Liang Yang | Nanotechnology Innovations | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Liang Yang | Nanotechnology Innovations | Best Researcher Award

Associate Researcher at Hefei Institute of Physical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Dr. Liang Yang is a distinguished Chinese researcher specializing in the development of fluorescence and chemiluminescence-based nanoscale sensing technologies. Born in Anhui Province in 1986, Dr. Yang has built an impressive career centered around the detection of environmental hazards and biomedical imaging. Currently based at the Institute of Intelligent Machines within the Chinese Academy of Sciences, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to the fields of analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, and materials science. Over the years, Dr. Yang has contributed to numerous high-impact publications, particularly in journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Analytical Chemistry, and Journal of Hazardous Materials. His work focuses on the synthesis and application of organic fluorescent molecules, ratiometric sensors, and upconversion luminescent probes for real-time, visual, and highly sensitive monitoring of various analytes, including antibiotics, heavy metals, and biomarkers. With a strong foundation in chemistry and engineering, Dr. Yang is driven by a mission to improve public health and environmental monitoring through innovative sensing platforms. His scientific excellence is demonstrated through a prolific record of patents and publications, many of which feature advanced portable detection technologies utilizing smartphones and wearable devices. Dr. Yang continues to pursue breakthroughs that bridge laboratory research with real-world applications.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Liang Yang received both his undergraduate and doctoral education from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), one of China’s premier research institutions. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 2008, developing a solid foundation in chemistry and materials science. During this time, he cultivated a growing interest in nanoscale materials and their applications in analytical chemistry. Motivated by a desire to deepen his expertise and contribute to innovative research, he pursued a Ph.D. at USTC, completing his doctoral degree in 2015. His Ph.D. work focused on the development of advanced fluorescence-based sensing platforms for chemical and biological detection, with particular emphasis on environmental monitoring and healthcare diagnostics. Through rigorous academic training, Dr. Yang gained extensive experience in designing novel fluorescent molecules, manipulating nanomaterials, and constructing sensitive detection systems. His graduate research was marked by interdisciplinary collaboration and culminated in multiple publications in internationally recognized journals. The strong mentorship he received at USTC helped shape his scientific approach, fostering a mindset geared toward problem-solving and innovation. His education not only provided him with theoretical knowledge but also with practical laboratory skills that laid the groundwork for his future contributions to chemiluminescence sensing and nanotechnology-enhanced analytical chemistry.

Professional Experience

Since completing his Ph.D., Dr. Liang Yang has built a robust career as a research scientist at the Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, located in Hefei, Anhui Province. In this role, he has led and collaborated on numerous research projects aimed at developing high-performance, miniaturized sensors for real-time detection of hazardous substances in environmental and biological samples. His work bridges chemistry, nanomaterials, bioengineering, and optical instrumentation. Dr. Yang’s professional responsibilities encompass the design and synthesis of functional fluorescent molecules, the development of chemiluminescence and bioluminescence-based sensors, and the integration of sensing technologies with digital platforms such as smartphones and wearable devices. He has been a principal investigator or co-investigator on projects funded by major national science foundations, and he frequently contributes as the corresponding author on cutting-edge research publications. His collaborations with interdisciplinary teams have produced tangible outcomes, including the creation of portable devices for the visual detection of antibiotics, heavy metals, and metabolic markers. Dr. Yang also mentors young scientists and graduate students, fostering the next generation of researchers in nanoscience and sensor technology. His impactful work continues to advance the field of smart analytical devices and contribute to the betterment of environmental safety and human health.

Research Interest

Dr. Liang Yang’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, analytical chemistry, and biomedical sensing, with a focus on fluorescence and chemiluminescence nanoscale detection systems. He is deeply committed to advancing methodologies for the real-time, visual, and ultra-sensitive detection of hazardous substances in environmental and clinical contexts. A central theme of his work is the molecular design and functionalization of fluorescent materials for specific analytes, such as heavy metal ions, antibiotics, drugs, and biomarkers. He also explores upconversion luminescence and bioluminescence imaging for non-invasive diagnostics and health monitoring. One of his key research goals is to develop portable, user-friendly platforms—often integrated with smartphone interfaces or wearable patches—for field applications that eliminate the need for sophisticated laboratory infrastructure. Dr. Yang is especially interested in ratiometric and chroma-responsive sensing mechanisms that enhance signal accuracy and reliability. His pursuit of interdisciplinary collaboration has led to innovations in smart hydrogels, microfluidic devices, and carbon-based nanodots, contributing significantly to green chemistry and sustainable technologies. Through his research, Dr. Yang aims to improve public health, food safety, and environmental protection by delivering practical, next-generation sensor solutions tailored to real-world needs.

Research Skills

Dr. Liang Yang possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span organic synthesis, nanomaterial fabrication, sensor engineering, and data analysis. He is proficient in designing and synthesizing fluorescent and chemiluminescent molecular probes tailored for high selectivity and sensitivity. His laboratory expertise includes the development of nanoscale platforms such as quantum dots, carbon nanodots, and upconversion nanoparticles. Dr. Yang is highly skilled in spectroscopic techniques including UV-Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, and time-resolved photoluminescence, as well as imaging modalities like confocal microscopy and bioluminescence imaging. He also has extensive experience with microfluidic device fabrication and integration, allowing for the construction of lab-on-a-chip systems for simultaneous multi-analyte detection. In recent years, Dr. Yang has demonstrated innovative use of smartphone-based detection platforms and wearable hydrogel patches, showcasing his ability to transition complex laboratory technologies into accessible, portable formats. His research also involves statistical data analysis, sensor calibration, and algorithm development for visual interpretation of chemical signals. A strong communicator and collaborator, Dr. Yang effectively works across disciplinary boundaries, integrating chemistry, material science, biomedical engineering, and computer science. These versatile research skills have enabled him to contribute significantly to the development of high-performance, environmentally responsive sensors for health and safety monitoring.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and research career, Dr. Liang Yang has earned recognition for his pioneering contributions to sensor technology and analytical chemistry. While specific awards are not detailed in the provided record, the consistent publication of his research in top-tier journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Analytical Chemistry, and Advanced Science speaks volumes about his impact and scientific standing. His role as corresponding author on numerous articles is a testament to his leadership and innovation in developing cutting-edge detection systems. Dr. Yang’s patented inventions and his contributions to portable, user-friendly analytical platforms have positioned him as a key figure in translating complex sensing technology into practical solutions. His work has likely been supported by competitive grants from national funding bodies, indicating institutional recognition of the importance and quality of his research. Additionally, Dr. Yang’s active mentorship of younger researchers and students reflects the esteem in which he is held by peers and colleagues. His ability to continuously push the boundaries of luminescent sensing has not only earned him academic respect but has also helped shape the trajectory of sensor development for environmental and biomedical applications in China and beyond.

Conclusion

Dr. Liang Yang stands at the forefront of analytical chemistry and nanoscale sensing innovation. With a strong academic foundation from the University of Science and Technology of China and extensive professional experience at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, he has consistently demonstrated excellence in research, technology development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His scientific pursuits are anchored in solving real-world challenges—whether it’s detecting environmental toxins, monitoring health markers, or ensuring food safety. Through his work on fluorescence and chemiluminescence sensors, Dr. Yang has significantly advanced the capabilities of visual and quantitative detection systems, making them more accessible through smartphones and wearable devices. He blends rigorous scientific methodology with creativity, resulting in numerous high-impact publications and technological innovations. Looking ahead, Dr. Yang is poised to continue driving breakthroughs in intelligent sensing systems and expanding their practical applications across healthcare, environmental monitoring, and smart diagnostics. His dedication to bridging the gap between laboratory research and societal needs exemplifies the ideal of science serving humanity. As he continues to mentor young researchers and collaborate across fields, Dr. Yang’s influence is set to grow, cementing his role as a leader in the next generation of sensor science and sustainable innovation.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Background-Free Imaging of Food Freshness Using Curcumin-Functionalized Upconversion Reversible Hydrogel Patch
    Authors: R. Jiang, F. Yang, X. Kang, L. Pan, L. Yang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  2. Title: Zinc Doping-Induced Lattice Growth Regulation for Enhanced Upconversion Emission in Serum Bilirubin Detection
    Authors: L. Zhang, X. Kang, F. Yang, L. Yang, C. Jiang
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Visual Detection of Methylglyoxal in Multiple Scenarios via NIR-Excitable Reversible Ratiometric Fluorescent Hydrogel Sensor
    Authors: X. Kang, L. Zhang, W. Jia, L. Yang, C. Jiang
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: Porphyrin Nanoparticles-Based Portable Smartphone Platform for Visual Monitoring of Heavy Metal Cr(III) in the Environment
    Authors: X. Li, L. Pan, L. Yang, F. Yang, C. Jiang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  5. Title: Multi-Deformable Interpenetrating Network Thermosensitive Hydrogel Fluorescent Device for Real-Time and Visual Detection of Nitrite
    Authors: L. Li, D. Lin, S. Xu, L. Yang, C. Jiang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  6. Title: Design of Microfluidic Fluorescent Sensor Arrays for Real-Time and Synchronously Visualized Detection of Multi-Component Heavy Metal Ions
    Authors: L. Li, S. Xu, X. Li, L. Yang, C. Jiang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

Yi Lu | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yi Lu | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Beijing University of Technology, China

Dr. Yi Lu is a dedicated researcher and academic at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Technology. With a strong focus on aluminum alloys, Dr. Lu has developed a deep expertise in understanding the intricate relationship between their mechanical properties and microstructure. Over the course of her academic journey, she has been actively involved in a national key research and development project, contributing significantly to the advancement of materials science in China. Dr. Lu has authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles, including four SCI-indexed papers, two of which are published in top-tier SCI1 journals. Her research outputs have garnered six citations to date, reflecting the growing relevance of her work in the scientific community. She has also established international research collaboration with the University of Auckland, further enhancing the global dimension of her academic contributions. Although early in her career, Dr. Lu’s commitment to innovation and excellence positions her as a promising figure in the field. Her work encompasses both theoretical and applied aspects of materials science, with special attention to corrosion behavior, hydrogen embrittlement, and refining processes in aluminum alloys. Driven by a passion for discovery, Dr. Lu continues to push the boundaries of research and make meaningful contributions to her field.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Yi Lu pursued her academic training in materials science with a strong emphasis on metal research, particularly aluminum alloys. She earned her advanced degrees from reputable institutions that laid a strong foundation for her scientific pursuits. Throughout her studies, she demonstrated exceptional analytical and experimental skills, which were honed through hands-on laboratory work and advanced coursework in metallurgy, corrosion science, mechanical behavior of materials, and materials processing. Her educational journey emphasized the integration of theoretical knowledge with experimental application, preparing her to explore complex research topics such as microstructural characterization and failure mechanisms in metals. During her graduate studies, she was actively involved in collaborative research, presenting her work at seminars and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. These academic experiences sharpened her ability to approach scientific challenges methodically and rigorously. Her thesis focused on understanding the influence of microstructure on the mechanical and corrosion properties of aluminum alloys, a subject that continues to underpin her current research. The depth of her education, coupled with her persistent curiosity and discipline, has equipped Dr. Lu with the tools necessary to make substantial contributions in the field of materials science. Her academic background continues to serve as a vital pillar supporting her professional research and innovation.

Professional Experience

Currently serving as a researcher at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Dr. Yi Lu plays a crucial role in advancing the institution’s research capabilities in metallic materials. Her professional work is centered around aluminum alloys, exploring key issues related to their mechanical properties, corrosion behavior, and hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms. Dr. Lu has been a vital team member in a national key research and development project, where she contributed to the experimental design, materials testing, and analysis of microstructural transformations. This project offered her a platform to apply her academic knowledge to real-world problems, bridging the gap between theory and industrial application. She has also authored several SCI-indexed journal articles, establishing her as a published researcher with international reach. Her professional collaborations extend beyond China, as evidenced by her research partnership with the University of Auckland. These experiences have strengthened her ability to work in cross-cultural, interdisciplinary teams and have enriched her understanding of global research dynamics. While Dr. Lu has not yet engaged in consultancy or industry-specific projects, her academic and project-based experience positions her well for future involvement in industrial research, particularly in sectors where material durability and performance are critical.

Research Interest

Dr. Yi Lu’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science and engineering, with a strong focus on the behavior and performance of aluminum alloys. Her primary areas of investigation include the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys and how these are influenced by microstructural features. She is particularly intrigued by the factors that govern the corrosion resistance of these materials, an issue of critical importance in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. Dr. Lu also explores various refining techniques to enhance the purity and structural uniformity of aluminum alloys. One of the more specialized aspects of her work is the study of hydrogen embrittlement—an often overlooked but significant phenomenon that compromises the integrity of metals. Through her research, she seeks to understand the mechanisms behind hydrogen-induced failures and propose mitigation strategies. These interconnected areas form a cohesive framework that allows Dr. Lu to address both fundamental questions and practical challenges in materials performance. Her interests are not only driven by academic curiosity but also by the broader societal need for more resilient, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials. By focusing her research on these critical topics, she aims to contribute to the development of next-generation metallic materials with enhanced longevity and reliability.

Research Skills

Dr. Yi Lu possesses a robust set of research skills that enable her to tackle complex problems in materials science with precision and innovation. She is proficient in a wide range of experimental techniques used to analyze the mechanical and corrosion behavior of metals, particularly aluminum alloys. Her expertise includes mechanical testing methods such as tensile, hardness, and fatigue analysis, which she uses to assess the structural integrity of alloys. In addition, she is skilled in metallographic examination and advanced microscopy, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), allowing her to investigate microstructural features at fine resolutions. Dr. Lu is also experienced in electrochemical testing methods, which are essential for understanding corrosion kinetics and resistance. Her analytical skills extend to data interpretation and modeling, ensuring that experimental findings are rigorously evaluated and contextually grounded. Furthermore, she demonstrates competence in scientific writing and has successfully published in high-impact SCI journals. Her collaborative research experience with the University of Auckland highlights her ability to contribute to international projects and interdisciplinary teams. Whether conducting experiments, interpreting results, or drafting manuscripts, Dr. Lu consistently applies scientific rigor and attention to detail, making her a capable and well-rounded researcher in her field.

Awards and Honors

Although Dr. Yi Lu is in the early stages of her academic and research career, she has already achieved notable recognition for her contributions to materials science. Her most significant honor to date is her participation in a national key research and development project, a competitive and prestigious initiative that selects promising researchers to contribute to groundbreaking scientific work. In this project, Dr. Lu’s role was instrumental in generating valuable findings related to aluminum alloy performance. She has published four SCI-indexed papers and one EI paper, with two articles appearing in high-impact SCI1 journals—an accomplishment that reflects both the quality and relevance of her research. Her work has received six citations, an encouraging indicator of her growing impact within the academic community. Dr. Lu has also been nominated for the Best Researcher Award, a testament to her dedication and early academic promise. These accolades, while still accumulating, signify her upward trajectory in the field. As she continues to publish, collaborate, and contribute to material science research, Dr. Lu is poised to garner more awards and recognition. Her commitment to excellence and innovation lays the groundwork for future honors at both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Yi Lu exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and forward-thinking researcher in the field of materials science and engineering. Her academic journey and professional work are unified by a clear focus on improving the performance and durability of aluminum alloys, which are critical to a wide range of industrial applications. Through rigorous experimentation, international collaboration, and scholarly publication, she has demonstrated the ability to contribute meaningful insights to her discipline. Her areas of expertise—including mechanical behavior, corrosion mechanisms, refining methods, and hydrogen embrittlement—address some of the most pressing challenges in metallic materials. Despite being at an early stage in her career, Dr. Lu’s accomplishments—such as participation in a national research initiative and publications in high-tier journals—highlight her potential for future leadership in research and innovation. She continues to refine her experimental techniques, expand her scientific understanding, and seek impactful collaborations. Looking ahead, Dr. Lu aims to further integrate her theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ultimately contributing to the design and development of materials that are stronger, lighter, and more resistant to environmental stress. Her dedication to scientific progress and her methodical approach to research ensure that she will remain a valuable asset to her institution and the global materials science community.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: High thermal stability of Si-containing Al-Zn-Mg-Cu crossover alloy caused by metastable GPB-II phase
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Wu Wei, Xiaolan Wu, Kunyuan Gao, Hui Huang, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: The enhanced aging hardening behavior in Si-containing Al-5Zn-1Mg-1Cu alloys
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2024

  3. Title: The phase transformation and enhancing mechanical properties in high Zn/Mg ratio Al–Zn–Mg–Cu(-Si) alloys
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Kunyuan Gao, Xiangyuan Xiong, Wu Wei, Xiaolan Wu, Hui Huang, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: TeleAware Robot: Designing Awareness-augmented Telepresence Robot for Remote Collaborative Locomotion
    Authors: Ruyi Li, Yaxin Zhu, Min Liu, Yihang Zeng, Shanning Zhuang, Jiayi Fu, Yi Lu, Guyue Zhou, Can Liu, Jiangtao Gong
    Year: 2024