Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu | Optics | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at East China Normal University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu is an accomplished engineer and researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy, East China Normal University, specializing in laser applications and precision spectroscopy. Her research focuses on developing advanced laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) techniques for environmental monitoring, deep space exploration, and material analysis. She has pioneered femtosecond plasma grating-induced spectroscopy (GIBS), achieving unprecedented detection sensitivity at the parts-per-billion level and establishing the world’s first high-sensitivity GIBS detection system. Dr. Hu collaborates closely with the China Aerospace 504 Institute to conduct ground verification experiments supporting trace analysis of Martian and lunar surface materials, contributing to the advancement of deep-space exploration. She has also introduced innovative techniques such as multi-dimensional plasma breakdown spectroscopy (MIBS) and femtosecond filament-plasma grating synergistic breakdown spectroscopy (F-GIBS), enhancing the precision and efficiency of laser-based analytical methods. In addition, she has developed novel laser light source technologies, including fiber-solid hybrid amplification and time-frequency self-similar amplification, which have been successfully applied in precision measurement, scientific instrumentation, and micro-nano manufacturing. Through her pioneering research and technological innovations, Dr. Hu has become a leading figure in laser spectroscopy and its cutting-edge applications across multiple industries.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu has pursued a comprehensive academic journey focused on optics, photonics, and precision spectroscopy. She began her studies with a bachelor’s degree in physics at Shanghai Ocean University, which laid a solid foundation for her career in applied optics and laser technologies. She later earned a master’s degree at East China Normal University, where she specialized in laser spectroscopy, precision measurements, and advanced optical diagnostics. Driven by a passion for innovation and scientific exploration, she further advanced her expertise by undertaking doctoral research at the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, focusing on ultrafast laser systems, nonlinear optics, and trace detection technologies. Her Ph.D. work involved the development of groundbreaking techniques in femtosecond laser-induced plasma spectroscopy, ultimately leading to the creation of GIBS, a highly sensitive detection method now recognized globally. Dr. Hu’s academic background seamlessly integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enabling her to bridge the gap between experimental research and industrial innovations. Her education has provided her with deep technical proficiency in spectroscopy, ultrafast optics, and analytical measurement systems, which continue to influence her research contributions to environmental sensing, deep-space exploration, and next-generation scientific instrumentation.

Professional Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu has extensive professional experience in the fields of optics, spectroscopy, and laser-based analytical technologies. She began her career as an engineer at the State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy, East China Normal University, where she developed innovative solutions for ultrafast laser systems, precision measurement, and trace detection. Building on her strong technical expertise, she advanced to leadership roles and took on broader responsibilities, including research program planning, laboratory supervision, and project coordination with interdisciplinary teams. As a key contributor to numerous collaborative initiatives, she has worked closely with the China Aerospace 504 Institute on projects related to environmental sensing and deep-space exploration, providing advanced technologies for analyzing Martian and lunar materials. In addition to her technical work, Dr. Hu has been actively involved in mentoring students, guiding research projects, and developing experimental facilities for cutting-edge laser spectroscopy studies. Her role includes integrating advanced techniques into practical scientific instruments used in industrial, environmental, and aerospace applications. Through her combined contributions to research, administration, and technical innovation, Dr. Hu has established herself as a leading figure in the development and application of precision laser-based analytical technologies.

Research Interests

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu’s research interests lie in the areas of laser spectroscopy, optical diagnostics, and ultrafast photonics. She focuses on developing advanced techniques for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), aiming to achieve high sensitivity and precision in trace element detection. Her pioneering work in femtosecond plasma grating-induced spectroscopy (GIBS) has set new benchmarks for detection sensitivity, reaching parts-per-billion levels and opening new avenues for applications in environmental monitoring, planetary science, and analytical chemistry. Dr. Hu has also introduced methods such as multi-dimensional plasma breakdown spectroscopy (MIBS) and femtosecond filament-plasma grating synergistic breakdown spectroscopy (F-GIBS), expanding the capabilities of LIBS for highly complex environments. Her collaboration with the China Aerospace 504 Institute enables the application of these techniques to deep-space exploration, where they are used to study Martian and lunar surface materials. Additionally, she is dedicated to developing novel ultrafast laser technologies, including adaptive startup systems, fiber-solid hybrid amplification, and time-frequency self-similar amplification, which have practical applications in precision measurement, material processing, and scientific instrumentation. Through her multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Hu continues to advance the frontiers of laser spectroscopy, bridging fundamental science with practical solutions for industrial, environmental, and space research.

Research Skills

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu possesses exceptional expertise in ultrafast laser technology, high-resolution spectroscopy, and nonlinear optics. She is skilled in developing advanced laser-induced plasma spectroscopy platforms and integrating multi-dimensional diagnostic techniques to achieve high-precision measurements and ultra-low detection limits. Her pioneering work includes designing femtosecond plasma grating-based systems that enable breakthroughs in trace detection, environmental monitoring, and deep-space material analysis. She has extensive experience working with femtosecond laser sources, optical fiber amplification systems, and time-frequency self-similar amplification, allowing her to build high-power, ultrafast light sources for scientific instrumentation and micro-nano fabrication. Dr. Hu is proficient in real-time data acquisition, signal processing, and computational modeling of plasma-laser interactions, enabling her to optimize experimental configurations for maximum sensitivity and accuracy. She also excels in collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and aerospace institutes, conducting ground-based verification experiments for Mars and lunar material analysis. In addition to her technical skills, she has contributed significantly to intellectual property development, with several patents granted for her innovations. Her ability to integrate theoretical knowledge, experimental techniques, and practical engineering applications makes her a leading expert in precision laser spectroscopy and ultrafast optical diagnostics.

Awards and Honors

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu has received multiple awards and recognitions for her significant contributions to laser spectroscopy, optical engineering, and ultrafast photonics. Her development of femtosecond plasma grating-induced spectroscopy (GIBS) has been widely acclaimed, setting new international standards for trace detection sensitivity and analytical precision. She holds several authorized patents, including six Chinese invention patents and one U.S. patent, reflecting the originality and impact of her research in spectroscopy and laser technology. Dr. Hu has published extensively in high-impact scientific journals, including Advanced Photonics, Optics Express, and Laser and Photonics Reviews, with numerous papers as first or corresponding author. Her collaborative work with the China Aerospace 504 Institute has advanced the capabilities of deep-space exploration, supporting the analysis of Martian and lunar surface materials. In recognition of her contributions to both scientific innovation and practical applications, she has received institutional honors from the State Key Laboratory of Precision Spectroscopy and East China Normal University. Beyond academic achievements, her patented technologies have been successfully applied to industrial and scientific instrumentation, demonstrating the significant technological and societal value of her research.

Publications Top Notes

1. Enhanced Stability of TaS₂ Photodetector by Co Intercalation
Year: 2025
Citations: 3

2. Generation of 435 MHz, Ultrafast Cylindrical Vector Pulses From a Mode-Locked Fiber Laser
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengyun Hu’s career is defined by scientific innovation, technical excellence, and leadership in the field of precision spectroscopy. Her pioneering contributions to ultrafast laser-based analytical methods, including GIBS, MIBS, and F-GIBS, have transformed the capabilities of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and advanced its applications in environmental monitoring, material characterization, and planetary exploration. Through collaborations with leading research institutes, including the China Aerospace 504 Institute, she has contributed essential technologies supporting Mars and lunar exploration, strengthening her role in cutting-edge scientific initiatives. Dr. Hu’s ability to translate fundamental research into practical, patented technologies has led to the creation of high-performance scientific instruments and advanced optical systems. As a mentor and innovator, she continues to inspire future researchers while driving forward breakthroughs in ultrafast optics and high-precision spectroscopic diagnostics. With an expanding portfolio of impactful publications, technological achievements, and multidisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Hu has established herself as a leading figure in laser science and optical engineering. Her commitment to advancing scientific frontiers and transforming spectroscopy into practical solutions underscores her influence in both academic and industrial domains.