Jiacheng Li | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jiacheng Li | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Teacher at Beijing Normal University, China

Dr. Jiacheng Li is an accomplished Assistant Professor at the School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, China. With a strong academic foundation in environmental engineering and catalysis, Dr. Li has developed an impressive portfolio in pollution control and water treatment technologies. His research is centered on the design and application of advanced materials—including single-atom catalysts and porous frameworks—for the treatment of various pollutants such as nitrates, heavy metals, and halogenated phenols. His interdisciplinary expertise combines electrochemical techniques, catalysis, and materials science, enabling him to develop innovative, environmentally friendly solutions. Dr. Li has made significant scholarly contributions, publishing in high-impact journals like Environmental Science & Technology, PNAS, Applied Catalysis B, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. He earned his Ph.D. from China University of Petroleum (Beijing), followed by a postdoctoral tenure at Tsinghua University, one of China’s premier research institutions. His academic journey is marked by dedication, rigor, and a commitment to translating scientific knowledge into practical environmental applications. Dr. Li’s evolving research continues to contribute to sustainable development goals, particularly in the areas of clean water and pollution remediation. His future aims include developing multifunctional materials for scalable, cost-effective environmental treatments.

Professional Profile

Education

Jiacheng Li’s educational journey is rooted in some of China’s most esteemed universities, equipping him with a robust interdisciplinary foundation in environmental science, chemistry, and materials engineering. He began his academic pursuit at the East China University of Science and Technology, earning a Bachelor’s degree between 2008 and 2012. This undergraduate education grounded him in chemical engineering principles and sparked his interest in environmental issues. To further specialize, Dr. Li pursued doctoral studies at the China University of Petroleum (Beijing) from 2012 to 2017, where he obtained his Ph.D. His research during this period focused on environmental catalysis and water purification, areas that would become central to his career. His doctoral work emphasized the synthesis and application of novel catalytic materials for pollutant removal, laying the groundwork for his subsequent research in single-atom catalysis and electrochemical technologies. Throughout his education, Dr. Li cultivated a deep appreciation for the relationship between scientific research and real-world environmental problems. The combination of rigorous academic training and early research experiences not only honed his technical competencies but also instilled a strong motivation to develop innovative and practical environmental solutions. His education continues to influence his research philosophy and teaching approach.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jiacheng Li’s professional career reflects a steady trajectory of academic growth and scientific excellence. Following the completion of his Ph.D. in 2017, Dr. Li joined Tsinghua University as a postdoctoral researcher, where he worked from 2017 to 2023. At Tsinghua, he collaborated with leading scientists and contributed to high-impact projects focused on electrochemical pollutant removal and catalytic material innovation. This six-year postdoctoral period was marked by intense research activity and prolific publication, as evidenced by his multiple papers in top-tier journals such as PNAS, Journal of Catalysis, and Chemical Engineering Journal. His time at Tsinghua allowed him to deepen his expertise in electrochemical technologies, single-atom catalysis, and advanced material synthesis. In 2023, Dr. Li was appointed Assistant Professor at the School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, where he currently leads research in environmental catalysis and water treatment. In his faculty role, he not only continues to publish impactful research but also mentors students and contributes to the academic community through teaching and collaborative projects. Dr. Li’s professional path illustrates a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the practical application of science to solve pressing environmental challenges.

Research Interest

Dr. Jiacheng Li’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental chemistry, catalysis, and materials science, with a strong emphasis on sustainable technologies for pollutant removal. His primary focus is on the development and application of advanced catalytic systems—especially single-atom catalysts, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and mesoporous materials—for the treatment of contaminants in water and air. Key pollutants of interest include nitrates, heavy metals like Cr(VI) and Cu(II), and halogenated phenols, which pose serious threats to environmental and public health. He is particularly interested in the electrochemical reduction of nitrates to harmless or useful products, an area where he has achieved high Faradaic efficiencies with single cobalt atom catalysts. His work also explores the recovery and reuse of waste materials, such as transforming spent zeolites into functional electrochemical devices. Additionally, Dr. Li investigates the structure–activity relationships of catalysts, aiming to enhance their selectivity, stability, and efficiency. By integrating material synthesis, computational modeling, and mechanistic studies, he strives to design next-generation environmental materials that are both effective and economically viable. His broader vision is to contribute to the development of green, scalable technologies that align with global environmental sustainability goals.

Research Skills

Dr. Jiacheng Li possesses a broad and sophisticated skill set that spans material synthesis, electrochemistry, and environmental engineering. His core technical skills include the design and fabrication of advanced materials, such as single-atom catalysts, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolites, and mesoporous silica composites. He is adept at various synthesis techniques including hydrothermal, sol–gel, and impregnation methods, allowing precise control over morphology, composition, and porosity. In electrochemical analysis, Dr. Li is experienced in using tools like cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and chronoamperometry to evaluate catalytic performance, particularly for nitrate reduction and denitrification processes. He is also skilled in spectroscopic and microscopic characterization methods such as XPS, TEM, SEM, and BET surface analysis to probe material structure and activity. Furthermore, he employs kinetic modeling and mechanistic studies to understand reaction pathways and optimize catalytic efficiency. His interdisciplinary approach integrates chemistry, environmental science, and nanotechnology, enabling him to tackle complex environmental challenges with innovative solutions. Dr. Li’s research skills are not only limited to laboratory techniques; he also excels in scientific communication, evidenced by his publications in prestigious journals. These combined abilities make him a valuable contributor to both academic research and applied environmental technologies.

Awards and Honors

Although specific formal awards are not detailed in the provided profile, Dr. Jiacheng Li’s academic accomplishments and publication record reflect high-level recognition and influence in the environmental science and catalysis communities. His work has appeared in world-renowned journals such as Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA (PNAS), Environmental Science & Technology, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, signaling peer acknowledgment of his impactful contributions. Co-authoring multiple papers in PNAS—a prestigious multidisciplinary journal—is itself indicative of his international standing. The consistent collaboration with top-tier researchers, including during his tenure at Tsinghua University, also points to recognition and trust within the scientific community. Additionally, his appointment as Assistant Professor at Beijing Normal University, a leading institution in environmental education and research, highlights his merit and academic potential. His published works are frequently cited, contributing to the global discourse on water treatment and pollution control. In the coming years, it is likely that Dr. Li’s groundbreaking research will garner further institutional and professional accolades, including competitive research grants and innovation awards aligned with sustainable development initiatives.

Conclusion

Dr. Jiacheng Li stands out as a dedicated scientist, innovative researcher, and emerging leader in the field of environmental catalysis and pollutant remediation. His academic journey—from undergraduate studies to a Ph.D., postdoctoral research at Tsinghua University, and his current role as Assistant Professor at Beijing Normal University—has been marked by excellence and consistent contribution to addressing global environmental challenges. Dr. Li’s research bridges fundamental science and practical application, focusing on next-generation materials and electrochemical technologies for the removal of hazardous pollutants from water systems. His numerous publications in high-impact journals underscore his role as a thought leader in the areas of nitrate reduction, heavy metal treatment, and catalytic material development. Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Li brings a collaborative spirit, mentoring capability, and a vision for sustainable, scalable environmental solutions. His work not only advances academic knowledge but also offers viable strategies for real-world environmental protection. As he continues to expand his research portfolio, Dr. Li is poised to make even greater contributions to the fields of environmental science, green chemistry, and materials innovation—ultimately improving environmental health and safety for future generations.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Effective oxidative desulfurization of high-sulfur petroleum coke over 4A zeolite reinforced Mo@CeO₂
Authors: Jiacheng Li d, Wenfang Zhang a, Yuge Shen c, Fumin Li a, Mingqing Hua a, Peiwen Wu a, Huifang Cheng a, Hui Liu a, Yan Huang a, Jixing Liu a, Wenshuai Zhu a, b

Year: 2025
Title: Efficient oxidative desulfurization of high-sulfur petroleum coke over polyoxometalates HPA coupled CeO₂
Authors: Jiacheng Li e, Fengxin Li a, Yan Wang c, Fumin Li c, Mingqing Hua c, Yan Huang c, Huifang Cheng c, d, Haibo Wu d, Jixing Liu b, c
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Title: Evolution of Interfacial Hydration Structure Induced by Ion Condensation and Correlation Effects
Authors: Han Li; Zhi Xu; Jiacheng Li; Alessandro Siria; Ming Ma
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Likun Gao | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Likun Gao | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Northeast forestry University, China

Professor Likun Gao is a pioneering researcher in the interdisciplinary field of advanced wood-based materials, serving at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Northeast Forestry University, China. His work is at the forefront of integrating wood science with cutting-edge nanotechnology, particularly focusing on wood nanogenerators, electrocatalytic wood, and multifunctional self-healing materials. With a robust foundation in wood science and engineering, he has rapidly ascended as an influential academic voice in materials research. His innovations have practical implications for sustainable energy, water splitting, environmental sensing, and extreme-condition applications. Professor Gao has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications in premier journals such as Chem. Soc. Rev., PNAS, Energy & Environmental Science, and Advanced Functional Materials. His contributions include several highly cited papers and journal covers, affirming the novelty and impact of his research. He also holds multiple patents and has co-authored important book chapters related to electrocatalysis and wood-based functional materials. Recognized through prestigious programs like China’s National Ten Thousand Talents and the CAST Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship, Gao exemplifies the next generation of scientific leadership in sustainable and intelligent materials. His commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific innovation positions him as a transformative figure in applied materials science.

Professional Profile

Education

Likun Gao’s educational journey reflects a deep and consistent focus on wood science and materials engineering, beginning with a Bachelor of Science in Wood Science and Engineering from Northeast Forestry University in 2014. Demonstrating early academic promise, he pursued his doctoral studies at the same institution, earning a Ph.D. in Wood Science and Technology in 2020. His doctoral research was marked by a growing interest in integrating biological materials with nanotechnology to produce functional composites. As part of his Ph.D. program, Gao was selected for an international research stint at the Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, from 2018 to 2020. There, he expanded his expertise in materials science and engineering, engaging with global experts and exploring the intersection of nanomaterials and bio-based resources. This international exposure enriched his methodological rigor and allowed him to contribute to several high-impact collaborations. His academic background forms the backbone of his innovative research portfolio and underpins his current leadership in multifunctional wood-based materials. The comprehensive, cross-continental training he received has equipped him with a unique perspective on the potential of sustainable materials in modern technology.

Professional Experience

Since March 2021, Professor Likun Gao has been serving as a full Professor at Northeast Forestry University’s School of Materials Science and Engineering. In this role, he leads a dynamic research group exploring the frontier of wood nanotechnology and sustainable energy materials. Building on his doctoral and international postdoctoral experiences, he has established an impressive track record of research output and innovation. Under his leadership, the lab has produced over 40 peer-reviewed journal articles, numerous high-impact papers, and several patents. His collaborations span interdisciplinary teams focused on energy conversion, smart materials, and environmental responsiveness. In addition to his scientific output, Professor Gao is also dedicated to mentoring students and early-career researchers. He regularly supervises graduate students, fostering an environment of creativity, innovation, and academic rigor. His teaching responsibilities include advanced courses in nanomaterials, wood science, and electrocatalysis. Beyond academic instruction, Gao actively contributes to national and international research projects and often serves as a reviewer for top-tier journals. His role as a professor is multifaceted—blending research, mentorship, collaboration, and academic service—which has rapidly elevated his stature in China’s scientific community and beyond.

Research Interest

Professor Likun Gao’s research interests lie at the convergence of sustainable materials science and advanced nanotechnology, focusing particularly on wood-derived functional materials. One of his core areas is the development of wood nanogenerators, including piezoelectric and triboelectric devices, as well as cellulose-based systems. These innovations provide new pathways for harvesting renewable energy from environmental sources, especially in flexible and wearable electronics. Another major focus is electrocatalytic wood, where Gao engineers wood-based single-atom electrocatalysts for applications like water splitting, targeting efficient and green hydrogen production. He also pioneers in multifunctional, self-healing wood-based materials that exhibit unique properties such as photothermal responsiveness, anti-icing, sensing, and environmental adaptability. These materials are particularly promising for use in extreme weather conditions and smart infrastructure. His research approach is distinctly bioinspired, aiming to replicate or enhance natural functionalities through molecular-level material engineering. By leveraging the structural anisotropy and hierarchical nature of wood, Gao is able to design novel platforms for catalysis and energy generation. His interests also span surface reconstruction mechanisms, dynamic active-site modulation, and intelligent material design, reflecting a deep commitment to creating smart, eco-friendly technologies.

Research Skills

Professor Gao possesses a robust and multifaceted skill set that bridges wood science, nanotechnology, materials engineering, and electrocatalysis. His expertise includes the fabrication and functionalization of wood-derived nanogenerators, capable of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through triboelectric and piezoelectric effects. He is also skilled in the design and synthesis of single-atom electrocatalysts embedded in wood substrates, which are essential for enhancing the kinetics of water-splitting reactions. Gao’s technical toolkit includes advanced material characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, and in situ operando methods, which he uses to explore catalytic mechanisms and interface dynamics. Additionally, he has substantial experience in surface modification strategies to imbue wood-based composites with photothermal, hydrophobic, and self-healing properties. His lab routinely integrates superhydrophobic coatings, carbonization techniques, and atomic doping to create responsive multifunctional materials. Professor Gao also has notable strengths in writing scientific publications, securing research grants, and patenting novel technologies. His collaborative work with international teams underscores his ability to work across disciplines and cultural contexts, making him an agile and resourceful scientist in the global research landscape.

Awards and Honors

Professor Likun Gao has garnered widespread recognition for his pioneering work in wood-based functional materials, receiving numerous prestigious awards that underscore his contributions to scientific innovation and academic excellence. In 2023, he was selected for China’s National Ten Thousand Talents Program for High-level Young Talents—one of the country’s highest honors for young researchers. A year prior, in 2022, he was awarded the Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), an accolade reserved for researchers demonstrating extraordinary potential in advancing science and technology. He also received the Excellent Young Scholar Award from the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province, recognizing his outstanding research in applied materials. Professor Gao has contributed to 3 book chapters and authored over 40 high-quality journal articles, several of which were highlighted as ESI Highly Cited Papers, journal cover stories, or Hot Papers. His intellectual property portfolio includes five patents, reflecting a commitment to practical innovation. These honors collectively affirm his leadership in the field and serve as milestones in a career defined by creativity, scientific rigor, and impactful problem-solving.

Conclusion

In summary, Professor Likun Gao stands as a dynamic and forward-thinking figure in the fields of materials science and wood-based nanotechnology. His research bridges the gap between nature and cutting-edge engineering, offering solutions for sustainable energy, smart materials, and functional composites. With a strong academic foundation, international exposure, and a commitment to interdisciplinary research, Gao has built a formidable reputation as a scientist, educator, and innovator. His work is not only scientifically profound but also socially and environmentally relevant, addressing global challenges like clean energy, climate resilience, and sustainable resource use. Through a combination of technical expertise, scholarly productivity, and leadership, Professor Gao has earned national and international recognition. As a young academic leader, he continues to push the boundaries of material innovation while fostering the next generation of researchers. With a track record of high-impact publications, prestigious awards, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, he is well-positioned to influence both academic advancements and industrial applications. The trajectory of his career reflects a deep-seated passion for discovery and a vision for materials that are both intelligent and sustainable.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Wood-based triboelectric nanogenerator integrated with superhydrophobicity and photothermal-induced self-healing for high-temperature and high-humidity environment
    Authors: M. Wang, X. Li, D. Lv, P. He, C. Yang, J. Li, L. Gao*
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: High-Loading Single Atoms via Hierarchically Porous Nanospheres for Oxygen Reduction Reaction with Superior Activity and Durability
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Self-supported N-doped carbon-coupled Ni–Co binary nanoparticle electrodes derived from bionic design of wood cell walls for durable overall water splitting
    Authors: C. Yang, R. Jin, Z. Liu, S. Li, D. Lv, J. Liu, J. Li, Z. Lin*, L. Gao*
    Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: Collaborative integration of ultrafine Fe₂P nanocrystals into Fe, N, P-codoped carbon nanoshells for highly-efficient oxygen reduction
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 56