Jian Zhang | Organic chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Jian Zhang | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Hangzhou Normal University, China

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Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Jian Zhang’s journey into the world of chemistry began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Applied Chemistry from Central South University (1999–2003), where he laid a strong foundation in chemical sciences. He continued his academic development with a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry at Nankai University (2003–2006), a leading institution renowned for its emphasis on innovation in chemistry. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to synthetic organic chemistry culminated in a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) (2009–2013), one of Asia’s premier research universities. This period was pivotal in shaping his research identity, emphasizing precision, complexity, and creativity in organic synthesis.

Professional Endeavors

Prof. Zhang’s career bridges both industrial and academic landscapes. He began as a Research Scientist at WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd. in Shanghai (2006–2009), where he worked on practical applications of organic synthesis, developing drug candidates and fine chemicals. After his doctoral studies, he returned to NTU as a Research Assistant (2013–2014), engaging in postdoctoral research that further honed his expertise. Since 2015, he has served as a Professor at Hangzhou Normal University, where he leads a dynamic research group and contributes to teaching and mentoring the next generation of chemists.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Zhang’s research centers on organometallic catalysis, chelation-assisted C–H functionalization, and stereoselective synthesis of complex organic molecules. His work demonstrates a consistent interest in transforming simple molecular scaffolds into structurally rich targets via innovative catalytic methodologies. Notably, he explores both α- and β-C–H functionalization of aryl alkenes and styrenes, introducing novel strategies in hydroarylation, alkylation, and cyclization reactions using metals like palladium, iridium, and ruthenium. He has also investigated lignin-derived photoinitiators for dental materials, reflecting his commitment to green chemistry and interdisciplinary applications.

Impact and Influence

Between 2023 and 2024, Prof. Zhang co-authored over ten high-impact publications in internationally recognized journals such as Angewandte Chemie International Edition, Organic Chemistry Frontiers, Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, Synlett, Journal of Dentistry, and Scientific Reports. His recent article in Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2024) on stereoselective polyene synthesis via C–H functionalization represents a significant contribution to the field. Collaborating with experts such as Guofu Zhong and Rui He, he has become an integral part of the growing Asian scientific community shaping the future of synthetic organic chemistry.

Academic Citations & Visibility

Though exact citation metrics are not provided here, Prof. Zhang's recent publications in top-tier journals with high impact factors suggest strong academic visibility and influence. His work is frequently cited in studies involving transition-metal catalysis, photochemistry, and green synthetic methodologies, indicating its relevance and ongoing impact in chemical sciences.

Technical Skills

Prof. Zhang possesses deep expertise in organic synthesis, transition-metal catalysis, and structure-activity relationship (SAR) exploration. His laboratory techniques include spectroscopic analysis (NMR, IR, MS), reaction optimization, and ligand design. His ability to develop and fine-tune C–H activation pathways showcases his command over both theoretical and practical aspects of synthetic chemistry.

Teaching Experience

As a professor at Hangzhou Normal University since 2015, Prof. Zhang has actively engaged in curriculum development, graduate supervision, and research mentorship. He is known for blending rigorous theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, encouraging students to explore challenges in chemical synthesis with creativity and scientific discipline.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Zhang is poised to continue making landmark contributions to the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the development of sustainable and stereoselective catalytic methods. His research bridges academic innovation and industrial relevance, especially in areas like drug discovery, materials chemistry, and renewable photoinitiators. With an established track record and growing international collaborations, he stands as a prominent voice in promoting green and efficient chemical transformations.

Publications

Title: Stereoselective Synthesis of Complex Polyenes through Sequential α-/β-C-H Functionalization of trans-Styrenes
Authors: Yuhang Zhu, Yini Wang, Wenzhou Shen, Xiaoyu Chen, Qiuhua Liu, Limin Yang*, Guofu Zhong*, Jian Zhang*
Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Year: 2024

Title: Palladium-catalysed α and β C–H allylation of aryl alkenes
Authors: Yilei Liao, Xiandie Zhang, Xiaoli Li, Xiuying Liu, Jiakai Chen, Chao Shen*, Rui He, Guofu Zhong*, Jian Zhang*
Journal: Organic Chemistry Frontiers
Year: 20

 

Dr. Riccardo Narducci | Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Riccardo Narducci | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Tor vergata university, Italy.

Riccardo Narducci is an Italian researcher currently holding a fixed-term research position (RTDb) at the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata. He obtained his National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in Chemical Foundations of Technologies (CHEM-06/A) on January 13, 2020. His research focuses on advanced materials for energy applications, particularly ion-conducting membranes for fuel cells.

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🎓 Education:

Dr. Riccardo Narducci holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences and Sciences des Matériaux, earned in 2014 through a double degree program between the University of Rome Tor Vergata and Aix-Marseille Université. His dissertation, titled "Ion Conducting Membranes for Fuel Cells," was awarded Cum Laude under the supervision of Prof. M.L. Di Vona and Prof. Philippe Knauth. Prior to his doctorate, he completed a Master’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Perugia in 2004, specializing in Inorganic and Material Chemistry, with a final grade of 108/110. His thesis focused on the "Effect of Acceptor-Donor Pair Adsorption on Surface Conductivity of Non-Stoichiometric Oxides." Dr. Narducci's academic journey began with a Technical Diploma in Industrial Chemistry from I.T.I.S. "L. Allievi" in Terni, where he graduated with the highest distinction (60/60) in 1998.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Riccardo Narducci is currently a Researcher (RTDb) (2022-2025) at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Industrial Engineering, where he is an active member of several research grant selection committees and a participant in the 2024 PACE project.

Previously, he served as a Research Fellow (2017-2022) at the same university, contributing to the HORIZON 2020 CREATE project focused on energy and hydrogen production. From 2016 to 2017, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow under the VINCI Grant, working on functionalized polymers for next-generation redox flow batteries.

Between 2010 and 2017, Dr. Narducci held the position of Research Associate, collaborating on various European and industrial projects, including LoLiPEM, MAESTRO, and HVAC systems research. In addition to his research activities, he has also served as a Contract Professor at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Faculty of Engineering.

🔬 Research Interests:

Energy Materials: Ion-conducting membranes for fuel cells and hydrogen production.

Polymeric and Composite Materials: Functionalized polymers and nanostructured materials.

Electrochemical Devices: Redox flow batteries and electrochemical energy conversion.

Environmental Technologies: Sustainable heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

🏆 Awards & Grants:

National Scientific Qualification for Associate Professor (2020).

VINCI Grant (2016) – Université Franco Italienne for postdoctoral research.

Several European Research Grants (FP7, HORIZON 2020).

Research funding from the University of Rome Tor Vergata.

📚 Selected Publications:

One-Component Catalytic Electrodes from Metal–Organic Frameworks Covalently Linked to an Anion Exchange Ionomer
Molecules (2025-03-10) 
DOI: 10.3390/molecules30061230
Contributors: Riccardo Narducci, Emanuela Sgreccia, Alessio Vincenzo Montella, Gianfranco Ercolani, Saulius Kaciulis, Suanto Syahputra, Emily Bloch, Luca Pasquini, Philippe Knauth, Maria Luisa Di Vona

Composite Membranes Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol and Lamellar Solids for Water Decontamination
New Journal of Chemistry (2024) 
DOI: 10.1039/D3NJ04942F
Contributors: Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Eziz Naryyev, Annarita Petracci, Irene Di Guida, Riccardo Narducci

Composite Anion Exchange Membranes Containing a Long-Side Chain Ionomer and Exfoliated Lamellar Double Hydroxides
Membranes (2024-12-20)
DOI: 10.3390/membranes14120275
Contributors: Riccardo Narducci, Suanto Syahputra, Maria Luisa Di Vona, Philippe Knauth, Luca Pasquini

Porous Polymers Based on PSU and PSU-TMA with Grafted Zirconium-Organic Moieties: Synthesis and Application for Removal of Arsenite and Arsenate Water Pollutants
Preprint (2024-11-20)
DOI: 10.20944/preprints202411.1539.v1
Contributors: Alessio Vincenzo Montella, Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Emanuela Sgreccia, Maria Luisa Di Vona, Riccardo Narducci

Polyvinyl Alcohol Coatings Containing Lamellar Solids with Antimicrobial Activity
Physchem (2024-08-01) 
DOI: 10.3390/physchem4030019
Contributors: Maria Bastianini, Michele Sisani, Raúl Escudero García, Irene Di Guida, Carla Russo, Donatella Pietrella, Riccardo Narducci

 

 

Dr. Huazhang Guo | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Huazhang Guo | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai University, China.

Huazhang Guo is a Research Associate at Shanghai University, specializing in the green, controllable preparation and application of carbon nanomaterial functional materials. With a strong background in nanomaterials and catalysis, she has made significant contributions to sustainable energy conversion and chemical production. Over the years, she has published 13 high-impact journal articles, including in Nature Communications, Advanced Functional Materials, and Materials Today. Her work has garnered 1834 citations with an H-index of 22, and she also serves as a guest editor for the journals Molecules and Nanomaterials.

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Education 🎓

Huazhang Guo pursued her Ph.D. in Materials Science at Shanghai University, where she specialized in the green and controllable preparation of carbon nanomaterial functional materials. Prior to that, she earned her Master’s degree in Nanomaterials from the same institution, focusing on advanced material synthesis and their applications in energy conversion and catalysis. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, which laid the foundation for her expertise in material chemistry, nanotechnology, and sustainable materials. Her strong academic background has contributed significantly to her research in carbon-based functional materials and electrocatalysis.

Experience 👩‍🔬

Huazhang Guo is currently a Research Associate at Shanghai University, where she focuses on the green and controllable preparation of carbon nanomaterial functional materials. In addition to her research role, she serves as a Guest Editor for the journals Molecules and Nanomaterials, contributing her expertise to advancing scientific publications in nanotechnology and materials science.

She actively collaborates with leading universities and has co-authored research papers in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications, ACS Nano, Carbon, Applied Materials Today, and Molecules. Her work emphasizes electrocatalysis, sustainable material applications, and nanomaterial innovations.

Research Interests 🔬

Carbon Nanomaterials: Green and controllable synthesis for various applications

Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO₂ (ECO₂RR): Sustainable syngas production with tunable CO/H₂ ratios

Energy Conversion & Catalysis: Designing efficient and stable carbon-based catalysts for CO₂ utilization

Advanced Functional Materials: Exploring their role in sustainable chemistry

Awards & Achievements 🏆

5 Highly Cited Papers (ESI Top Papers)

1834 Total Citations & H-index of 22

1 Authorized Chinese Invention Patent & 15 Patent Applications

Editorial Role in Molecules and Nanomaterials

Selected Publications 📚

Recent advances in amino-functionalized metal–organic frameworks for sustainable photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction
Yaning Liu, Huazhang Guo, Zhonghua Sun, Jiye Zhang, Zhihui Zhang
Separation and Purification Technology, 2025
Cited by: 1

Harnessing graphene quantum dots for the selective and sensitive detection of dye contaminants
Yuping Xiong, Weitao Li, Luoman Zhang, Jiye Zhang, Liang Wang
Diamond and Related Materials, 2025

Optimizing the crystal structure and electrochemical properties of Na₄MnCr(PO₄)₃ by trace La doping
Keyi Sun, Yuxuan Liu, Wenbin Fei, Yulei Sui, Ling Wu
Applied Surface Science, 2025

Radiation-synthesis of covalent bonding heterojunctions for selective solar-driven CO₂ reduction
Weidong Hou, Huazhang Guo, Kang Wang, Ming Hong Wu, Liang Wang
Materials Today, 2025

Radiation-Synthesized Metal–Organic Frameworks with Ligand-Induced Lewis Pairs for Selective CO₂ Electroreduction
Wenhui Liu, Bijun Tang, Kai Huang, Zhendong Lei, Liang Wang
Small, 2024
Cited by: 7

 

 

 

Prof. Dr. Antonio Rescifina | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Antonio Rescifina | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Catania, Italy.

Prof. Dr. Antonio Rescifina, born on December 23, 1964, in Messina, Italy, is a distinguished researcher and professor in Organic Chemistry. He currently serves as a Full Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Catania, where he has been a member of the faculty since 1996. His research focuses on the synthesis of organic compounds with applications in pharmaceuticals, environmental chemistry, and materials science.

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Education 🎓

Prof. Rescifina holds a degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Messina (1989), with honors. He later obtained another degree in Pharmacy (1991) and completed a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences with a specialization in Organic Chemistry from the University of Catania (1995).

Experience 💼

Prof. Rescifina has had an extensive career in research and teaching. He worked as a researcher at the University of Catania and the University of Messina before becoming a professor. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to scientific advancements in organic chemistry, working on numerous projects funded by both national and international organizations. His roles have included being a scientific coordinator of various research projects.

Research Interests 🔬

Organic Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Applications
Dr. Yucra's work primarily focuses on the synthesis of novel chemical compounds for pharmaceutical and industrial applications. His research aims to create more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions to current challenges in these sectors.

Carbon Dioxide Decarbonization & Valorization
He is committed to developing innovative carbon dioxide decarbonization and valorization processes, which aim to transform CO₂ from a harmful greenhouse gas into valuable industrial products, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Green Chemistry
Dr. Yucra emphasizes green chemistry principles, working on solutions that minimize environmental impact, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce the use of toxic chemicals, all while maintaining effective chemical processes.

Pharmaceutical Nanostructures
In his work on pharmaceutical nanostructures, he explores the development of nanoscale materials that can be used for targeted drug delivery, improving the effectiveness of treatments while reducing side effects.

Supramolecular Catalysis
His interest in supramolecular catalysis focuses on creating catalysts that work through non-covalent interactions, leading to more efficient and selective chemical reactions, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and green chemistry.

Sustainable Chemistry Materials
Finally, Dr. Yucra is involved in the design and development of innovative materials for sustainable chemistry, aiming to create alternatives to traditional chemical processes that are more sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically viable.

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Awards 🏆

Prof. Rescifina's work has earned him national recognition, including the prestigious Abilitazione Scientifica Nazionale (National Scientific Qualification) for Full Professor in 2018.

His research contributions have been acknowledged in various funded projects and prestigious conferences.

Selected Publications 📚

Designing a Monolithic Photo-Fenton Catalyst Using a Fungal Hydroxypyrone Metabolic Derivative
Materials Today Chemistry
March 2025 | Journal article
Contributors: Elisabetta Grazia Tomarchio, Valentina Giglio, Chiara Zagni, Sabrina Carola Carroccio, Vincenzo Paratore, Guglielmo Guido Condorelli, Giuseppe Floresta, Sandro Dattilo, Antonio Rescifina.

Efficient Green Solvent-Free CO2/Epoxide Cycloaddition Catalyzed by a β-Cyclodextrin-Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquid
Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry
March 2025 | Journal article
Contributors: Elisabetta Grazia Tomarchio, Chiara Zagni, Rita Turnaturi, Sandro Dattilo, Vincenzo Patamia, Giuseppe Floresta, Sabrina Carola Carroccio, Tommaso Mecca, Antonio Rescifina.

A Full Carbon-Based Thermoplastic Photocatalyst for Organic Pollutants Abatement: An Experimental and Computational Study
FlatChem
January 2025 | Journal article
Contributors: Lidia Mezzina, Angelo Nicosia, Vincenzo Patamia, Antonio Rescifina, Luisa D’Urso, Vincenzo Paratore, Placido Giuseppe Mineo.

Enhancing HDAC Inhibitor Screening: Addressing Zinc Parameterization and Ligand Protonation in Docking Studies
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
January 20, 2025 | Journal article
Contributors: Rocco Buccheri, Alessandro Coco, Lorella Pasquinucci, Emanuele Amata, Agostino Marrazzo, Antonio Rescifina.

Bio-Based Palladium Catalyst in Cryogel for Cross-Coupling Reactions
Materials Chemistry Frontiers
2024 | Journal article
Contributors: Elisabetta Grazia Tomarchio, Chiara Zagni, Vincenzo Paratore, Guglielmo Guido Condorelli, Sabrina Carola Carroccio, Antonio Rescifina.

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yu Guo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yu Guo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Anhui Science and Technology University, China.

Yu Guo is an Associate Professor at Anhui Science and Technology University. His research focuses on regulating and controlling the chemical and microstructural properties of material surfaces to enhance photocatalytic performance and mass transfer in advanced materials such as quartz, TiO₂, ZrO₂, and SiC. With over 80 publications, 147 patent applications, and multiple technological awards, Yu Guo has made significant contributions to materials chemical engineering. He actively collaborates with the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Float Glass and leads several consultancy and industry projects.

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Education 🎓

Yu Guo holds advanced degrees in materials chemical engineering, specializing in surface chemistry and microstructure regulation. His academic background has equipped him with expertise in designing high-performance materials for various industrial and environmental applications.

Professional Experience 💼

Yu Guo has over a decade of experience in materials chemical engineering research. He has led and contributed to three completed and ongoing research projects, collaborated with state-of-the-art laboratories, and published extensively in high-impact journals. His industry involvement includes 14 consultancy projects focused on technological innovation and materials development.

Research Interests 🔬

Yu Guo’s research interests revolve around:

Enhancing photocatalytic performance in advanced materials.

Modifying chemical structures and microstructures of surfaces for better mass transfer.

Developing innovative materials including quartz, TiO₂, ZrO₂, and SiC.

Collaborating with industry to translate scientific research into practical applications.

Awards 🏆

Recipient of 2 prestigious scientific and technological awards.

Recognized for outstanding innovation and contributions to the field of materials chemical engineering.

Publications Top Notes📚

Facile synthesis of super-microporous mesoporous MgO-ZrO₂ composites and their adsorption properties for CO₂ – Chemical Physics, 2024, Vol. 583, Article 112319. Cited by 1.

Deoxidation regulation of SiC surface and its effect on enhancing photocatalytic performance – Applied Surface Science, 2023, Vol. 609, Article 155181. Cited by 3.

Facile synthesis of mesoporous zirconia nanocrystals in acid/base-free conditions – Materials Science and Technology (United Kingdom), 2023, Vol. 39(1), pp. 62–69.

Sulfonyl radical-induced regioselective cyclization of 3-aza-1,5-enynes with sulfonyl chlorides to produce 1,2-dihydropyridines by copper catalysis – New Journal of Chemistry, 2021, Vol. 45(25), pp. 11030–11034. Cited by 6.

Regioselective, copper(I)-catalyzed, tandem sulfonylation-cyclization of 1,5-dienes with sulfonyl chlorides – Organic Chemistry Frontiers, 2021, Vol. 8(12), pp. 3123–3127.