Ligang Xu | Emerging Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ligang Xu | Emerging Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, China

Dr. Ligang Xu is an accomplished associate professor at the Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NJUPT), with a research focus on perovskite solar cells and multifunctional materials. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he has emerged as a key contributor to the advancement of high-efficiency and stable perovskite photovoltaics. Dr. Xu earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he studied multifunctional surfaces under Prof. Junhui He. His undergraduate degree in Applied Chemistry from the University of Science and Technology Beijing laid the foundation for his later interdisciplinary research. Throughout his career, he has led and collaborated on national-level projects supported by prestigious foundations, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His work has been published in internationally renowned journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Materials, Small, and Energy & Environmental Science. He has been honored with numerous awards for academic excellence and innovation, including the Initiative Postdocs Talents Supporting Program and Jiangsu’s first prize in scientific research. With a growing international reputation, Dr. Xu actively contributes to academic discourse through invited talks, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications that emphasize innovation, stability, and sustainability in energy materials.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Ligang Xu’s academic foundation is rooted in chemistry and materials science, areas in which he has developed substantial expertise over the years. He began his academic journey at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry in 2009. During his undergraduate studies, he developed a strong interest in materials synthesis and characterization, particularly for energy-related applications. Motivated to pursue advanced research, Dr. Xu continued to the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he completed his Ph.D. in 2014 under the supervision of Prof. Junhui He. His doctoral research focused on the development of multifunctional surfaces, exploring their chemical and physical properties in the context of advanced material applications. This experience gave him a strong grounding in surface science, nanotechnology, and functional coatings, which later informed his transition into the field of perovskite solar cells. The rigorous academic environment and research training during his Ph.D. provided him with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in materials engineering. His education has served as a strong launching pad for a career marked by innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in advanced material systems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ligang Xu has accumulated extensive professional experience through his ongoing commitment to both academic research and applied science. Since January 2015, he has served as an associate professor at the Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NJUPT), where he contributes to cutting-edge research in photovoltaic technology and materials innovation. In this role, he has been instrumental in guiding graduate research, securing national research funding, and publishing influential scientific papers. From 2016 to 2018, Dr. Xu further deepened his research credentials through postdoctoral training at NJUPT, working under the supervision of Prof. Wei Huang. His postdoctoral work focused on perovskite solar cells, with particular emphasis on improving their efficiency and stability through interface engineering and dynamic modulation. These years were formative in refining his technical acumen and reinforcing his leadership in photovoltaic research. He has since led multiple national-level projects and collaborated with other prominent scientists on topics ranging from lead-free perovskites to soft perovskite-substrate interfaces. His professional journey reflects a blend of academic rigor, project leadership, and sustained contributions to renewable energy technologies, establishing him as a respected figure in China’s materials science community.

Research Interest

Dr. Ligang Xu’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of materials chemistry and renewable energy, with a specific focus on the design and optimization of perovskite solar cells. His work emphasizes improving both the efficiency and long-term stability of these devices through novel strategies such as interface modulation, in situ crystallization control, and compositional engineering. He is particularly fascinated by how dynamic resonance phenomena and surface/interface chemistry influence photovoltaic performance. Dr. Xu also explores the development of lead-free and environmentally friendly perovskite alternatives, aiming to advance the sustainability of next-generation solar technologies. His recent research projects have investigated the role of ionic liquids, antireflective conductive thin films, and gradient heterojunctions in enhancing the optical and electronic properties of perovskites. In addition to photovoltaics, he has a broader interest in functional surfaces and nanostructured materials for energy conversion applications. These interests stem from his multidisciplinary training in applied chemistry and surface engineering, and they continue to evolve through collaboration with leading researchers in materials science. Dr. Xu’s goal is to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical application, contributing not only to academic knowledge but also to real-world energy solutions through scalable and cost-effective solar cell technologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Ligang Xu possesses a comprehensive and advanced skill set in the synthesis, characterization, and engineering of materials for energy applications, particularly in the domain of perovskite solar cells. His expertise includes solution-based fabrication techniques such as spin-coating, vapor deposition, and in situ crystallization, enabling precise control over film morphology and device architecture. He has significant experience in interface engineering, compositional tuning, and surface modification, which are critical to improving the performance and longevity of perovskite devices. Dr. Xu is adept in using analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and photoluminescence to characterize material properties and device behavior. In addition, he is proficient in evaluating photovoltaic performance through current-voltage (J-V) measurements, external quantum efficiency (EQE), and impedance spectroscopy. His ability to integrate experimental design with theoretical modeling has enhanced his capacity to identify key mechanisms in materials behavior and device operation. These skills have enabled him to lead complex, multidisciplinary projects funded by prestigious institutions. Beyond the lab, Dr. Xu contributes to scholarly communication through scientific writing, peer review, and conference presentations, demonstrating both technical expertise and a commitment to academic leadership in the renewable energy materials community.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Ligang Xu has been recognized with numerous awards and honors that reflect his dedication to excellence in research and innovation. In 2014, he received the National Scholarship for Doctoral Students, highlighting his outstanding performance during his Ph.D. studies at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. His contributions during postdoctoral research were acknowledged in 2016 when he was selected for the highly competitive Initiative Postdocs Talents Supporting Program, a prestigious national program designed to support promising young researchers in China. In 2020, Dr. Xu was awarded the Jiangsu Provincial Government Scholarship for Study Abroad, which recognizes high-achieving scientists for international collaboration and global academic engagement. That same year, he was honored with the First Outstanding Achievement Award from the Initiative Postdocs Talents Supporting Program, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in photovoltaic research. In 2021, he received the First Prize for Scientific and Technological Research Achievement from Jiangsu Province, one of the highest regional accolades for scientific innovation. These awards underscore not only his technical achievements but also his consistent leadership, creativity, and impact on the field of renewable energy and materials science.

Conclusion

Dr. Ligang Xu represents a new generation of innovative researchers driving the future of sustainable energy through advanced materials science. With a strong academic foundation, dynamic research portfolio, and a string of high-impact publications, he has demonstrated a clear trajectory toward leadership in the field of perovskite photovoltaics. His interdisciplinary expertise in chemistry, surface science, and device engineering enables him to approach complex energy challenges with creativity and scientific rigor. Whether advancing lead-free solar technologies or optimizing interface dynamics for improved device stability, Dr. Xu continues to break new ground in materials research. His contributions are not only evident in laboratory results and academic citations but also in the real-world potential of the technologies he helps develop. Recognized nationally with competitive grants and prestigious awards, and internationally through peer-reviewed journals and invited presentations, he remains committed to excellence, collaboration, and innovation. As global demand for clean and efficient energy solutions intensifies, Dr. Xu’s work stands at the forefront of transforming cutting-edge research into practical applications. His future endeavors promise to further elevate the role of perovskite materials in achieving global sustainability goals and advancing the scientific frontier of renewable energy technologies.

 Publications Top Notes

1. Title: Graphene wrapped porous polyaniline/manganese oxide nanocomposites with enhanced structural stability and conductivity for high-performance symmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Zheng, Chunpeng; Zhu, Yang; Li, Cheng; Xu, Ligang; Huang, Juan
Journal: Polymer Composites
Year: 2025

2. Title: Rational Engineering of Phase-Pure 2D Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Guo, Ke; Lv, Wenzhen; Wang, He; Xing, Guichuan Chuan; Wu, Guangbao

3. Title: Preparation and properties of color-changing hydrogel with dual-stimulation response to temperature and pH
Authors: Zheng, Jia; Liu, Yiming; Xu, Ligang; Yao, Lin
Journal: Huagong Jinzhan / Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

4. Title: Enhancing lead-free photovoltaic performance: Minimizing buried surface voids in tin perovskite films through weakly polar solvent pre-treatment strategy
Authors: Yan, Dongdong; Zhang, Han; Gong, Chensi; Chen, Runfeng; Xu, Ligang
Journal: Journal of Energy Chemistry
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

 

 


Sara Migliorini | Innovation Impact | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sara Migliorini | Innovation Impact | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor From University of Verona, Italy

Sara Migliorini is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in data management, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology. Since 2019, she has served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Verona. Her expertise lies in processing and analyzing large datasets for predictive modeling and developing recommendation systems, with a strong focus on the tourism and agrifood sectors. Migliorini is also deeply involved in exploring the potential of blockchain technology in information systems and IoT devices. She has significantly contributed to numerous scientific projects, serving as both a team member and principal investigator. Notably, she leads the PNRR iNEST Spoke 7 smart-agrifood project, focusing on data traceability through blockchain integration and analysis. Her prolific academic output includes 31 scientific articles published in international journals, 50 conference papers, and three monograph chapters. Beyond her research, Migliorini plays a vital role in coordinating and directing research grants at the University of Verona. Her dedication to technological innovation and practical application of advanced data analysis techniques makes her a prominent figure in the fields of AI, data science, and blockchain, driving impactful research with practical industry relevance.

Professional Profiles

 Education 

Sara Migliorini holds a distinguished academic background in computer science, underpinned by her specialized expertise in data management, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology. She completed her Ph.D. in Computer Science from a reputed institution, where her research focused on large-scale data processing and predictive modeling. During her doctoral studies, she honed her skills in data analytics, machine learning, and recommendation systems, laying the foundation for her future academic and professional pursuits. Prior to her doctoral degree, Migliorini earned her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, both with honors, demonstrating her exceptional academic performance and analytical abilities. Throughout her academic journey, she actively participated in collaborative research projects, contributing to publications and conferences. Her strong educational foundation has equipped her with the technical proficiency and theoretical knowledge essential for her research endeavors. Her continuous engagement with advanced technological fields, particularly in the domains of data integration, AI, and blockchain, reflects her commitment to lifelong learning and innovation. This academic trajectory has not only shaped her expertise but also positioned her as a leading figure in computer science research, inspiring her students and peers with her technical depth and scholarly contributions.

 Professional Experience 

Sara Migliorini has built an extensive professional career characterized by her expertise in data science, artificial intelligence, and blockchain applications. Since 2019, she has been an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Verona. In this role, she has been actively engaged in both teaching and research, mentoring students while leading and contributing to various scientific projects. Her research portfolio spans predictive data analysis, recommendation systems, and AI-driven solutions tailored to the tourism and agrifood sectors. Additionally, Migliorini has played a key role in exploring blockchain’s potential for enhancing data traceability in IoT and information systems.

Beyond her teaching responsibilities, she has collaborated on numerous scientific grants, often serving as the principal investigator. She has successfully coordinated over ten research grants at the University of Verona, overseeing projects related to data integration and AI applications. Currently, she leads the PNRR iNEST Spoke 7 smart-agrifood project, where she spearheads blockchain-based data traceability initiatives. Her professional career is marked by a commitment to technological advancement and applied research, making her a prominent figure in the field of computer science. Her expertise continues to drive innovation, bridging the gap between academic research and real-world technological applications.

 Research Interest 

Sara Migliorini’s research interests revolve around data science, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology, with a strong focus on their practical applications in various industries. Her primary area of expertise lies in the management, processing, and analysis of large datasets for predictive modeling and the development of recommendation systems. She is particularly interested in applying AI-driven analytics to the tourism and agrifood sectors, where data insights can enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.

Migliorini is also deeply involved in blockchain technology, specifically investigating its integration into information systems and IoT devices. Her work in this area focuses on enhancing data traceability, security, and reliability, which are crucial for applications in agrifood supply chains and smart systems. She is particularly intrigued by the convergence of AI and blockchain, exploring how these technologies can be combined to create transparent, secure, and efficient data ecosystems.

Her ongoing research in the PNRR iNEST Spoke 7 smart-agrifood project exemplifies her commitment to applying blockchain technology for large-scale data traceability. With a forward-thinking approach, she continues to explore emerging technologies, contributing to innovative solutions that address real-world challenges through advanced data analysis and secure technology frameworks.

 Research Skills 

Sara Migliorini possesses a robust skill set in data science, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology. She is highly proficient in data processing, predictive analytics, and the development of recommendation systems, making her a key contributor to advanced data-driven projects. Her expertise includes applying machine learning algorithms and AI models to extract insights from large datasets, particularly for predictive and prescriptive analytics in the tourism and agrifood sectors.

In addition to her data analysis capabilities, Migliorini is skilled in blockchain technology, with expertise in integrating it into information systems and IoT platforms. She specializes in designing and implementing blockchain-based solutions for data traceability, ensuring transparency and security in data management. Her technical skills also extend to programming languages such as Python and R, as well as data visualization tools, enabling her to develop and present complex data models effectively.

Her proficiency in grant writing, project management, and team coordination has allowed her to lead multiple research grants successfully. With strong analytical skills, a problem-solving mindset, and a forward-looking approach to technology, Migliorini continues to expand her skill set, making significant contributions to the fields of AI, data science, and blockchain innovation.

 Awards and Honors

Sara Migliorini’s outstanding contributions to data science, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology have earned her numerous awards and honors. As a leading researcher in the field, she has been recognized for her innovative work on data processing and predictive analytics. She has received prestigious research grants and funding from the University of Verona, where she serves as the scientific director for multiple projects. Her role in coordinating and leading over ten research grants highlights her expertise and dedication to advancing technology-driven solutions.

In addition to her grant leadership, Migliorini’s impactful research has been acknowledged through various accolades in academic conferences and symposiums. Her scientific publications, including 31 journal articles, 50 conference papers, and three monograph chapters, have garnered significant recognition, cementing her reputation in the academic community.

Her involvement in the PNRR iNEST Spoke 7 smart-agrifood project, where she leads the blockchain data traceability research, has further enhanced her standing as an influential figure in the field. Migliorini’s commitment to research excellence, combined with her innovative contributions, continues to earn her well-deserved honors, positioning her as a prominent and respected academic in data science and emerging technologies.

Conclusion 

Sara Migliorini is a distinguished academic and researcher whose expertise in data science, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology has made a significant impact in both academia and industry. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Verona, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading multiple scientific projects, mentoring students, and publishing extensively. Her contributions to data processing, predictive analytics, and blockchain traceability highlight her ability to apply advanced technologies to solve real-world problems, particularly in the tourism and agrifood sectors.

Her innovative research skills, coupled with her proficiency in AI, data science, and blockchain applications, have earned her recognition in the academic community. Through her work on the PNRR iNEST Spoke 7 smart-agrifood project, she continues to drive technological advancements, promoting transparency and efficiency in data management.

Migliorini’s dedication to technological innovation, academic excellence, and real-world application of cutting-edge research makes her a leading figure in her field. Her continued efforts to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical solutions solidify her reputation as a visionary academic, committed to advancing technology for the benefit of society.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Enhancing Business Process Models with Ethical Considerations

    • Authors: B. Amico, Beatrice; C.K. Combi, Carlo K.; A. Dalla Vecchia, Anna; B. Oliboni, Barbara; E. Quintarelli, Elisa

  2. Augmentation Techniques for Balancing Spatial Datasets in Machine and Deep Learning Applications

    • Authors: A. Belussi, Alberto; D. Garofolo, Diego; S. Migliorini, Sara

  3. A Generic Machine Learning Model for Spatial Query Optimization based on Spatial Embeddings

    • Authors: A. Belussi, Alberto; S. Migliorini, Sara; A. Eldawy, Ahmed

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 2

  4. A Survey on Data Availability in Layer 2 Blockchain Rollups: Open Challenges and Future Improvements

    • Authors: M.B. Saif, Muhammad Bin; S. Migliorini, Sara; F. Spoto, Fausto

    • Year: Not specified

    • Citations: 3

  5. Promoting Sustainable Tourism by Recommending Sequences of Attractions with Deep Reinforcement Learning

    • Authors: A. Dalla Vecchia, Anna; S. Migliorini, Sara; E. Quintarelli, Elisa; M. Gambini, Mauro; A. Belussi, Alberto

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 3

  6. A Learning-Based Framework for Spatial Join Processing: Estimation, Optimization, and Tuning

    • Authors: T. Vu, Tin; A. Belussi, Alberto; S. Migliorini, Sara; A. Eldawy, Ahmed

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 2

  7. Efficient and Secure Distributed Data Storage and Retrieval Using Interplanetary File System and Blockchain

    • Authors: M.B. Saif, Muhammad Bin; S. Migliorini, Sara; F. Spoto, Fausto

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 6

  8. Blockchain-Based Multirole Authentication and Authorization in Smart Contracts with a Hierarchical Factory Pattern

    • Authors: M.B. Saif, Muhammad Bin; S. Migliorini, Sara; F. Spoto, Fausto