Yuan-Yuan Zhao | Machine Learning in Physics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof  Dr. Yuan-Yuan Zhao | Machine Learning in Physics | Best Researcher Award

Jinan University | China

Dr. Yuanyuan Zhao is an Associate Professor and Master’s Advisor at Jinan University, specializing in optical micro/nano fabrication and femtosecond laser two-photon processing. His research also focuses on metamaterials, metasurfaces, and micro/nano optics. He has contributed to significant advancements in cross-scale nanolithography and digital mask projection lithography, and he has received widespread recognition for his groundbreaking work.

👨‍🎓Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Zhao began his academic journey at the Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he completed his Ph.D. in Optics from 2011 to 2016. This direct-track program allowed him to quickly establish a strong foundation in optics and nanotechnology, setting the stage for his later research contributions.

Professional Endeavors 🛠️

After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Zhao worked as an Assistant Researcher at the 3D Printing Center, Chongqing Institute of Chinese Academy of Sciences from 2016 to 2018, where he honed his expertise in advanced fabrication techniques. He then joined Jinan University in October 2018, where he established the Nano Lithography Technology Team, under the guidance of Prof. Xuanming Duan. His professional journey has been marked by constant innovation, leading to various research projects funded by prestigious programs such as the National Key R&D Program’s “Nanotechnology” project.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Zhao’s work primarily involves femtosecond laser-based micro/nano fabrication techniques, metamaterials, and metasurfaces. His original contributions include the world’s first fabrication of three-dimensional gradient refractive index Luneburg lenses, which was featured as a cover article in Laser Photonics Reviews. His expertise spans the development of cross-scale nanolithography methods and DMD projection lithography, aiming to enhance resolution and create more efficient lithography processes.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Zhao’s research has had a significant impact in the field of optics and nanotechnology. His publications in top-tier journals and his contributions to the development of new fabrication techniques have been widely cited. He has delivered more than 10 international conference talks, including 5 invited talks, showcasing his influence as an expert in optical micro/nano fabrication. His patent portfolio, with 11 filed patents, underscores his role in transforming academic research into technological innovations.

Academic Citations 📑

Dr. Zhao has published over 30 papers in prestigious academic journals, with more than 20 papers where he served as the first author, co-first author, or corresponding author. His contributions have resulted in numerous citations, reflecting the significance and relevance of his work to the global research community. Notable publications in journals like Nature Communications and APL Photonics highlight his contributions to advanced nanofabrication and optical technologies.

Research Skills 🔧

Dr. Zhao is skilled in a variety of cutting-edge research areas, including:

  • Femtosecond laser two-photon processing
  • Metamaterial fabrication
  • Nanolithography
  • Digital mask projection lithography
  • Deep learning-based inverse lithography

His technical proficiency has enabled him to develop novel fabrication methods, such as digital phase-shifting masks and in-situ digital multi-exposure lithography, which are crucial for improving the resolution of nanostructure fabrication. These skills have placed him at the forefront of nanotechnology and optical engineering.

Teaching Experience 🎓

As a Master’s Advisor at Jinan University, Dr. Zhao has played an important role in educating and mentoring students in the field of optics and nanotechnology. His guidance in the development of the Nano Lithography Technology Team has helped foster a collaborative and research-driven learning environment. Through his teaching, he encourages students to explore innovative technologies in optical fabrication and nanoscience, preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Zhao has received several prestigious awards throughout his career, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field:

  • “Western Light” Young Scholar Award by the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2017.
  • Distinguished Young Scholar under the Double Hundred Talents Program at Jinan University in 2021.
  • Selected as Principal Investigator for various National and Guangdong Natural Science Foundation research projects.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Zhao’s legacy in the field of nano optics and metamaterials is already well-established, with numerous innovative patents, high-impact publications, and substantial contributions to the development of cutting-edge fabrication techniques. Looking ahead, Dr. Zhao’s research is poised to lead to even greater breakthroughs in cross-scale nanolithography and digital lithography technologies. His continued focus on multi-scale integration methods and dynamic surface scanning technologies is set to have a transformative impact on the future of nanofabrication and metamaterial-based applications.

Publications Top Notes

Two-photon absorption under few-photon irradiation for optical nanoprinting

  • Authors: Z. Liang, Y. Zhao, J. Chen, M. Zheng, X. Duan
    Journal: Nature Communications
    Year: 2025

Deep learning-driven digital inverse lithography technology for DMD-based maskless projection lithography

  • Authors: J. Chen, Y. Zhao, X. Guo, X. Duan
    Journal: Optics and Laser Technology
    Year: 2025

Nonlinear Raman-Nath diffraction in submicron-thick periodically poled lithium niobate thin film

  • Authors: X. Li, L. Peng, Y. Liu, B. Chen, Z. Li
    Journal: PhotoniX
    Year: 2024

Grayscale two-photon 3D printed gradient-refractive-index metamaterial lens for dual-band mid-infrared imaging

  • Authors: H. Luo, Y. Zhao, X. Zhao, Y. Cao, X. Duan
    Journal: APL Photonics
    Year: 2024

Ultra-broadband, high absorption, polarization-insensitive microwave absorbers designed based on multi-scale fractal metasurfaces

  • Authors: Z. Yuan, S. Cai, Y. Zhao, X. Duan
    Journal: Optical Materials Express
    Year: 2024

 

 

Hongliang Zhang | Machine Learning in Physics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hongliang Zhang | Machine Learning in Physics | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Fudan University, China

Dr. Hongliang Zhang is a Young Professor in the Department of Nuclear Science and Technology at Fudan University, Shanghai, China. His research primarily focuses on nuclear materials, radiation resistance, and advanced energy systems. Zhang has worked at University of Wisconsin-Madison as an Assistant Scientist and later as Director of the Wisconsin Ion Beam Lab. With significant contributions to the understanding of material behavior under extreme conditions, he has become a key figure in nuclear physics and materials science.

🎓Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Hongliang Zhang began his academic journey at Fudan University, Shanghai, where he earned his B.S. in Nuclear Technology in 2013. His fascination with physics and material sciences led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Physics at Fudan University, where he graduated in 2018. During his doctoral research, Zhang focused on advancing the understanding of materials under extreme conditions, setting the foundation for his future work in nuclear science and technology. His early academic achievements earned him numerous accolades, including the National Scholarship in 2012 and the Graduate Student Scholarship First-Class in 2015 from Fudan University. These early pursuits were pivotal in shaping his future career and deepening his commitment to scientific exploration in nuclear technology and materials science.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Zhang’s professional trajectory is marked by significant contributions to academia and research institutions. After completing his Ph.D., he became a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2018–2020), where he worked under the mentorship of Prof. Izabela Szlufarska. In 2020, he was appointed Assistant Scientist and later promoted to Associated Scientist and Director of the Wisconsin Ion Beam Lab (2021–2023). His leadership at the lab was instrumental in advancing ion beam research. In 2023, Zhang transitioned to his current role as Young Professor at Fudan University in the Department of Nuclear Science and Technology, where he continues to lead cutting-edge research and mentor young scientists in the field. Throughout his career, Zhang has held pivotal roles that blend scientific research with institutional leadership, positioning him as a prominent figure in nuclear science.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Hongliang Zhang’s research interests lie at the intersection of nuclear science, materials science, and advanced energy technologies. His early research focused on the development and enhancement of materials for use in nuclear reactors, including radiation-resistant materials and the study of materials under extreme irradiation conditions. His work on ion beam technology has provided deep insights into the behavior of materials exposed to radiation, with applications in nuclear energy systems, semiconductor industries, and space exploration. As a professor, Zhang’s work has expanded into the development of nuclear technology for clean energy and advanced materials for sustainable energy applications. His ongoing research in advanced radiation-resistant materials, nuclear fusion, and energy storage continues to contribute to the global scientific community’s efforts to address the challenges of nuclear energy and material performance under extreme conditions.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Zhang’s work has had a profound impact on both the scientific community and the industries involved in nuclear technology and materials science. His contributions have influenced global research on nuclear materials, radiation resistance, and energy systems. Zhang’s role as a reviewer for prestigious journals like Nature Communications, Acta Materialia, and Scripta Materialia, and his leadership positions in various scientific societies such as the Chinese Nuclear Society and American Nuclear Society, highlight his influence in the scientific community. His research has not only advanced fundamental understanding but has also translated into practical applications in the fields of nuclear energy, energy storage, and advanced materials engineering, making him a highly respected figure in his field.

Academic Cites 📚

Zhang’s research is widely recognized and cited in academic circles, underscoring the significance of his contributions to nuclear and materials science. His work on radiation-induced defects and material behaviors under extreme conditions has been referenced extensively in studies related to nuclear energy, fusion reactors, and high-energy physics. As an author of numerous publications in top-tier journals like Materials Science and Engineering, his work continues to influence ongoing research in energy systems and materials performance. His publications on ion beam effects, nuclear materials degradation, and energy storage technologies are frequently cited by researchers working in the fields of nuclear physics, materials science, and advanced engineering.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Hongliang Zhang possesses a broad range of technical skills that complement his research. He is proficient in advanced material characterization techniques, such as ion beam analysis, electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. His expertise also extends to radiation modeling, nuclear materials testing, and the development of advanced computational models for simulating the behavior of materials in extreme conditions. Zhang is skilled in using cutting-edge software and techniques such as Monte Carlo simulations, molecular dynamics, and finite element analysis to model complex material behaviors. His experience in nuclear technology, ion beam processing, and material synthesis positions him as a leading researcher in the field of advanced energy systems and materials science.

Teaching Experience 📚

As a Young Professor at Fudan University, Zhang plays an integral role in shaping the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers. He has developed and taught several courses related to nuclear science, materials engineering, and advanced energy technologies. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and a deep understanding of the fundamental principles governing nuclear materials and energy systems. Zhang’s mentorship is highly valued by students and junior researchers, many of whom have gone on to pursue successful careers in academia and industry. He also actively participates in academic conferences and workshops, sharing his expertise with the broader scientific community.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Zhang’s career is still in its early stages, but his contributions have already set the stage for a lasting legacy in nuclear science and materials research. His work on developing radiation-resistant materials and advanced nuclear technologies is poised to influence the future of clean energy, nuclear power generation, and fusion energy. As he continues to lead research initiatives at Fudan University, his future contributions are expected to address global energy challenges, particularly in the areas of sustainable energy, nuclear fusion, and advanced materials for energy storage. Zhang’s commitment to scientific advancement and his role as a mentor to emerging scientists ensure that his influence on the field will continue to grow, leaving a lasting impact on both academia and industry.

Selected Honors and Awards 🏆

Hongliang Zhang’s accomplishments have been recognized with a multitude of prestigious awards and honors. Notable among these is his selection as a Fellow of Vebleo (2022), and the prestigious National Natural Science Foundation of China for Excellent Young Scientists Fund (2022). He has also received the Best Researcher Award at the International Conference on New Science Inventions (2022), and the 1000 Talents in Shanghai recognition (2021). These awards reflect his exceptional contributions to research and his leadership in advancing nuclear technology and materials science. Zhang has also been acknowledged as an outstanding graduate and scholar, having earned numerous National Scholarships, Graduate Student Scholarships, and Fudan University Honors throughout his academic career.

Publication Top Notes📖