Chongfeng Guo | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Chongfeng Guo | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Northwest University, China

Professor Chongfeng Guo is a distinguished researcher and academician in the field of rare earth luminescent materials, with a career spanning over two decades. Currently a full professor at Northwest University, China, Professor Guo has built a remarkable trajectory through academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. His expertise lies at the intersection of nanoscience, biological science, and electrical engineering, where he explores the development and application of luminescent materials. He earned his Ph.D. from Sun Yat-Sen University and has since held several prominent academic positions including post-doctoral roles at Hong Kong University, associate professorship at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, and research professorship at Pukyong National University in Korea. He also served as a visiting professor at Macquarie University in Australia. With over 170 journal publications, 17 patents, and more than 11,000 citations, Professor Guo is recognized internationally for his groundbreaking contributions to material science and photonic applications. He actively collaborates with scientists from Poland, Russia, Belarus, Taiwan, and others to push the boundaries of research innovation. As a leader and member of numerous professional societies, his academic leadership continues to influence the fields of photonics, agricultural optics, and biomedical engineering significantly.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Chongfeng Guo’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in materials science, culminating in the attainment of his Ph.D. from the prestigious Sun Yat-Sen University in China. His doctoral studies laid the groundwork for his expertise in rare earth luminescent materials, a field in which he would go on to make significant international contributions. Following the completion of his Ph.D., Professor Guo engaged in postdoctoral research at the University of Hong Kong, a phase marked by rich interdisciplinary collaborations and immersion in cutting-edge material research. His exposure to diverse scientific environments continued through various international appointments and research fellowships, providing him with a global perspective and multi-disciplinary insight. Throughout his education, Professor Guo demonstrated a deep commitment to academic rigor, creative experimentation, and practical application. His educational background has not only shaped his research philosophy but also equipped him to mentor the next generation of scientists. Today, his academic foundation supports his robust research in lighting, display technologies, agricultural applications, and bio-photonics, making him an exemplary figure in both Chinese and international scientific communities. His educational path reflects a balanced blend of theoretical depth and experimental mastery, which underpins his distinguished career as a scholar and innovator.

Professional Experience

Professor Chongfeng Guo’s professional experience is a testament to his global academic influence and multidisciplinary research leadership. He currently holds a full professorship at Northwest University, where he leads advanced research in inorganic luminescent materials. His professional journey began with a postdoctoral position at Hong Kong University, where he deepened his expertise in nanomaterials and photonics. He later became an associate professor at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, contributing significantly to material science curricula and research output. His academic influence extended to South Korea, where he was appointed as a research professor at Pukyong National University, and to Australia, where he served as a visiting professor at Macquarie University. In each role, Professor Guo has combined international exposure with a focus on practical applications of luminescent materials, particularly in agriculture, energy, and medicine. His leadership in over 15 completed and two ongoing research projects showcases his ability to lead large-scale, collaborative scientific endeavors. He also holds editorial responsibilities in several prestigious journals, such as The Journal of the American Ceramic Society and Chinese Journal of Luminescence. His wide-ranging professional experiences reflect not only technical excellence but also a strong commitment to global academic collaboration and innovation.

Research Interest

Professor Chongfeng Guo’s research interests revolve around the design, synthesis, and application of inorganic luminescent materials, particularly rare earth-based compounds. His work bridges fundamental science and practical innovation, with applications spanning lighting and display devices, agricultural photonics, biomedicine, and environmental technologies. A major thrust of his research focuses on the development of single-phased, multi-color-emitting phosphors that are critical for improving the efficiency and versatility of lighting systems. He is also a pioneer in agricultural optics, exploring how specific luminescent materials can enhance plant growth or deter pests based on their phototactic responses, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, his research delves into the integration of phosphors in solar cells and photocatalysis for clean energy solutions. In biomedical fields, he applies nanophosphors in temperature and pressure sensing, biological imaging, tumor detection, and non-invasive phototherapy platforms. Importantly, Professor Guo employs a dual approach that combines first-principles theoretical calculations with experimental validation, allowing precise material design and structural tuning. His interdisciplinary approach aligns materials science with real-world challenges, setting a roadmap for innovations in smart agriculture, healthcare diagnostics, and energy devices. This diversified yet interconnected research interest has positioned him as a leading figure in modern luminescence and functional material applications.

Research Skills

Professor Chongfeng Guo brings to his field an exceptional array of research skills that encompass experimental synthesis, materials characterization, theoretical modeling, and translational science. He possesses deep expertise in designing and fabricating rare earth luminescent materials with tailored optical properties, especially for applications in lighting, display technologies, and biophotonics. His proficiency with advanced characterization tools such as photoluminescence spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and thermal analysis supports high-precision evaluation of material behavior under diverse conditions. A notable strength is his integration of theoretical simulations—specifically first-principles calculations—into the design process, enabling predictive control over material performance. Professor Guo’s skill in translating fundamental research into practical applications is evident in his 17 patents and over 170 publications, which reflect both innovation and academic rigor. He is adept at leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex research projects, as demonstrated by his completion of 15 funded studies and ongoing leadership in two more. His international collaborations have further honed his project coordination, cross-cultural scientific communication, and mentorship capabilities. Additionally, his editorial roles in high-impact journals highlight his strong peer review, analytical, and editorial skills. Professor Guo’s research toolkit is comprehensive, making him a powerful force in advancing luminescent materials and their myriad applications.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Chongfeng Guo has been honored with multiple awards and recognitions that underscore his pioneering contributions to materials science and photonic technology. Although specific awards are not individually listed, his inclusion in prominent editorial boards and leadership roles within professional societies serves as testament to his academic stature. Notably, he serves as Associate Editor of The Journal of the American Ceramic Society and is actively involved with journals like Advanced Powder Materials and Chinese Journal of Luminescence. He holds influential positions such as Secretary-General of the Agricultural Optics Committee of the Chinese Optics Society, Director of the Chinese Society of Rare Earths, and Member of the Shaanxi Provincial Optics Society. These honors reflect the trust and respect he has earned from the scientific community. His remarkable citation index of 11,033, combined with his prolific research output, signals high impact and global relevance. His collaborative research across nations and participation in international joint projects also highlight his stature as a globally respected scholar. His nomination for the Best Researcher Award further exemplifies his sustained excellence, leadership, and significant research contributions in the global scientific ecosystem.

Conclusion

Professor Chongfeng Guo stands as an exemplary figure in the realm of materials science, merging scientific depth with practical innovation. His distinguished career, marked by global collaborations and cutting-edge research, reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence in rare earth luminescent materials and their diverse applications. From academic mentorship to experimental breakthroughs, he has significantly shaped interdisciplinary domains such as agricultural optics, bio-photonics, and energy harvesting technologies. His ability to bridge theory and practice, as seen in his combination of first-principles computation with experimental work, positions him as a leader in modern materials design. With more than 170 high-impact publications, 17 patents, and editorial responsibilities in prestigious journals, he continues to influence the scientific community on a global scale. His role as a director, editor, and collaborator with international institutions further amplifies his contributions beyond national borders. Professor Guo exemplifies the ideal of a scholar whose work not only advances knowledge but also fosters real-world change. As a nominee for the Best Researcher Award, he embodies innovation, leadership, and academic integrity, serving as a role model for future scientists committed to making meaningful contributions to society through science and technology.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Ab Initio Site Occupancy and Far-Red Emission of Mn⁴⁺ in Cubic-Phase La(MgTi)₁/₂O₃ for Plant Cultivation
Authors: Z. Zhou, J. Zheng, R. Shi, N. Zhang, J. Chen, R. Zhang, H. Suo, E.M. Goldys, …
Year: 2017
Citations: 343

 

Title: Rational Design of Ratiometric Luminescence Thermometry Based on Thermally Coupled Levels for Bioapplications
Authors: H. Suo, X. Zhao, Z. Zhang, Y. Wang, J. Sun, M. Jin, C. Guo
Year: 2021
Citations: 341


Title: Broad-Scope Thermometry Based on Dual-Color Modulation Up-Conversion Phosphor Ba₅Gd₈Zn₄O₂₁:Er³⁺/Yb³⁺
Authors: H. Suo, C. Guo, T. Li
Year: 2016
Citations: 284


Title: Site-Dependent Luminescence and Thermal Stability of Eu²⁺ Doped Fluorophosphate toward White LEDs for Plant Growth
Authors: J. Chen, N. Zhang, C. Guo, F. Pan, X. Zhou, H. Suo, X. Zhao, E.M. Goldys
Year: 2016
Citations: 254


Title: Thermometric and Optical Heating Bi-Functional Properties of Upconversion Phosphor Ba₅Gd₈Zn₄O₂₁:Yb³⁺/Tm³⁺
Authors: H. Suo, C. Guo, Z. Yang, S. Zhou, C. Duan, M. Yin
Year: 2015
Citations: 246


Title: Methods to Improve the Fluorescence Intensity of CaS:Eu²⁺ Red-Emitting Phosphor for White LED
Authors: C. Guo, D. Huang, Q. Su
Year: 2006
Citations: 236


Title: Ultra-Sensitive Optical Nano-Thermometer LaPO₄:Yb³⁺/Nd³⁺ Based on Thermo-Enhanced NIR-to-NIR Emissions
Authors: H. Suo, X. Zhao, Z. Zhang, C. Guo
Year: 2020
Citations: 235


Title: Three-Band White Light from InGaN-Based Blue LED Chip Precoated with Green/Red Phosphors
Authors: H. Wu, X. Zhang, C. Guo, J. Xu, M. Wu, Q. Su
Year: 2005
Citations: 221


Title: Sensitivity Modulation of Upconverting Thermometry Through Engineering Phonon Energy of a Matrix
Authors: H. Suo, C. Guo, J. Zheng, B. Zhou, C. Ma, X. Zhao, T. Li, P. Guo, E.M. Goldys
Year: 2016
Citations: 217


Title: Enhancement of Red Emission and Site Analysis in Eu²⁺ Doped New-Type Structure Ba₃CaK(PO₄)₃ for Plant Growth White LEDs
Authors: J. Xiang, J. Zheng, Z. Zhou, H. Suo, X. Zhao, X. Zhou, N. Zhang, M.S. Molokeev, …
Year: 2019
Citations: 196

Huiqiang Yang | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Huiqiang Yang | Materials Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, Canada

Huiqiang Yang is an accomplished materials engineer with a robust background in renewable energy systems, molten salt thermophysics, and advanced energy technologies. With more than a decade of experience spanning both academia and industry, he has become a specialist in modeling and optimizing energy systems, particularly those utilizing molten salts for thermal energy storage and concentrated solar power (CSP). Currently a Ph.D. candidate in Materials Engineering at École Polytechnique de Montréal, he is contributing to cutting-edge research in thermal conductivity modeling of complex salt mixtures under the supervision of experts at the Centre de Recherche en Calcul Thermochimique (CRCT), known for the development of FACTSAGE. Huiqiang has authored several impactful publications on predictive modeling of molten salt thermophysical properties in high-impact journals such as Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells and Materials Today Energy. His diverse experiences include leading large-scale renewable energy projects as a senior project manager and developing international business strategies for green energy solutions. Fluent in Mandarin, French, and English, he seamlessly bridges technical expertise and cross-cultural collaboration. Huiqiang’s professional trajectory reflects a rare integration of scientific rigor, engineering application, and strategic foresight, making him a valuable asset to any advanced energy research and innovation endeavor.

Professional Profile

Education

Huiqiang Yang has cultivated a deep foundation in materials and energy engineering through an international academic journey. He is currently in the fourth year of his Ph.D. in Materials Engineering at École Polytechnique de Montréal, Canada, where he focuses on the thermophysical modeling of molten salts for advanced energy applications. His doctoral research, conducted at the renowned CRCT laboratory—home to the FACTSAGE thermochemical software—integrates modified kinetic theory and quasi-chemical models to predict thermal conductivity in multicomponent molten salt systems, particularly those with short-range ordering. His scholarly contributions are evidenced by first-author publications in top-tier journals including Solar Energy, Materials Today Energy, and Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells. Prior to this, Huiqiang obtained a Master’s degree in Energy Engineering in 2017 with a concentration in renewable energy. His academic roots trace back to the University of Perpignan in France, where he earned a Master’s in Solar Energy and a Bachelor’s degree in Energy and Materials between 2008 and 2012. His educational background is marked by a consistent focus on solar and thermal energy technologies, underlining his commitment to sustainable energy systems and materials innovation.

Professional Experience

Huiqiang Yang brings extensive industrial experience in renewable energy systems, particularly in molten salt thermal storage and power tower technologies. From 2013 to 2020, he worked as a Research Engineer and Senior Project Manager at Shouhang High-Tech Energy Co., Ltd. in Beijing, China. He led the design and numerical modeling of two landmark CSP projects: a 10MW pilot-scale molten salt tower with 15-hour thermal storage, and a 100MW commercial-scale facility with 11-hour (1100MWh) NaNO₃-KNO₃-based storage. His responsibilities included thermal and process modeling, material selection, equipment specification, system dimensioning, and on-site supervision during construction and commissioning. His engineering reports and P&IDs were critical for project execution. Between 2015 and 2017, he also served as a Project Manager for Shouhang European S.L. in Madrid, Spain. There, he developed European market strategies, supported engineering and procurement tasks, and oversaw project execution under tight time and budget constraints. His dual role in technical leadership and business development reflects his interdisciplinary capabilities and global perspective. Huiqiang’s experience positions him at the nexus of innovation, execution, and international collaboration in the renewable energy sector.

Research Interest

Huiqiang Yang’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, thermochemistry, and renewable energy engineering, with a specific focus on molten salts for high-temperature thermal applications. His current Ph.D. work explores predictive models for thermal conductivity in multicomponent molten salt mixtures—materials vital for thermal energy storage in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems and nuclear reactors. He applies advanced thermodynamic frameworks such as the Modified Quasi-chemical Model in the Quadruplet Approximation, enabling accurate modeling of short-range interactions in reciprocal salt systems. Beyond thermal conductivity, his research delves into energy-material interaction mechanisms, phase equilibria, and the integration of molten salt systems into next-generation power infrastructures. He is particularly interested in how data-driven simulations and computational thermochemistry can enhance the design and efficiency of renewable energy systems. With previous hands-on experience in CSP project execution and thermal system design, Huiqiang’s research is grounded in practical relevance and industrial scalability. His overarching aim is to develop reliable and efficient energy materials and processes that support global energy transition goals. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific rigor, he seeks to bridge fundamental research and real-world energy challenges.

Research Skills

Huiqiang Yang possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span theoretical modeling, experimental design, computational simulation, and technical reporting. He is proficient in thermodynamic and kinetic modeling of molten salt systems, particularly using the FACTSAGE software platform, for which he is actively contributing at the CRCT lab. His skill set includes developing and implementing advanced models such as the Modified Quasi-chemical Model and the kinetic theory of thermal conductivity, enabling accurate predictions of thermophysical properties in multicomponent systems. He is well-versed in numerical tools like MATLAB, Python, and COMSOL Multiphysics for process modeling and simulation. In addition, Huiqiang has deep knowledge in phase diagram analysis, energy balance calculations, and the design of thermal systems, thanks to his years of industrial experience. He is adept at preparing technical documentation, including process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and engineering reports. His strong project management skills complement his technical expertise, allowing him to coordinate interdisciplinary teams and deliver on complex research and industrial objectives. Huiqiang also has experience presenting at conferences and publishing in high-impact journals, underscoring his capability in scientific communication and dissemination.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not detailed in the provided data, Huiqiang Yang’s profile reflects substantial recognition in both academic and professional domains. His selection into the prestigious Ph.D. program at École Polytechnique de Montréal, with research conducted at the globally recognized CRCT lab (a FACTSAGE developer), underscores his academic merit. The publication of multiple first-author articles in leading journals such as Solar Energy, Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, and Materials Today Energy serves as an acknowledgment of the high impact and originality of his research. In industry, Huiqiang rose to the position of Senior Project Manager at Shouhang High-Tech Energy Co., Ltd., where he led the development of China’s commercial-scale CSP facilities—projects considered pioneering in molten salt technology. His transition from technical roles in China to project leadership in Spain illustrates his international credibility and leadership capacity. Moreover, his multilingual abilities and capacity to work across continents in multicultural environments are professional strengths often valued in award evaluations. Collectively, these achievements point to a professional career marked by excellence, innovation, and international impact in the renewable energy field.

Conclusion

Huiqiang Yang exemplifies the ideal fusion of technical mastery, academic innovation, and real-world engineering expertise in the domain of advanced energy systems. With an educational foundation grounded in solar and materials engineering, and hands-on experience managing large-scale molten salt thermal energy projects, he brings a unique perspective to both research and implementation. His doctoral research at École Polytechnique de Montréal is pushing the frontiers of thermal conductivity modeling for multicomponent molten salt systems—critical to the future of CSP and next-generation nuclear technologies. Huiqiang’s ability to bridge theoretical modeling and practical applications is a rare and valuable asset. His publications in reputed journals and leadership roles in international energy projects demonstrate both depth and breadth of expertise. Fluent in three languages and experienced across China, Europe, and North America, he thrives in interdisciplinary, multicultural environments. Going forward, Huiqiang aspires to contribute to the development of sustainable energy infrastructures through materials innovation and system-level integration. His trajectory reflects not only technical competence but also vision, adaptability, and a commitment to solving global energy challenges. He stands out as a promising leader in the field of sustainable energy and advanced materials science.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Extending the kinetic theory‑based thermal conductivity model to reciprocal molten salt mixtures with short‑range ordering via the Modified Quasi‑chemical Model in the Quadruplet Approximation

Authors: Huiqiang Yang, Anh Thu Phan, Aimen E. Gheribi, Patrice Chartrand
Year: 2025