Zhongyi Zeng | Synthetic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zhongyi Zeng –  Synthetic Chemistry – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Professor Zeng’s interdisciplinary approach, integrating organic chemistry, catalysis, green chemistry, and electrosynthesis, aligns seamlessly with the objectives of both the Best Researcher Award and the Excellence in Innovation Award. His ability to translate fundamental discoveries into practical synthetic tools is emblematic of high-impact research excellence.

Guangzhou Medical University | China

Profile

Orcid

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scholar

 

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Zhongyi Zeng’s academic journey is deeply rooted in his passion for pharmaceutical engineering and organic chemistry. Born in October 1989 in Hunan, China, Zeng embarked on his scholarly path at Hunan Normal University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Engineering (2008–2012). Guided by Prof. Yulin Zeng, his foundational studies focused on medicinal and organic chemistry, paving the way for his interest in synthetic methodologies and drug design. His pursuit of excellence led him to South China Normal University, where he completed his Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry (2012–2015) under the supervision of Prof. Dingqiao Yang, diving deeper into advanced organic synthesis, catalysis, and molecular reactivity. His academic curiosity and determination brought him to Europe, where he earned his Ph.D. from the Institute of Organic Chemistry at Heidelberg University, Germany (2015–2018). There, he specialized in transition-metal catalysis and C–H functionalization, key techniques in synthetic organic chemistry, under the guidance of distinguished researchers in the field.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Following his Ph.D., Dr. Zeng broadened his scientific horizons through two postdoctoral research associate positions. From 2018 to 2019, he worked at the University of Zurich’s Department of Chemistry, where he explored electrocatalytic and photocatalytic reactions with high selectivity. This was followed by a position at the Ruhr-University of Bochum’s Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry in Germany (2019–2021), where his multidisciplinary work contributed to advances in redox chemistry, enantioselective transformations, and C–H bond activation using fluorinated π-systems. In December 2021, he returned to China as a Professor and Principal Investigator at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University. Here, Dr. Zeng leads a dynamic research group focusing on electrochemical synthesis, dearomatization strategies, and transition-metal-catalyzed annulation reactions.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Synthetic Chemistry

Dr. Zeng’s research lies at the cutting edge of coordination chemistry, green synthesis, and asymmetric catalysis. His work emphasizes sustainable methodologies for complex molecule construction, particularly via C–H activation, annulation, and carboamination reactions. Notably, his group has demonstrated innovative strategies involving electrocatalytic enantioselective tandem reactions, meta-selective functionalization, and photoinduced dearomatization of pyridines. His multidisciplinary approach combines computational chemistry with experimental mechanistic investigations to develop novel catalytic cycles and unravel reactivity patterns. Key publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, ACS Catalysis, Angewandte Chemie, Coordination Chemistry Reviews, and Organic Chemistry Frontiers highlight his significant contributions to fluorinated molecule design, redox-neutral transformations, and atropisomer synthesis.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Zeng’s excellence in multidisciplinary research has been widely recognized. In 2023, he was honored by the Guangdong Zhujiang Talent Program, a prestigious award recognizing scientific innovation and leadership. Earlier in his academic career, he received the Guangzhou Elite Scholarship Council Award in 2015, which enabled his international academic training and research exposure. His achievements reflect a blend of technical prowess, innovation, and mentorship.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

With over a dozen first-author and corresponding-author publications, Dr. Zeng has made a profound impact on the global chemical research community. His findings have contributed to the advancement of green chemistry, drug discovery, and synthetic methodology development. Collaborating with esteemed scientists like Prof. A. Stephen K. Hashmi and Prof. Weiping Yi, he has nurtured a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that bridges chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, and materials research. His mentorship has also inspired a new generation of chemists at Guangzhou Medical University, integrating cross-disciplinary learning and real-world problem solving in the fields of medicinal chemistry, electrosynthesis, and organic reaction mechanisms.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Zhongyi Zeng’s legacy is not only marked by his technical achievements but also by his forward-thinking vision for sustainable chemical synthesis. As a rising star in the academic world, he is poised to lead future innovations in redox-active catalysis, enantioselective functionalization, and multistep electrochemical synthesis. His current and future projects aim to develop scalable, eco-friendly processes for the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries. With his unique combination of theoretical insight, experimental skill, and a global perspective, Dr. Zeng’s research will continue to bridge gaps between fundamental science and applied chemistry.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Zhongyi Zeng stands as a prominent example of a multidisciplinary scholar whose academic journey and scientific contributions transcend traditional boundaries. From his foundational training in pharmaceutical engineering to his leadership in organic and electrochemical catalysis, his work continues to enrich the fields of synthetic chemistry, coordination chemistry, and green technology. As he advances in his career, Dr. Zeng is expected to make enduring contributions to global scientific progress through innovation, collaboration, and education.

📚Publications

Regio- and stereospecific cis-hydrophenoxylation of ynamides with acidic phenols

Authors: Ting Wang; Yuyan Wan; Mingyao Xu; Yi Wang; Xu-Jia Hong; Hui Gao; Zhi Zhou; Wei Yi; Zhongyi Zeng

Journals: Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry

Rh(iii)-catalyzed redox-neutral C–H [4 + 1] annulation of sulfoximines with α,α-difluoromethylene alkynes: diastereoselective synthesis of E-monofluoroalkenyl benzoisothiazole 1-oxides

Authors: Ting Wang; Zhi-Huan Peng; Liexin Wu; Qingwei Song; Qianying Li; Hui Gao; Zhongyi Zeng; Zhi Zhou; Wei Yi

Journals: Organic Chemistry Frontiers

Calcium(II)-Mediated Three-Component Selenofunctionalization of Alkenes under Mild Conditions

Authors: Minyao Kuang; Haoran Li; Zhongyi Zeng; Hui Gao; Zhi Zhou; Xujia Hong; Wei Yi; Shengdong Wang

Journals: Organic Letters

Site-selective rhodium carbene transfer of 2-hydroxy-β-nitrostyrenes with diazo compounds En route to 2-alkylated benzofurans

Authors: Zhongyi Zeng; Haiman Zhang; Zhongyi Zeng; Yurong Yang; Junyuan Tang; Silin Zhang; Wei Yi; Zhi Zhou

Journals: Organic Chemistry Frontiers

Decarboxylation‐Initiated Intermolecular Carbon‐Heteroatom Bond Formation

Authors: Zhongyi Zeng; Zhongyi Zeng; Abigail Feceu; Nardana Sivendran; Lukas J. Gooßen

Journals: Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis

YUEHU WANG | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. YUEHU WANG – Chemistry  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Wang Yuehu’s commitment to advancing environmental sustainability, his innovative research contributions, and his impact on community health and ecological conservation align perfectly with the Best Researcher Award or the Excellence in Innovation Award. His expertise in chemical engineering and environmental science positions him as an ideal candidate for these prestigious recognitions.

 

GUIZHOU UNIVERSITY | China

 

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Wang Yuehu’s academic journey reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary expertise, spanning chemical engineering, environmental science, genetics, and mineral processing. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Mineral Processing from Central South University (1999–2003), which laid the foundation for his engineering career. He further pursued a Master’s degree in Genetics from Qiqihar University (2005–2008), showcasing an interest in biological sciences and their intersection with engineering. In 2010, he briefly studied Environmental Science and Engineering at Harbin Institute of Technology, reflecting his dedication to addressing environmental challenges. He capped his academic training with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the prestigious University of Groningen (2010–2017), where his research explored biomass conversion and the molecular structure of humins, making significant contributions to sustainable chemical processes.

 

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Wang’s professional career is a testament to his versatile expertise and collaborative spirit. After completing his Ph.D., he worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Science and Technology of China in 2017. His career trajectory includes roles in both research and industry, beginning with his tenure as an Assistant Engineer at Magang Design and Research Institute (2003–2005). From 2008 to 2010, he contributed as an Assistant Engineer at the Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he engaged in green process engineering projects. He later held research positions at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Process Technology and the Hunan Provincial Academy of Environmental Protection Sciences, focusing on functional materials and soil ecology, respectively. Since 2018, he has been a Lecturer at the School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, where he combines teaching and research.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Chemistry

Wang’s research centers on sustainable chemical processes, photocatalytic applications, and soil ecology. He has participated in prominent projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). Notably, he contributed to studies on:

  1. Redox Processes in Paddy Soils (2023–2026), examining selenium bioavailability for sustainable agriculture.
  2. Anaerobic Digestion Systems (2020–2023), investigating oxidative stress mechanisms in sludge-straw degradation.

He has also contributed to provincial-level projects, such as the performance of red mud-based materials in tunnel construction, emphasizing their theoretical and applied research significance. Wang’s research outputs include studies on biomass conversion, photocatalysis, and bioleaching. His publications in journals like Chemsuschem, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Desalination and Water Treatment underscore his contributions to sustainable engineering and environmental protection.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Wang’s work has been widely recognized through numerous achievements. His study on biomass humins in chemical processes gained significant attention, while his catalytic hydrotreatment research was groundbreaking in sustainable chemical engineering. Notable awards and acknowledgments include: A patent for photocatalytic wastewater treatment, showcasing innovation in addressing environmental challenges in gold processing. Multiple impactful journal articles where he has served as the first or corresponding author, demonstrating his leadership in scientific research.

 

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Wang Yuehu has significantly influenced the fields of chemical engineering and environmental science. His work on biomass conversion has contributed to the development of green technologies, while his expertise in photocatalysis provides novel solutions for wastewater treatment. His ongoing research on selenium bioavailability in paddy soils exemplifies his commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental health. As a Lecturer, he inspires the next generation of engineers and scientists at Guizhou University. His collaborative research projects, spanning institutions and disciplines, highlight his ability to bridge gaps between academia and industry.

 

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Wang’s contributions leave a lasting legacy in sustainable engineering and environmental protection. His ability to address complex challenges, from industrial waste management to agricultural sustainability, demonstrates his relevance in a world increasingly focused on green solutions. Looking ahead, his work promises to impact global efforts in clean energy, soil health, and water resource management. By continuing his research on redox processes and innovative materials, Wang is poised to lead advancements in environmental engineering.

 

Conclusion

Wang Yuehu’s journey, marked by academic rigor and professional dedication, exemplifies excellence in engineering and environmental science. From his interdisciplinary education to his impactful research and teaching roles, he has continually demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainability. As a Lecturer and researcher, Wang continues to pave the way for future scientific breakthroughs, ensuring his work remains influential and relevant in addressing global challenges

 

📚Publications

  • Recent advance on application of biochar in remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil: Emphasis on reaction factor, immobilization mechanism and functional modification

    Authors: Guo, W., Yao, X., Chen, Z., Xian, J., Wang, Y.

    Journals:   Journal of Environmental Management

  • Green-brick preparation method for the resource utilization of sewage sludge and phosphogypsum with a low heavy-metal pollution risk

    Authors: Yan, Y., Zhao, J., Kong, D., Guo, W., Yao, X.

    Journals:   Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management

  • Visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of ofloxacin by g-C3N4/NH2-MIL-88B(Fe) heterostructure: Mechanisms, DFT calculation, degradation pathway and toxicity evolution

    Authors: Su, Q., Li, J., Yuan, H., Li, Y., Xing, Y.

    Journals:   Chemical Engineering Journal

  • Photocatalytic degradation of sulfamonomethoxine by mesoporous phosphorus-doped titania under simulated solar light irradiation

    Authors: Li, J., Su, Q., Yuan, H., Wang, B., Li, Y.

    Journals:   Chemosphere

  • Tetracycline catalytic photodegradation with mesoporous phosphated TiO2: characterization, process optimization and degradation pathway

    Authors: Yuan, H., Su, Q., Wang, Y., Li, Y., Wu, P.

    Journals:   RSC Advances

Sandeep Joshi | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sandeep Joshi – Chemistry – Best Researcher Award

Fellowships:

Junior and Senior Research Fellowships at the National Institute of Technology Uttarakhand. Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) Junior Research Fellowship with National Eligibility Test qualification (173rd rank in Chemistry, 2017).

NIT uttarakhand | India

Profiles 

Scopus

📍Current Position

Sandeep Joshi is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Uttarakhand, Pauri Garhwal, India. His research is focused on the synthesis, structure, catalytic applications, and molecular detection studies of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and metal complexes. As a Senior Research Fellow at NIT Uttarakhand, he has been instrumental in advancing research in this field, applying both his technical skills and academic knowledge to significant scientific problems.

📝Publication Achievements 

Journals Published

Metal-free hydroarylation derived ferrocene-dihydrocoumarin as ultrasensitive dual-channel probe selectively for picric acid Authors: Suman Srivastava, Arpana Tamrakar, Sandeep Joshi, Dr. Mritunjay D. Pandey, Dr. Rampal Pandey Journal: Applied Organometallic Chemistry, Publication Year: 2023 .Volume: 37(4) .Article Number: e7028. Thiazole-based metalloligands and their heteroleptic MOFs: Chromogenic and fluorometric detection of tryptophan and Z-L-phenylalanine using Cu(II)-complex and Cu(II)-Zn(II) MOF, Authors: Sandeep Joshi, Surabhi Asthana, Dr. Mritunjay D. Pandey, Dr. Rampal Pandey, Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure, Publication Year: 2024, Article Number: 139469

 🔍Ongoing Research 

Sandeep’s ongoing research involves the development of new MOFs and metal complexes for various applications, including catalytic processes and molecular detection. His work focuses on the synthesis and structural analysis of these materials to understand their properties and potential applications in environmental and industrial contexts.

 🔬Research Interests 

Synthesis and Characterization of MOFs: Designing and analyzing new MOFs for their catalytic and molecular detection capabilities. Metal Complexes: Studying the properties and applications of metal complexes in various chemical processes. Chemical Sensing: Developing advanced sensors for detecting specific chemical compounds.

🎓Academic Background 

Sandeep Joshi completed his B.Sc. in Chemistry from H.N.B. Garhwal University in 2009, followed by an M.Sc. in Chemistry from the same institution in 2015. He further pursued a B.Ed. from U.T.U. Dehradun in 2012. Currently, he is engaged in Ph.D. studies at NIT Uttarakhand, where he has achieved a remarkable CGPA of 9.00/10.

🏆Scholarships and Awards 

Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Junior Research Fellowship: Secured 173rd rank in the National Eligibility Test in Chemistry in 2017. Junior Research Fellowship: Awarded by NIT Uttarakhand (2020-2022). Senior Research Fellowship: Currently holding this position at NIT Uttarakhand (2022-present).

🌐Professional Associations 

National Conference on Recent Advancement in Physical Sciences (NCRAPS): Contributed to organizing and participating in the conference held at NIT Uttarakhand (2020-2023).

 📚Training & Workshops 

Industrial Summer Training: Conducted at Dolphin (P.G.) Institute of Biomedical & Natural Sciences, Dehradun, focusing on practical applications in biomedical sciences (December 2015). NSS Training: Participated in the National Service Scheme training at H.N.B Garhwal University (December 2007 to January 2008).

🎤Oral Presentations 

International Conference on “Recent Trends in Chemical Sciences & Sustainable Energy” (RTCSSE-2023): Presented a poster at NIT Delhi on March 24-25, 2023.

🧑‍🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher 

Synthesis of new MOFs and metal complexes. Characterization using techniques like X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. Analysis of the catalytic efficiency and detection capabilities of the synthesized materials.

🚀Success Factors 

Joshi’s success can be attributed to his dedication to research, strong academic background, and ability to work with advanced chemical synthesis techniques. His organizational skills and participation in national conferences further enhance his profile.

🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience

Using software tools like OLEX, Mercury, Mestre Nova, ChemDraw, Mendeley, DFT, and Origin Pro for research and analysis. Hands-on experience in quality control and research through industrial training in HPLC and UV Spectroscopy.

📚Publications: