Maofu Pang | Plastics Upcycling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maofu Pang | Plastics Upcycling | Best Researcher Award 

Lecturer at Ludong University, China.

Dr. Maofu Pang is a dedicated chemist whose research bridges organometallic chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable material science. His pioneering work in cobalt- and iron-catalyzed transformations, coupled with recent advances in plastic recycling and upcycling, has significantly contributed to the advancement of green chemistry and the circular economy. Through high-impact publications and innovative projects, he has emerged as a promising researcher committed to environmental sustainability and the development of efficient catalytic systems.

Proffesional Profile

Scopus 

Education

Dr. Pang’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in chemistry and chemical engineering. He began with a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and Technology, where he developed an interest in catalysis and reaction mechanisms. He further advanced his expertise with a master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, focusing on cobalt-catalyzed hydroboration of imines and alkenes, emphasizing metal-ligand cooperation for B–H bond cleavage. His doctoral studies in Organometallic Chemistry deepened his research into cobalt-catalyzed partial transfer hydrogenation of N-heterocycles and the synthesis of heteronuclear complexes. Mentored by distinguished professors, he developed advanced skills in designing catalytic systems for selective organic transformations, laying the groundwork for his subsequent career in sustainable chemistry.

Experience

Currently serving as a faculty member at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ludong University, Dr. Pang’s research spans catalysis, plastic upcycling, and sustainable chemistry. His expertise lies in the design and mechanistic understanding of transition-metal complexes, particularly cobalt, iron, and manganese catalysts, applied to hydrogenation, hydroboration, and polymer degradation processes. His recent work has expanded into catalytic upcycling of polyesters and polycarbonates, transforming plastic waste into value-added chemicals through environmentally friendly methodologies. This innovative approach integrates catalysis with sustainability, directly addressing global environmental challenges.

Research Focus

Dr. Maofu Pang’s research centers on the design, development, and mechanistic study of transition-metal catalysts for sustainable chemical transformations. His work spans cobalt-, iron-, and manganese-based systems with applications in hydrogenation, hydroboration, and polymer degradation. By combining fundamental organometallic chemistry with applied catalysis, he has advanced methods for the selective transformation of N-heterocycles and olefins, while more recently pioneering catalytic strategies for the upcycling of polyesters and polycarbonates into value-added chemicals. This integrated approach addresses both academic challenges in catalytic mechanism design and practical global issues of plastic waste valorization, positioning his research at the intersection of catalysis, green chemistry, and the circular economy.

Publication Top Note

Title: Efficient Catalytic Upcycling of Polyester and Polycarbonate Plastics Using an NNN-Based Iron Catalyst
Authors: Xiaoxiao Chu, Guoren Zhou, Chongyan Ren, Xiaoshi Zhang, Maofu Pang*, Nuoyan Zhao, Hongwu Zhang
Summary: This work presents an NNN-based iron catalyst that efficiently converts polyester and polycarbonate plastics into valuable chemicals under mild, sustainable conditions. The study highlights iron as a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative for scalable plastic upcycling in the circular economy.

Conclusion

Dr. Maofu Pang exemplifies the integration of fundamental catalysis with sustainable applications. His academic background, innovative research in transition-metal catalysis, and impactful contributions to plastic recycling position him as a leading researcher in green chemistry. With his dedication to advancing circular economy principles and addressing environmental challenges, he stands as a highly deserving candidate for recognition through an award nomination.

Haijiang Yang | Ecosystem Services | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Haijiang Yang | Ecosystem Services | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Lanzhou University, China

Dr. Haijiang Yang is an Associate Professor at the College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, with a focus on ecosystem services assessment and modeling, human-environment interactions, and regional sustainable development. His academic contributions span interdisciplinary environmental studies, combining geography, ecology, and socio-economic evaluation to drive science-based policy-making and ecological restoration strategies.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Yang pursued his academic journey through a series of progressive and specialized degrees in geographical and environmental sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Geography from Lanzhou University, where he laid the foundation for his research in ecosystem services and socio-ecological systems. Prior to this, he completed his Master’s degree in Physical Geography at Ningxia University, focusing on land use, soil properties, and regional environmental changes. His undergraduate studies in Geographical Science at Weinan Normal University provided him with a strong grounding in environmental analysis and spatial modeling.

Experience

Dr. Yang’s academic career advanced swiftly through rigorous postdoctoral research and faculty appointments. He served as a Cuiying Postdoctoral Fellow at Lanzhou University, engaging in high-impact studies on ecosystem services in fragile mountainous regions. He was appointed as Associate Professor in the same institution, where he continues to contribute to both teaching and research. Over the past five years, he has led or participated in numerous national and provincial projects, including a National Natural Science Foundation grant investigating spatiotemporal evolution of water supply services and socio-ecological value mechanisms in the Qilian Mountains, and a prestigious China Postdoctoral Fellowship on the coupling effects of climate and land use change.

Research Focus

Dr. Yang’s research focuses on the assessment, valuation, and modeling of ecosystem services in ecologically sensitive areas, particularly in the Qilian Mountains and the broader Yellow River Basin. His work incorporates spatial analysis, socio-ecological modeling, and sustainability science to explore themes such as spillover effects of ecosystem services, cost-benefit sharing, horizontal ecological compensation, and human well-being. He has also investigated land use impacts, biodiversity-climate interactions, and resource efficiency in agricultural and pastoral systems. Through these research areas, he aims to offer scientific support for environmental planning, ecological restoration, and regional sustainable development strategies in China’s western regions.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Assessing Pollinator Abundance and Services in the Qilian Mountains: A Spatial and Temporal Analysis from 1990 to 2020 for Enhanced Agricultural Sustainability and Crop Yield Optimization
Authors: Yang, H.; Gou, X.; Niu, Y.; Shi, W.; Wang, X.; Wei, Y.; Maraseni, T.
Journal: SSRN
Summary: This study investigates changes in pollinator abundance and ecosystem services in the Qilian Mountains from 1990 to 2020. It highlights spatial and temporal patterns and links pollinator dynamics to agricultural sustainability and crop yield improvements. The findings offer policy insights for biodiversity conservation and agroecological planning in mountainous regions.

Title: Increasing Deep Soil Water Uptake During Drought Does Not Indicate Higher Drought Resistance
Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Liu, J.; Zhang, D.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.
Journal: Journal of Hydrology 
Summary: This research challenges the assumption that deep soil water uptake enhances drought resistance in plants. Using tree-ring and isotopic data, the study reveals that although trees may access deep water during drought, this does not guarantee improved growth or resilience, emphasizing the need to rethink forest management strategies under climate change.

Title: Response of Tree Growth to Drought Variability in Arid Areas: Local Hydroclimate and Large-Scale Precipitation
Authors: Zhang, Y.; Gou, X.; Wang, T.; Zhang, F.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.; Yang, K.
Journal: Environmental Research
Summary: This study examines how local and regional precipitation patterns influence tree growth in arid zones. The results show that local hydroclimatic variability plays a more significant role than large-scale climatic drivers, providing insight into ecosystem sensitivity in drylands.

Title: The Sino-US Trade Friction Would Exacerbate Global Inequalities in Achieving SDGs
Authors: Ma, W.; Li, C.; Kou, J.; Wang, X.; Yang, H.; Xue, B.; Gou, X.
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
Summary: This article evaluates how Sino-US trade tensions could hinder progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It underscores how economic disputes may disproportionately affect developing regions, amplifying global disparities in environmental and socio-economic sustainability.

Title: Elevation-Dependent Tree Growth Response to Recent Warming and Drought on Eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Yang, H.; Wang, K.; Liu, J.; Zhang, Y.; Gao, L.
Journal: Climatic Change 
Summary: The study analyzes tree growth patterns in response to warming and drought across elevation gradients in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. It finds that high-elevation forests exhibit stronger growth sensitivity to climatic shifts, highlighting their vulnerability and importance for regional climate adaptation strategies.

Conclusion

Dr. Haijiang Yang stands out as a dynamic and impactful researcher in the domains of ecosystem services, land use sustainability, and regional socio-ecological resilience. Through his deep understanding of geography and environmental systems, he has produced a body of work that informs both academic scholarship and public policy. His leadership in national research projects, high-quality publications in influential journals, and commitment to interdisciplinary integration make him a deserving candidate for recognition as a Best Researcher. His work not only advances scientific frontiers but also addresses some of the most pressing ecological challenges facing China’s mountainous and agricultural regions today.

Dusu Wen | Animal Ecology | Best Researcher Award Lecturer

Dr. Dusu Wen | Animal Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Southwest Forestry University, China

Dr. Dusu Wen is a dedicated wildlife ecologist and conservation scientist based at Southwest Forestry University in Kunming, China. With a passion for preserving biodiversity and ecological integrity, his research focuses on the spatial behavior and habitat dynamics of large mammals such as big cats, ungulates, and Asian elephants. Through meticulous fieldwork and advanced spatial analysis, Dr. Wen has contributed valuable insights into ecosystem management under seasonal and anthropogenic disturbances. His work not only deepens scientific understanding but also informs conservation policies for protected areas in Asia. Known for his interdisciplinary collaborations and strong publication record, Dr. Wen’s research bridges the gap between academic inquiry and practical conservation. He continues to advocate for science-based habitat protection and wildlife sustainability through innovative, data-driven research.

Professional Profiles📖

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Wen holds a Ph.D. in Ecology with a specialization in wildlife conservation and spatial ecology. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry or Environmental Science (institution details pending), followed by a Master’s in Ecology or Wildlife Management. His doctoral research focused on the habitat utilization and behavioral ecology of large carnivores in Northeast China, emphasizing conservation potential within protected area networks. Throughout his education, he received rigorous training in remote sensing, GIS applications, population modeling, and conservation biology. He actively participated in field surveys and multi-scale ecological assessments, laying the groundwork for his current research on species distribution, ecological resilience, and human-wildlife coexistence. His academic foundation is strengthened by participation in national and international workshops on conservation planning, making him both a skilled scientist and a well-rounded academic.

Work Experience💼

Dr. Dusu Wen has built a diverse and impactful portfolio in conservation science. Currently serving as a researcher and faculty member at Southwest Forestry University, he leads multiple research projects focusing on large mammal ecology, habitat fragmentation, and conservation effectiveness in temperate and subtropical forest ecosystems. He has collaborated extensively with institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and conservation NGOs. His recent work involves long-term monitoring of Asian elephants in Yunnan and spatial analysis of big cat and ungulate populations in Northeast China. Dr. Wen is also involved in mentoring graduate students, contributing to curriculum development, and conducting field training programs. His research is applied in both academic and governmental conservation strategies, promoting evidence-based wildlife management across China. As an emerging voice in ecological science, he brings technical precision and practical relevance to complex conservation challenges.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Dusu Wen has received several recognitions for his scientific contributions and conservation leadership. While still in the early phase of his academic career, his publications in high-impact journals like Global Ecology and Conservation and Conservation Science and Practice have earned citations and acknowledgment from peers and reviewers. His fieldwork has been supported by national research grants and conservation fellowships. He has been invited to speak at scientific symposia on biodiversity conservation and habitat management in Asia. Additionally, he has earned commendations for collaborative research projects focusing on habitat analysis and species monitoring. These achievements reflect not only scientific merit but also Dr. Wen’s dedication to advancing conservation science through empirical research. With continued contributions to ecological resilience and protected area planning, Dr. Wen is well-positioned for future international awards in environmental and wildlife research.

Skills💡

Dr. Dusu Wen exemplifies a dynamic blend of technical proficiency, academic depth, and collaborative leadership in the field of conservation science. His expertise spans spatial analysis, population modeling, and habitat suitability assessments, enabling data-driven insights into species distribution and ecological resilience. With a strong foundation in ecological statistics and remote sensing, he effectively integrates camera trap data and landscape analysis to guide conservation interventions. Beyond technical acumen, Dr. Wen is a skilled scientific communicator and educator, proficient in field surveys and landscape connectivity evaluations. His ability to lead teams, mentor students, and coordinate interdisciplinary projects speaks to his professional maturity and organizational capacity. Dr. Wen’s decision-making is rooted in evidence, supporting conservation policy with precision and clarity. Fluent in both Chinese and English, he navigates seamlessly between fieldwork and international scientific discourse, making him a vital contributor to global biodiversity preservation efforts.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Wen’s research centers on spatial ecology, large mammal conservation, and habitat modeling. He explores how species such as big cats, elephants, and ungulates interact with their environments, especially in the face of seasonal changes, human disturbance, and habitat fragmentation. His studies provide key insights into animal distribution, habitat selection, and conservation gaps within protected areas. Using GIS, remote sensing, and field-based monitoring, Dr. Wen quantifies how landscape-level changes impact biodiversity. His work supports the development of adaptive management strategies, essential for safeguarding threatened species in China and beyond. He also contributes to interdisciplinary projects examining the role of ecological corridors and buffer zones in wildlife preservation. Ultimately, his goal is to merge ecological theory with real-world conservation applications, ensuring that science plays a central role in biodiversity policy and sustainable development.

Conclusion✅

Dr. Dusu Wen is a promising researcher whose work demonstrates originality, scientific rigor, and real-world conservation application. His growing body of impactful research, especially in spatial ecology and large mammal conservation, aligns well with the mission of the Best Researcher Award. With continued development in leadership visibility and science communication, Dr. Wen is well-positioned to become a leading figure in global conservation science. He is a suitable and deserving nominee for this recognition.

Publications Top Notes📚

Title: Multi-scale habitat selection and constraints of a small Asian elephant population in Yunnan Nangunhe National Nature Reserve, China
Journal: Global Ecology and Conservation
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03616

Title: Spatial population distribution dynamics of big cats and ungulates with seasonal and disturbance changes in temperate natural forest
Journal: Global Ecology and Conservation
Year: 2024
DOI: 10.1016/J.GECCO.2024.E02881

Title: Influences of Predator Cues on the Incidence of Ungulates, Mesopredators and Top Predators in the Greater Khingan Mountains, Northeastern China
Journal: Pakistan Journal of Zoology
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.17582/JOURNAL.PJZ/20190213140239

Title: The fine‐scale movement pattern of Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) responds to winter habitat permeability
Journal: Wildlife Letters
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1002/wll2.12020

Title: Effects of Inter- and Intra-Specific Interactions on Moose Habitat Selection Limited by Temperature
Journal: Remote Sensing
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.3390/RS14246401

Title: Wavelet Analysis Reveals Phenology Mismatch between Leaf Phenology of Temperate Forest Plants and the Siberian Roe Deer Molting under Global Warming
Journal: Remote Sensing
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.3390/RS14163901

Title: Conservation potentials and limitations of large carnivores in protected areas: A case study in Northeast China
Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12693

Title: Integrated assessments call for establishing a sustainable meta-population of Amur tigers in northeast Asia
Journal: Biological Conservation
Year: 2021
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOCON.2021.109250

Title: The effect of novel and familiar predator cues on prey vigilance and foraging behaviors in the Greater Khingan Mountains, Inner Mongolia, China
Journal: Applied Ecology and Environmental Research
Year: 2019
DOI: 10.15666/AEER/1704_82198234

Yanjun Chai | Ecosystem | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanjun Chai | Ecosystem | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Director of the Department of Environmental Engineering at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Chai Yanjun is an accomplished Associate Professor and PhD supervisor at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology. As Deputy Director and Party Branch Secretary in the Department of Environmental Engineering, he plays a pivotal role in both research and academic leadership. With a strong background in agricultural environmental sciences, Dr. Chai has dedicated his career to restoring degraded farmland and advancing sustainable agricultural practices. His prolific research has led to over 50 academic publications, several patents, and numerous national and provincial projects. 🌿📘 His innovations serve not just academia, but also rural revitalization and ecological restoration. He is also actively involved in training the next generation of environmental engineers and researchers.

Professional Profile 

Scopus 

🎓 Education

Dr. Chai Yanjun received his PhD from the prestigious Institute of Agricultural Environment and Sustainable Development, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. 📚🌱 His academic foundation is rooted in understanding the interactions between agricultural systems and environmental sustainability. During his doctoral studies, he focused on farmland pollution, biogas utilization, and nutrient cycling—laying the groundwork for his lifelong research pursuits. His academic training enabled him to bridge theoretical knowledge with field-based application, especially in the realm of sustainable land use and agricultural waste management. His education continues to influence his innovative approach to solving modern agricultural and environmental challenges. 🎓🧪

💼 Experience

With over two decades of academic and field-based experience, Dr. Chai has led more than 20 funded research projects, including major programs under the Zhejiang Province Public Welfare and Natural Science Foundations. 🌾🧠 His collaborations span governmental agencies, academic institutes, and industry, reflecting a dynamic approach to solving environmental problems. He has also played key roles in five national and provincial R&D projects. Currently, as an Associate Professor and Department Deputy Director, he not only teaches and mentors graduate students but also manages academic and strategic initiatives within the department. He has also successfully established two innovation workstations in Quzhou, aimed at rural development and scientific innovation. 🏢🌍

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Chai’s research excellence has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards. 🏆 He has won the Second Prize of Scientific and Technological Progress of Hubei Province, the Second Prize from China Electric Power Engineering, and the First Prize of Achievements from the China Construction Enterprise Management Association. His contributions extend beyond academia, influencing environmental policy and regional development strategies. Furthermore, he was approved to establish two impactful platforms: the Quzhou Doctor Innovation Workstation and the Quzhou Rural Revitalization Expert Workstation, both of which contribute significantly to local innovation and sustainability efforts. 🌟🎖️

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Chai’s research primarily targets the restoration of degraded and polluted farmland, and the resource-efficient use of agricultural waste. 🌾♻️ His work combines soil science, environmental chemistry, and ecological engineering to improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impact. A core part of his research involves biogas slurry treatment and the mitigation of nitrogen and phosphorus loss from farmland. He actively works on creating practical, scalable solutions that benefit both farmers and the environment. Through standard development, patented technologies, and rural innovation workstations, he translates academic research into real-world benefits. His research supports China’s sustainability goals and rural revitalization strategy. 🧪🌱

🛠️ Skills

Dr. Chai Yanjun brings a rich and diverse set of interdisciplinary skills to his academic and research endeavors. 👨‍🔬 His expertise in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering allows him to address complex challenges in farmland restoration and pollution control with scientific precision. As a seasoned project leader, he excels in project coordination and strategic planning, guiding multi-institutional collaborations to success. 📊 His deep knowledge of sustainable waste management empowers him to turn agricultural byproducts into valuable resources, supporting both environmental and economic sustainability. ♻️ With multiple patents to his name, Dr. Chai is also a strong innovator, advancing technologies that bridge theory and real-world impact. 🧬 He plays a pivotal role in formulating policies and agricultural standards, ensuring that his work benefits not just academia, but society at large. 📑 In addition to his research contributions, he is a dedicated scholar involved in academic publishing, peer review, and the mentorship of postgraduate students, nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. ✍️🎓 His leadership in rural revitalization programs further reflects his commitment to sustainable development at the grassroots level. 🏡

Conclusion

Dr. Chai Yanjun is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His work is deeply rooted in addressing real-world environmental and agricultural challenges through science and innovation. With a well-rounded portfolio of publications, patents, projects, and recognition, he embodies the qualities of a top-tier researcher making both academic and societal impact. Minor improvements in international engagement and broader interdisciplinary focus could further elevate his research profile. Nonetheless, his achievements to date already represent excellence deserving of this honor.

Publications Top Notes

“Investigation of high-risk antibiotic resistance bacteria and their associated antibiotic resistance genes in different agricultural soils with biogas slurry from China”

Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials

Year: 2024

Citations: 4

DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134775

“Effects of different types of biochar application on dryland yellow-red soil fertility”

Journal: Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao / Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering

Year: 2025

Citations: 0 (as of now)