Chihyun Hwang | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Dr. Chihyun Hwang | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Principle at Koreal Electronics Technology Institute | South Korea

Dr. Chihyun Hwang is a distinguished energy scientist and Senior Researcher at the Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI), specializing in next-generation electrochemical energy storage systems. His expertise spans lithium-ion, sodium-ion, zinc-ion, and all-solid-state batteries, with particular emphasis on molecular binder design, nanostructured anodeless materials, and in-situ electrochemical analysis. Over the years, he has developed an outstanding research profile, contributing significantly to advancing energy technologies that support high-density, durable, and safe energy storage solutions for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. With an H-index of 22 and nearly 60 published papers in prestigious journals such as Advanced Energy Materials, Advanced Functional Materials, and Angewandte Chemie, he has demonstrated both academic excellence and industry relevance. His work has frequently addressed critical issues in interface stability, electrode architecture, and electrochemical reversibility, ensuring long-term performance and scalability of energy storage devices. Beyond publications, Dr. Hwang actively contributes to professional communities, serving as Academic Director of the Korean Battery Society. His research leadership, supported by national and international collaborations, has positioned him as a vital contributor to the global battery research community, dedicated to enabling sustainable and high-performance energy technologies for the future.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Chihyun Hwang pursued a rigorous academic path that laid the foundation for his career in energy storage research. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Fiber Engineering from Inha University, where he developed a strong materials science background. Motivated by the potential of energy technologies, he advanced to doctoral studies at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), completing his Ph.D. in Energy Engineering under the mentorship of Professor Hyun-Kon Song. His doctoral research, titled Designing Molecular Structures of Polymeric Binders for Alloying-Based Anodes, reflected his early focus on electrochemical materials engineering and binder chemistry. The project involved designing and optimizing polymer binders to enhance electrode reversibility and stability, especially for high-capacity alloying anode systems such as silicon and antimony. This work gave him critical expertise in molecular design, electrochemical kinetics, and the durability of next-generation battery systems. His academic training was further enriched through exposure to interdisciplinary studies in chemical engineering, materials processing, and nanotechnology. Collectively, his education equipped him with both theoretical depth and experimental versatility, enabling him to address fundamental challenges in modern battery science while preparing him for a highly impactful international research career.

Professional Experience

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s professional journey demonstrates a consistent trajectory of leadership and innovation in advanced energy storage. He has served as Senior Researcher at the Advanced Batteries Research Center of KETI, where he leads multiple large-scale projects on lithium metal, sodium-ion, and solid-state batteries. He was previously a Research Professor at UNIST, focusing on energy and chemical engineering, bridging academia and industry in battery innovation. Before that, he broadened his international exposure as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the research group of Prof. Nian Liu at the Georgia Institute of Technology, investigating zinc-ion and solid-state battery chemistries. Prior to his U.S. experience, he worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Prof. Hyun-Kon Song’s group at UNIST, extending his doctoral research into industrially viable energy storage solutions. At KETI, Dr. Hwang plays a critical role in projects developing digital twin infrastructures for battery manufacturing, high-energy solid-state batteries, and safe sodium-ion systems. His career reflects an integration of academic rigor, postdoctoral innovation, and applied industrial research, with a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. This combination highlights his ability to translate laboratory advances into scalable technologies, essential for global energy transition initiatives.

Research Interest

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s research interests span a wide spectrum of next-generation energy storage technologies, emphasizing fundamental innovation and practical application. A major focus is all-solid-state batteries, where he works on designing polymeric binders, nanostructured anodeless materials, and interfacial stabilizers to improve energy density and long-term cycling. He also explores large-scale bipolar stacking strategies to enable commercialization. His second research stream involves sodium-ion batteries, particularly mitigating reactive oxygen species through surface doping and additive engineering for stable high-voltage cathodes. Another growing area is zinc-ion batteries, where his work includes developing single-crystalline zinc anodes, electrolyte systems, and protective interfacial layers that enhance cycling stability and suppress dendritic growth. A distinctive strength of his research lies in in-situ electrochemical analysis, employing advanced techniques such as Raman microscopy, differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, and impedance spectroscopy to elucidate reaction mechanisms. These methods provide molecular-level insights into degradation and reversibility, accelerating the design of more robust systems. Collectively, his research aims to develop high-energy-density, safe, and durable electrochemical storage devices for electric mobility and renewable integration. His interests integrate theoretical understanding, nanomaterials design, and scalable processing, establishing him as a leading figure in the quest for sustainable battery technologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Chihyun Hwang possesses a diverse and highly specialized skill set that underpins his success in energy storage research. He is an expert in molecular and polymer design, particularly for binders that enhance electrode kinetics and mechanical resilience. His skills in nanostructure engineering allow him to create novel anodeless materials and functional electrode architectures that optimize charge transport and suppress failure mechanisms. A significant technical strength lies in his command of in-situ characterization techniques, including Raman microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, which provide real-time insights into electrochemical reactions and interfacial dynamics. He is also highly experienced in solid-state battery fabrication and analysis, enabling him to evaluate interface stability and optimize electrolyte formulations. His expertise extends to computational and analytical methods, which he uses to model battery reactions and validate experimental findings. Beyond laboratory techniques, Dr. Hwang demonstrates strong project management skills, having coordinated multi-institutional and industry-supported initiatives. His ability to integrate materials synthesis, device engineering, and mechanistic analysis allows him to approach research challenges holistically. These combined skills make him not only a prolific researcher but also a leader capable of bridging science, engineering, and technology development in advanced energy systems.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Chihyun Hwang’s contributions to energy research have been recognized through prestigious awards and leadership roles that highlight both his scientific excellence and professional impact. He was elected Academic Director of the Korean Battery Society, underscoring his standing as a leading voice in the national research community. He also received the Award Certificate of Chungbuk Governor, reflecting regional acknowledgment of his technological contributions. He was honored with the highly competitive Sejong Science Fellowship (NRF), awarded to exceptional early-career researchers in Korea. This fellowship supported his independent research initiatives and accelerated his trajectory in advanced battery innovation. In addition to these distinctions, Dr. Hwang has consistently been invited to deliver presentations at international conferences, including meetings of the Materials Research Society, Electrochemical Society, and Korean Battery Society. His invited talks and presentations demonstrate global recognition of his expertise in zinc-ion, sodium-ion, and solid-state batteries. Collectively, these awards and honors not only validate his scientific contributions but also highlight his leadership potential in shaping Korea’s and the world’s energy technology landscape. His recognitions underscore his dual role as a pioneering researcher and influential academic contributor.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Gel/solid polymer electrolytes characterized by in situ gelation or polymerization for electrochemical energy systems
Year: 2019
Citation: 304

Title: Self‐assembling films of covalent organic frameworks enable long‐term, efficient cycling of zinc‐ion batteries
Year: 2021
Citation: 188

Title: Mechanical mismatch-driven rippling in carbon-coated silicon sheets for stress-resilient battery anodes
Year: 2018
Citation: 138

Title: Folding graphene film yields high areal energy storage in lithium-ion batteries
Year: 2018
Citation: 122

Title: An antiaging electrolyte additive for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries
Year: 2020
Citation: 83

Conclusion

Dr. Chihyun Hwang exemplifies the profile of a modern applied scientist, integrating deep academic training, cutting-edge research, and practical innovation in the field of advanced batteries. With a career spanning prestigious institutions in Korea and the United States, he has built a strong reputation for addressing critical challenges in electrochemical energy storage through creative design and rigorous analysis. His more than 50 publications, combined with international collaborations and leadership in professional societies, mark him as both a thought leader and a collaborative innovator. His work consistently bridges the gap between theory and application, from molecular design of binders to the development of high-energy solid-state and sodium-ion systems. Recognition through fellowships, awards, and professional leadership further reflects his excellence and influence in the scientific community. Looking forward, Dr. Hwang is well-positioned to drive transformative advances in sustainable energy technologies, particularly in developing safer, higher-density, and more durable batteries for electric mobility and renewable integration. His career embodies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact, making him not only a respected researcher but also a vital contributor to the global transition toward sustainable energy solutions.

Seyedeh HOSNA Talebian | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Assist. Prof. Dr. Seyedeh HOSNA Talebian | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Ilam University, Iran

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian is a dynamic and dedicated researcher with a strong foundation in agricultural sciences, pest management, and entomology. With a passion for advancing sustainable agricultural practices, she has consistently contributed to research that supports ecological balance while enhancing crop productivity. Her work reflects a strong blend of field expertise and laboratory precision, enabling her to effectively tackle real-world agricultural challenges. Seyedeh Hosna possesses a deep interest in the biological control of pests and is particularly skilled in identifying and analyzing pest-host interactions. She is known for her meticulous attention to detail, robust analytical abilities, and a commitment to scientific rigor. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she has displayed strong leadership and collaborative skills, working effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Her ability to communicate scientific findings to both technical and non-technical audiences makes her a valuable contributor to both academia and the agricultural industry. She actively participates in conferences, workshops, and scholarly networks to stay current with emerging trends and innovations in her field. Her academic background, combined with hands-on experience in integrated pest management, positions her as a promising researcher dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture through science-based solutions.

Professional Profiles

Scopus Profile

Education

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian earned her Ph.D. in Agricultural Entomology from the University of Tehran, Iran, one of the region’s premier institutions for agricultural sciences. Her doctoral research focused on the behavioral ecology and population dynamics of key agricultural pests, with a particular emphasis on sustainable pest control strategies. During her Ph.D., she published several peer-reviewed articles and presented her findings at national and international scientific conferences. She also completed her Master’s degree in Agricultural Entomology from the same university, where her thesis investigated the efficacy of natural enemies in controlling pest populations in horticultural systems. Prior to her postgraduate studies, she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Protection from Isfahan University of Technology, where she developed a foundational understanding of integrated pest management, plant pathology, and insect taxonomy. Throughout her academic journey, she has been recognized for her academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top students in her cohort. In addition to her coursework, she actively participated in seminars, journal clubs, and lab rotations, which enriched her knowledge and provided hands-on experience in various entomological techniques. Her diverse academic background has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to pest management research.

Professional Experience

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian has accumulated a wealth of professional experience in both academic and research settings, focusing primarily on entomology, pest control, and sustainable agriculture. During her Ph.D., she worked as a research assistant in multiple government-funded projects aimed at developing environmentally friendly pest management strategies for major crops in Iran. In this role, she was responsible for conducting extensive fieldwork, sampling and identifying insect species, and evaluating the impact of biological control agents in different agroecosystems. She also collaborated with agricultural extension services to train local farmers on pest identification and eco-friendly control methods. In addition, she served as a teaching assistant for undergraduate courses in entomology and plant protection, where she led laboratory sessions and assisted in curriculum development. Her teaching experience helped sharpen her communication and mentoring skills. Following her Ph.D., she undertook a postdoctoral research position at a national research institute, where she worked on enhancing the effectiveness of native parasitoids in managing invasive pests. Her work involved designing laboratory and field experiments, statistical data analysis, and publishing scientific findings in international journals. Her ability to bridge applied and theoretical research makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of sustainable pest control solutions.

Research Interest

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian’s research interests lie at the intersection of insect ecology, integrated pest management (IPM), and biological control. She is deeply intrigued by the intricate dynamics between pests, their natural enemies, and environmental factors, and aims to use this understanding to develop sustainable pest control strategies. Her doctoral and postdoctoral work primarily focused on the behavioral and ecological mechanisms that influence pest population dynamics, with special emphasis on parasitoid-host interactions. She is particularly interested in exploring the use of indigenous biological control agents as a viable alternative to chemical pesticides. Furthermore, she is passionate about improving IPM programs by incorporating ecological modeling, risk assessment tools, and field-based experiments to optimize pest control practices. Another area of her research involves studying invasive species and their impact on native ecosystems and agriculture. By identifying vulnerabilities in invasive pest populations, she hopes to contribute to the development of early detection and rapid response strategies. Her long-term goal is to contribute to global food security by promoting pest management approaches that are both effective and environmentally responsible. Seyedeh Hosna is committed to conducting interdisciplinary research that informs policy-making and supports the transition to sustainable agricultural systems.

Research Skills

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that encompass both field-based and laboratory methodologies in entomology and pest management. She is proficient in insect sampling, identification, and dissection, as well as in designing and conducting behavioral assays to study insect activity and host preferences. Her fieldwork experience includes the deployment of traps, monitoring pest populations, and evaluating the effectiveness of biological control agents under natural conditions. In the laboratory, she is skilled in rearing insect colonies, performing controlled experiments, and using microscopy and imaging tools for morphological analysis. She is well-versed in experimental design, statistical data analysis, and software tools such as SPSS, R, and SAS, which she uses to interpret complex ecological data. Her expertise also includes GIS mapping for spatial analysis of pest distribution. Seyedeh Hosna is adept at writing research proposals, preparing scientific manuscripts, and presenting findings at academic conferences. She maintains meticulous records and follows rigorous scientific protocols, ensuring the reproducibility and reliability of her research. Her collaborative skills enable her to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, while her commitment to continuous learning drives her to stay updated on new techniques and trends in pest management and ecological research.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and professional career, Seyedeh Hosna Talebian has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her excellence in research and academic achievement. During her Ph.D. studies at the University of Tehran, she was awarded a prestigious doctoral fellowship granted to top-performing graduate students in agricultural sciences. Her outstanding performance earned her the university’s “Best Researcher Award” for two consecutive years, acknowledging her contributions to pest ecology and sustainable agriculture. She was also the recipient of the “Young Entomologist Award” at the Iranian National Entomological Congress, where she presented innovative research on parasitoid-host dynamics. Her master’s thesis received the department’s “Top Thesis Award” for its practical implications in biological pest control. Additionally, she has been granted multiple travel fellowships to attend international conferences and workshops, including events held by the International Organisation for Biological Control (IOBC). Seyedeh Hosna has also been recognized for her service in mentoring undergraduate students and her contributions to community outreach programs focused on integrated pest management. These honors reflect her dedication, academic excellence, and impact in the field of entomology, solidifying her reputation as an emerging leader in sustainable pest control research.

Conclusion

Seyedeh Hosna Talebian embodies the qualities of a passionate, skilled, and forward-thinking researcher in the field of agricultural entomology. Her deep-rooted commitment to sustainable agriculture and her pursuit of innovative pest management solutions have guided her academic and professional journey. Through rigorous research, effective collaboration, and community engagement, she has consistently contributed to scientific advancements that balance agricultural productivity with ecological integrity. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining field studies, laboratory experimentation, and data analysis, demonstrates her adaptability and scientific rigor. Moreover, her ability to translate research findings into actionable insights for farmers and policymakers highlights her broader impact on society. As she looks ahead, Seyedeh Hosna aspires to expand her research to a global stage, collaborate with international institutions, and contribute to the development of pest management strategies that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible. With her strong academic foundation, practical experience, and unwavering dedication to science, she is poised to make meaningful contributions to global food security and sustainable development. Seyedeh Hosna Talebian represents the next generation of scientists committed to fostering agricultural systems that are both productive and environmentally resilient.

 Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Adsorption behavior of in-house developed CO₂-philic anionic surfactants

  • Authors: Seyedeh Hosna Talebian, Muhammad Sagir

  • Year: 2024