Dr. Zhao Liu | Nanotribology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhao Liu | Nanotribology | Best Researcher Award

Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS | China

Author Profiles

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

he academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science from Tongji University (2008–2012), laying a strong foundation in materials engineering and applied sciences. This was followed by a Master’s degree at the China Building Materials Academy (2013–2016), where deeper insights into advanced material structures and applications were gained. The scholarly trajectory culminated in a Ph.D. from the University of Basel, Switzerland (2016–2020), marking a significant phase of research training, innovation, and international collaboration

Professional Endeavors

After completing the doctoral studies, the professional career advanced through postdoctoral research positions at the University of Basel, Switzerland (2020–2021) and the Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Germany (2021–2022), focusing on experimental nanotribology and graphene systems. A transition into independent roles followed, serving as an Assistant Researcher at Nankai University (2023) and subsequently as an Associate Researcher at the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2024–present). These roles reflect a consistent dedication to advancing frontier research in materials science and nanotechnology.

Contributions and Research Focus

The core research contributions lie in nanotribology, graphene fabrication, moiré superstructures, friction, and super lubricity. Expertise spans UHV AFM operation (FFM & KPFM), graphene preparation via CVD, mechanical characterization, and glovebox operation. Through innovative experimentation, novel insights into frictional behavior at the atomic scale and tunable properties of graphene and heterostructures have been revealed.

Impact and Influence

The scholarly impact is evident in high-quality publications in leading journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Science, Materials Horizons, Nano Letters, Nanoscale, Nanomaterials, and Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology. Contributions have provided fundamental understanding of electromechanical manipulation, friction switches, and heterostructure interactions, shaping new directions in nanotribology research.

Academic Cites and Recognition

Active participation in the global research community is demonstrated through invited and oral presentations at prestigious conferences including the World Tribology Congress, European Tribology Conference, and Asia International Conference on Tribology. These engagements highlight peer recognition and validate the influence of the research in the international scientific arena.

Legacy and Future Contributions

The research journey reflects a balance of theoretical insight, experimental innovation, and global collaboration. With a growing body of impactful publications and an expanding network of international recognition, the trajectory promises significant future contributions in graphene-based materials, nanoscale mechanics, and advanced lubrication technologies. The legacy being built emphasizes not only scientific discovery but also the mentorship of young scholars and collaboration across disciplines to drive innovation in nanotechnology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the academic and professional journey is marked by rigorous training, cutting-edge research, and impactful publications that strengthen the field of nanotribology and graphene-based materials. With demonstrated excellence in research and a strong record of international collaboration, the contributions signify a lasting influence on both present and future developments in materials science.

Notable Publications

"Chemical Coordination Induced Fullerene Dimers on Hot Pt(111)"

  • Authors: Zhao LiuAntoine HinautThilo GlatzelUlrich AschauerErnst Meyer
  • Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
  • Year: 2025

 

 

 

Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Indian Institute of Technology Delhi | India

Vikramsingh Thakur is a highly accomplished materials scientist and polymer engineer with expertise in sustainable packaging and nanocomposites. Currently working at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, Bangalore, he is engaged in developing biodegradable, high-barrier packaging solutions. With a robust academic foundation, including a Ph.D. from IIT Delhi and M.Tech from the same institute, Vikramsingh has also contributed to R&D at Saint-Gobain, Resile Chemicals, and DRDO. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, co-authored a patent, and represented India at international conferences. His research integrates functionality, sustainability, and real-world impact. Passionate about bridging the gap between innovation and application, he has received notable awards including the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship and multiple institutional recognitions, making him a standout young scholar in materials science.

Author Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Vikramsingh Thakur completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from IIT Delhi, where his thesis focused on developing multifunctional nanocomposite films with barrier, mechanical, and sensing properties for smart packaging. He also holds an M.Tech in Polymer Science and Technology from IIT Delhi, graduating with distinction. Prior to this, he earned a B.Tech in Plastic and Polymer Engineering from Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Aurangabad and a Diploma in the same field from Government Polytechnic, Amravati. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence and a deep engagement with advanced materials, polymer composites, and sustainable engineering, laying a strong foundation for impactful interdisciplinary research.

Professional Experience

Vikramsingh currently serves as a Fellow Trainee Consultant at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, where he works on biodegradable, high-barrier packaging materials across food, tobacco, and personal care industries. Previously, he worked at Saint-Gobain Abrasives R&D, Bangalore, as a PGET, developing nonwoven abrasive products and winning a “Business Impact Award.” He has also completed research internships at Resile Chemicals, developing silicone-modified resins, and at DRDO Pune, where he worked on electrospun nanofiber-reinforced laminates. His experience spans academia and industry, blending material innovation with product development. With expertise in compounding, extrusion, testing, and sustainability compliance, Vikramsingh brings a versatile skill set to materials research, consistently aligning scientific advancements with industrial applications.

Awards and Honors

Vikramsingh Thakur has received multiple prestigious awards throughout his academic and research career. He is a recipient of the Prime Minister Research Fellowship (PMRF), India’s highest fellowship for doctoral scholars. At IIT Delhi, he was awarded the Research Excellence Travel Award and Best Teaching Assistant Award by the Materials Science Society. Earlier, during his tenure at Saint-Gobain, he won the Business Impact Award for project excellence. He was also honored with the Devidasrao Ashtaputre Memorial Award for academic performance during his B.Tech. Additionally, his early work earned him the Best Poster Award at a national symposium in 2014. These accolades reflect his consistent academic brilliance, research innovation, and impactful contributions to both scientific and industrial domains.

Research Focus

Vikramsingh’s research focuses on the development of multifunctional polymer nanocomposite films for intelligent and sustainable packaging applications. His doctoral work explored barrier (OTR & WVTR), mechanical, antioxidant, and pH-responsive properties in biodegradable packaging. He specializes in processing-structure-property correlations using nanoclays, electrospun fibers, and smart additives such as anthocyanins and ethylene scavengers. His patent on bilayered halochromic freshness markers and his publications in ACS and Wiley journals highlight innovations in food packaging. He also works on thermally conductive and electrically insulating polymer composites for electronics. Vikramsingh integrates principles of materials design, sustainability, and functionality, aiming to bridge academia with industry through real-world solutions in advanced polymers and environmental protection.

Notable Publications

Synergistic Effect of Halloysite and Montmorillonite for Barrier-Resistant and Smart Films as Active Food Packaging for Improved Shelf Life

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani Kumar Satapathy
    Journal: Integrated Ferroelectrics
    Year: 2025

Integration of benzoic acid-loaded nanocellulose fibers on biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) matrix and its application into food preservation

  • Authors: Aiswarya Thattaru Thodikayil, Ashutosh Kumar, Vikramsingh Thakur, Gangalakshmi V, Shaifali Dhingra, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Polymer Engineering & Science
    Year: 2024

Robust Tear-Resistant Blown Nanocomposite Films for Barrier Packaging: Role of Clay Platelet Thickness in Tear Mechanics and Barrier Performances

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
    Year: 2023

Electrospun Nanofibrous Mat-on-Film Bilayered Halochromic Freshness Marker-Enabled Intelligent Food Packaging Film Based on Red Cabbage Anthocyanins

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Food Science & Technology
    Year: 2023

Biodegradable Polymers for Food Packaging Applications

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy, Chandrani Sarkar, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials (Springer, Singapore)
    Year: 2023

Conclusion

Vikramsingh Thakur is an exceptional young researcher who blends scientific rigor with industrial relevance. His work in sustainable packaging and multifunctional nanocomposites demonstrates innovation, technical depth, and societal impact. With a strong academic background, hands-on R&D experience, and a growing international footprint, he stands out as a future leader in materials science and engineering. His passion for research, commitment to sustainability, and problem-solving approach make him a deserving candidate for prestigious recognitions and continued contributions to science and technology.