Jungwon Kang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jungwon Kang | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jungwon Kang, Mokpo National University, South Korea

Prof. Jungwon Kang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering at Mokpo National University, South Korea. He earned his B.Eng., M.Eng., and Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from Chonnam National University. He has conducted postdoctoral research at the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) and has received several awards, including the Best Paper Award from the Korean Battery Society and the Research Achievement Award from Chonnam National University. His research focuses on advanced materials for energy storage systems, particularly lithium- and sodium-ion batteries. He has published extensively in high-impact journals such as J. Mater. Chem., Scientific Reports, and NPG Asia Materials.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Jungwon Kang began his academic journey in the field of materials science with unwavering commitment and intellectual curiosity. He pursued his Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), Master of Engineering (M.Eng.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Materials Science and Engineering from Chonnam National University, South Korea, between 2001 and 2014. During these formative years, Prof. Kang cultivated a deep interest in electrochemical materials, especially those relevant to energy storage applications.

His Ph.D. research contributed to the foundational understanding of advanced battery materials and solidified his expertise in the development and synthesis of high-performance cathode materials. His academic rigor and passion for research laid the groundwork for a career marked by scientific innovation and international recognition.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Following the completion of his Ph.D., Prof. Kang expanded his research horizons by joining the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT). From 2013 to 2016, he served first as a Collaborative Researcher and then as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Center for Advanced Battery Materials in the Advanced Materials Division. During his tenure at KRICT, Prof. Kang worked on cutting-edge research involving lithium–oxygen and sodium–oxygen batteries, nano-structured cathode materials, and advanced electrochemical systems.

In 2017, he was appointed Assistant Professor at Mokpo National University, where he continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. At Mokpo, he leads projects that integrate theoretical science with practical applications, particularly in the realm of battery technology.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Kang’s research is primarily focused on advanced materials for energy storage systems, including Li-ion, Na-ion, and Li–O₂ batteries. His work explores novel synthesis techniques such as pyro-synthesis to develop high-rate performance cathode materials like Li₃V₂(PO₄)₃/C and Na₃V₂(PO₄)₃/C.

His notable publication, “Enhanced energy and O₂ evolution efficiency using an in situ electrochemically N-doped carbon electrode in non-aqueous Li–O₂ batteries” in Journal of Materials Chemistry A, demonstrates his innovative approach in increasing battery efficiency. Furthermore, his work on environmentally benign discharge products in Li-O₂ and Na-O₂ batteries reflects his commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Prof. Kang has authored or co-authored numerous influential papers in high-impact journals such as:

  • Journal of Materials Chemistry A

  • Scientific Reports

  • NPG Asia Materials

  • RSC Advances

His contributions to electrochemical storage technologies are not only academically valuable but also have potential industrial applications in renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and portable electronics.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Kang’s dedication to scientific excellence has been recognized through numerous awards:

  • Best Poster Award from KRICT (2015)

  • Best Paper Award from Chonnam National University (2013)

  • Research Achievement Award (2012)

  • Multiple Best Paper Awards from the Korean Battery Society (2010, 2011, 2012)

In addition, he was a recipient of the Presidential Post-doctoral Fellowship (2016–2020)—a prestigious recognition for promising researchers in South Korea. These accolades highlight his consistent contributions to materials science and battery research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Kang’s work has significantly influenced the field of electrochemical energy storage. His innovative research on nanostructured cathode materials and environmentally friendly battery technologies has made an impact on both academic research and industrial development. His studies are frequently cited by fellow researchers and serve as a benchmark for next-generation energy storage solutions.

As an educator and mentor at Mokpo National University, he continues to shape the future of materials science by nurturing young talents and fostering a research-driven academic environment. His collaborations with national institutions like KRICT have expanded the practical applications of his findings and strengthened South Korea’s position in global battery technology research.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Jungwon Kang stands out as a leading figure in the development of sustainable and high-performance energy storage materials. His legacy is being built on a foundation of academic excellence, research innovation, and mentorship. With the global shift toward green energy and decarbonization, Prof. Kang’s expertise in lithium and sodium-based battery systems positions him to contribute significantly to future advancements in clean energy technologies.

Looking ahead, his continued research will likely focus on solid-state batteries, next-gen cathode designs, and enhanced electrode materials to meet the evolving demands of energy sustainability and environmental responsibility.

📄 Publication Top Notes

Amorphous iron phosphate: potential host for various charge carrier ions

Authors: V Mathew, S Kim, J Kang, J Gim, J Song, JP Baboo, W Park, D Ahn, J Han, …
Journal: NPG Asia Materials
Year: 2014

In-situ electrochemical functionalization of carbon materials for high-performance Li–O2 batteries

Author: J Kang, JM Kim, J Suk, J Kim, DW Kim, Y Kang
Journal: Energy Chemistry
Year: 2020

Facile preparation of nickel phosphide/multi-walled carbon nanotube films for high-performance Li–O2 batteries

Author: Y Cho, K Hong, I Kang, J Kang
Journal: Results in Materials
Year: 2025

Xiaotong Han | Electrochemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Xiaotong Han | Electrochemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Xiaotong Han, Chongqing University, China

Dr. Xiaotong Han is an Associate Professor at Chongqing University, China, specializing in environmental engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toulouse, France (2012–2015), following a Master’s in Municipal Engineering from Chongqing University (2009–2012) and a Bachelor’s in Water Supply and Drainage from Shandong Jianzhu University, China (2005–2009). Dr. Han’s research focuses on membrane technologies for water treatment, including desalination and water reuse. He has been a tenure-track Assistant Professor at Chongqing University since 2018 and has held postdoctoral positions at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and the University of Toulouse.

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Han’s academic foundation is rooted in environmental and chemical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Water Supply and Drainage from Shandong Jianzhu University, China, between 2005 and 2009. He then pursued a Master of Science in Municipal Engineering at Chongqing University from 2009 to 2012. His quest for knowledge led him to the University of Toulouse in France, where he completed his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from 2012 to 2015.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

Dr. Han’s professional trajectory is marked by significant research and teaching roles. Following his doctoral studies, he engaged in postdoctoral research at the University of Toulouse in 2016 and subsequently at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore from 2016 to 2018. In 2018, he returned to Chongqing University as a tenure-track Assistant Professor, where he continues to contribute to the academic community.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Han’s research is primarily centered on membrane technologies for water treatment, including desalination and water reuse. He has been involved in several notable projects, such as:

  • Understanding Membrane Fouling Resistance in Micro-Electric Field-Assisted Membrane Distillation Process (2020–2023): Aimed at enhancing membrane distillation processes by mitigating fouling issues.

  • Disposal and Recycling of Flow Back Waste Liquid from Shale Gas Exploitation Based on Electrodialysis (2018–2020): Focused on sustainable methods for treating waste liquids from shale gas extraction.

  • The Influence of Ionic Species Concentration and Membrane Charge Density on Counter-Ion Permselectivity (2018–2020): Investigated the effects of ionic concentrations and membrane properties on ion selectivity.

These projects underscore his commitment to developing sustainable and efficient water treatment solutions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Han’s expertise is recognized through his active participation in several professional organizations:

  • Committee Member of the Desalination and Water Reuse Branch of the Chinese Ocean Society.

  • Committee Member of the Hydrophobic Membrane Branch of the China Membrane Industry Association.

  • Committee Member of the Youth Committee of the China Water Association.

  • Member of the International Water Association, European Membrane Association, and Aseanian Membrane Association.

His involvement in these organizations reflects his standing in the global environmental engineering community.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through his research and professional activities, Dr. Han has significantly impacted the field of environmental engineering. His work on membrane technologies contributes to more efficient water treatment processes, addressing critical global challenges related to water scarcity and pollution. His collaborations and memberships in international associations facilitate the exchange of knowledge and promote advancements in environmental technologies.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As an emerging leader in environmental engineering, Dr. Han’s ongoing research and professional engagements position him to continue influencing the field. His commitment to sustainable water treatment solutions and active participation in professional organizations suggest a future where his contributions will further enhance environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

Dr. Xiaotong Han’s journey reflects a dedication to advancing environmental engineering through research, collaboration, and education. His work not only addresses current environmental challenges but also lays the groundwork for future innovations in water treatment technologies.

Publication Top Notes

Ultrafine MoO2‐Carbon Microstructures Enable Ultralong‐Life Power‐Type Sodium Ion Storage by Enhanced Pseudocapacitance

Author: C Zhao, C Yu, M Zhang, H Huang, S Li, X Han, Z Liu, J Yang, W Xiao, …
Journal: Advanced Energy Materials
Year: 2017

Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Glycerol to Formic Acid by CuCo2O4 Spinel Oxide Nanostructure Catalysts

Author: X Han, H Sheng, C Yu, TW Walker, GW Huber, J Qiu, S Jin
Journal: ACS Catalysis
Year: 2020

Surface‐confined fabrication of ultrathin nickel cobalt‐layered double hydroxide nanosheets for high‐performance supercapacitors

Author: J Yang, C Yu, C Hu, M Wang, S Li, H Huang, K Bustillo, X Han, C Zhao, …
Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
Year: 2018