Dr. Hyun Jung Lee | Materials chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hyun Jung Lee | Materials chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hyun Jung Lee, Materials chemistry, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, South Korea

Dr. Hyunjung Lee is a distinguished physicist and Principal Investigator at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) in Daejeon, South Korea. With a Ph.D. in Physics from Kyungpook National University, she has over two decades of research expertise in superconducting magnet systems, cryogenics, and fusion technology. She has made vital contributions to flagship projects like KSTAR, K-DEMO, and ITER, leading multi-million-dollar development efforts. A committed advocate for women in STEM, she represents Korea at international physics conferences and plays key roles in national scientific committees. Dr. Lee has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications and continues to lead innovative research on high-field magnet design, quench analysis, and thermo-hydraulics. Her contributions significantly advance global nuclear fusion efforts, showcasing both technical excellence and visionary leadership.

Professional Profile :         

Scopus 

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Hyunjung Lee is a highly accomplished researcher with a robust and diverse academic and professional background in fusion energy and superconductivity. She has extensive experience in superconducting magnet systems and cryogenic technologies, leading significant projects like the development of superconducting magnets for the K-DEMO and KSTAR fusion reactors. As a principal investigator at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE), her work involves cutting-edge research in fusion physics, including the design, analysis, and operational stability of superconducting magnets. Dr. Hyunjung Lee is undoubtedly a suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”, due to her impactful research, leadership in large-scale international projects, and her contributions to the advancement of fusion energy technology. Her innovative work in superconducting magnet systems has advanced both scientific understanding and practical applications in fusion energy, making her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious award.

🎓Education:

Dr. Hyunjung Lee completed her Ph.D. in Physics at Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea, in 2003. Her doctoral research focused on the behavior of materials in extreme magnetic fields and low temperatures, setting the stage for her future work in superconducting systems. Prior to that, she earned her B.S. in Physics from Daegu University in 1997. Her strong academic foundation enabled her to transition seamlessly into high-level research, with early postdoctoral training at the Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI). Dr. Lee’s educational background reflects a deep commitment to fundamental physics, with an application-driven focus on fusion energy systems and superconducting technologies. Her continuous engagement with advanced analytical and cryogenic systems throughout her education laid the groundwork for her leadership in magnet design and thermo-hydraulic simulation for nuclear fusion applications.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Lee began her career as a Postdoctoral Associate (2003–2006) at the Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), where she researched material properties under extreme conditions. She then joined the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) in 2006, advancing from Senior Researcher to Principal Investigator. From 2006–2013, she focused on thermo-hydraulic and quench analysis for KSTAR and K-DEMO superconducting magnets. Between 2013–2015, she contributed to cryogenic system design for the RAON project. From 2016–2018, she also served as an Associate Professor at the University of Science and Technology (UST), teaching accelerator and fusion physics. Her key achievements include designing 16T superconducting magnets, establishing experimental facilities (~$30 million), and collaborating with global fusion initiatives such as ITER, ENEA, and General Atomics. She is currently a leading figure in Korea’s national fusion reactor (K-DEMO) magnet program and a central voice in international fusion technology forums.

🏅Awards: 

While Dr. Hyunjung Lee’s CV does not list specific named awards, her achievements are reflected through her prestigious roles, international collaborations, and scientific committee appointments. She serves as an Executive Officer in the Korean Physical Society’s Academic and Women’s Committees (2021–present), showcasing her leadership in Korea’s physics community. She has been a Mentoring Fellow of the Korea Foundation for Women in Science and Technology (2008–2020), guiding the next generation of scientists. Her appointment to the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (2015–2017) reflects national recognition beyond science. Dr. Lee frequently represents Korea in international conferences, including the International Conference on Women in Physics and the Magnet Technology Conference, evidencing her global stature. Her research is highly regarded in fusion communities and continues to influence policies and project planning at the international level. Her awards lie in the transformative impact of her research and leadership across nuclear fusion initiatives.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Hyunjung Lee’s research is centered on superconducting magnet systems and cryogenic thermo-hydraulics for nuclear fusion reactors. Her core contributions span magnet design, quench analysis, and the establishment of fusion magnet experimental infrastructure. A key architect of Korea’s K-DEMO and KSTAR fusion magnet programs, she focuses on developing high-field (up to 16T) superconducting magnets and advanced quench protection mechanisms. Her work includes detailed thermo-hydraulic modeling, AC loss analysis, and cooling loop simulations to ensure cryogenic stability. She also leads international collaboration on magnet technologies with partners like ITER, ENEA, and General Atomics. Dr. Lee has also contributed to the RAON rare isotope accelerator project, analyzing cryogenic systems for linear accelerators. Her research directly advances fusion energy’s feasibility, offering safe, efficient, and scalable superconducting systems for future reactors. She is a thought leader in fusion technology development, particularly in enabling long-term stability of superconducting devices under high-stress operations.

Publication Top Notes:

Design Updates of a Fusion Superconducting Conductor Test Facility Magnet (SUCCEX)

Assessment of KSTAR Nb₃Sn Superconducting Magnet Property After Long-Term Operation Since 2008

Effect of Flow Imbalance on the Operational Performance of the KSTAR PF1UL Magnets

Design Updates and Thermo-Hydraulic Analysis of K-DEMO CS Magnets

Thermo-Hydraulic Analysis of the KSTAR PF Cryogenic Loop Using SUPERMAGNET Code

Citations: 1​

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Ebrahim | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Ebrahim | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Ebrahim | Materials Chemistry |Solid State Physics research at National Research Center, Egypt

M. R. Ebrahim, born in Giza, Egypt, is a distinguished researcher in solid-state physics at the National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt. He obtained his Ph.D. in Experimental Physics from Mansoura University, specializing in the synthesis and preparation of Al/Ru bi-layers. His expertise lies in severe plastic deformation (SPD) and surface mechanical alloying (SMA) of aluminum. He has significantly contributed to materials science with innovations such as Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment (SMAT), for which he holds a patent. His research has advanced aluminum composites, corrosion resistance, and electrochemical behavior, leading to applications in supercapacitors, coatings, and energy storage devices. He has authored numerous publications in high-impact journals and collaborates internationally in materials engineering. His work integrates theoretical physics with experimental applications, contributing significantly to nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and advanced materials.

Professional Profile :         

Orcid

Scope  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

M. R. Ebrahim is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in solid-state physics, severe plastic deformation (SPD), and surface mechanical alloying (SMA). His groundbreaking innovations, such as Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment (SMAT), have significantly advanced materials science, particularly in supercapacitor development, corrosion resistance, and electrochemical behavior. His patents, numerous high-impact publications, and contributions to industrial and academic research demonstrate his expertise and leadership in his field. He has successfully bridged the gap between theoretical physics and applied materials engineering, leading to practical advancements in nanomaterials and surface engineering. His active involvement in research collaborations, peer reviewing, and international conferences further strengthens his candidacy for this prestigious award. M. R. Ebrahim’s research excellence, technological innovations, and impactful contributions to materials science make him a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His patents, publications, and pioneering work in surface engineering and electrochemistry showcase his ability to drive scientific progress and innovation. Recognizing his achievements would honor his dedication to advancing materials science and inspire further groundbreaking research in the field.

🎓Education:

M. R. Ebrahim pursued his academic journey in physics, starting with a B.Sc. in Physics from Helwan University, Egypt. He furthered his studies with a Ph.D. in Experimental Physics from Mansoura University, focusing on synthesis and preparation of Al/Ru bi-layers. His doctoral research emphasized surface modifications, mechanical alloying, and electrochemical properties of aluminum-based materials. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his work in severe plastic deformation (SPD), surface engineering, and supercapacitor technology. His studies encompassed various aspects of solid-state physics, nanomaterials, and electrochemical behavior. With extensive laboratory experience, he gained expertise in materials characterization, thin-film coatings, and corrosion-resistant materials. His education has driven his innovations in advanced materials processing, mechanical attrition, and novel composite development, enabling him to make significant contributions to materials science and industrial applications.

🏢Work Experience:

M. R. Ebrahim has been a Researcher in Solid-State Physics at NRC, Egypt, since 2010, working extensively on surface mechanical alloying, corrosion resistance, and severe plastic deformation of aluminum-based materials. His research focuses on enhancing the mechanical, electrical, and electrochemical properties of metals for various applications. He pioneered SMAT technology for material surface modifications, significantly improving supercapacitor performance, dielectric properties, and composite coatings. His collaborations extend internationally, engaging in projects related to nano-coatings, energy storage, and metal reinforcement techniques. He has contributed to industrial advancements by integrating electrochemical engineering with material science, leading to innovative solutions for corrosion-resistant and high-performance aluminum materials. He actively publishes, reviews scientific papers, and participates in global conferences, sharing his expertise in materials modification, nanostructured composites, and energy applications. His work bridges the gap between fundamental physics and practical material applications, driving progress in advanced alloy engineering.

🏅Awards: 

M. R. Ebrahim has received several prestigious recognitions for his outstanding contributions to solid-state physics, surface mechanical alloying, and severe plastic deformation. He has been acknowledged for his innovative patents, including the “Machine for Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment (SMAT)” and “Supercapacitors Construction from Fiberglass through Surface Mechanical Alloying.” These innovations were recognized by the Egyptian Scientific Research Academy, highlighting their significance in advancing materials science and energy storage technologies. His research excellence has also earned him invitations to international conferences, peer-reviewing roles in high-impact journals, and collaborations with leading institutions. His contributions to corrosion resistance, electrochemical behavior, and composite materials have been widely cited, further solidifying his reputation as a leading researcher in his field. His dedication to applied physics and engineering continues to influence modern materials science, making him a strong contender for prestigious scientific awards and fellowships.

🔬Research Focus:

M. R. Ebrahim’s research is centered on solid-state physics, surface engineering, and severe plastic deformation (SPD) to enhance material properties. His work on surface mechanical alloying (SMA) and surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) has led to significant advancements in corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and electrical properties of aluminum-based materials. A key aspect of his research is the development of supercapacitors using fiberglass and aluminum composites, which has implications for energy storage and electronic applications. His studies also explore electrochemical behavior, dielectric permittivity, and microstructural evolution in materials subjected to mechanical treatments. By integrating experimental physics with material science, he has successfully introduced innovative methodologies to modify and enhance material surfaces for industrial and technological applications. His contributions are particularly impactful in nanomaterials, thin films, and composite materials, where his work continues to drive new advancements in materials engineering and applied physics.

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Electrical properties of Al-Si surface composites through surface mechanical alloying on severe plastic deformed Al substrates”

  • “Mechanical treatment of aluminum plate surfaces for improvements of capacitance and dielectric permittivity”

  • “Corrosion behavior of aluminum-Fiber Glass composite fabricated through surface mechanical alloying in alkaline media”

  • “Electrochemical behavior of Al₂O₃/Al composite coated Al electrodes through surface mechanical alloying in alkaline media”

  • “Terahertz acoustic phonon detection from a compact surface layer of spherical nanoparticles powder mixture of aluminum, alumina and multi-walled carbon nanotube”

  • “Improving corrosion resistance of Al through severe plastic deformation 1-under free condition”

  • “Improving corrosion resistance of Al through severe plastic deformation 2-under accelerated condition”

  • “Spectroscopic Analysis of Severe Plastically Deformed Raw Al Rolled Sheet”

  • “Microstructure and Microhardness Evolutions of High Fe Containing Near-Eutectic Al-Si Rapidly Solidified Alloy”

  • “Microstructure and microhardness evolution of melt-spun Al-Si-Cu alloy”

  • “Study of Phase Evolution in Sputtered Al/Ru Bi-layers Nanocrystalline Thin Films”