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Harapriya Rath | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by World Science Awards

Prof. Harapriya Rath | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science | India

Prof. Harapriya Rath is a renowned chemist and academic leader with a specialized focus on macrocyclic and supramolecular chemistry, particularly porphyrinoid systems. Currently serving as a Professor at the School of Chemical Sciences, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata, India, she has made significant contributions to organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. Her research highlights include aromaticity switching, nonlinear optics, photophysical studies, and anion sensing using expanded porphyrins. Prof. Rath is widely recognized for her pioneering work on core-modified expanded porphyrins, which has opened up new possibilities in the field of functional molecular materials. With over 70 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Chemistry, JACS, Angewandte Chemie, and ChemComm, she has established herself as a global authority in the field. In addition to her prolific publication record, she has successfully guided numerous Ph.D. students and collaborated with leading international institutions across Japan, the UK, and Europe. Prof. Rath combines outstanding research, teaching excellence, and international networking, making her an influential figure in modern chemical sciences. Her work has not only contributed to the advancement of fundamental chemical knowledge but also found relevance in practical applications like sensors and molecular devices.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Prof. Harapriya Rath holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, India. Her doctoral research under the supervision of Prof. T. K. Chandrashekar focused on “Core Modified Expanded Porphyrins with Six meso-links: New Organic Materials for Nonlinear Optical Applications,” a study that laid the groundwork for her lifelong interest in macrocyclic and porphyrinoid chemistry. Prior to her Ph.D., she completed her M.Sc. in Chemistry, with a solid foundation in synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry. Following her doctoral studies, she pursued advanced postdoctoral research as a JSPS Fellow at Kyoto University and NAIST in Japan. Her international academic journey continued as a Royal Society Newton International Fellow at the University of Manchester, UK, where she expanded her work into molecular electronics and conformational rigidity. Her educational path has not only been rooted in academic excellence but also shaped by exposure to leading global research environments. Through her academic training in India and abroad, Prof. Rath acquired a comprehensive perspective on structural design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced molecular materials, enabling her to become a thought leader in macrocyclic chemistry.

Experience

Prof. Rath began her professional academic career at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata, where she currently serves as a Professor in the School of Chemical Sciences. Her professional journey also includes prestigious international postdoctoral appointments in Japan and the United Kingdom. she was a Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Postdoctoral Fellow, where she worked at Kyoto University and NAIST on synthetic pathways for macrocyclic compounds with potential nonlinear optical properties. Later, she served as a Royal Society Newton International Fellow at the University of Manchester, where she collaborated with Prof. Martin Smith on molecular materials and π-conjugated systems. Over the years, Prof. Rath has led a productive and innovative research group at IACS, supervising Ph.D. students, initiating interdisciplinary collaborations, and securing funding from national and international science agencies such as SERB, DST, and JSPS. In addition to research, she is actively engaged in curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and organizing international conferences. Her extensive experience across different academic cultures has given her a unique ability to merge fundamental science with emerging technological applications, making her a sought-after academician and mentor.

Research Interests

Prof. Rath’s research interests lie at the interface of organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, with a strong emphasis on macrocyclic chemistry, especially porphyrinoids and their derivatives. She is particularly known for her exploration of aromaticity and antiaromaticity in expanded porphyrins, where she has demonstrated how subtle structural modifications can lead to drastic changes in electronic properties. Her team has developed novel core-modified porphyrinoids that exhibit tunable aromaticity and have potential applications in nonlinear optics and molecular electronics. She is also deeply involved in investigating σ- and π-aromaticity switching, twisted Möbius topologies, and their implications in anion sensing and molecular recognition. Additionally, she explores supramolecular assemblies, photophysical properties of macrocycles, and their use in host–guest chemistry. Another frontier in her research includes studying NIR-absorbing chromophores and nonlinear optical materials, which are of immense interest for optoelectronic applications. Prof. Rath’s research is known for its novelty, interdisciplinary impact, and high relevance in material design, anion sensing, and energy transfer systems. Her work offers insights into not just structural chemistry but also electronic behaviors, bridging the gap between molecular design and functional application in sensors, devices, and smart materials.

Research Skills

Prof. Harapriya Rath brings an impressive array of research skills that blend chemical synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, and theoretical insight. She is highly skilled in designing and synthesizing large π-conjugated macrocyclic systems, particularly porphyrinoid-based frameworks. Her expertise lies in multi-step organic synthesis, functionalization of macrocycles, and manipulation of aromaticity through conformational control and core modifications. She is proficient in using advanced spectroscopic tools such as UV-Vis, fluorescence, NMR (1D and 2D), mass spectrometry, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction for structural analysis. Additionally, she integrates computational chemistry methods to understand electronic distribution, aromaticity indexes, and molecular orbitals using DFT and other quantum chemical techniques. Her skills also extend to studying photophysical behaviors such as emission lifetimes and quantum yields, which are crucial for designing optical sensors and photonic materials. With a background in physical-organic chemistry, she also explores nonlinear optical (NLO) properties using spectroscopic and theoretical methods. Prof. Rath’s lab operates at the confluence of synthetic chemistry and molecular materials science, where she trains young researchers in both experimental and analytical techniques. These well-rounded skills allow her to conduct fundamental and applied research at an internationally competitive level.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Harapriya Rath has received several prestigious awards and honors that underscore her outstanding contributions to chemical research. She was awarded the Ramanujan Fellowship by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Government of India, recognizing her as a young scientist with high potential. she was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), a testament to her global standing in the field of chemical sciences. Earlier, she was the recipient of the Royal Society Newton International Fellowship, which allowed her to conduct pioneering research in molecular materials at the University of Manchester. She has also been a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellow in Japan, highlighting her early career excellence and international collaborations. Prof. Rath has been invited to deliver talks at national and international conferences, chaired scientific sessions, and contributed to academic panels and editorial review boards. She has received project funding from DST, SERB, and international partners. Her achievements in publishing high-impact research articles and mentoring future scientists further amplify her influence. Collectively, these accolades affirm her position as a leader in macrocyclic chemistry and molecular design.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Syntheses of Variants of π(σ) Aromatic Modified N-Methyl N-Confused Porphyrinoids with Adaptive Properties, Chemistry – An Asian Journal, 2025.

  2. Copper(III) Organometallic Complexes of Non (Anti)aromatic and Aromatic Doubly N-Confused Porphyrinoids: Syntheses and Characterization, Dalton Transactions, 2025,

  3. X-ray Characterization of Core-Modified N-Confused Fused Porphyrinogen and Genesis of π(σ) (Anti)aromatic N-Confused Fused Porphyrinoids, Organic Chemistry Frontiers, 2024, Citations: 3

  4. Organometallic Copper(II) Complex of meso-meso N-Methyl N-Confused Pyrrole-Bridged Doubly N-Methyl N-Confused Hexaphyrin, Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, 2024, Citations: 3

  5. Rational and Controllable Syntheses of Variants of Modified N-Confused N-Fused Porphodimethenes and a Porphotrimethene with Adaptive Properties, Dalton Transactions, 2024, Citations: 3

Conclusion

Prof. Harapriya Rath is a trailblazer in the field of macrocyclic chemistry, particularly in the design and development of porphyrinoid-based materials with tailored electronic and optical properties. Her extensive body of work has not only advanced the fundamental understanding of aromaticity, conformational dynamics, and molecular recognition but also opened new avenues in functional materials for sensing, optoelectronics, and nonlinear optics. With a strong academic foundation built through her education in India and research fellowships in Japan and the UK, she brings a rare blend of theoretical insight and experimental rigor. As a professor at IACS Kolkata, she continues to inspire and mentor a new generation of chemists while actively contributing to global scientific discourse. Her recognition through prestigious fellowships and society memberships highlights her influence and dedication to scientific excellence. In every dimension—education, research, international collaboration, and community service—Prof. Rath exemplifies the qualities of a globally impactful researcher. With ongoing contributions and future potential for even broader interdisciplinary integration, she is well-positioned to shape the future of molecular materials science both in India and on the international stage.

Zhigang Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhigang Chen | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Chongqing University of Technology, China

Zhigang Chen is an accomplished researcher and Associate Professor at the School of Energy Catalysis, Chongqing University of Technology. With a strong academic background in physical chemistry and materials science, he has developed a research niche in single-atom catalysis and advanced in situ characterization techniques. Dr. Chen has demonstrated an exceptional ability to combine theoretical knowledge with experimental innovation, resulting in significant contributions to the field of heterogeneous catalysis. His research has been widely recognized and published in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications, PNAS, Nano Letters, ACS Catalysis, and Small, with many works authored as the first or corresponding author. Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Chen has emphasized the development of scalable, high-performance catalysts for electrochemical applications, addressing key challenges in sustainable energy. His work not only advances fundamental understanding of catalyst behavior but also offers practical implications for energy conversion and storage technologies. Driven by scientific curiosity and a strong commitment to impactful research, Dr. Chen continues to explore novel materials and techniques with a vision to revolutionize the field of catalysis through innovation, precision, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Professional Profile

Education

Zhigang Chen holds a robust academic foundation in materials science and physical chemistry, having completed his education at some of China’s most prestigious institutions. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Chongqing University of Technology in 2014, laying the groundwork for his future specialization in catalysis and nanotechnology. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry at the School of Sciences, Shanghai University, from 2014 to 2017. During this time, he honed his skills in chemical analysis, reaction mechanisms, and materials characterization, which became pivotal in his later research. For his doctoral studies, Dr. Chen attended the University of Science and Technology of China, one of the country’s leading research universities, where he earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry in 2020. His doctoral work delved into the mechanisms and design of advanced catalytic systems, particularly at the nanoscale level. Following his Ph.D., he undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in surface catalysis. This rich academic trajectory has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of catalysis and advanced materials science.

Professional Experience

Zhigang Chen began his professional journey with a strong academic orientation, culminating in his current role as an Associate Professor at the School of Energy Catalysis, Chongqing University of Technology, where he has been serving since March 2023. Prior to this, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, from 2020 to 2023. There, he focused on surface catalysis and further deepened his expertise in nanostructured materials and their electrochemical applications. His postdoctoral research also emphasized in situ spectroscopic techniques, which enabled a more profound understanding of catalyst behavior under real-time operational conditions. Dr. Chen’s academic appointments reflect a continuous trajectory of growth, supported by both fundamental scientific training and advanced experimental research. Throughout his professional career, he has maintained a strong publishing record in internationally renowned journals and has taken on increasing responsibilities as a lead and corresponding author. His current role includes supervising graduate students, developing cutting-edge research projects in energy catalysis, and contributing to the scientific community through collaborations and peer-reviewed publications. His professional pathway showcases both academic depth and research leadership in a rapidly evolving scientific field.

Research Interests

Zhigang Chen’s research interests lie at the intersection of material science, surface chemistry, and energy technology, with a primary focus on the development and scale-up of single-atom catalysts. These advanced materials offer high catalytic efficiency, selectivity, and stability—key parameters for energy-related applications such as hydrogen evolution, oxygen evolution, and carbon dioxide reduction. His work is grounded in physical chemistry and is highly interdisciplinary, integrating concepts from solid-state chemistry, surface science, and electrochemical engineering. Dr. Chen is particularly interested in the application of in situ spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), which allow real-time investigation of catalytic behavior under operational conditions. His overarching research goal is to develop highly active and durable catalytic systems that contribute to sustainable and clean energy solutions. The combination of scalable material synthesis and in-depth mechanistic studies places his research at the frontier of nanocatalysis and materials innovation. Furthermore, he seeks to expand his work into industrially viable catalytic systems that can be deployed in real-world applications, thereby bridging the gap between fundamental research and applied technology.

Research Skills

Zhigang Chen possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that distinguish him in the field of catalysis and materials science. He is highly proficient in the synthesis and scale-up of single-atom catalysts, which involves complex procedures of atomic dispersion, substrate preparation, and post-treatment to achieve high catalytic performance. His work also extensively utilizes advanced characterization methods, particularly in situ spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy), and XAS (X-ray absorption spectroscopy). These techniques enable him to monitor and analyze chemical reactions and structural changes of catalysts in real-time under operating conditions, providing critical insights into reaction mechanisms and material behavior. In addition to experimental techniques, Dr. Chen demonstrates strong skills in data interpretation, scientific writing, and critical review, as reflected in his numerous first-author publications in high-impact journals. His background in physical chemistry further enhances his ability to understand reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and surface interactions at the atomic level. Moreover, he is adept at collaborating across disciplines, integrating materials science with electrochemistry and nanotechnology, which allows him to approach problems from multiple scientific perspectives. These research competencies position him as a leading innovator in catalyst development.

Awards and Honors

Zhigang Chen’s scholarly contributions have earned him recognition within the scientific community, as evidenced by his publication record in premier journals such as Nature Communications, PNAS, Nano Letters, Nano Energy, and ACS Catalysis. While specific awards or honors are not listed in his current profile, his recurring presence as the first or corresponding author in these top-tier journals is itself a mark of distinction. His research achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also innovation and leadership in the competitive field of catalysis and nanomaterials. Publishing in journals of this caliber requires stringent peer review and high-impact findings, indicating that Dr. Chen’s work consistently meets international standards of research excellence. Furthermore, his appointment as Associate Professor at a relatively early stage in his career signifies institutional recognition of his potential and expertise. He is also trusted with mentorship roles and leads significant research initiatives within his department. As his career progresses, it is expected that Dr. Chen will continue to receive formal awards and honors for his pioneering research, interdisciplinary collaborations, and contributions to advancing energy technologies.

Conclusion

Zhigang Chen stands out as a dynamic and innovative researcher whose work in single-atom catalysis and in situ spectroscopy has made a notable impact on the field of energy catalysis. His academic training, postdoctoral specialization, and current faculty role all reflect a focused and evolving career dedicated to advancing sustainable technologies through materials innovation. With a solid foundation in physical chemistry and materials science, Dr. Chen has developed advanced skills in catalyst synthesis and real-time analytical techniques, positioning him at the forefront of modern catalysis research. His extensive publication record in prestigious journals underscores his ability to produce high-quality, impactful research. Moreover, his current research aligns with global priorities such as clean energy and environmental sustainability, making his contributions both timely and socially relevant. As an emerging leader in his field, Dr. Chen has the potential to influence both academic research and industrial practices. With continued focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and application-driven research, he is well-poised to achieve greater scientific milestones. Overall, his profile makes him a strong contender for awards that recognize innovative and high-impact research.

 

 

Shaotao BAI | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by World Science Awards

Prof. Shaotao BAI | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Shenzhen Polytechnic University, China

Professor Shaotao Bai is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in sustainable catalysis and engineering. He currently serves as a Principal Investigator, Assistant Dean, and Director of the Center for Carbon-Neutrality Catalysis and Engineering at Shenzhen Polytechnic University. His work focuses on applied homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, computational catalysis, and the development of innovative solutions for CO₂ capture and utilization. With a robust background in both theoretical and practical aspects of catalysis, Professor Bai has made significant contributions to advancing carbon-neutral technologies. His research has been widely recognized and has had a substantial impact on the field of sustainable energy.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Bai’s academic journey laid a solid foundation for his career in catalysis and sustainable engineering. He earned his doctoral degree in a field pertinent to his current research focus, equipping him with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in both academic and professional settings. His education emphasized the principles of chemical engineering and catalysis, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and applications of catalytic processes. This strong educational background has been instrumental in his ability to lead cutting-edge research projects and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.​

Professional Experience

In his current role at Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Professor Bai holds multiple leadership positions, including Principal Investigator, Assistant Dean, and Director of the Center for Carbon-Neutrality Catalysis and Engineering. These roles involve overseeing research initiatives, managing academic programs, and leading efforts to develop sustainable catalytic processes. Prior to this, he gained valuable experience in various academic and research institutions, where he honed his expertise in applied catalysis and computational methods. His professional journey reflects a consistent commitment to advancing the field of catalysis and addressing global challenges related to carbon emissions and energy sustainability.

Research Interests

Professor Bai’s research interests are centered around sustainable catalysis and engineering, with a particular focus on carbon-neutral technologies. He is deeply engaged in the development of both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic systems aimed at efficient CO₂ capture and utilization. Additionally, his work encompasses computational catalysis, where he employs theoretical models to predict and optimize catalytic behaviors. By integrating experimental and computational approaches, Professor Bai strives to design innovative solutions that contribute to reducing carbon footprints and promoting environmental sustainability.​

Research Skills

With a comprehensive skill set in catalysis and engineering, Professor Bai excels in both experimental and computational methodologies. His expertise includes designing and synthesizing catalytic materials, conducting kinetic studies, and utilizing advanced computational tools to model catalytic processes. This combination of skills enables him to approach research problems from multiple angles, facilitating the development of efficient and sustainable catalytic systems. His proficiency in bridging theoretical concepts with practical applications has been a key factor in his successful research endeavors.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Professor Bai has received several accolades recognizing his contributions to the field of catalysis and sustainable engineering. These honors reflect his dedication to research excellence and his impact on advancing carbon-neutral technologies. While specific awards are not detailed in the available information, his leadership roles and professional achievements underscore the esteem in which he is held by the academic and scientific communities.​

Conclusion

Professor Shaotao Bai’s career exemplifies a profound commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovative research in catalysis and engineering. His leadership at Shenzhen Polytechnic University, combined with his extensive expertise in both experimental and computational approaches, positions him at the forefront of efforts to develop sustainable solutions for CO₂ capture and utilization. As the global community continues to prioritize carbon neutrality, Professor Bai’s work remains instrumental in driving progress toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

Publications Top Notes​

  1. Title: Homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts for hydrogenation of CO₂ to methanol under mild conditions
    Authors: S.T. Bai, G. De Smet, Y. Liao, R. Sun, C. Zhou, M. Beller, B.U.W. Maes, B.F. Sels
    Journal: Chemical Society Reviews
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 265

  2. Title: Heterogeneous catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation to formic acid/formate: from nanoscale to single atom
    Authors: R. Sun, Y. Liao, S.T. Bai, M. Zheng, C. Zhou, T. Zhang, B.F. Sels
    Journal: Energy & Environmental Science
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 229

  3. Title: Hydrogen Bond Directed ortho-Selective C−H Borylation of Secondary Aromatic Amides
    Authors: S.T. Bai, C.B. Bheeter, J.N.H. Reek
    Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 73

  4. Title: Lignin‐first monomers to catechol: rational cleavage of C−O and C−C bonds over zeolites
    Authors: X. Wu, Y. Liao, J. Bomon, G. Tian, S.T. Bai, K. Van Aelst, Q. Zhang, et al.
    Journal: ChemSusChem
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 37

  5. Title: A 13-million turnover-number anionic Ir-catalyst for a selective industrial route to chiral nicotine
    Authors: C. Yin, Y.F. Jiang, F. Huang, C.Q. Xu, Y. Pan, S. Gao, G.Q. Chen, X. Ding, S.T. Bai, et al.
    Journal: Nature Communications
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 35

  6. Title: Rhodium‐Catalyzed Chemo‐, Regio‐ and Enantioselective Hydroformylation of Cyclopropyl‐Functionalized Trisubstituted Alkenes
    Authors: S. Li, D. Zhang, R. Zhang, S.T. Bai, X. Zhang
    Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 20

  7. Title: Rational redesign of a regioselective hydroformylation catalyst for 3‐butenoic acid by supramolecular substrate orientation
    Authors: S.T. Bai, V. Sinha, A.M. Kluwer, P.R. Linnebank, Z. Abiri, B. de Bruin, J.N.H. Reek
    Journal: ChemCatChem
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 20

  8. Title: Effector responsive hydroformylation catalysis
    Authors: S.T. Bai, V. Sinha, A.M. Kluwer, P.R. Linnebank, Z. Abiri, P. Dydio, M. Lutz, et al.
    Journal: Chemical Science
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 17

  9. Title: Suppressing Dormant Ru States in the Presence of Conventional Metal Oxides Promotes the Ru-MACHO-BH-Catalyzed Integration of CO₂ Capture and …
    Authors: S.T. Bai, C. Zhou, X. Wu, R. Sun, B. Sels
    Journal: ACS Catalysis
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 16

  10. Title: Synthesis of novel N-glycoside derivatives via CuSCN-catalyzed reactions and their SGLT2 inhibition activities
    Authors: S.T. Bai, D.C. Xiong, Y. Niu, Y.F. Wu, X.S. Ye
    Journal: Tetrahedron
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 16

  11. Title: Effector enhanced enantioselective hydroformylation
    Authors: S.T. Bai, A.M. Kluwer, J.N.H. Reek
    Journal: Chemical Communications
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 10