Lei Xia | Chemistry and Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

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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

Nighil Nath MP | Chemistry and Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Nighil Nath MP | Chemistry and Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

University of Calicut | India

Dr. Nighil Nath M. P. is a dedicated physicist and educator whose research focuses on condensed matter theory, materials science, glass-forming systems, plastic crystals, low-temperature physics, and broadband dielectric spectroscopy. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics, he has significantly contributed to understanding the thermal and dielectric behaviors of orientationally disordered systems. His investigations using advanced techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and temperature-controlled X-Ray Diffraction (X-RD) have shed light on the structural and phase transition dynamics of complex molecular materials. Dr. Nath earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Calicut, Kerala, in 2022, where his thesis, “Thermal and Spectroscopic Investigations on Some Plastic Crystals,” provided deep insights into the thermal and dielectric relaxation mechanisms in molecular solids. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Physics from Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College (2008) and an M.Sc. in Physics from CMS College, Kottayam (2012). Over the years, he has demonstrated a strong passion for advancing material characterization techniques and understanding the microscopic processes governing physical properties of crystalline and amorphous materials. Dr. Nath’s publication record reflects his rigorous approach to scientific inquiry. His works have appeared in prestigious journals such as Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, Indian Journal of Physics, Journal of Molecular Liquids, and Materials Today Proceedings. Among his notable contributions are studies on tetrahedrally coordinated organic plastic crystals, phase transition dynamics in cyclohexene oxide, and dielectric relaxation in ionic liquids. These papers not only enrich the literature on material science but also open new pathways for the application of plastic crystals and related compounds in energy storage and optoelectronic devices. Beyond research, Dr. Nath is an accomplished academic mentor, having guided over 50 M.Sc. students in various experimental and theoretical projects between 2014 and 2020. Currently serving as a High School Assistant (Physical Science) at the Government Higher Secondary School, Kakkodi, Kozhikode, Kerala, since December 2022, he continues to inspire young minds with his deep scientific insight and enthusiasm for discovery. His career reflects a harmonious blend of scientific innovation, academic excellence, and educational commitment, establishing him as a promising researcher and educator in the field of condensed matter and material physics.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Kottummal, T. K., Pilathottathil, S., Thayyil, M. S., Perumal, P. M., Sreekala, K. K. N., & Nighil Nath, M. P. (2018). Dielectric relaxation and electrochemical studies on trihexyl tetradecyl phosphonium chloride ionic liquid. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 252, 488–494.

Nighil Nath, M. P., & Sulaiman, M. K., & Thayyil, M. S. (2019). Thermal and dielectric spectroscopic investigation on orientationally disordered crystal—Cyclobutanol. Materials Today: Proceedings, 18, 1620–1626.

Manal Poovingal, N. N., Thayyil, M. S., Afzal, A., & Govindaraj, G. (2022). Thermal and dielectric studies on orientationally disordered crystal: Cyclobutanol. Indian Journal of Physics, 96(7), 1991–1999.

Afzal, A., Thayyil, M. S., Mohamed, M. N. S., Nighil Nath, M. P., & others. (2025). Broadband dielectric spectroscopic studies of acemetacin, colchicine and bezafibrate during quench cooling, and in supercooled liquid phase by dielectric modulus formalism. Indian Journal of Physics, 1–11.

Nath, M. P. N., Thayyil, M. S., & Afzal, A. (2025). Phase transition dynamics and dielectric relaxations in orientationally disordered crystal: A study of cyclohexene oxide. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 207, 112839.

Nath, M. P. N., Thayyil, M. S., & Afzal, A. (2025). Thermal and dielectric spectroscopic investigations on tetrahedrally coordinated organic plastic crystals: Aminomethylpropanediol and pentaglycerol. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 113019.

Wei Liu | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Research Awards

Dr. Wei Liu | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Jinan | China

Dr. Wei Liu is a dedicated researcher and lecturer at the Institute of Smart Materials and Engineering, University of Jinan, China. He obtained his Ph.D. in 2019 from the Huazhong University of Science and Technology, following his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Qingdao University of Science and Technology in 2014 and 2011, respectively. Since joining the University of Jinan in 2019, Dr. Liu has actively contributed to both teaching and research, guiding seven master’s students and delivering core courses such as Organic Chemistry. In parallel, he has pursued postdoctoral research (2022–2025) while engaging as a special correspondent for the Shandong Province enterprise science and technology program, bridging academia and industrial innovation. Dr. Liu’s research primarily focuses on high-efficiency deep blue organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), the design and synthesis of rare-earth-based light conversion materials, and the crystal engineering of organic molecules, including polymorphs and co-crystals. His work aims to enhance the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of optoelectronic and photonic materials, with applications in advanced lighting, display technologies, and agriculture. He has led and participated in multiple scientific research projects, including the Science and Technology Program of the University of Jinan (as project leader), major university and provincial development programs, and industrial pilot studies on agricultural light conversion agents. A prolific scholar, Dr. Liu has authored or co-authored over 50 research publications in leading international journals such as Science Bulletin, Chemical Communications, Journal of Materials Chemistry C, Dyes and Pigments, Ceramics International, and Nanomaterials. His notable studies include the development of Bi³⁺/Eu³⁺ co-doped phosphors for tunable light emission, non-doped sky-blue fluorescent OLEDs based on novel anthracene derivatives, and advanced photoluminescent materials for plant growth applications. His collaborative research on deep blue anthracene-based luminogens, published in Science Bulletin, has drawn attention for achieving exceptional efficiency and stability in OLED devices. Dr. Liu’s scientific achievements have been recognized with multiple honors, including the First Prize for Outstanding Scientific Research Achievement Award of Shandong Universities (2014), the First Prize of Science and Technology Award of Shandong University (2016), and the Excellent Master’s Thesis Award of Shandong Province (2015). In addition to journal publications, he holds patents such as An anthracene-based deep blue organic luminescent material with high efficiency and low roll-off (CN 111303009 B) and an international patent for a diketopyrrolopyrrole-based red light conversion agent (South Africa No. 2023/00481). Through his interdisciplinary research that integrates chemistry, materials science, and photonic engineering, Dr. Liu is advancing the development of next-generation luminescent materials and agricultural phototechnology. His ongoing projects aim to improve light utilization efficiency in both electronic and ecological systems, promoting sustainable solutions for modern energy and environmental challenges. As an educator and innovator, he continues to mentor young scientists and contribute to China’s strategic development in smart materials and optoelectronic technology.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Liu, M., Yang, C., Liu, W., Zhou, X., Liu, S., You, Q., & Jiang, X. (2024). Synthesis of Bi³⁺ and Eu³⁺ co-doped Na₄CaSi₃O₉ blue-red light tunable emission phosphors for inducing plant growth. Ceramics International, 50, 9058–9069.

Lu, X., Liu, W., Kang, Z., Yang, C., Nie, Y., & Jiang, X. (2023). Efficient non-doped sky-blue fluorescent organic light emitting devices based on cyanopyridine-containing anthracene derivatives. Dyes and Pigments, 220, 111712.

Yang, C., Liu, W., You, Q., Zhao, X., Liu, S., Xue, L., Sun, J., & Jiang, X. (2023). Recent advances in light-conversion phosphors for plant growth and strategies for the modulation of photoluminescence properties. Nanomaterials, 13, 1715.

Guo, R., Liu, W., Ma, D., & Wang, L. (2021). Exceptionally efficient deep blue anthracene-based luminogens: Design, synthesis, photophysical, and electroluminescent mechanisms. Science Bulletin, 66, 2090–2098. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scib.2021.02.021

Liu, W., & Yang, W. (2013). Alkoxy-position effects on piezofluorochromism and aggregation-induced emission of 9,10-bis(alkoxystyryl)anthracenes. Chemical Communications, 49, 6042–6044.

Liu, W., & Yang, W. (2014). 2,6,9,10-Tetra(p-dibutylaminostyryl)-anthracene as a multifunctional fluorescent cruciform dye. Journal of Materials Chemistry C, 2, 9028–9034.