the 2016 International Conference on Nuclear Physics exemplifies his enduring contributions. Through his leadership at the University of Adelaide and various global scientific committees, he continues to inspire the next generation of physicists and shape the future of nuclear science. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and pushing the boundaries of theoretical physics. Prof. Dr. Anthony Thomas AC remains a towering figure in the field, whose work will resonate in scientific discoveries for years to come.

 

Publications


  • 📄 Reflections on Chiral Symmetry Within QCD

    • Author: Anthony Thomas

    • Journal: Symmetry

    • Year: 2025


  • 📄 Challenges in the extraction of physics beyond the Standard Model from electron scattering

    • Authors: Xuangong Wang, Anthony W. Thomas

    • Journal: Journal of Physics G: Nuclear and Particle Physics

    • Year: 2025


  • 📄 Constraints on the U (1)B-L model from global QCD analysis

    • Authors: Xuangong Wang, Nicholas T. Hunt-Smith, Wally Melnitchouk, Nobuo Sato, Anthony W. Thomas

    • Journal: Physical Review D

    • Year: 2025


  • 📄 Maximum likelihood estimation for left-truncated log-logistic distributions with a given truncation point

    • Authors: Markus Kreer, Ayşe Kızılersü, Jake Guscott, Lukas Christopher Schmitz, Anthony W. Thomas

    • Journal: Statistical Papers

    • Year: 2024


  • 📄 When is the discrete Weibull distribution infinitely divisible?

    • Authors: Markus Kreer, Ayşe Kızılersü, Anthony W. Thomas

    • Journal: Statistics and Probability Letters

    • Year: 2024


 

Quandong Huang | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Quandong Huang | Physics and Astronomy | Best Researcher Award

Guangdong University of Technology | China

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Early Academic Pursuits

Quandong Huang embarked on his academic journey at Shenzhen University, earning a bachelor's degree in Light Information Sci.&Tech. His passion for optics led him to pursue a master's degree in Optics and later a Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering from the City University of Hong Kong. Notably, his doctoral research under the guidance of Prof. K. S. Chiang focused on pioneering 3D optical lightwave circuits for mode division multiplexing applications.

Professional Endeavors

Following his Ph.D., Quandong contributed significantly as a Senior Research Assistant at CityU Research Centre on Optical Fibre Sensing and Communications. During this time, he enhanced the transfer of 2D materials, leading to a publication in the esteemed journal Optica. His subsequent roles included Associate Professor at Guangdong University of Technology, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus

Quandong's research interests span diverse areas, including 2D material optical devices, integrated optical waveguide devices, and micro-nano electro-optics devices. His expertise encompasses optical design, simulation, micro-fabrication processes in cleanrooms, and optical measurement. Key contributions include the development of integrated equipment condition models and pioneering work on 2D material in photonic lightwave circuits.

Accolades and Recognition

Quandong Huang's contributions have garnered recognition, with over 30 publications in prestigious journals such as Optica, Journal of Lightwave Technology, and Optics Letters. As a testament to his impact, he serves as a reviewer for international journals, further solidifying his standing in the academic community.

Impact and Influence

His impact extends beyond academia, demonstrated through projects like NFSC, UGC HK funding, and membership in OSA. Quandong's teaching roles underscore his commitment to knowledge dissemination, covering courses in Information Science, Electronic Engineering, and Automatic Detection Technology.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Quandong Huang's legacy lies in pioneering advancements in optical technology. His work not only contributes to the current understanding of 2D material-based devices and integrated photonic circuits but also lays the groundwork for future breakthroughs. As he continues his research at Guangdong University of Technology, his future contributions are poised to shape the landscape of optical engineering and technology.

Notable Publications

Mode-insensitive 3-dB power splitter based on multimode-interference coupler 2023 (2)

Reconfigurable ultra-broadband mode converter based on a two-mode fiber with pressure-loaded phase-shifted long-period alloyed waveguide grating 2023 (3)

Ultra-broadband LP11 mode converter with high purity based on long-period fiber grating and an integrated Y-junction 2022 (5)

Low-power all-optical switch based on a graphene-buried polymer waveguide Mach-Zehnder interferometer 2022 (6)

Ambient refractive index-independent bending vector sensor based on seven-core photonic crystal fiber using lateral offset splicing 2013 (95)