Wang Hay Kan | Data Analysis Techniques | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Wang Hay Kan | Data Analysis Techniques | Best Researcher Award

Associate Researcher at China Spallation Neutron Source | China

Dr. Wang Hay (Jack) Kan is an accomplished Associate Professor at the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS), Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. With a research portfolio spanning solid-state chemistry, neutron scattering, and energy materials, he is recognized for advancing the field of energy storage and conversion. Holding a PhD from the University of Calgary, Dr. Kan combines academic rigor with real-world innovation, reflected in over 90 peer-reviewed publications, numerous patents, and extensive international collaborations. His research integrates in-situ neutron/X-ray techniques with advanced material design, making him a vital figure in next-gen energy solutions.

👨‍🎓Profile

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ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kan’s academic path began with a First-Class Honors B.Sc. in Chemistry from HKUST, where he studied metal-organic frameworks under Prof. Ian D. Williams. He then pursued a Master’s at the University of Waterloo under the guidance of Prof. Linda Nazar, focusing on LiMPO₄ cathode materials. His academic excellence continued with a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Calgary, where he developed mixed conductors for SOFCs under Prof. V. Thangadurai. These formative years established his foundation in solid-state electrochemistry, crystallography, and materials engineering—skills critical for his later breakthroughs in energy storage research.

👨‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kan has served as an Associate Professor at CSNS since 2015 and held visiting scientist positions at prestigious institutions like Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, ANSTO, and HKUST. He also served as Guest Professor at Beijing Jiaotong University and Tianjin University, contributing to both research and graduate mentorship. His professional journey blends academic research, national lab collaboration, and industry partnerships with leaders like CATL. His leadership extends to graduate advising, technical committee service, and international conference organization, showcasing a comprehensive contribution to both scientific advancement and institutional development.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kan’s research centers on energy materials, including lithium/sodium-ion batteries, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), and neutron diffraction techniques. He is an expert in in-situ structural characterization, focusing on meta-stable phases, oxygen redox reactions, and high-capacity cathode design. He pioneered novel composite materials such as Li-rich rock-salt oxides and dual-polyanion cathodes, contributing significantly to electrochemical innovation. Through his patents and publications, he has developed advanced electrolytes, neutron scattering hardware, and regeneration strategies for aged batteries, positioning himself as a leading materials chemist bridging basic science and application.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With an h-index of 35 and over 4400 citations, Dr. Kan’s work has shaped the fields of battery chemistry and neutron-based materials analysis. His leadership in establishing the Platform for Electrochemical and Neutron Studies (PANs) at CSNS has enabled transformative research infrastructure in China. His lectures across institutions in the USA, Australia, Korea, and China, and collaborations with SSRL and ANSTO, demonstrate global recognition. He has significantly influenced graduate education, national science policy, and industry research directions through his funding projects, reviews, and committee roles. Dr. Kan is considered a bridge between fundamental discovery and industrial impact.

đź“š Academic Cites

Dr. Kan has authored over 90 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals including JACS, Angewandte Chemie, RSC Advances, and J. Mater. Chem. A. His Google Scholar profile (h-index: 35, 4449 citations) reflects a growing influence, particularly in solid-state ionics and battery materials. His most cited works span from early contributions on LiFePOâ‚„ morphology to recent innovations in Li-rich and dual-polyanion cathodes. He has also contributed chapters and conference abstracts to major symposia, cementing his role as a thought leader in electrochemical energy storage and neutron scattering applications.

🛠️ Research Skills

Dr. Kan excels in neutron diffraction, synchrotron X-ray scattering, electrochemistry, solid-state synthesis, and Rietveld refinement. He has developed novel in-situ cells for high-temperature and hydrothermal neutron scattering. His work involves crystal structure elucidation, electrical conductivity measurement, and catalytic performance evaluation under operando conditions. His facility with advanced instrumentation allows him to bridge microscopic structure with macroscopic performance in materials. Equally skilled in computational modeling, spectroscopy, and thermochemistry, Dr. Kan’s methodological versatility underpins his ability to innovate across disciplines.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Dr. Kan has taught both undergraduate and graduate courses on energy storage and conversion systems at Beijing Jiaotong, Tianjin, and Foshan Universities. Earlier, he served as a teaching assistant at the University of Calgary and University of Waterloo, covering general, transition metal, and main group chemistry, as well as nanotechnology. His mentorship extends to graduate supervision, lab-based research training, and international collaboration guidance. He’s an active advisor and student chapter chair at CSNS, nurturing the next generation of electrochemists and materials scientists through an integrative and research-oriented pedagogy.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Kan has received over 30 awards, including the Ludo Frevel Crystallography Award, Young Research Fellowship (Asia-Oceania Neutron Scattering Association), and the Innovation Achievement Award from the Industrial Research Society of China. Notably, he received the Best Thesis Award at the 9th National Neutron Scattering Conference in 2023. He has been funded by NSFC, MOST, and provincial talent programs, highlighting his national recognition. His consistent award record from 2006 to 2025 reflects both academic excellence and sustained research impact, supported by international travel grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kan’s legacy is rooted in pioneering work at the interface of energy materials and neutron science. By establishing platforms like PANs, advancing in-situ techniques, and mentoring future scientists, he is shaping the next era of electrochemical research. His upcoming projects on hard carbon anodes and sodium-ion batteries will deepen understanding of ion transport and storage mechanisms. Through ongoing collaborations with industry leaders like CATL and national labs, Dr. Kan will continue driving innovation in energy sustainability. His trajectory promises enduring contributions to science, technology, and environmental resilience.

Publications Top Notes

High-Entropy V-Based Null Matrix Alloys─Short/Long-Range Structural Features, Chemical Stabilities, and Mechanical Properties

  • Authors: Man He, Chen Wang, Hua Yang, Dong-Ying Wu, Jey-Jau Lee, Xuan Huang, Hao Shen, Fangwei Wang, Maxim Avdeev, Wang Hay Kan
    Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
    Year: 2025

A prismatic alkali-ion environment suppresses plateau hysteresis in lattice oxygen redox reactions

  • Authors: Hao Yu, Ang Gao, Xiaohui Rong, Shipeng Shen, Xinqi Zheng, Liqin Yan, Haibo Wang, Dan Su, Zilin Hu, Wang Hay Kan et al.
    Journal: Energy & Environmental Science
    Year: 2024

A Family of V-Based Null Matrix Alloys with Atomic and Mesoscopic Homogeneity

  • Authors: Man He, Chen Wang, Hua Yang, Dong-Ying Wu, Jey-Jau Lee, Fangwei Wang, Maxim Avdeev, Wang Hay Kan
    Journal: ACS Applied Engineering Materials
    Year: 2024

Author Correction: Stabilization of layered lithium-rich manganese oxide for anion exchange membrane fuel cells and water electrolysers

  • Authors: Xuepeng Zhong, Lijun Sui, Menghao Yang, Toshinari Koketsu, Malte Klingenhof, Sören Selve, Kyle G. Reeves, Chuangxin Ge, Lin Zhuang, Wang Hay Kan et al.
    Journal: Nature Catalysis
    Year: 2024

Stabilization of layered lithium-rich manganese oxide for anion exchange membrane fuel cells and water electrolysers

  • Authors: Xuepeng Zhong, Lijun Sui, Menghao Yang, Toshinari Koketsu, Malte Klingenhof, Sören Selve, Kyle G. Reeves, Chuangxin Ge, Lin Zhuang, Wang Hay Kan et al.
    Journal: Nature Catalysis
    Year: 2024

 

Lindobuhle Miya | Data Analysis Techniques | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by High Energy Physics

Mr. Lindobuhle Miya | Data Analysis Techniques | Best Researcher Award

PhD student at University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya is a modest and daring young researcher with a strong background in chemistry, physics, and nanoscience. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on improving supercapacitor performance through his research on cobalt-based materials. With a passion for renewable energy, Lindobuhle’s research aims to contribute to the development of high-performance energy storage systems. His previous studies at the University of the Free State involved in-depth research on rare-earth doped zinc selenide for light-emitting materials. Along with his academic work, he has demonstrated leadership in peer facilitation and mentorship. Lindobuhle is eager to make a significant impact in the scientific community through publications and presentations, with aspirations to advance his career through collaborative efforts in a fast-paced environment.

👨‍🎓Profile

🎓Education 

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics from the University of the Free State, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific principles. He continued his education with a Master’s in Nanoscience (2020-2023), researching rare-earth doped zinc selenide for light-emitting materials. His work employed advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy, leading to significant discoveries regarding the luminescence efficiency of doped materials. Currently, he is working toward his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Johannesburg, where his research is focused on enhancing supercapacitor performance through cobalt-based materials. Using modern electrochemical techniques, Lindobuhle is exploring energy storage applications with a specific focus on cycling stability and rate capability. His educational pursuits reflect his dedication to pushing the boundaries of materials science and energy storage technologies.

💼Professional Experience 

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya has gained valuable experience through various academic and mentorship roles. He served as a Peer Facilitator at the University of the Free State from 2019 to 2021, where he assisted students with supplemental instruction, learning facilitation, and assessment development. This role enhanced his leadership and communication skills, fostering his ability to guide peers effectively. Lindobuhle is currently engaging in Peer Mentorship at the University of Johannesburg, where he provides guidance and emotional support to his mentees, sharing his research experiences and encouraging the development of professional networks. These roles have helped him refine his ability to foster student engagement, while promoting self-sufficiency among mentees. His involvement in both peer learning and mentorship has provided him with a unique perspective on fostering collaboration and teamwork, crucial aspects of his research career as he continues to evolve in a fast-paced scientific environment.

🏅Awards and Honors 

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya has been recognized for his excellence in both research and academic pursuits. He earned a Scholarship at the University of the Free State for his outstanding work in Nanoscience, which helped propel him into more advanced studies. His achievements in research were also highlighted at the Research Conference 2022, where he discussed innovation and the use of research to improve humanity. Lindobuhle’s academic accomplishments also extend to his athletic achievements, including his Eastern Free State Cross Country Championship win in 2016. He has received commendations for his contributions to scientific research and is recognized for his commitment to improving energy storage technologies. His work on ZnSe doped with Yb3+ has been widely published, including in the Materials Today Communications journal. Lindobuhle’s awards underscore his dedication to both his academic growth and his contributions to society through research.

🔬Research Focus 

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya’s primary research focus is on enhancing the performance of supercapacitors through the development of cobalt-based materials for energy storage applications. His current research at the University of Johannesburg explores various synthesis methods, including solid-state reactions, hydrothermal synthesis, and wet chemical processes, to improve the electrochemical properties of these materials. Using advanced electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge testing, and electrical impedance spectroscopy, Lindobuhle is assessing critical performance parameters, including specific capacitance, cycling stability, and rate capability. His work is pivotal in the development of high-performance energy storage devices, contributing to renewable energy applications. Additionally, his previous research in nanoscience focused on rare-earth doped ZnSe, where he investigated its potential for optoelectronic applications. Lindobuhle’s research is deeply aligned with the growing demand for advanced materials in both energy storage and optical technologies.

🧠Research Skills 

Lindobuhle Alfred Miya possesses a diverse set of research skills crucial for his studies in materials science and energy storage. He has gained expertise in various synthesis methods such as solid-state reactions, hydrothermal synthesis, and wet chemical processes to develop and enhance the properties of cobalt-based materials for supercapacitors. His technical skills extend to advanced characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Lindobuhle is proficient in using electrochemical testing techniques, including cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge testing, to evaluate the performance of energy storage devices. His ability to assess structural, morphological, and optical properties of materials is further enhanced by his strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. These research skills are integral to his ability to conduct high-quality research in nanoscience and energy storage technologies.

Publications Top Notes

Structure and optical properties of Er3+ doped ZnSe nanoparticles

  • Authors: L.A. Miya, L.F. Koao, S.V. Motloung, D.D. Hile, H.C. Swart, T.E. Motaung
    Journal: Optical Materials
    Year: 2024

Study of the structural, morphological and optical properties of ZnSe doped with Yb3+

  • Authors: L.A. Miya, S.V. Motloung, T.E. Motaung, H.C. Swart, D.D. Hile, L.F. Koao
    Journal: Materials Today Communications
    Year: 2022