Ling Sun | Cellulose Fiber | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ling Sun | Cellulose Fiber | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor Dr. Ling Sun, Beijing University of Technology, China

Profiles:

Current Position 👨‍🏫

Dr. Ling Sun is an Associate Professor at Beijing University of Technology (BJUT) in Beijing, China, where he has been part of the faculty since 2015. His role at BJUT enables him to contribute significantly to research in materials science, focusing particularly on low-dimensional carbon materials and their applications in environmental remediation and energy conversion. Through his academic endeavors, Dr. Sun has consistently advanced the frontiers of knowledge in materials science.

Academic Background 🎓

Dr. Sun’s academic journey has been impressive. He earned his Ph.D. in 2013 from Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan, a prestigious institution known for its contributions to scientific research. Before that, he obtained his M.En in 2009 from China University of Mining and Technology in Beijing, China. These educational milestones provided him with a strong foundation in materials science, leading to his specialization in carbon-based materials, especially graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes.

Ongoing Research 🔬

Dr. Sun’s research remains at the cutting edge of materials science, with a particular focus on low-dimensional carbon materials such as graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes. His ongoing projects investigate their applications in environmental remediation and energy conversion, which are critical areas in addressing global sustainability challenges. Through in situ reduction methods and innovative surface modifications, he seeks to enhance the effectiveness of these materials in water purification, energy storage, and conversion technologies.

Research Interests 🔍

  • Low-dimensional carbon material fabrication & composition: This includes the synthesis and characterization of materials like graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes.
  • Carbon-based environmental remediation: The development of carbon-based materials for the removal of pollutants from water and air.
  • Energy conversion: Exploring the use of carbon-based materials in the development of more efficient and sustainable energy systems, such as batteries and fuel cells. His work integrates nanomaterials with environmental and energy challenges, contributing to the growing field of green technology.

Scholarships and Awards 🏆

Dr. Sun has received numerous research grants and scholarships throughout his career, including support from the National Natural Science Fund of China and the Beijing Municipal Education Commission Science and Technology Plan. These recognitions highlight the importance of his research and the potential impact of his findings on both national and global scales.

Bioinformatics and Professional Associations 🔬

Dr. Sun is an active member of several professional organizations that facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange in his field. Notably, he is part of the China Technology Innovation Alliances of Bio-detection and Bio-monitoring and the Nano Biomedical Society, Japan. These affiliations provide him with access to the latest developments in bioengineering and nanotechnology, which are crucial for advancing his research.

Training & Workshops 👩‍🔬

Throughout his career, Dr. Sun has organized and participated in numerous workshops and training courses aimed at enhancing the research capabilities of his peers and students. These events focus on advanced material synthesis techniques and their applications in environmental and energy fields. His commitment to training the next generation of scientists is evident in his extensive mentoring of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.

Oral Presentations 🗣️

Dr. Sun has been an active presenter at several prestigious international conferences. His oral presentations on graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes have been well-received, showcasing his leadership in the materials science community. These presentations allow him to share his latest findings and collaborate with other experts in the field.

Tasks Completed as a Researcher 🔬

As a researcher, Dr. Sun has completed a variety of tasks that contribute to his reputation as a leading expert in his field. His work involves laboratory experiments, data analysis, and theoretical modeling, all aimed at understanding the properties of carbon-based materials. He has also been involved in the development of novel materials for energy storage devices and environmental applications.

Success Factors 🌟

Dr. Sun’s success as a researcher can be attributed to his innovative approach to material synthesis, his interdisciplinary knowledge, and his dedication to addressing global environmental challenges. His work continues to inspire colleagues and students alike, fostering a collaborative research environment at BJUT.

Publications & Laboratory Experience 🧪

With over 40 published articles in high-impact journals, Dr. Sun’s research has made significant contributions to the understanding of carbon-based materials. His laboratory experience, combined with his expertise in materials characterization techniques, has enabled him to explore the vast potential of materials like graphene oxide in a variety of applications.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: Alkaline–Acidic Sodium Chlorite Pretreatment of Bamboo Powder for Preparation of Excellent Mechanical, Transparent, and Biodegradable Films

  • Authors: Wang, J., Sun, L., Chu, Y.-Y., Han, C.-B., Yan, H.
  • Journal: Polymers
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Carbon Nanotube Films with Fewer Impurities and Higher Conductivity from Aqueously Mono-Dispersed Solution via Two-Step Filtration for Electric Heating

  • Authors: Chu, Y., Sun, L., Wang, J., Han, C., Yan, H.
  • Journal: Nanomaterials
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: States of graphene oxide and surface functional groups amid adsorption of dyes and heavy metal ions

  • Authors: Han, Z., Sun, L., Chu, Y., Yan, H., Song, X.
  • Journal: Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering
  • Year: 2023

Paper Title: Electro-injection-enhanced catalytic formaldehyde degradation based on conductive MnOx cellulose aerogels at room temperature

  • Authors: Fang, D.C., Zheng, J.Y., Han, C.B., Wang, X., Yan, H.
  • Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
  • Year: 2023

Paper Title: Surface modification methods and mechanisms in carbon nanotubes dispersion

  • Authors: Gao, C., Guo, M., Liu, Y., Terrones, M., Wang, Y.
  • Journal: Carbon
  • Year: 2023

 

Fangyin Dai | Natural Fibers | Best Innovation Award

Prof Dr. Fangyin Dai | Natural Fibers | Best Innovation Award

Southwest University, China

Profiles:

Current Position📘

Professor Fangyin Dai is a distinguished researcher and professor at Southwest University in Chongqing, China. Renowned for his profound contributions to the fields of silkworm genetics, biomaterials, and gene functional studies, Prof. Dai’s work has laid the groundwork for advancements in biotechnological applications. His academic journey has been marked by a focus on understanding silkworm resources, exploring genetic mapping, and the functional characterization of mutant genes. This focus on biomaterials is an extension of his expertise in silkworm genetics, making him a leading figure in both genetics and innovative material sciences.

Publication Achievements and Recognition 📚

Prof. Dai’s publishing record is prolific, with over 400 research papers in top-tier journals, including Science, Nature Biotechnology, and Nature Communications. His contributions have garnered a citation index of 5627, an H-index of 27, and a G-index of 73, reflecting his extensive impact on the fields of biology, genetics, and biomaterials. His research has opened new pathways in functional genomics, enabling other researchers to explore and build upon his findings, especially in silkworm biology.

Research Projects and Innovations 🔬

Throughout his career, Prof. Dai has spearheaded more than 30 research projects, many under China’s prestigious National 863 Program and the National Natural Science Foundation. Notably, he developed the world’s largest gene bank for silkworms. His genetic studies have led to groundbreaking discoveries of 35 new mutant types of silkworms, each providing unique insights into traits associated with color, body shape, and development. His commitment to innovation in biomaterials has also led to the development of five new silkworm varieties, pushing the boundaries of functional and structural biology.

Ongoing Research: Genetic Mutations and Biomaterial Applications 🧬

Prof. Dai’s current work emphasizes the genetic mapping and cloning of silkworm traits, with an interest in the molecular basis of specific mutations. His lab’s ongoing research focuses on identifying the molecular mechanisms that drive physical and behavioral traits in silkworms, revealing insights that benefit not only genetics but also the development of silk-based biomaterials. As a result, his research contributes directly to fields such as textile engineering and medical biomaterials.

Contributions to Silkworm Breeding and Genetic Resources 🌱

A notable achievement of Prof. Dai is his work in creating breeding materials and new silkworm varieties. By carefully studying and documenting the inheritance and linkage of silkworm traits, he developed methods to engineer traits like pigmentation and resilience. His successful deciphering of critical silkworm genes has made it possible to produce biomaterials tailored for specific functions, whether for stronger textiles or biodegradable materials in medicine. His expertise has made significant strides in sustainable biomaterials by harnessing natural resources.

Scholarships and Awards 🥇

Prof. Dai has received several prestigious awards for his pioneering work, though details of specific honors were not provided. His achievements have been recognized by leading institutions and societies focused on biomaterials, genetics, and applied biology.

Professional Associations and Editorial Roles 🏅

As a respected figure in biomaterial research and genetics, Prof. Dai is a member of several professional organizations related to biology and biomaterials. His work has led him to collaborate with other prominent researchers worldwide, especially in projects focused on genetic modification and application of silk-based materials in medical fields. He also serves as an editorial member of leading scientific journals, offering his expertise in genetics and biomaterials to guide the future of academic publications.

Training & Workshops and Bioinformatics Contributions 💻

Prof. Dai has been active in training upcoming scientists in genetics and biomaterials. Through workshops and academic programs, he introduces students and researchers to cutting-edge techniques in bioinformatics and silkworm gene mapping. His bioinformatics expertise enables him to analyze complex genetic information, accelerating discoveries and improving understanding of biomaterial applications.

Oral Presentations and Conferences 🎤

Known for his engaging presentations, Prof. Dai regularly participates in international conferences where he shares his findings on genetic mutations in silkworms and their implications for biomaterials. His talks focus on the applied genetics of silkworms, covering both the scientific details of his research and its practical applications in the materials sciences.

Success Factors and Publications 📜

Prof. Dai’s success stems from his commitment to scientific excellence and innovation. His work is rooted in collaborative research, as seen in his project with international colleagues to map silkworm genes. His dedication to expanding the applications of his findings is also evident in his numerous publications, where he details breakthroughs in silk-based biomaterials and genetically engineered silkworms. The comprehensive resources he has developed are invaluable for further research, and his numerous publications document these achievements, serving as critical references for other researchers in the field.

Key Projects and Laboratory Experience 🔍

In addition to his genetic research, Prof. Dai’s laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for the study of silkworm biomaterials. He has led projects that investigate the structural and functional aspects of these materials, with applications that extend from biomedicine to sustainable textiles. His team’s laboratory work, which focuses on replicating natural materials, is at the forefront of biomaterial research.

Vision and Future Prospects 🌎

With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of genetics and biomaterials, Prof. Dai continues to influence these fields profoundly. His work in silkworm biomaterials and genetic mapping contributes to both the understanding of biological processes and the development of sustainable technologies. His legacy is one of innovation, bridging genetics with practical applications and paving the way for the next generation of biomaterials.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: PupaNet: A versatile and efficient silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) identification tool for sericulture breeding based on near-infrared spectroscopy and deep transfer learning

  • Authors: He, H., Huang, H., Zhu, S., Dai, F., Zhao, T.
  • Journal: Computers and Electronics in Agriculture
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Cuproptosis-based layer-by-layer silk fibroin nanoplatform-loaded PD-L1 siRNA combining photothermal and chemodynamic therapy against metastatic breast cancer

  • Authors: Li, Z., Cheng, L., Xu, X., Xiao, B., Dai, F.
  • Journal: Materials Today Bio
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: QTL analysis to identify genes involved in the trade-off between silk protein synthesis and larva-pupa transition in silkworms

  • Authors: Gao, R., Li, C., Zhou, A., Tong, X., Dai, F.
  • Journal: Genetics Selection Evolution
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: FOXO-regulated OSER1 reduces oxidative stress and extends lifespan in multiple species

  • Authors: Song, J., Li, Z., Zhou, L., Rasmussen, L.J., Dai, F.
  • Journal: Nature Communications
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Flat silk cocoons: A candidate material for fabricating lightweight and impact-resistant composites

  • Authors: Shao, J., Liu, Y., Hou, Z., Dai, F., Cheng, L.
  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Year: 2024

 

Audie Thompson | Synthetic Fibers | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Audie Thompson | Synthetic Fibers | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at US Army Corps of Engineer Research and Development Center, United States

Profiles:

🌟 Current Position

Dr. Audie K. Thompson is currently a Research Biologist (2022 – present) within the Sustainable Water Infrastructure Materials Research (SWIMR) team. In this role, Dr. Thompson leads projects aimed at advancing the field of water treatment, particularly focusing on cutting-edge technologies for environmental protection. Her work extends to proposal writing, manuscript preparation, and training technicians and interns in molecular techniques and analytical chemistry. She explores innovative solutions for lanthanide adsorption, graphene utilization, and membrane-based concentration technologies for PFAS destruction and harmful algal bloom management. Moreover, she contributes to outreach efforts, coordinating ERDC’s STEM programs, fostering interest in science among future generations.

📚 Publication Achievements

As a prolific scientist, Dr. Thompson has made significant contributions to scientific literature. She has published papers in chemical engineering, environmental science, and biocatalysis, with a special focus on using metal particles for antifouling coatings and developing biocatalysts for degrading harmful algal toxins. Her expertise in molecular biology has led to the creation of enzymes for environmental applications and nanomaterials for medical use. Dr. Thompson has also contributed extensively to conferences and journals, serving as an Associate Consulting Editor for iScience (Elsevier), where she coordinates peer reviews and helps recruit innovative articles for publication.

🔬 Ongoing Research

Dr. Thompson is actively involved in several research projects, including lanthanide adsorption and recovery using Bacillus subtilis spores and bacteriophages. Her research explores the application of graphene for water purification and membrane-based technologies to concentrate and destroy PFAS—a group of hazardous chemicals found in many water sources. In collaboration with institutions like Alcorn State, Dr. Thompson investigates methods to combat harmful algal blooms (HABs) by developing composite materials with a focus on sustainability and environmental resilience.

🔍Research Interests

Dr. Thompson’s research interests are deeply rooted in environmental engineering, biocatalysis, and water treatment technologies. Her expertise lies in creating innovative solutions for bioremediation, using engineered enzymes and nanoparticles to degrade harmful environmental pollutants like microcystin. She is also keen on advancing the field of membrane technology, focusing on anti-biofouling membranes and their potential applications in both environmental and biomedical fields.

🎓 Academic Background

Dr. Thompson holds an extensive academic career that includes experience as an Assistant Professor at the University of Arkansas (2018-2022), where she held the prestigious Robert E. Babcock Endowed Professorship. Her work in this role spanned engineering research on biocatalysis, nanotechnology, and water treatment. Before that, she served as a Research Assistant Professor at Prairie View A&M University (2016-2018), contributing to the development of novel membrane technologies and leading multiple student-focused research programs. Dr. Thompson also completed postdoctoral training in chemical engineering, where she honed her skills in bioseparation techniques and membrane technology.

🏅 Scholarships and Awards

Dr. Thompson’s outstanding work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Women of Color Special Recognition Award (2024), Outstanding Teaching Award from the Department of Chemical Engineering (2021), and Best In-Practice Paper Award from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) in 2018. She was recognized for her role in fostering STEM education, receiving the Outstanding STEM Faculty Award at PVAMU in 2018. Dr. Thompson’s contributions to chemical engineering and STEM outreach have been widely acknowledged through various travel awards and fellowships, such as the Janice Lumpkin Travel Award at the AIChE Annual Conference (2014) and the SREB Scholar Fellowship (2004-2010).

🧬 Bioinformatics and Technology Integration

Throughout her career, Dr. Thompson has integrated bioinformatics into her research projects. She applies molecular biology techniques such as protein purification and enzyme engineering to develop biocatalysts for environmental and biomedical applications. Her focus on bioinformatics also includes analyzing molecular pathways involved in environmental remediation and using computational tools to optimize biocatalytic processes.

👥 Professional Associations

Dr. Thompson is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the Society of Biological Engineering. She has also served as a member of the advisory board for the Membrane Science, Engineering, and Technology (MAST) Center from 2022-2024, contributing her expertise to the advancement of membrane technology for environmental applications.

🛠️ Training & Workshops

Dr. Thompson has participated in numerous workshops and training programs, both as a learner and as a trainer. She has trained technicians and students in advanced molecular techniques and instrumentation, such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Additionally, she has been involved in organizing training programs aimed at high school and undergraduate students through REU/REM programs, encouraging young minds to explore the STEM fields.

🗣️ Oral Presentations

Dr. Thompson has delivered oral presentations at various national and international conferences. These presentations have covered her cutting-edge research on antifouling membrane technologies, biocatalytic degradation of environmental toxins, and water purification strategies. Her dynamic speaking style and ability to convey complex scientific concepts to both technical and general audiences have made her a sought-after speaker in the scientific community.

🎯 Tasks Completed as a Researcher

As a leading researcher, Dr. Thompson has completed tasks ranging from designing and managing research projects to mentoring students and securing funding for large-scale studies. Her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage research projects that address critical environmental challenges demonstrates her capacity for both technical expertise and leadership.

🏆 Success Factors

Dr. Thompson’s success as a researcher can be attributed to her innovative thinking, collaborative approach, and dedication to solving real-world problems. She has successfully secured research funding from prestigious organizations like the National Science Foundation and the Arkansas Water Resources Center. Her commitment to STEM education and outreach, particularly through programs like Girls Accelerating and Learning in STEM (G.A.L.S), highlights her passion for empowering future generations of scientists.

📄 Publications & Laboratory Experience

Dr. Thompson’s laboratory experience is extensive, covering a wide range of experimental techniques in molecular biology, membrane technology, and nanomaterials. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, contributing to the advancement of environmental engineering, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her work continues to inspire the scientific community and drive progress in sustainable solutions for water treatment and environmental protection. 

📖Publications:

Paper Title: Polysulfone ultrafiltration membranes fabricated from green solvents: Significance of coagulation bath composition

  • Authors: Hackett, C., Hale, D., Bair, B., Ranil Wickramasinghe, S., Thompson, A.
  • Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Fabrication of Chitosan/PEGDA Bionanocomposites for Enhanced Drug Encapsulation and Release Efficiency

  • Authors: de Castro, R., Kandhola, G., Kim, J.-W., Moore, Q.C., Thompson, A.K.
  • Journal: Molecular Pharmaceutics
  • Year: 2023

Paper Title: Graphene as a rational interface for enhanced adsorption of microcystin-LR from water

  • Authors: Roberts, J.L., Zetterholm, S.G., Gurtowski, L., Thompson, A., Griggs, C.
  • Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
  • Year: 2023

Paper Title: Ultrafiltration Membranes Functionalized with Copper Oxide and Zwitterions for Fouling Resistance

  • Authors: Hackett, C., Abolhassani, M., Greenlee, L.F., Thompson, A.K.
  • Journal: Membranes
  • Year: 2022

Paper Title: Microcystin-LR Removal from Water via Enzymatic Linearization and Ultrafiltration

  • Authors: Fionah, A., Hackett, C., Aljewari, H., Escobar, I.C., Thompson, A.K.
  • Journal: Toxins
  • Year: 2022

 

Maxwell MacFarlane | Synthetic Fibers | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maxwell MacFarlane | Synthetic Fibers | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Innovation and Development Engineer, United Kingdom

Profile:

🌟⛹️‍♂️Maxwell James MacFarlane: Innovator in Sports Technology and Player Safety

🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Maxwell James MacFarlane embarked on his academic journey with a keen interest in engineering and biomechanics. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Strathclyde University. During his time at Strathclyde, Maxwell developed a robust foundation in medical device design and biomechanics. This experience ignited his passion for innovation in sports technology, particularly in the realm of player safety.

Driven by a desire to delve deeper into this field, Maxwell pursued a PhD at Cardiff University. His doctoral studies were conducted in collaboration with World Rugby and Sports Labs, focusing on the development of advanced devices to simulate player motion and assess skin injury risks on artificial turf. This interdisciplinary approach allowed Maxwell to blend his engineering expertise with practical applications in sports.

📚Professional Endeavors

Upon completing his PhD, Maxwell James MacFarlane joined Sports Labs as an Innovation and Development Engineer. In this role, he leverages his academic background and research experience to contribute to a diverse array of projects aimed at advancing sports technology and player safety. His work at Sports Labs involves close collaboration with Cardiff University and World Rugby, ensuring that his research has a direct impact on the field.

Maxwell’s professional journey is marked by his commitment to improving player safety through innovative solutions. His research and development efforts are focused on addressing the limitations of traditional test methods, which often fail to replicate realistic player-surface interactions. This dedication to enhancing player safety underscores Maxwell’s role as a leading figure in sports technology innovation.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

One of Maxwell’s significant contributions is the development of the Skin Injury Device (SID). Traditional test methods for assessing skin injury risks on artificial turf often fall short in replicating the complexities of player-surface interactions. SID was designed to bridge this gap. The device features a 3D-printed impactor encased in Lorica Soft, a synthetic leather that mimics human skin. This innovative electro-mechanical apparatus uses roller coaster technology to generate a horizontal velocity of 5 m/s and a vertical velocity of 3 m/s, accurately simulating player motion.

In addition to SID, Maxwell developed the Maxwell Tribo Index (MTI), a novel classification system for evaluating turf abrasiveness and heat profiles. The MTI enhances the understanding of impact mechanics and sliding characteristics, providing valuable insights for manufacturers to optimize artificial turf for better player safety.

Maxwell’s areas of research encompass sustainable polymer design, polymer self-assembly, energy conversion and storage, catalysis, block copolymers, and chiral polymers with optical activity. His interdisciplinary approach and innovative mindset have positioned him as a key contributor to the field of sports technology.

🏅Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Maxwell James MacFarlane has received recognition for his contributions to sports technology and player safety. His research has been published in several high-impact journals, including “Lubricants by MPDI” and “Biosurface and Biotribology,” where his work on player safety and turf abrasiveness has garnered attention. These publications have significantly contributed to his citation index, reflecting the impact of his research in the scientific community.

Maxwell’s collaborations with Cardiff University, World Rugby, and Sports Labs have further cemented his reputation as a leading expert in his field. While he has not yet published books or patents, his ongoing research projects and consultancy work demonstrate his commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in sports technology.

🌍Impact and Influence

Maxwell’s work has had a profound impact on the field of sports technology, particularly in enhancing player safety on artificial turf. His development of the SID and MTI has provided valuable tools for assessing and mitigating skin injury risks, influencing the design and optimization of artificial turf surfaces. By addressing the limitations of traditional test methods, Maxwell’s innovations have paved the way for more accurate and reliable assessments of player-surface interactions.

Maxwell’s research has also contributed to the broader understanding of impact mechanics and sliding characteristics, offering new insights into the factors that affect player safety. His work has influenced manufacturers and researchers alike, driving advancements in the design and testing of artificial turf surfaces.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Maxwell James MacFarlane’s legacy in the field of sports technology is marked by his dedication to innovation and player safety. His contributions have set new standards for assessing and mitigating skin injury risks on artificial turf, providing valuable tools and insights for researchers and manufacturers. As he continues his work at Sports Labs, Maxwell remains committed to advancing sports technology through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

Looking ahead, Maxwell’s future contributions are poised to further enhance player safety and performance. His ongoing research projects and consultancy work will continue to drive innovation in sports technology, ensuring that athletes can perform at their best while minimizing the risk of injury. Maxwell’s dedication to improving player safety and advancing knowledge in his field will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of sports technology.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: A Novel Methodology for Simulating Skin Injury Risk on Synthetic Playing Surfaces

  • Authors:  M MacFarlane, E O’Donnell, E Harrison, M Douglas, N Lees, P Theobald
  • Journal: Lubricants
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: A Novel Methodology for Simulating Skin Injury Risk on Synthetic Playing Surfaces

  • Authors: Skin Tribology in Sport
  • Journal: Biosurface and Biotribology
  • Year: 2021