Xiangyang Dong | Biomass | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiangyang Dong | Biomass | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Xiangyang Dong, Wuhan University, China

Dr. Xiangyang Dong is a distinguished Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Wuhan University, and a Hongyi Postdoctoral Talent. As a core member of the Hubei Provincial Biomass Resource Green and Efficient Conversion Innovation Team, his research centers on high-value utilization of biomass fibers, particularly in nanofiber biomimetic assembly and hybrid materials. He has published in top-tier journals such as Advanced Materials, Nano Letters, and ACS Nano, with over 600 citations and multiple ESI Highly Cited Papers. Dr. Dong also holds several patents and has received prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to sustainable material science.

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Xiangyang Dong’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in Food Science at Huazhong Agricultural University (2013–2017), where he cultivated a rigorous scientific mindset and deep appreciation for natural materials. This undergraduate training laid the groundwork for his interdisciplinary trajectory, blending life sciences with environmental engineering.

Driven by an ambition to contribute to sustainable technologies, he pursued a Ph.D. in Environmental Science at Wuhan University (2017–2022), one of China’s most prestigious institutions. Under the mentorship of Professor Deng Hongbing, a recognized figure in environmental material science, Dr. Dong honed his skills in advanced material synthesis, nanotechnology, and biomimetic engineering. His doctoral research placed a strong emphasis on biomass resources and their functional application—a focus that would later define his career.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Since July 2022, Dr. Dong has been serving as a Hongyi Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University. He is also affiliated with the Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomass Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology.

In this postdoctoral role, he collaborates closely with Prof. Deng and a multidisciplinary innovation team focused on green and high-value conversion of biomass resources. His involvement in this team signifies his growing leadership in the field, contributing to projects at the intersection of environmental science, nanotechnology, and renewable materials.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Dong’s research uniquely integrates biomass fibers, inorganic nanomaterials, and bioinspired design, aiming to develop intelligent, multifunctional materials with applications ranging from solar desalination to microwave absorption and toxic gas sensing.

His scholarly contributions are both prolific and impactful:

  • 9 SCI-indexed research articles in high-impact journals including Advanced Materials, Nano Letters, ACS Nano, and Small.

  • 3 ESI Highly Cited Papers, reflecting the global recognition and relevance of his work.

  • Over 600 citations, showcasing his growing influence in the scientific community.

Key innovations include:

  • Development of Janus fibrous mats and silica nanofiber aerogels for salt-resistant solar desalination, addressing global water scarcity issues.

  • Fabrication of chitosan-intercalated biomass carbon aerogels with excellent microwave absorption, opening new avenues in electromagnetic interference shielding.

  • Advanced bionanostructured materials mimicking natural systems (like lotus leaves and reed vessels), combining functionality with sustainability.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Dong’s expertise has been acknowledged through several prestigious awards and honors:

  • 🥈 Second Prize in the China Industry-University-Research Collaboration Innovation and Promotion Award (2022) for his contributions to the high-value industrialization of medical biomass fibers (Ranked 4th among 7 awardees).

  • 🧠 Recipient of the Hubei Province Postdoctoral Innovation Research Position—a highly competitive funding initiative for emerging scientific leaders.

  • 👨‍🔬 Invited speaker at the 7th International Bionic Engineering Conference (2023) in Wuhan, where he presented on Janus nanofiber aerogels, underscoring his reputation as an innovator in bionic materials.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Dong’s research stands at the convergence of sustainable development, green chemistry, and environmental engineering. By leveraging biomass-derived materials for advanced technological applications, he addresses global challenges in clean water, air purification, and renewable energy.

His patented innovations, such as:

  • A metal oxide nanofiber sensor for formaldehyde detection

  • A yeast-based nanofiber aerogel for lead poisoning mitigation
    exemplify the translational potential of his science. These technologies could play a key role in environmental monitoring and public health protection.

Furthermore, his monograph contribution on electrospinning nanofabrication techniques (Elsevier, 2019) demonstrates his role in knowledge dissemination and mentoring young scientists entering the field.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a young yet accomplished researcher, Dr. Dong is poised to shape the next generation of eco-functional materials. His focus on biomass utilization not only enhances resource efficiency but also contributes to carbon neutrality and the circular economy.

Looking ahead, he is expected to:

  • Lead collaborative international research in nanobiomaterials

  • Continue bridging academic breakthroughs with industrial applications

  • Mentor emerging scientists through postdoctoral training and cross-disciplinary programs

Dr. Dong’s journey reflects the values of innovation, sustainability, and impact. His commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges through science-driven, nature-inspired solutions ensures his legacy will resonate far beyond the laboratory.

✍️ Publication Top Notes


📘 Chitosan-intercalated rectorite/biomass carbon aerogels with enhanced heterogeneous interfaces for broadband microwave absorption

Author: Min Zheng , Fangtian Liu , Di Yang , Chaoji Chen , Xiangyang Dong , Hongbing Deng

Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal

Year: 2025


📘 A zero-wastewater-discharge noncontact solar desalter for saline–alkali soil remediation and grain yield increase using brackish water

Author: Xiangyang Dong, Xiangyu Luo, Zhenghui Huang, Shuai Ye, Chang Chen, Jingtao Xu, Zhen Wang, Xiaoliang Meng, Wensheng Zhao, Ronggui Yang, Chaoji Chen and Hongbing Deng

Journal: Materials Horizons

Year: 2025


📘 Nanofibrous textured silk aerogel with 3D channel arrays and adjustable mechanical properties for bone tissue

Author: Min Long; Guomin Wu; Fenghua Tao; Shuai Ma; Xiangyang Dong; Hongbing Deng

Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

Year: 2024


 

Manqing li | Biomass | Best Researcher Award | 13399

Ms. Manqing li | Biomass | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Manqing li, Shanghai University, China

Ms. Manqing Li is a Master’s degree candidate at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University. She has demonstrated strong academic performance, earning two first-class scholarships and leading several research competition projects, including the prestigious Challenge Cup and the China Postgraduate ‘Double Carbon’ Innovation Competitions. Her research focuses on biomass energy, particularly microwave pyrolysis of rapeseed straw. She has published in high-impact journals such as Energy (IF: 9) and holds six Chinese patents. With her innovative work and academic excellence, she is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Manqing Li embarked on her academic journey with a deep-rooted passion for materials science and sustainable energy. Currently a Master’s degree candidate at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, she has shown exceptional academic promise since the start of her postgraduate studies. As a dedicated student of the Class of 2022, Manqing quickly distinguished herself through academic diligence, curiosity-driven inquiry, and a commitment to addressing environmental challenges through engineering innovation. Her formative years at Shanghai University laid the foundation for her research-oriented mindset and set the stage for her impressive scientific output.

💼 Professional Endeavors

While still a graduate student, Ms. Li has taken on roles and responsibilities that reflect a seasoned researcher. Her work revolves around biomass energy, particularly exploring the microwave pyrolysis of rapeseed straw to produce solid fuels with low sulfur content and high heating value (HHV). Beyond the lab, she has actively participated in national-level competitions, serving as project leader in events such as:

  • 🏆 Challenge Cup Entrepreneurship Programme for University Students (2023 and 2024 editions)

  • 🌱 The Third China Postgraduate ‘Double Carbon’ Innovation and Creativity Competition

Her leadership roles in these platforms underline her capability to blend scientific knowledge with entrepreneurial spirit and project management, vital skills for bridging research and real-world application.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Li’s research addresses pressing environmental and energy concerns, with a sharp focus on biomass resource utilization for sustainable fuel generation. Her work on microwave pyrolysis technology is not only innovative but also vital in advancing low-emission energy alternatives. Through this project, she aims to develop methods that optimize fuel yield while minimizing environmental impacts.

She has already contributed significantly to the scientific community by publishing in top-tier journals:

Additionally, Ms. Li is an inventor/co-inventor on six patents (e.g., CN202311385626.4, CN202420919247.2), reflecting her ability to generate original, application-driven solutions in her field.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

In recognition of her excellence, Ms. Manqing Li has been awarded two first-class scholarships during her postgraduate studies. These prestigious academic honors are a testament to her outstanding performance and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her innovative projects and scholarly outputs have not only earned her academic praise but have also positioned her as a rising talent in the materials and energy science community in China.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Despite being in the early stages of her career, Ms. Li’s work has begun to influence the renewable energy sector, particularly in areas related to biomass processing and carbon reduction. Her research supports China’s national “Double Carbon” goals—aiming for carbon peaking and neutrality—and addresses broader international climate concerns.

Moreover, by participating in interdisciplinary innovation competitions, she serves as a role model for young women in STEM, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like materials engineering. Her ability to blend technical expertise with social responsibility highlights the holistic impact of her work.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ms. Manqing Li’s journey is only beginning, yet her trajectory already promises a lasting legacy in sustainable materials development. She is determined to further her contributions to clean energy research, with future goals including:

  • 🌱 Developing more efficient biomass-to-fuel technologies

  • 🤝 Collaborating with global research institutions and industry leaders

  • 📚 Publishing more high-impact studies and mentoring upcoming researchers

  • 🧪 Expanding patentable innovations in green technology

As she looks ahead, Ms. Li aims to pursue doctoral studies and eventually contribute as a researcher or educator at a leading research institute. Her vision is not just limited to technological advancement, but also encompasses education, policy influence, and sustainable development.

Publication Top Notes 

Author: M., Li, Manqing, , C., Lu, Chunyang, J., Ren, Jie, Y., Yu, Yaowei

Journal: Energy

Year: 2025

Effects of mineral composition on properties of cold-bonded briquette prepared from returned sinter fines

Author: Ying Li, Man-qing Li, De-jin Qiu, Yuan-dong Xiong, Jie Ren, Mamdouh Omran & Yao-wei Yu

Journal: Iron and Steel research

Year: 2025

 

Wangwang Yan | Waste Management | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Wangwang Yan | Waste Management | Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Wangwang Yan, Sun Yat-sen University, China

Dr. Wangwang Yan is an Associate Professor at the School of Ecology, Sun Yat-Sen University, China. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in 2019. Her research focuses on energy-efficient wastewater treatment, resource recovery from sludge and waste, and anaerobic digestion. She has published over 40 SCI-indexed papers in top journals like Water Research and Chemical Engineering Journal. Her innovative biodegradation technologies have received technical certifications and been applied by Singapore’s Public Utilities Board, demonstrating both academic excellence and practical impact in environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Wangwang Yan’s journey into the realm of environmental engineering began with a deep-seated passion for sustainable solutions in waste management. She pursued her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, where she honed her expertise in wastewater treatment and resource recovery. During her doctoral studies, she delved into advanced methodologies for enhancing anaerobic digestion, focusing on optimizing energy-efficient water reclamation processes. Her rigorous research and commitment to academic excellence positioned her as a promising scholar in the field of environmental sustainability.

Professional Endeavors 🌟

In 2021, Dr. Yan joined Sun Yat-Sen University as an Associate Professor in the School of Ecology. Since then, she has spearheaded multiple research projects aimed at revolutionizing wastewater treatment and solid waste management. Her primary research areas include resource recovery from municipal and industrial wastewater, energy reduction in nutrient removal processes, and sludge management. Through her dedicated efforts, she has successfully completed five major research projects and has been involved in two consultancy and industry collaborations, further bridging the gap between academia and practical applications in environmental engineering.

Contributions and Research Focus 📈

Dr. Yan’s research revolves around developing cutting-edge technologies for the treatment and sustainable management of waste and wastewater. Her work includes:

  • Innovative Waste-to-Resource Technologies: She has made significant contributions in enhancing the conversion of recalcitrant organic wastes using conductive materials.
  • Microbial Electron Transfer Mechanisms: Utilizing advanced multi-omics analysis, she has unraveled microbial electron transfer processes in anaerobic environments, providing key insights into biodegradation pathways.
  • Perfluoroalkyl Compound Studies: Her in-depth research into the migration and transformation of perfluoroalkyl compounds has led to crucial findings in mitigating environmental pollution.

With 42 publications in high-impact journals such as Water Research and Chemical Engineering Journal, Dr. Yan has significantly contributed to scientific advancements in wastewater treatment. Her expertise and innovative approaches have also resulted in three patents related to anaerobic biodegradation technologies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Yan’s excellence in research has garnered widespread recognition. She serves as a Guest Editor for Toxics, demonstrating her thought leadership in environmental science. She is also an active member of the Guangdong Solid Waste Environmental Management Committee, contributing to policy-making and research initiatives for sustainable waste management. Her groundbreaking work has been acknowledged through multiple industry certifications, including the application of her anaerobic biodegradation technologies by Singapore’s Public Utilities Board.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Beyond academia, Dr. Yan has played a pivotal role in shaping industry best practices and influencing environmental policies. Her collaborations with industry partners and government bodies underscore her commitment to translating research into real-world solutions. By integrating her scientific findings into practical applications, she has contributed to the advancement of sustainable waste and wastewater management strategies, thereby reducing environmental footprints and fostering energy conservation.

Her mentorship of emerging researchers and involvement in the Youth Science and Technology Innovation Team reflect her dedication to nurturing the next generation of environmental scientists. Through these initiatives, she continues to inspire young scholars to explore innovative solutions for pressing environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes

Author: B., Cui, Baihui, H., Rong, Hongwei, S., Luo, Shiyi, P., He, Penghong, D., Guo, Dabin

Journal: Renewable Energy

Year: 2025

Author: B., Cui, Baihui, S., Meng, Shengao, Z., Wang, Zi, C., Lin, Chunmian, W., Yan, Wangwang

Journal: Environmental Research

Year: 2024