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​

 

Prof. Haq Nawaz | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Haq Nawaz | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Haq Nawaz | Materials Chemistry | Professor of Chemistry at Huaiyin Normal University, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, China

Dr. Haq Nawaz is a Professor of Chemistry at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Normal University, China. With over 65 publications in high-impact journals, his research focuses on biomass-derived functional materials, cellulose modification, and fluorescent sensors. He has received prestigious fellowships, including the CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI) and the CNPq-TWAS Ph.D. Fellowship. Dr. Nawaz has extensive experience in academia and research, with postdoctoral stints at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Beijing Forestry University. His work on biopolymer-based smart materials has contributed significantly to green chemistry and sustainable material development. He actively participates in national and international research projects, securing major grants. His expertise spans chemical/physical modification of cellulose and lignin, developing super-strong films, fibers, and paper electronics. His dedication to multifunctional material synthesis makes him a leading scientist in his field.

Professional Profile :         

Orcid

Scopus  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Haq Nawaz is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”, given his extensive contributions to the field of biomass-based smart materials and green chemistry. With over 65 high-impact research articles in prestigious journals such as ACS Nano, Chemical Engineering Journal, Green Chemistry, and Analytical Chemistry, he has demonstrated scientific excellence and innovation. His research, which focuses on developing sustainable materials, functional fluorescent sensors, and advanced bio-based polymers, has profound implications for renewable energy, smart packaging, and biodegradable materials. Dr. Nawaz has successfully led and contributed to multiple funded research projects, securing substantial grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other institutions. His global academic journey, spanning research roles in China, Brazil, Pakistan, Finland, and the UK, highlights his international impact. Additionally, his recognition through prestigious fellowships, including the CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI) and CNPq-TWAS Postgraduate Fellowship, further solidifies his status as a leading scientist in his domain. With an impressive research portfolio, a strong publication record, and a commitment to innovation in green chemistry and sustainable materials, Dr. Haq Nawaz is a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes to environmental sustainability and technological advancements in material science.

🎓Education:

Dr. Haq Nawaz holds a Ph.D. in Physical Organic Chemistry from the Institute of Chemistry, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil (2010-2014), funded by a CNPq-TWAS fellowship. During his doctoral studies, he conducted a sandwich research project at Aalto University, Finland (2013). Prior to this, he completed an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan (2003-2005), where he earned a Distinction Certificate. He also passed competitive exams, including the International Subjective GRE (Chemistry) with 68 percentile and the Graduate Assessment Test (GAT) with 87 percentile. Additionally, he served as a Research Assistant at H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi (2006-2009). His strong academic background laid the foundation for his expertise in biopolymer chemistry, material science, and functional materials development.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Haq Nawaz has an extensive professional career in academia and research. He is currently a Professor of Chemistry at Huaiyin Normal University, China (2023–Present). Previously, he was a Research Associate at Beijing Forestry University (2019–2023) under the Talent Induction Program (Category A). He completed two Postdoctoral Fellowships at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) (2016–2019), supported by the CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI) and the Young International Scientists Fellowship. Dr. Nawaz also worked as an Assistant Professor at the University of Education, Lahore (2015–2016). During his Ph.D., he served as a Research Assistant at H.E.J. Research Institute, University of Karachi (2006–2009). His expertise in biopolymer modification, fluorescent sensor design, and sustainable material development has led to multiple high-impact publications and significant contributions to biomass-based functional materials.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Haq Nawaz has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to chemistry and material sciences through numerous prestigious fellowships and research awards. He was a recipient of the CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI) for postdoctoral research at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ICCAS), Beijing (2017–2019). Additionally, he received the Young International Scientists Fellowship from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (2016–2017). His doctoral research was fully funded by the CNPq-TWAS Postgraduate Fellowship (2010–2014), a prestigious award from the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). He also secured a six-month IRSIP scholarship from the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) to conduct research at the University of Oxford, UK. Earlier in his career, he received a Research Assistant Fellowship from H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Pakistan (2006–2009).

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Haq Nawaz specializes in biomass dissolution and transformation into multifunctional materials, with a primary emphasis on cellulose and lignin-based smart materials. His work involves the chemical and physical modification of lignocellulosic materials to develop fluorescent sensors, electrospun fibers, regenerated fibers, and high-performance films for use in paper electronics, OLEDs, and sustainable packaging. He is particularly interested in designing cellulose-based solid fluorescent materials, synthesizing ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents (DES) for biomass processing, and developing eco-friendly solvents for sustainable material fabrication. His research also extends to the selective separation and functionalization of agricultural straw components for enhanced adsorption and material applications. By integrating advanced material science with green chemistry, he aims to pioneer innovative and sustainable technologies for bio-based electronic devices, biodegradable packaging, and energy-efficient material.

Publication Top Notes:

Translucent and Anti-ultraviolet Aramid Nanofiber Films with Efficient Light Management Fabricated by Sol–Gel Transformation

Facile Preparation of Lignin-Based Material for Fluorescent Detection of Pyrrole

An Efficient Approach for the Production of Polyhydroxybutyrate from Lignin by Alkali-Halophile Halomonas alkalicola M2

Cellulose-Based Fluorescent Material for Extreme pH Sensing and Smart Printing Applications

Anisotropic Cellulose Nanofibril Aerogels Fabricated by Directional Stabilization and Ambient Drying for Efficient Solar Evaporation

Lignin Nanorods Reinforced Nanocomposite Hydrogels with UV-Shielding, Anti-Freezing and Anti-Drying Applications

Laminar Regenerated Cellulose Membrane Employed for High-Performance Photothermal-Gating Osmotic Power Harvesting

Lead in Drinking Water: Adsorption Method and Role of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks for Its Remediation: A Review

Janus Biopolymer Sponge with Porous Structure Based on Water Hyacinth Petiole for Efficient Solar Steam Generation

Surface-Microstructured Cellulose Films Toward Sensitive Pressure Sensors and Efficient Triboelectric Nanogenerators

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olcay Gençyılmaz | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olcay Gençyılmaz | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olcay Gençyılmaz , Çankırı Karatekin University, Turkey

Olcay Gençyılmaz is a prominent academic and researcher at Çankırı Karatekin University, specializing in materials science and nanotechnology. With expertise in thin film production, electrochemical applications, and photovoltaic systems, She has led multiple national research projects and contributed to the development of advanced materials for various applications. Throughout his career, She has worked on numerous interdisciplinary projects, exploring the effects of nanomaterials on environmental sustainability, energy production, and health. As a dedicated educator, he actively engages in mentoring graduate and doctoral students, guiding them in their research endeavors. His work is widely recognized in the scientific community, and he has published extensively in international journals.

Professional Profile:

Scopus  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Olcay Gençyılmaz is highly qualified for the “Best Researcher Award” due to his outstanding contributions in the field of materials science and nanotechnology. His extensive research on thin films, nanomaterials, and their applications in energy systems, environmental sustainability, and healthcare has positioned him as a leading figure in his field. His work on the development of innovative materials for photovoltaics, electrochemical energy storage, and environmental remediation demonstrates his commitment to solving global challenges. His academic achievements, leadership in research projects, and numerous high-quality publications underscore his excellence in research and innovation, which are key criteria for this prestigious recognition.

🎓Education:

Olcay Gençyılmaz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and a Master’s degree in Materials Science. He earned his Ph.D. in Nanotechnology from Çankırı Karatekin University, Turkey. His educational journey was marked by a focus on developing thin films for applications in energy and electronics. She participated in numerous academic workshops and research collaborations, enhancing his understanding of advanced materials and their characterization. Olcay’s education laid the foundation for his career, enabling him to contribute to the scientific community with cutting-edge research.

🏢Work Experience:

Olcay Gençyılmaz’s professional experience spans both academia and research. As an Associate Professor at Çankırı Karatekin University, She has supervised numerous research projects and mentored graduate students. His academic expertise includes thin film characterization, nanomaterials, and energy systems. Olcay has been involved in multiple national research projects related to photovoltaic systems, electrochemical capacitors, and thin film production techniques like SILAR and spray pyrolysis. She has served as a project leader and executive board member, contributing to advancements in materials science and nanotechnology.

🏅Awards: 

Olcay Gençyılmaz has received several prestigious awards throughout his career. Notably, She was recognized by TÜBİTAK for his work on the synthesis and characterization of CuO films. His research on thin films, particularly for solar cells and energy storage, She has earned him national recognition. Olcay’s contributions to material science and nanotechnology have been pivotal in advancing these fields. His passion for research and innovation continues to inspire students and colleagues alike.

🔬Research Focus:

Olcay Gençyılmaz’s research primarily focuses on materials science, particularly thin films and nanomaterials. His work explores the production, characterization, and application of thin films for various technological fields such as photovoltaics, electrochemical energy storage, and environmental remediation. Olcay is also interested in the synthesis of nanoparticles for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications. His innovative research aims to develop sustainable materials that can address energy and environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Analyzing antimicrobial activity of ZnO/FTO, Sn–Cu-doped ZnO/FTO thin films: Production and characterizations
  • Citations: 1
2. Comparison of high antioxidant ZnO NPs produced from different fungi as alternative biomaterials
3. Comparative evaluation of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs): Photocatalysis, antibacterial, toxicity and genotoxicity
  • Citations: 1
4. Spray pyrolysis–derived V₂O₅ thin films as an alternative electrochromic layer for electrochromic devices
5. Binary ZnS–ZnO films as an alternative buffer layer for solar cell applications
  • Citations: 2