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.

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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.

Giuseppe Emanuele Lio | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Giuseppe Emanuele Lio | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Nanoscience Institute – CNR and NEST Labs at Scuola Normale Superiore | Italy

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Giuseppe Emanuele Lio began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Science of Innovative Materials and Nanotechnologies at the University of Calabria, Italy, where he explored plasmons in materials beyond graphene. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Science and Engineering of Innovative and Functional Materials in a dual program between the University of Calabria and the University of Technology of Troyes (UTT), France. His thesis revolved around creating a nano-guided hybrid system to implement photonic transistors. He completed his PhD in Science and Technology of Physics, Chemistry, and Materials with excellence, focusing on hyper-resolute laser-writing mediated by ENZ metamaterials—a significant contribution to the field of nanophotonics.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Lio has held various academic and research roles across Italy and Europe. He lectured extensively at the University of Florence and University of Calabria, teaching physics and materials characterization. Professionally, he has collaborated with premier institutions such as CNR-Nanotec, CNR-INO, and the Catalan Institute of Nanotechnology. He has also worked with companies like Cooling Photonics and Aerospazio Technology, pushing the boundaries of applied optics in satellite communications and cooling technologies. Currently, he serves as a senior post-doctoral fellow at CNR-Nano, contributing to tunable metasurface design for LIDAR applications.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lio’s research spans nanophotonics, metamaterials, ENZ media, and passive radiative cooling. He has been the principal investigator or key contributor to numerous computational and experimental projects, including FRESCO, FRESCO2, and BIOt. His work involves designing metasurfaces to enhance solar energy systems, thermal management, and optoelectronic devices. He is also deeply involved in international research collaborations with institutions in Spain, the U.S., Germany, and Poland. His innovative research extends to developing PUFs (Physical Unclonable Functions), optical scalpel technologies, and open-source measurement hardware.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Lio has been widely recognized for his academic excellence and scientific innovation. His accolades include the Best PhD Thesis Award from the Italian Society of Optics and Photonics (SIOF), the Best Doctoral Thesis in Applied Photonics by IEEE Photonics Society, and the Innovative Sustainability Award in Nanophotonics by De Gruyter. He also earned the Early Career Forum Award from the American Chemical Society and has won best poster presentations at renowned international conferences. He holds two certified patents and an OSHWA-certified open hardware device.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through cross-disciplinary collaborations, Dr. Lio is shaping the future of sustainable photonics and nanomaterials. His work on passive radiative cooling is instrumental in enhancing photovoltaic efficiency and reducing heat emissions in smart materials. He has authored impactful publications in ACS Photonics, Cell Reports Physical Science, JACS, and Adv. Mater. Technol., among others. His international influence is evident through joint projects with Yale University, Ludwig Maximilian University, and other prestigious partners.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Giuseppe Emanuele Lio stands as a pioneering figure in the field of applied physics and nanophotonics. His legacy is defined by his commitment to bridging scientific theory with real-world applications—from intelligent cooling systems to next-gen optical security tools. As he continues to innovate at the intersection of materials science and photonic engineering, his future contributions promise to redefine thermal management, data security, and sustainable technologies in both academia and industry.

Publications


  • 📄 Open-hardware platform for synchronous performance testing of multiple passive radiative cooling materials
    Authors: Jérémy Werlé, Roberto Concas, Ernesto Pini, Diederik S. Wiersma, Lorenzo Pattelli, Giuseppe Emanuele Lio
    Journal: Cell Reports Physical Science
    Year: 2025


  • 📄 Near-Visible Low-Power Tuning of Nematic-Liquid Crystal Integrated Silicon Nitride Ring Resonator
    Authors: Jayita Dutta, Antonio Ferraro, Arnab Manna, Rui Chen, Alfredo Pane, Giuseppe Emanuele Lio, Roberto Caputo, Arka Majumdar
    Journal: ACS Photonics
    Year: 2025


  • 📄 Nanoplasmonic Isosbestics Uncover Mesoscale Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles on Soft Templates
    Authors: Jacopo Cardellini, Ilaria De Santis, Giuseppe Emanuele Lio, Marco Brucale, Francesco Valle, Virginia Catani, Ilenia Mastrolia, Marta Calabria, Massimo Dominici, Andrea Zendrini, et al.
    Journal: Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS)
    Year: 2025


  • 📄 Flexible Physical Unclonable Functions Based on Non-deterministically Distributed Dye-Doped Fibers and Droplets
    Authors: Mauro Daniel Luigi Bruno, Giuseppe Emanuele Lio, Antonio Ferraro, Sara Nocentini, Giuseppe Papuzzo, Agostino Forestiero, Giovanni Desiderio, Maria Penelope De Santo, Diederik Sybolt Wiersma, Roberto Caputo, et al.
    Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
    Year: 2024


  • 📄 Unlocking Optical Coupling Tunability in Epsilon‐Near‐Zero Metamaterials Through Liquid Crystal Nanocavities
    Authors: Giuseppe Emanuele Lio, Antonio Ferraro, Bruno Zappone, Janusz Parka, Ewa Schab‐Balcerzak, Cesare Paolo Umeton, Francesco Riboli, Rafał Kowerdziej, Roberto Caputo
    Journal: Advanced Optical Materials
    Year: 2024


 

Guangyin Zhang | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Mr. Guangyin Zhang | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

University of Pittsburgh | United States

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Mr. Guangyin Zhang's journey into optical engineering began with his bachelor’s dissertation at the China University of Petroleum, where he focused on acetylene detection using Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (PAS). This initial exploration laid the foundation for his profound interest in PAS and Optical Fiber Acoustic Sensors (OFAS). Building on this, he pursued a master's degree at Dalian University of Technology, where he honed his focus on OFAS and utilized the Cross-Correlation method for acoustic detection, leading to a significant master's thesis. His academic path has been marked by a continuous passion for cutting-edge optical engineering research.

Professional Endeavors 👨‍🔬

Upon completing his academic studies, Mr. Zhang's professional research advanced into various groundbreaking projects. Notable among them is his work on optical multireflection simulations powered by machine learning. He has been involved in highly sensitive gas detection systems and low-frequency acoustic detection for pipeline leakage. Each of his projects showcases his exceptional ability to merge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, making meaningful strides in improving the performance and reliability of optical sensors. His contributions to long-term monitoring of gases like CH4 and H2S in gas-insulated switchgear systems exemplify his expertise in creating innovative detection mechanisms.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Zhang’s research primarily focuses on enhancing PAS and OFAS technologies, driving advancements in areas like trace gas detection and acoustic sensor systems. He has proposed improvements to system performance by optimizing multireflection mirror simulations and leveraging the Cross-Correlation principle to enhance sensor sensitivity. His study on low-frequency optical fiber Fabry-Perot acoustic sensors and 3D-printed resonant photoacoustic cells has further enriched the field of optical engineering. His work transcends traditional methods, incorporating differential approaches to improve signal-to-noise ratios, which has vast implications for environmental monitoring and industrial applications.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mr. Zhang's impactful contributions to the field have been widely recognized. His research has led to the publication of 19 papers, with a citation count of 395 and an H-index of 12, establishing him as a prolific and influential researcher. His first-author papers published in high-impact journals such as Sensors and Actuators A: Physical and the Journal of Lightwave Technology demonstrate the academic community's recognition of his innovative work. He has also been involved in various competitive research projects, further amplifying his influence in optical engineering.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The significance of Mr. Zhang’s research extends beyond academia, influencing real-world applications. His work on gas detection systems has the potential to revolutionize how industries monitor harmful gases, improving safety standards across sectors like energy and manufacturing. Additionally, his development of low-frequency acoustic detection systems aids in identifying pipeline leaks, offering a vital tool for maintaining infrastructure integrity. His research ensures that advancements in optical engineering continue to solve pressing global challenges.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Mr. Zhang’s contributions to optical engineering mark the beginning of a promising career. His future work will undoubtedly push the boundaries of PAS and OFAS technologies. With a focus on long-term monitoring solutions and enhancing sensor performance, he is poised to make even greater strides in optical engineering. His dedication to innovation and collaboration will ensure his legacy as a leading figure in the field, inspiring future generations of researchers and engineers.

 

Publications


📄  "A Hermetic Package Technique for Multi-Functional Fiber Sensors through Pressure Boundary of Energy Systems Based on Glass Sealants"
Authors: Zhichun Fan, Shuda Zhong, Kehao Zhao, Qirui Wang, Yuqi Li, Guangyin Zhang, Guangqun Ma, Jieru Zhao, He Yan, Zhiyong Huang, et al.
Journal: Photonics
Year: 2024


📄  "Simulation Analysis of Mode Hopping Impacts on OFDR Sensing Performance"
Authors: Qirui Wang, Nageswara Lalam, Kehao Zhao, Shuda Zhong, Guangyin Zhang, Ruishu Wright, Kevin P. Chen
Journal: Photonics
Year: 2024


📄  "Miniaturized Non-resonant Photoacoustic Gas Analyzer for CO2 Detection"
Authors: Guangyin Zhang, Min Guo, Xinyu Zhao, Dongyu Cui, Lin Xu, Nan Wang, Rui Ni, Hongchao Qi, Jikuan Zhao, Ke Chen
Journal: Microwave and Optical Technology Letters
Year: 2023


📄  "Low-frequency Optical Fiber Fabry-Perot Acoustic Sensor Based on All-phase Cross-correlation Demodulation"
Authors: Guangyin Zhang, Zijian Xiong, Min Guo, Ke Chen, Xinyu Zhao, Lin Xu, Nan Wang, Rui Ni, Zhenfeng Gong, Wei Peng
Journal: Journal of Lightwave Technology
Year: 2022


📄  "Miniature 3D-printed Resonant Photoacoustic Cell for Flowing Gas Detection"
Authors: Guangyin Zhang, Ke Chen, Min Guo, Chenxi Li, Lin Xu, Nan Wang, Xinyu Zhao
Journal: Sensors and Actuators A: Physical
Year: 2022


 

Sohail Muhammad | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sohail Muhammad | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Electronic Science and Technology of China | Pakistan

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Sohail Muhammad's academic journey began with a strong foundation in engineering. He pursued a Ph.D. in Information and Communication Engineering at the University of Electronics Science and Technology of China, starting in September 2021. Prior to this, he earned a Master’s degree in Electronic Science and Technology from Xi'an Jiao Tong University, China, where he achieved a CGPA of 3.17. His academic endeavors were further strengthened by his BS (Hons) in Telecommunication Engineering from Hazara University of Manshera, Pakistan. His education laid the groundwork for his specialized research in advanced engineering fields.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Muhammad's professional journey is marked by significant roles in the telecommunications industry. He worked as a Transmission Engineer at HUAWEI (PVT) LTD in Islamabad, Pakistan, for one year and four months, where he honed his skills in network operations and communication technologies. Additionally, he gained valuable experience during his internship at Mobiserv (Pvt) Ltd, where he worked in operations as a BSS/Transmission Engineer in Swat, KPK, Pakistan. His professional background is further enriched by a six-month teaching stint at Tipu Shaheed School and College in Swat, demonstrating his commitment to education and knowledge sharing.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Muhammad's research focuses on cutting-edge technologies in MIMO Reference Antenna for OTA Applications, Antenna Decoupling, Microwave Photonic Crystal, and Optomechanics. His work has led to several notable publications, including studies on silicon-based photonic crystal optomechanical cavities and lithium-niobate-based photonic crystal cavities. His research has been recognized at international conferences, showcasing his contributions to the field of photonics and communication engineering. His ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications has made him a respected figure in his research domain.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Mr. Muhammad has been the recipient of numerous scholarships and awards. He was awarded the Chinese Government Scholarship to pursue his Ph.D., the Belt & Road Scholarship for his Master's degree, and the Higher Education Commission Scholarship for his undergraduate studies. These accolades are a testament to his academic excellence and dedication to advancing his knowledge in engineering and technology.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Muhammad's work has had a significant impact on the fields of telecommunications and photonics. His research contributions have been published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences, influencing the work of other researchers and professionals in the field. His expertise in photonic crystals and antenna design has opened new avenues for innovation in communication technologies, making him a key player in advancing these areas.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Mr. Muhammad continues his research and professional endeavors, his legacy is being built on a foundation of academic excellence, innovative research, and professional achievements. His future contributions are expected to further the understanding and application of advanced communication technologies, particularly in the areas of photonics and antenna design. His work will continue to inspire and guide future generations of engineers and researchers in these fields.

 

Publications


📄 Design and Fabrication of High-Quality Two-Dimensional Silicon-Based Photonic Crystal Optical Cavity with Integrated Waveguides
Authors: Sohail Muhammad, Dingwei Chen, Chengwei Xian, Jun Zhou, Zhongke Lei, Pengju Kuang, Zhe Li, Guangjun Wen, Yongjun Huang
Journal: 📰 Photonics
Year: 2024


 

Preeta Sharan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Preeta Sharan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

The Oxford College of Engineering | India

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Preeta Sharan's academic journey began with a strong foundation in engineering and technology. She completed her Ph.D. from the Institute of Technology (IT), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1998. Following this, she pursued post-doctoral research at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, in 2002. These formative years were marked by rigorous research and academic excellence, setting the stage for her future contributions to the field of engineering.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

Currently, Dr. Preeta Sharan is a Professor and Dean of Research at The Oxford College of Engineering in Bangalore. Her professional journey has been enriched by numerous roles and responsibilities, demonstrating her dedication to both teaching and research.  Her professional journey also includes extensive international exposure, having visited countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, China, and Ireland.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Sharan's research has been prolific, with over 200 publications to her name, including 150+ journal articles and 80 conference paper presentations. Her innovative mind is also reflected in her 13 patents filed in India. Her research interests lie in the fields of electronics and photonics, where she has made significant contributions, particularly in developing photonic devices and systems.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Preeta Sharan's work has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Notable among these are:

  • "Woman of the Year" by the American Biographical Institute (ABI USA) in 1998 and 2009.
  • IEEE Humanitarian Challenge Awards by the R10 Section, Asia Pacific in 2012 and 2013.
  • VGST Citation Award for the Center of Excellence in Photonics by the Vision Group of Science and Technology.
  • Various project awards including the 1st Rank in IMARC, SIGHT project in 2015 and Best Project of the Year Award by KSCST in 2017.
  • Innovation Project Award by IEEE WIECON in 2017 and Light Excellence Award by IEEE Photonic Society, Bangalore Section in 2019.
  • National Award by KSTA Karnataka State and Technology Academy for a project in 2022.
  • Honored as one of the 75 women across India in STEAM, featured in the book "She Is: 75 Women in STEAM" in 2022.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Sharan's influence extends beyond her research. She has been actively involved in the IEEE community, serving as the SIGHT Coordinator for the IEEE Bangalore Section in 2014 and the Student Activity Chair in 2013. Her contributions to innovation in teaching were recognized with a published article in WIPRO's "MISSION 10X" magazine in 2012.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌐

Dr. Preeta Sharan's legacy is built on her relentless pursuit of excellence in engineering education and research. She has received numerous scholarships, including the GATE-94 from the HRD Ministry, Government of India, UGC Fellowships for JRF and SRF, and a BHU Scholarship for research in 1992. Her dedication to her field and her students ensures that she will continue to make significant contributions to engineering and technology, inspiring future generations of engineers and researchers.

 

Publications

  • A rail wheel contact temperature prediction model using fiber Bragg Grating sensor on test rig
    Authors: N. Deepa, Preeta Sharan, Sneha Sharma
    Journal: Optical Fiber Technology
    Year: 2024

 

  • An FBG-based optical pressure sensor for the measurement of radial artery pulse pressure
    Authors: Gowda, R.B., Sharan, P., Saara, K., Braim, M., Alodhayb, A.N.
    Journal: Journal of Biophotonics
    Year: 2024

 

  • Design and analysis of a fiber Bragg grating-based foot pressure assessment system
    Authors: Sharan, P., Khouqeer, G.A., El-Badry, B.A., Upadhyaya, A.M.
    Journal: Journal of Biophotonics
    Year: 2024

 

  • Real-time implementation of optical sensor on lab rig model for speed estimation
    Authors: Nagaraju, D., Sharan, P., Sharma, S., Chakraborty, S.
    Journal: Journal of Optics (India)
    Year: 2024

 

  • Measurement model of integrated FBG sensor for beam structure
    Authors: Nandi, S., Chethana, K., Srinivas, T., Sharan, P.
    Journal: Journal of Optics (India)
    Year: 2024