Lei Xia | Chemistry and Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Assoc Prof Dr. Lei Xia | Chemistry and Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

University of Science & Technology Liaoning | China

Dr. Lei Xia is an accomplished materials scientist and associate professor at the University of Science & Technology Liaoning, specializing in materials processing, tribology, corrosion protection, and computational simulation. He holds a PhD in Applied Chemistry from the Research Institute of Petroleum Processing, a Master’s degree in Materials Forming and Control Engineering from the University of Science and Technology Beijing, and a Bachelor’s degree from Yanshan University. Since joining USTL as a lecturer in 2019 and becoming associate professor in 2024, Dr. Xia has developed a strong research portfolio integrating experimental, theoretical, and simulation-based approaches to improve metal processing technologies. His major research areas include tribology and lubrication mechanisms in rolling processes, microstructure–property relationships in metallic materials, corrosion behavior and protective coatings, and molecular-level insights into lubricant oxidation and surface interactions using MD and QM simulations. Dr. Xia has completed and contributed to multiple national and enterprise-supported research projects, focusing on the improvement of steel, aluminum, and copper alloy processing performance. His scholarly contributions exceed 40 publications in high-impact SCI and EI journals, such as Lubricants, Metals, Materials Research Express, Tribology Letters, Rare Metal Materials and Engineering, and China Petroleum Processing & Petrochemical Technology. Many of his works investigate fatigue properties, lubricant chemistry, tribological behaviors, corrosion mechanisms, and the influence of process parameters on material performance. He has published two patents and numerous articles as corresponding or first author, demonstrating his leadership in research innovation. Dr. Xia’s contributions extend to several industrial collaborations with major enterprises such as Anshan Iron and Steel Group, Baowu Group, and Sinopec, where his work has directly supported advancements in rolling technology and surface quality control. His recognition includes selection for the prestigious Liaoning “Baiqianwan Talent Program” and the “Steel Capital Talent Plan.” Alongside his research, he serves on the youth editorial boards of multiple journals including Journal of Iron and Steel Research, Rolling Steel, Special Steel, Mechanical Engineering Newsletter, and Journal of Materials and Metallurgy. He is also an active member of professional societies such as the Chinese Mechanical Engineering Society, Chinese Materials Research Society, Chinese Chemical Society, and the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association. Through interdisciplinary expertise, impactful publications, industrial collaborations, and major talent awards, Dr. Xia has made significant contributions to tribology, corrosion protection, and advanced materials processing, strengthening both academic research and industrial innovation.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Xia, L., Ma, Z., Kokogiannakis, G., Wang, Z., & Wang, S. (2018). A model-based design optimization strategy for ground source heat pump systems with integrated photovoltaic thermal collectors. Applied Energy, 214, 178–190. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.02.024

Ma, Z., Xia, L., Gong, X., Kokogiannakis, G., Wang, S., & Zhou, X. (2020). Recent advances and development in optimal design and control of ground source heat pump systems. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 131, 110001. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2020.110001

Duong, H. C., Xia, L., Ma, Z., Cooper, P., Ela, W., & Nghiem, L. D. (2017). Assessing the performance of solar thermal driven membrane distillation for seawater desalination by computer simulation. Journal of Membrane Science, 542, 133–142. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2017.08.019

Xia, L., Ma, Z., Kokogiannakis, G., Wang, S., & Gong, X. (2018). A model-based optimal control strategy for ground source heat pump systems with integrated solar photovoltaic thermal collectors. Applied Energy, 228, 1399–1412. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.06.017

Chen, J., Xia, L., Li, B., & Mmereki, D. (2015). Simulation and experimental analysis of optimal buried depth of the vertical U-tube ground heat exchanger for a ground-coupled heat pump system. Renewable Energy, 73, 46–54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2014.06.055

Qi, D., Pu, L., Ma, Z., Xia, L., & Li, Y. (2019). Effects of ground heat exchangers with different connection configurations on the heating performance of GSHP systems. Geothermics, 80, 20–30. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geothermics.2019.01.006

Xia, L., Ma, Z., McLauchlan, C., & Wang, S. (2017). Experimental investigation and control optimization of a ground source heat pump system. Applied Thermal Engineering, 127, 70–80. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2017.07.111

Gong, X., Xia, L., Ma, Z., Chen, G., & Wei, L. (2018). Investigation on the optimal cooling tower input capacity of a cooling tower assisted ground source heat pump system. Energy and Buildings, 174, 239–253. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2018.06.021

Hou-Qun Ying | Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Prof. Hou-Qun Ying | Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award 

The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University | China

Dr. Hou-Qun Ying, PhD, born on July 18, 1985, in Shangrao, Jiangxi Province, China, is an accomplished clinical scientist specializing in cancer biomarkers, inflammation-related indices, molecular epidemiology, and therapeutic response prediction. He currently serves as the Vice Director of the Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine at The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, where he plays a leading role in translational research, diagnostic innovation, and clinical laboratory management. Dr. Ying earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis from Southeast University (2013–2016), after completing his Master of Medicine in Pathogenic Biology at Dali University and his Bachelor of Medicine in Medical Laboratory Science from Tianjin Medical University. His academic and professional journey reflects strong expertise in cancer diagnostics, genetic polymorphisms, biomarker development, and precision medicine. Dr. Ying has successfully led multiple competitive research grants, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Fund (2018–2020), exploring Hippo-pathway-related genetic variations and EGFR-TKI resistance in non-small cell lung cancer, and the 2024–2027 Regional Fund focusing on SP1 transcription factor–related genetic variations as biomarkers for bevacizumab resistance in metastatic colorectal cancer. His research contributions span more than 70 peer-reviewed publications, with many as first, co-first, or corresponding author in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Oncotarget, Cancer Medicine, Therapeutic Advances in Medical Oncology, Frontiers in Oncology, Pharmacological Research, Biomarkers, Future Oncology, and J Inflammation Research. His studies have provided pivotal insights into inflammatory markers such as fibrinogen-to-pre-albumin ratio, albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio, dNLR, PLR, and novel composite biomarkers for cancer prognosis, treatment response prediction, early diagnosis, and recurrence risk stratification. He has also made influential contributions to colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, gallbladder carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and NSCLC through biomarker innovation, clinical prediction models, and meta-analytic evaluations. As a corresponding author, Dr. Ying has developed and validated numerous inflammation-based and genetic biomarker signatures, such as FPR, ADS score, MLPAS, CCMLP, and chronic inflammation indices, improving precision therapeutic decisions for chemotherapy, bevacizumab, 5-FU–based regimens, and TKIs. Additionally, his collaborative work extends to machine learning applications in early gastric cancer prediction, molecular mechanisms underlying cancer progression, and multi-omics approaches. With a distinguished record of scientific leadership, grant success, and impactful publications, Dr. Ying continues to advance clinical oncology diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies through rigorous research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Peng, Y., Shang, R., Wang, Z.-J., Ye, Q.-Y., Tang, X.-Y., Cheng, X.-X., & Ying, H.-Q. (2025). Chronic inflammatory comprehensive signature predicts oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil benefit in early colorectal cancer. Drug Design, Development and Therapy. https://doi.org/10.2147/DDDT.S556619

Lu, Y., Ye, Q.-Y., Mei, O., Li, Y.-N., Peng, Y., Ying, H.-Q., & Cheng, X.-X. (2025). Chronic inflammation index-based tumor subsite classification correlated with chemotherapy benefit and survival outcomes in stage II–III colorectal cancer. Journal of Inflammation Research. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S517378

Ye, Q.-Y., Wang, Y.-Y., Wang, Z.-J., Lu, M., Peng, H.-X., Wang, X., Cheng, X.-X., & Ying, H.-Q. (2025). Robust predictive performance of MLPAS and CCMLP for clinical outcome and risk stratification in patients with colorectal cancer. Journal of Inflammation Research. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S498028

Tian, H., Liu, Z., Zhang, Z., Zhang, L., Zong, Z., Liu, J., Ying, H., & Li, H. (2023). Clinical significance of fibrinogen and platelet to pre-albumin ratio in predicting the prognosis of advanced gastric cancer. Journal of Inflammation Research. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S412033

Ying, H.-Q., Liao, Y.-C., Luo, Y.-R., Xiong, G., Huang, Y., Nie, R.-W., Xiong, C.-F., & Cheng, X.-X. (2021). Cancer-elicited inflammation attenuates response and outcome in tyrosine kinase inhibitor naïve patients with advanced NSCLC. Pharmacological Research, 105734. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105734

Ying, H.-Q., You, X.-H., Liao, Y.-C., Sun, F., & Cheng, X.-X. (2021). High-grade inflammation attenuates chemosensitivity and confers poor survival of surgical stage III CRC patients. Frontiers in Oncology, 11, 580455. https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2021.580455

Liao, Y.-C., Ying, H.-Q., Huang, Y., Luo, Y.-R., Xiong, C.-F., Nie, R.-W., Li, X.-J., & Cheng, X.-X. (2021). Role of chronic inflammatory ratios in predicting recurrence of resected patients with stage I–III mucinous colorectal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Management and Research, 13, 303758. https://doi.org/10.2147/CMAR.S303758

Kaiyao Wu | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Prof. Dr. Kaiyao Wu | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award 

Shanghai University of International Business and Economics | China

Prof. Kaiyao Wu is a leading scholar in sustainable development economics and global value chain analysis, currently serving as a Professor at the School of Statistics and Data Science at the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE). He also holds several influential academic and professional roles, including Expert Committee Member and Digitalization Committee Member of the China Society of Foreign Trade and Economic Statistics, Director of the Global WiseTrade Digitalization Research Institute at SUIBE, and Evaluation Expert for the National Social Science Fund of China. With a rich academic background and extensive research experience, Prof. Wu has established himself as a prominent contributor to the fields of economic digitalization, global value-chain restructuring, energy–environment linkages, and sustainable development metrics. He holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Economics (2011) and an MBA (2007) from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, following a B.S. in Statistics from Xiamen University in 1995. After completing his doctoral studies at the Antai College of Economics and Management, he served on the faculty of Shanghai Finance University (now Lixin University of Accounting and Finance) from 2011 to 2019, while simultaneously completing postdoctoral research at Shanghai Jiao Tong University between 2012 and 2015. His international exposure includes a visiting scholar appointment at Colorado State University from 2017 to 2018, enriching his global research perspective. Since joining SUIBE in 2019, he has continued to advance impactful research and teaching. Prof. Wu has published more than 40 peer-reviewed papers in high-quality international and Chinese journals, including Energy Economics, Journal of Cleaner Production, Emerging Markets Finance and Trade, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, and Statistical Research, one of China’s top statistical journals. His publications address critical global issues such as carbon neutrality along global value chains, ESG impacts on corporate performance, energy efficiency, and the role of demographic shifts in shaping international production networks. He is also the author of six monographs and two textbooks that support both academic inquiry and practical applications, including The Global Value Chain Network of the Economy-Energy-Environment (3E) Coupling: Measurement and Application (2025) and Enterprise Data Processing with SAS EG (2023). Prof. Wu has led and contributed to major national research projects funded by the National Social Science Foundation of China, focusing on industrial correlation networks, dual-circulation system measurement, and advanced input–output analysis. His expertise further extends to statistical methods, global value chain statistics, market research, and data processing, and he teaches widely in these areas. Recognized for his outstanding mentorship, he has received multiple national-level instructor awards, underscoring his dedication to cultivating high-quality talent in statistics and data science.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Duan, J., Li, Y., Shi, W., & Wu, K. (2025). Beyond the linear: Green technology innovation, moderators, and GVC upgrading. SSRN. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5333724

Xuan, S., Wu, K., & Deng, J. (2024). The effect of producer service agglomeration externalities on urban green innovation efficiency in China. Heliyon, 10, e25085. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25085

Wu, K., Chen, F., Anwar, S., & Liao, L. (2024). The impact of population aging on a country’s global value chain position: Unraveling the dynamics and mechanisms. Emerging Markets Finance and Trade, 60(?), 1–?. https://doi.org/10.1080/1540496X.2023.2300636
(Note: Volume/issue/page numbers not provided—fill in if available.)

Wu, K., Sun, C., Zhang, J., & Duan, J. (2023). Carbon neutrality along the global value chain: An international embedded carbon network analysis. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 30, 122051–122065. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-30680-9

Du, L., Wei, M., & Wu, K. (2023). Information technology and firm’s green innovation: Evidence from China. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 30, ???–???. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-29320-z
(Page numbers not provided—fill in if needed.)

Xuan, S., Wu, K., & Deng, J. (2023). The effect of producer service agglomeration externalities on urban green innovation efficiency in China. SSRN. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4502877

Heng Liu | Environmental and Sustainable Materials | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Mr. Heng Liu | Environmental and Sustainable Materials | Research Excellence Award

Qingdao University of Science and Technology | China

Prof. Heng Liu is an accomplished materials scientist and professor at Qingdao University of Science and Technology, widely recognized for his significant contributions to organometallic catalysis and polymer chemistry. He earned his Ph.D. in 2015 from the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry (CIAC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), followed by productive postdoctoral research at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology between 2015 and 2017. Upon returning to China, he served as an associate professor at CIAC before joining Qingdao University of Science and Technology as a full professor in 2020. Throughout his career, Prof. Liu has built an impressive portfolio of research achievements that reflect his scientific rigor, innovation, and leadership in advancing olefin and diene polymerization technologies. His research primarily focuses on the development of high-efficiency organometallic catalysts, the functionalization of polymers, and performance enhancement strategies for synthetic rubber materials—areas that hold major industrial relevance in the rubber, plastic, and advanced materials sectors. Prof. Liu has published 63 high-impact journal articles in prestigious publications such as Advanced Functional Materials, ACS Catalysis, Coordination Chemistry Reviews, Macromolecules, and other leading SCI-indexed platforms. His strong publication record is supported by a robust citation footprint in global scientific databases, reflecting the wide impact and recognition of his work within the research community. He has successfully led and participated in multiple funded research projects, including major grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (52573115, 22071236, 21801236), the Shandong Province Natural Science Foundation (ZR2024ME117), and the Taishan Scholar Foundation (202211165), demonstrating his capability to secure competitive funding for frontier research. Beyond academic projects, Prof. Liu has completed six consultancy and industry collaborations, reinforcing the practical applicability of his scientific innovations. He holds 18 patents, underscoring his commitment to translating research outcomes into technological advancements. His editorial contributions include serving on the editorial boards of Frontiers in Chemistry and China Synthetic Rubber Industry, where he supports scholarly communication and peer review in his field. Prof. Liu’s work is strengthened by active collaborations with researchers across institutions and countries, contributing to scientific progress through interdisciplinary engagement. With expertise spanning catalysis, polymer design, and advanced material fabrication, Prof. Liu continues to make substantial contributions to both fundamental science and industrial technology. His achievements, leadership, and innovation position him as a distinguished candidate for the Research Excellence Award.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Polymer Chemistry (2025)

Zhang, H., Zhang, X., Zheng, H., Wang, F., Wei, X., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2025). Synthesis of α,ω-end hetero-functionalized polyisoprene via neodymium-mediated coordinative chain transfer polymerization. Polymer Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.1039/D4PY01452A

Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2025 – Nov 05)

Zheng, H., Zhang, H., Zhao, W., Wang, F., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2025). Controllable preparation of hydroxyl-terminated liquid polydiene rubber featuring high 1,4-content by neodymium-mediated coordinative chain transfer polymerizations strategy. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. https://doi.org/10.1002/app.57602

Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2025 – Mar 10)

Li, X., Zhang, X., Wang, F., Liu, W., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2025). Neodymium-mediated coordinative chain transfer homopolymerization of bio-based myrcene and copolymerization with butadiene and isoprene. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. https://doi.org/10.1002/app.56557

Macromolecules (2025 – Feb 25)

Wang, X., Ma, L., Dong, B., Zhang, C., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2025). Axial anagostic interaction in α-diimine nickel catalysts: An ultraefficient occupation strategy in suppressing associative chain transfers to achieve UHMWPEs. Macromolecules, 58(?), pages pending. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.macromol.4c03244

Molecular Catalysis (2024)

Liu, X., Yang, Q., Zhang, C., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2024). 3,4-selective polymerization of isoprene by iron-based system: The key role of borate salts for enhancing catalytic activities and broadening 1,10-phenanthroline ligand scope. Molecular Catalysis, 114082. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mcat.2024.114082

SSRN Preprint (2024)

Liu, H., Liu, X., Zhang, C., Yang, Q., & Zhang, X. (2024). 3,4-selective polymerization of isoprene by iron-based system: The key role of borate salts for enhancing catalytic activities and broadening 1,10-phenanthroline ligand scope [Preprint]. SSRN. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4690393

 

Xi Yuan | Nanotechnology | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Prof. Xi Yuan | Nanotechnology | Research Excellence Award 

Jilin Normal University | China

Prof. Xi Yuan is a distinguished researcher and academician currently serving as a Professor at Jilin Normal University, China. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, building upon a solid undergraduate foundation at Jilin University. Over the course of his academic career, Prof. Yuan has established himself as a leading expert in the field of luminescent nanomaterials, a rapidly advancing area at the intersection of materials science, nanotechnology, and photonics. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding and development of nano-luminescent materials, which have applications across energy, optoelectronics, sensing, and bioimaging technologies. Prof. Yuan has an impressive track record of research and scholarly output. He has published 39 high-impact articles in prestigious SCI-indexed journals, demonstrating his consistent contributions to the advancement of knowledge in his field. His research excellence is further evidenced by his role as the lead principal investigator on a grant awarded by the China National Natural Science Foundation (NSFC), highlighting his ability to secure competitive funding for cutting-edge projects. In addition to his academic publications, Prof. Yuan has been involved in consultancy and industry projects related to luminescent nanomaterials, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. Throughout his career, Prof. Yuan has actively participated in collaborations with other researchers and institutions, fostering interdisciplinary partnerships that enhance the scope and impact of his work. He maintains a strong professional presence through his editorial appointments and memberships in relevant scientific societies, reflecting his commitment to the broader research community. Prof. Yuan’s contributions have not only advanced fundamental research but have also provided valuable technological insights for industrial applications, making him a role model for emerging scientists in the field. He is recognized for his meticulous approach to research, innovative thinking, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists. Prof. Yuan’s academic and professional achievements, combined with his extensive experience in luminescent nanomaterials, make him an outstanding candidate for the Research Excellence Award. Through his sustained contributions, he has significantly impacted both the scientific community and society by advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and promoting the application of nanomaterials to real-world challenges. His work exemplifies the highest standards of scientific rigor, creativity, and societal relevance, positioning him as a leading figure in contemporary materials research.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Ji, S., Zhao, L., Chen, C., Zhao, J., Wang, J., Zheng, J., & Yuan, X. (2025, November). A/B-site synergistic engineering in nanoscale quasi-two-dimensional perovskites: Bimetallic Cs⁺/Cd²⁺ co-doping for enhanced luminescence and phase stability of BA₂MAn-1PbnBr3n+1 films. Journal of Alloys and Compounds. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.184887

Qian, Z., Wu, X., Xia, L., Wang, J., Zhao, J., & Yuan, X., Bao, X. (2025, November). Achieving long-lived multicolor room-temperature phosphorescence in silicon nanodots through Zn²⁺ doping for anti-counterfeiting and multiple-level information encryption. Journal of Luminescence. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jlumin.2025.121678

Bao, X., Zhu, X., Tian, Z., Wang, H., Li, H., & Yuan, X. (2025, July). Dual-mode thermochromic afterglow in phosphorus-doped carbon dot composites for visible light-activated information encryption. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcis.2025.137331

Zhao, K., Ji, S., Zhao, L., Qian, Z., Wu, X., Xia, L., Gao, Y., Zhao, J., & Yuan, X. (2025, July). Enhanced near-infrared emission and stability of Yb-doped CsPbCl₃ nanocrystals via amine ligand regulation for phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes. Journal of Alloys and Compounds. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.181832

Li, J., Xia, L., Liu, Y., Gu, Z., Liang, H., Wu, X., Qian, Z., Ji, S., Zhao, J., & Yuan, X. (2025, June). Optimizing luminescence performance of alloyed CsPb₁−xCdxBr₃ perovskite nanocrystals for blue light-emitting diodes. Materials Research Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113355

Zhu, X., Tian, Z., Wang, H., Wang, X., Zhang, Y., Wang, Y., Li, H., Bao, X., & Yuan, X. (2025, May 23). Visible light-activated dual-mode afterglow emission in chlorine-doped carbon dot-based composite for advanced information encryption. ACS Applied Nano Materials. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsanm.5c00279

Xianguo Chen | Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Prof. Xianguo Chen | Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Zhejiang University School of Medicine | China

Professor Xianguo Chen is a distinguished thoracic surgeon and senior medical expert at the School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, where he serves as Professor and Chief Physician at the Affiliated Jinhua Hospital. With a strong academic foundation, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Zhejiang Medical University in 1995, followed by a Master’s degree in Surgery from Zhejiang University in 2003. Over nearly three decades of clinical and research experience, Professor Chen has established himself as a leading figure in thoracic oncology, pulmonary diseases, and precision cancer therapeutics. His professional journey at Zhejiang University’s Affiliated Jinhua Hospital began in 1996, advancing from Physician to Attending Physician in 2000, Associate Chief Physician in 2006, and Chief Physician in 2011, reflecting his outstanding clinical expertise, leadership, and dedication to patient care. Professor Chen’s research interests lie at the intersection of thoracic surgery, molecular oncology, targeted cancer therapy, and tumor metabolism. He has led several high-impact scientific projects funded by provincial and municipal agencies. These include a major Jinhua Science and Technology Plan project investigating the regulatory effects of acacetin on SMYD2-mediated DNA damage repair inhibition, a provincial health science project exploring the mechanism by which KMT3C mediates osimertinib resistance in non-small cell lung cancer through ENO1-driven glycolysis, and an influential study on pulmonary nodule differentiation and lung cancer progression involving metabolomics and fecal microbiota transplantation. His research has made significant contributions to understanding tumor resistance mechanisms, novel biomarkers, and innovative therapeutic strategies for lung cancer. An accomplished scholar, Professor Chen has authored numerous publications in internationally recognized journals. His recent works include studies on miR-1293 and angiogenesis in lung adenocarcinoma, carbonic anhydrase 4 as a prognostic biomarker for NSCLC, identification of novel RET fusions and ALK translocations, and advancements in postoperative drainage techniques for lung cancer surgery. As first author, corresponding author, or co-corresponding author, his publications reflect his strong commitment to advancing thoracic oncology research. Beyond clinical and research excellence, Professor Chen plays a vital leadership role in several professional medical organizations. He serves as Vice Chairman of the Thoracic Surgery Branch of the Zhejiang Medical Association, Executive Vice Chairman of the Cardiothoracic Surgery Branch of the Jinhua Medical Association, and holds additional appointments in regional cancer prevention and thoracic surgery committees. Through his multifaceted contributions, Professor Xianguo Chen continues to shape the future of thoracic surgery and lung cancer research in China and beyond.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Lou, Y., Xu, B., Huang, K., Li, X., Jin, H., Ding, L., Ning, S., & Chen, X. (2024). Knockdown of miR-1293 attenuates lung adenocarcinoma angiogenesis via Spry4 upregulation-mediated ERK1/2 signaling inhibition. Biochemical Pharmacology, 226, 116414.

Xu, B., Lou, Y., Xu, X., Li, X., Tian, X., Yu, Z., & Chen, X. (2023). Carbonic anhydrase 4 serves as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for non-small cell lung cancer: A study based on TGA samples. Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening, 26(14), 2527–2540.

Xu, X., Wang, H., Yu, Z., & Chen, X. (2022). A novel RET fusion in non-small cell lung cancer identified by next-generation sequencing: A case report. Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, 148(7), 1825–1827.

Chen, X., Xu, B., Fu, F., Cai, K., & Yu, Z. (2021). A novel nonreciprocal/reciprocal ALK translocation causing ALK+ in NSCLC. Lung Cancer, 158, 162–163.

Li, X., Chen, X., He, S., & Chen, H. (2021). The application of pigtail catheters in postoperative drainage of lung cancer. Clinical Lung Cancer, 23(3), e196–e202.

Size Ai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Mr. Size Ai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award 

Harbin Institute of Technology | China

Dr. Size Ai, currently a PhD researcher at the Harbin Institute of Technology, is an emerging scholar in the field of mechanical metamaterials and advanced structural design. Holding a PhD in Mechanics from Harbin Institute of Technology, Dr. Ai has developed strong expertise in the design, modeling, and steady-state analysis of mechanical metamaterials, focusing particularly on negative stiffness structures, multi-stable metastructures, and pneumatic actuators with tunable mechanical responses. His academic journey reflects a commitment to high-quality research, having published three SCI-indexed papers in top-tier JCR Q1 journals such as Thin-Walled Structures and Engineering Structures. His works include: “Analysis of Negative Stiffness Structures with B-spline Curved Beams” (Thin-Walled Structures, 2024), “Design and Analysis of an Origami-Embedded Multi-Stable Metastructure with Shape Reconfiguration” (Engineering Structures, 2025), and “Deep Learning-Based Structural Design and Mechanical Properties Analysis of Pneumatic Actuators with Tunable Multistability” (Thin-Walled Structures, 2025). These publications highlight Dr. Ai’s ability to integrate theoretical modeling, simulation optimization, deep learning techniques, and experimental validation to solve complex challenges in structural mechanics. He has contributed significantly to ongoing national research through his involvement in the National Natural Science Foundation of China project (Grant No. 12372041), which further demonstrates his active engagement in advancing scientific knowledge. One of Dr. Ai’s major contributions includes developing a configuration parameterization method based on B-spline curves to customize negative stiffness characteristics in metamaterials. Additionally, he proposed a steady-state switching strategy using reconfigurable energy barrier elements, enabling precise control over multi-stability and shape transformation in engineered structures. His work successfully demonstrates, through combined theory, simulations, and experiments, the feasibility of programmable mechanical behavior after forming—an advancement with promising applications in soft robotics, adaptive structures, vibration isolation, and smart materials. Dr. Ai’s research continues to attract academic attention, with citations indexed in the Web of Science database. He maintains a strong ethical commitment to research integrity, with no consultancy projects, patents, or books yet undertaken. While he currently holds no editorial appointments, professional memberships, or formal collaborations, his research trajectory shows excellence, independence, and innovation, positioning him as a competitive candidate for the Research Excellence Award. Dr. Ai affirms that all submitted information is accurate, verifiable, and supported by relevant research links, including: 10.1016/j.tws.2025.114287 and 10.1016/j.tws.2023.111418. He fully agrees to the terms, policies, and responsibilities associated with this award nomination and submits this application with the highest level of integrity.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Ai, S., Xie, Z., & Wei, J. (2025, November). Deep learning-based structural design and mechanical properties analysis of pneumatic actuators with tunable multistability.

Ai, S., Hou, S., Wei, J., & Xie, Z. (2025, October). Design and analysis of an origami-embedded multi-stable metastructure with shape reconfiguration.

Hou, S., Wei, J., Ai, S., & Tan, H. F. (2025, March). Broadband nonlinear vibration isolation for a friction dynamic system via quasi-zero stiffness isolator.

Bian, S., Ai, S., Wei, J., & Qingxiang, J. (2025, March). Structural design and performance analysis of large inflatable solar membrane reflector.

Ai, S., Wei, J., Xie, Z., & Tan, H. F. (2023, November). Analysis of negative stiffness structures with B-spline curved beams.

Xiaochen Xie | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Research Awards

Dr. Xiaochen Xie | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award 

Renmin University | China

Dr. Xiaochen Xie is an Assistant Professor at the School of Finance, Renmin University of China, where he has served since August 2021. He concurrently holds research associate appointments at the China Financial Policy Research Center, the Institute of Public Finance and Taxation, and the Institute of Digital Economics and Taxation at Renmin University. Dr. Xie’s research integrates international trade, industrial organization, public economics, and urban economics, with a strong emphasis on firm dynamics, pricing behavior, trade policy, and market structure in global technology industries. His scholarship particularly addresses the complex interactions between trade liberalization, industrial development, and consumer welfare, often using structural and empirical approaches to uncover mechanisms shaping modern markets. Dr. Xie earned his Ph.D. in Economics from Pennsylvania State University in 2021, where his dissertation, Essays on Firm Entry and Pricing, was supervised by renowned economist Jonathan Eaton. He also holds an M.S. in Economics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and dual bachelor’s degrees in Finance and Statistics from Peking University. His interdisciplinary training forms the foundation of his analytical approach to understanding global economic phenomena. His research has appeared in leading outlets, including the Journal of Economic Geography, and he maintains an active pipeline of working papers on export dynamics, optimal taxation, industrial policy, and global smartphone markets. Several of his papers are under review or revise-and-resubmit at prestigious journals such as the International Journal of Industrial Organization and the Journal of the European Economic Association. His work has received recognition, including the Outstanding Paper Award at the NCER-CCER Chinese Economy Conference in 2021. A frequent presenter at international conferences, Dr. Xie has delivered research at institutions such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and at major meetings including the European Economic Association and EARIE conferences. He is also an active referee for top scholarly journals. At Renmin University, Dr. Xie teaches public finance, quantitative empirical economics, and structural methods, consistently earning exceptional teaching evaluations. He has secured multiple competitive grants, including NSFC and university-funded projects focused on tariffs, international tax policy, and fiscal capacity. Beyond academia, he previously worked in finance and investment analysis and has served as Vice President at Yuewei Capital. Born in Tianjin in 1992, Dr. Xie is fluent in Chinese and English and enjoys Xiangqi, soccer, and travel.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Chen, Y., Huang, T., & Xie, X. (2025). Place-based policies: First-mover advantage and persistence. Journal of Economic Geography, lbaf001.

Lu, W., & Xie, X. (2024). Trade, markups, and consumer welfare: Evidence from the global smartphone industry (SSRN Working Paper No. 4804811). SSRN. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4804811

Xie, X. (2021). Two essays on firm entry and pricing (Doctoral dissertation, The Pennsylvania State University).

Wenxiu Cao | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Research Awards

Assoc Prof Dr. Wenxiu Cao | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Hunan City University | China

Assoc prof. Wenxiu Cao is an emerging researcher at the Key Laboratory of Low Carbon and Environmental Functional Materials of Hunan Province, working within the College of Materials and Chemical Engineering at Hunan City University, Yiyang, China. His work aligns with some of the most rapidly advancing fields in materials science, environmental chemistry, and sustainable technology innovation. As part of a leading research group focused on low-carbon and environmentally functional materials, Wenxiu Cao contributes to addressing global challenges related to energy efficiency, pollution control, and ecological sustainability through advanced material design and chemical engineering approaches. At Hunan City University, his research environment supports interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing him to investigate the development, characterization, and application of innovative materials with environmental benefits. His work often intersects with cutting-edge themes such as low-carbon technologies, photocatalytic and electrocatalytic systems, adsorption-based purification processes, nanostructured functional materials, and green chemical engineering. Through these areas, he contributes to solving real-world environmental issues connected to industrial emissions, renewable energy conversion, wastewater treatment, and sustainable manufacturing. His role at the Key Laboratory also involves contributing to scientific initiatives dedicated to reducing environmental footprints and developing functional materials capable of improving air and water quality. As an active researcher, Wenxiu Cao participates in experimental design, synthesis and fabrication of advanced materials, performance optimization, and analytical characterization using modern instrumental techniques. His work supports the creation of environmentally friendly material systems with high stability, efficiency, and applicability across industrial and environmental sectors. He also engages in scientific writing, data analysis, and academic collaboration, contributing to publications, laboratory innovation, and the knowledge exchange within his department and the broader scientific community. Being part of a provincial-level key laboratory places him at the center of technological advancement in Hunan Province, where research outcomes are expected to support China’s broader goals in carbon neutrality, sustainable development, and green transformation. His contributions help advance the mission of the College of Materials and Chemical Engineering by fostering high-impact research, contributing to student training, and strengthening the university’s academic profile. Through his ongoing work, Wenxiu Cao continues to build a promising research career focused on sustainable materials, environmental protection technologies, and innovations that support a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future. His dedication to advancing low-carbon material science highlights his commitment to both academic excellence and societal benefit.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Chen, J., Cao, W., Xu, S., Liu, L., Tang, H., Hu, N., & Zhang, W. (2025). Disaccharide/UiO-66(Zr) composites for selective dye adsorption: Synergistic mechanisms. Journal of Chromatography A, 2025(11), Article 466568.

Fu, S., Wang, F., Chen, X., Cao, W., Wang, L., & Tang, Y. (2025). Mechanism of synergistic Ce–Mn catalysis for one-step highly selective cyclohexane oxidation to KA-oil. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 2025(10-29).

Cao, W., Yuan, B., Zhuo, O., Li, Y., & Luo, W. (2022). Selective adsorption of CO₂/N₂ promoted by polar ligand functional groups of metal–organic frameworks. Journal of Porous Materials, 29(2), 1–12 (if page numbers unavailable, omit).