Dario Bercioux | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dario Bercioux | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Donostia International Physics Center, Spain

Dr. Dario Bercioux is an Ikerbasque Associate Professor and group leader at the Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) in Spain. With a specialization in mesoscopic systems, quantum materials, and light-matter interaction, his work spans theoretical and applied condensed matter physics. He has published extensively, contributed to major international collaborations, and held numerous postdoctoral positions across Europe. A fluent speaker of four languages, Dr. Bercioux is also a recognized science communicator, conference organizer, and mentor to young researchers, influencing the next generation of quantum scientists.

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Bercioux’s academic journey began in Naples, Italy, where he earned his Laurea in Physics (summa cum laude) and Ph.D. from the Federico II University of Naples. His doctoral research, focused on spin-dependent transport in nanostructures, laid the groundwork for his later interest in quantum transport phenomena. Under the guidance of Professors V. Cataudella and V. M. Ramaglia, he developed strong foundations in low-dimensional physics and quantum electronics. His early education reflects exceptional academic performance, including a perfect score in his high school technical diploma.

Professional Endeavors

Over two decades, Dr. Bercioux has held progressively prestigious roles, beginning as a postdoctoral researcher in Germany (Regensburg, Freiburg, Berlin) and culminating in a tenured professorship at DIPC. He joined Ikerbasque in 2014, was promoted to Associate Professor in 2019, and now leads the Mesoscopic Electrons and Photons Systems (MEPS) group. His international collaborations include affiliations with the Université d’Aix-Marseille, Stanford University, and the University of Bordeaux. He’s also an editorial board member of Communication Physics and serves as advisor to the Phenikaa Institute in Vietnam.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Bercioux’s research centers on graphene, spintronics, topological matter, non-Hermitian physics, and quantum simulation. He has contributed to the understanding of chiral edge states, photonic lattices, and pseudo-spin systems, and co-authored high-impact reviews in Review of Modern Physics and Reports on Progress in Physics. His group explores quantum effects in low-dimensional systems, bridging theory and experiment. With over 70 publications, including 18 letters in top-tier journals such as PRL, Nat. Mater., and Commun. Phys., he remains at the forefront of quantum condensed matter research.

Impact and Influence

With over 2,190 citations and an h-index of 23, Dr. Bercioux has significantly influenced the field of condensed matter physics. His work is regularly cited in top-tier journals, and he has delivered 70 invited talks across global institutions. He has organized more than 20 international schools and workshops, such as the renowned Capri Spring School series. He actively shapes scientific discourse as an editor, reviewer, and conference chair, with roles in high-profile review panels and editorial boards. His multidisciplinary collaborations enhance the global understanding of quantum transport and materials.

Academic Cites and Metrics

According to Web of Science (July 2025), Dr. Bercioux’s publication metrics include 70 peer-reviewed papers, over 2,190 citations, and an average of 31 citations per article. He has published in PRL, Nature Nanotech, Nat. Mater., and Advanced Quantum Technology, highlighting the quality and relevance of his work. He’s authored three reviews, three News & Views, and a lecture book for Springer, solidifying his standing as both a scholar and educator. His Research-ID and ORCID maintain up-to-date records of his contributions, evidencing his scientific integrity and productivity.

Research Skills

Dr. Bercioux excels in quantum transport theory, non-Hermitian physics, light-matter coupling, and spin-orbit photonics. His analytical prowess spans tight-binding models, topological classification, and synthetic lattices. He possesses deep expertise in multi-terminal quantum devices, photonic simulations, and Dirac systems. His interdisciplinary skills enable work on quantum materials for computation, superconductivity, and spin textures, contributing to quantum technology development. Skilled in project coordination, he has secured over €900,000 in competitive funding and mentored doctoral candidates, showcasing his ability to translate theoretical insight into impactful research outputs.

Teaching Experience

Dr. Bercioux has mentored 7 Ph.D. students and 11 undergraduates, guiding theses in mesoscopic physics, quantum transport, and topological systems. His teaching philosophy emphasizes foundational understanding and research readiness, often combining coursework with hands-on research. He’s organized and lectured at 18+ international physics schools, including the Capri Spring School, and hosted workshops on quantum materials. As a Privatdozent at Freiburg and later ASN-certified associate professor in Italy, his academic credentials enable him to teach across European institutions, enriching the physics curriculum with cutting-edge topics.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Bercioux has received several prestigious awards, including the Ikerbasque Research Fellowship, the ASN Italian National Qualification, and the Aix-Marseille Excellence Fellowship. He has earned multiple PhD grants, DFG and MINECO project funds, and international workshop sponsorships, reflecting trust from academic funding bodies across Europe and Asia. Recognized for scientific leadership, he serves on expert review panels for NWO, ESF, Romanian Research Council, and others. His work has also attracted support from the Basque Government, positioning him as a key figure in European quantum research.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Bercioux’s enduring legacy lies in his ability to bridge fundamental theory and real-world applications in quantum technologies. As a mentor, organizer, and collaborator, he is shaping the future of quantum simulations, non-Hermitian systems, and low-dimensional materials. Through his continued involvement in strategic projects like IKUR—Quantum and photonic simulators, he fosters innovation at the intersection of light and matter. His ongoing efforts in science diplomacy, editorial duties, and workshop leadership ensure that his influence will extend across generations, advancing both knowledge and mentorship in quantum physics.

Publications Top Notes


Colloquium: Synthetic quantum matter in nonstandard geometries

  • Authors: T. Grass, D. Bercioux, U. Bhattacharya, M. Lewenstein, H.-S. Nguyen, …
    Journal: Reviews of Modern Physics 97 (1), 011001
    Year: 2025

Wannier center spectroscopy to identify boundary-obstructed topological insulators

  • Authors: R.A.M. Ligthart, M.A.J. Herrera, A.C.H. Visser, A. Vlasblom, D. Bercioux, I. Swart
    Journal: Physical Review Research 7 (1), 012076
    Year: 2025

Correction to Topological Properties of a Non-Hermitian Quasi-1D Chain with a Flat Band

  • Authors: C. Martínez-Strasser, M.A.J. Herrera, A. García-Etxarri, G. Palumbo, F.K. Kunst, D. Bercioux
    Journal: Advanced Quantum Technologies 8 (3)
    Year: 2025

Chiral spin channels in curved graphene pn junctions

  • Authors: D. Bercioux, D. Frustaglia, A. De Martino
    Journal: Physical Review B 108 (11), 115140
    Year: 2023

Implementation and characterization of the dice lattice in the electron quantum simulator

  • Authors: C. Tassi, D. Bercioux
    Journal: Advanced Physics Research 3 (9), 2400038
    Year: 2024

 

 

Ivan Uzunov | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ivan Uzunov | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Institute of Mechanics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences | Bulgaria

Prof. D. Sc. Ivan M. Uzunov is an internationally respected physicist and expert in nonlinear fiber optics, photonics, and optical solitons. With over four decades of academic and research experience, he has become a pivotal figure in advancing the theory and application of nonlinear wave propagation in optical systems. His work bridges theoretical physics and applied photonics, making substantial contributions to both fundamental science and practical technologies in fiber optics and communications.

👨‍🎓Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Uzunov’s academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Sofia (1981), followed by a Ph.D. in Physics from the Institute of General Physics in Moscow (1986). His Ph.D. thesis on “Instability of laser radiation in media with thermal nonlinearity” set the tone for his lifelong focus on nonlinear optical phenomena. He later achieved a Doctor Rerum Naturalium Habilitatus from Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena, Germany (1998), and earned a prestigious Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in Radiophysics and Quantum Electronics in Bulgaria (1999).

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov has held prominent academic and research positions across Bulgaria, Germany, Russia, and Canada, showcasing his broad international engagement. He served as Professor (2008–2025) and Director (2007–2015) of the Department of Applied Physics at the Technical University of Sofia, where he provided both academic leadership and research guidance. He was also Head of the Laboratory of Fibre and Nonlinear Optics at the Institute of Electronics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, and worked as Research Manager at Optiwave Corporation in Ottawa, Canada. His career reflects a strong dedication to scientific innovation, administration, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov has made significant contributions to photonics, nonlinear fiber optics, and soliton theory, with a strong focus on Ginzburg–Landau-type equations. He is especially recognized for his pioneering work on N-soliton interactions, self-frequency shifts of dark solitons, and pulse switching in nonlinear couplers. His research incorporates advanced theoretical modeling, including bifurcation theory and numerical simulations. In recent years, he has explored Raman-scattering-perturbed Ginzburg–Landau systems, enhancing scientific understanding of ultrafast pulse dynamics, coherent structures, and kink/anti-kink solutions in nonlinear optical media, reinforcing his role as a leader in nonlinear wave physics.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Uzunov has authored 164 scientific publications, including 65 papers in high-impact international journals and 47 peer-reviewed conference proceedings. His work has attracted 931 citations (excluding self-citations), with an h-index of 14 on Scopus. His collaborations with global experts like Prof. Falk Lederer and institutions such as Friedrich-Schiller University highlight his international recognition. His research has had significant influence on the development of nonlinear wave theory, shaping the evolution of fiber optic technologies over the past three decades.

📊 Academic Citations & Research Skills

Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov’s impressive citation record underscores the scientific impact of his research, with top-cited papers published in prestigious journals such as Optics Letters, Physical Review Letters, and Optical and Quantum Electronics. These works are frequently referenced in the fields of nonlinear optics and fiber communications. He possesses advanced research skills in numerical simulations, nonlinear differential equations, bifurcation analysis, and modeling of ultrafast optical pulses. His methodology effectively integrates rigorous mathematical frameworks with practical photonic applications, enabling deep insights into nonlinear wave phenomena and reinforcing his expertise in complex optical systems.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Prof. Uzunov has taught extensively at Technical University of Sofia, mentoring numerous graduate students, supervising doctoral dissertations, and guiding postdoctoral researchers. His experience spans both theoretical physics and applied engineering, making him a valuable educator who bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice. He has also been involved in curriculum development, introducing courses in nonlinear optics, fiber communication systems, and optical signal processing.

🏅 Awards and Honors

While specific award titles are not listed, Prof. Uzunov’s selection as Director, invitations to international collaborative projects, and invited publications (e.g., Optik’s Golden Jubilee of Solitons) reflect his peer recognition and professional standing. His profile positions him as a leading candidate for prestigious accolades like the Best Researcher Award, especially in photonics and applied physics.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Uzunov’s legacy lies in his ability to integrate theoretical excellence with practical relevance, influencing optical communication systems and nonlinear wave studies. As he continues publishing in top journals through 2025, his ongoing work on solitons, Ginzburg–Landau models, and Raman effects promises to open new research pathways. He is a mentor, a scientist, and a thought leader whose influence will likely continue to shape the future of optical physics and nonlinear dynamics.

Top Noted Publications

Transitions of stationary to pulsating solutions in the complex cubic-quintic Ginzburg-Landau equation under the influence of nonlinear gain and higher-order effects

  • Authors: Uzunov I.M., Georgiev Zh.D., Arabadzhiev T.N.

  • Journal: Physical Review E

  • Year: 2018

Kink solutions of the complex cubic–quintic Ginzburg-Landau equation in the presence of intrapulse Raman scattering

  • Authors: Uzunov I.M., Vassilev V.M., Arabadzhiev T.N., Nikolov S.G.

  • Journal: Optik – International Journal for Light and Electron Optics

  • Year: 2023

Coherent structures and sequences of exact kink and anti kink solutions to the complex cubic–quintic Ginzburg–Landau equation perturbed by intrapulse Raman scattering

  • Authors: Uzunov I.M., Arabadzhiev T.N., Vassilev V.M., Nikolov S.G.

  • Journal: Optical and Quantum Electronics

  • Year: 2023

Long-living periodic solutions of complex cubic-quintic Ginzburg–Landau equation in the presence of intrapulse Raman scattering: a bifurcation and numerical study

  • Authors: Uzunov I.M., Nikolov S.G., Arabadzhiev T.N., Georgiev Zh.D.

  • Journal: Physical Review E

  • Year: 2024

One approach to find the pulsating pulse solutions of the complex cubic Ginzburg–Landau equation considering intrapulse Raman scattering

  • Authors: Uzunov I.M., Nikolov S.G., Arabadzhiev T.N.

  • Journal: Optical and Quantum Electronics

  • Year: 2025

 

 

Aftab Alam | Quantum Technologies | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Aftab Alam | Quantum Technologies | Excellence in Research Award

Professor at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay  | India

Professor Aftab Alam is a distinguished physicist specializing in computational materials science, currently serving at the Department of Physics, IIT Bombay. With an expansive career rooted in quantum materials, electronic structure, and vibrational dynamics, Prof. Alam has significantly contributed to both theoretical advancements and applied computational frameworks. His academic journey and professional trajectory reflect a commitment to scientific excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship.

👨‍🎓Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Alam’s academic foundation was built at the University of Calcutta, where he earned his B.Sc. in Physics (Honors) with Mathematics and Chemistry, followed by an M.Sc. in Physics, specializing in Nuclear Physics. He later completed a rigorous Post-M.Sc. course at the S. N. Bose Centre for Basic Sciences, which included intensive examinations and seminar presentations. He pursued his doctoral studies (Ph.D.) at the same institute under the guidance of Prof. Abhijit Mookerjee, focusing on vibrational properties of disordered systems.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Alam has held progressive academic roles at IIT Bombay since 2013—from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, and now Professor since April 2022. Before returning to India, he served as a Research Associate at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and later as Research Staff at the Ames Laboratory (USA). His international exposure greatly enriched his perspective on materials design, thermodynamic modeling, and quantum phase transitions.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Aftab Alam’s research focuses on electronic structure theory, thermoelectric materials, disordered alloys, and vibrational dynamics. He has developed advanced algorithms and efficient computational codes, integrating them with tools like Quantum-Espresso to explore phonon behavior in complex systems. His work covers structural, magnetic, and quantum phase transitions in intermetallics, exotic phases in topological insulators and superconductors, ab-initio transport theory beyond the Boltzmann formalism, and optoelectronic properties of emerging energy materials.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With over 136 peer-reviewed publications, 10 papers under review, and multiple book chapters, Prof. Alam is a globally cited expert in his domain. His pioneering techniques in phonon dispersion and disorder modeling have been cited across research on thermal transport, neutron scattering, and novel quantum materials. His work supports energy innovation, material design, and next-gen computing applications.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Professor Aftab Alam’s research portfolio reflects his prolific academic contributions. He has authored books and book chapters, including Lattice Dynamics of Disordered Systems (2016) and key Springer publications on halide perovskites and spin gapless semiconductors. His work includes 4 conference papers, 10 articles under review, and an impressive 136 international journal publications. His complete list of publications is accessible via Google Scholar, highlighting his high-impact research in condensed matter physics and computational material science.

🛠️ Research Skills and Technical Expertise

Prof. Aftab Alam possesses exceptional expertise in first-principles calculations and density functional theory (DFT), with deep specialization in phonon calculations, vibrational entropy, and inelastic neutron scattering. He is proficient in tools like TB-LMTO, KKR-CPA, VASP, Recursion Method, and Tight-Binding, alongside strong FORTRAN programming skills. Notably, he has developed generalized lattice dynamical models for disordered alloys, interfacing efficiently with Quantum-Espresso, which marks a significant advancement in material simulations and computational modeling.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

Over his academic journey, Prof. Aftab Alam has mentored 10 Ph.D. scholars (completed) and is currently guiding 6 ongoing Ph.D. students. He has also supervised 7 postdoctoral fellows, with 2 more ongoing, showcasing his strong role in academic leadership. He actively fosters scholarly engagement, having played a pivotal role in student-led symposia like SYMPHY at IIT Bombay. Additionally, he extended his influence internationally as General Secretary of the ISU Postdoctoral Association, USA, promoting academic collaboration and outreach.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Professor Alam has been consistently recognized for his academic leadership:

  • 🏆 IAAM Scientist Medal, 2016

  • 🎖 DST Young Scientist Award, 2014

  • 🏅 Early Research Achiever Award, IIT Bombay, 2017

  • 🏵 Young Faculty Award, 2013

  • ✍️ Editorial roles in journals such as Chinese Journal of Physics, Frontiers in Physics, and Advanced Materials Letters

  • 📜 Featured in Marquis Who’s Who in the World, 2008

  • 🧪 Multiple national-level exam qualifications: NET-CSIR, JEST

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Alam is currently involved in organizing international events, including a conference on Photophysics and Photochemistry (2024), and continues to lead multi-crore research projects funded by DST-SERB, MNRE, and IIT Bombay. His focus remains on advancing fundamental understanding while promoting scientific computing tools for widespread academic use. His legacy lies in nurturing next-generation physicists, building research infrastructure, and pushing the boundaries of quantum materials science.

Top Noted Publications

Giant Topological Hall Effect in Magnetic Weyl Metal Mn₂Pd₀.₅Ir₀.₅Sn

  • Authors: Arnab Bhattacharya, P. C. Sreeparvathy, Afsar Ahmed, Aftab Alam, Indranil Das
    Journal: Advanced Functional Materials
    Year: 2025

Photoemission spectroscopy and ab-initio simulation of CrFeVGa and CoFeVSb: a comparative study

  • Authors: Jadupati Nag, Kritika Vijay, Barnabha Bandyopadhyay, Aftab Alam, Krishna Gopinatha Suresh
    Journal: Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter
    Year: 2025

Facilitating White Light Emission through Heterovalent Sr²⁺-Doped Nanocrystals for Visible Light Transparent Electronics

  • Authors: Monika Salesh, Sumit Kumar Sharma, Sanika S. Padelkar, Aftab Alam, Aswani Yella
    Journal: ACS Materials Letters
    Year: 2025

Enhanced piezoresponse in van der Waals 2D CuCrInP₂S₆ through nanoscale phase segregation

  • Authors: Sharidya Rahman, Sanika S. Padelkar, Lan Nguyen, Aftab Alam, Jacek Jaroslaw Jasieniak
    Journal: Nanoscale Horizons
    Year: 2025

Robust Nernst magnetothermoelectricity in the topological spin semimetal FeCrRhX (X=Si, Ge)

  • Authors: Amit Chanda, Jadupati Nag, Noah Schulz, Manhhuong Phan, Hariharan V. Srikanth
    Journal: Physical Review B
    Year: 2025

Hua Zhang | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hua Zhang | Quantum Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University | China

Dr. Hua Zhang is an accomplished materials scientist and researcher with a deep specialization in perovskite solar cells, currently making significant contributions to the advancement of photovoltaic technology. With over a decade of academic training and an exceptional portfolio of high-impact publications, Dr. Zhang has emerged as a leading figure in sustainable energy research.

👨‍🎓Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Zhang began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Henan Normal University (2006–2010), followed by a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry from Huazhong Normal University (2010–2013). He then earned a Ph.D. in Optical Engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (2013–2016), where he began refining his expertise in materials and optoelectronic devices. His interdisciplinary background has uniquely positioned him to tackle complex challenges in solar energy.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhang has held postdoctoral and research roles in internationally collaborative environments, working with globally recognized scholars such as Alex K.-Y. Jen and Michael Grätzel. His career has been marked by a progressive trajectory of innovation, leadership, and research excellence in cutting-edge solar technologies.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research revolves around advanced materials for perovskite solar cells, particularly focusing on inverted device architectures, interface engineering, and lead leakage prevention. He has pioneered the use of novel materials like CuCrO₂ nanocrystals, BiOBr flakes, and superhydrophobic surfaces to enhance the efficiency, stability, and safety of solar cells. His work has addressed some of the most critical bottlenecks in photovoltaic research, such as nonradiative recombination, interface degradation, and toxic material containment, offering practical solutions for real-world deployment.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With 11 peer-reviewed publications, many of which are featured in top-tier journals like Advanced Materials, ACS Energy Letters, and Journal of Materials Chemistry A, Dr. Zhang’s research has not only contributed to academic knowledge but also holds the potential for industrial application and commercialization. Several of his papers have been marked as JMCA Hot Papers, signifying their scientific importance and readership impact.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Zhang’s works have been highly cited, reflecting their influence on the scientific community. He has consistently published as first author and corresponding author, showcasing his role as a key driver of innovation in his research collaborations. His articles are often referenced in subsequent high-impact studies, underlining his thought leadership in the domain.

🛠️ Research Skills

Dr. Zhang possesses advanced skills in materials synthesis, device fabrication, surface engineering, and photovoltaic performance analysis. His technical toolkit includes experience with low-temperature solution processing, interface modification, and characterization techniques essential for next-generation solar cell development.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

While the current profile does not detail formal teaching positions, Dr. Zhang’s first-author contributions and research leadership suggest active involvement in mentoring junior researchers, guiding lab activities, and contributing to academic training in collaborative research settings.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Zhang is poised to become a trailblazer in renewable energy technologies, with ongoing contributions expected to push the boundaries of green energy solutions. His work addresses global challenges in energy sustainability, environmental safety, and materials efficiency, ensuring a legacy that transcends academia and impacts industry and society. His research trajectory suggests continued breakthroughs in interface science, eco-friendly solar cell development, and energy materials, making him a strong candidate for leadership roles, global recognition, and future awards in scientific innovation.

Publications Top Notes

Colloidal Self‐Assembly of CuCrO₂ Nanocrystals for Durable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells

  • Authors: Hua Zhang, Rong Wang, Zhixiu Zhao, Jianfei Liang, Chunlin Zhu, Hongyang Liu, Huan Wang
    Journal: Small
    Year: 2025

Strengthened cathode interface using an ultrathin 2D ferroelectric semiconductor for inverted perovskite solar cells

  • Authors: Hua Zhang, Weihong Liu, Yongping Bao, Rong Wang, Jianfei Liang, Lei Wan, Huan Wang
    Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
    Year: 2024

Overcoming C60-Induced Nonradiative Recombination via Interfacial Embedding of BiOBr Flakes in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells

  • Authors: Hua Zhang
    Journal: ACS Energy Letters
    Year: 2023

Design of Superhydrophobic Surfaces for Stable Perovskite Solar Cells with Reducing Lead Leakage

  • Authors: Hua Zhang, Kang Li, Man Sun, Fanglin Wang, Huan Wang, Alex K.-Y. Jen
    Journal: Advanced Energy Materials
    Year: 2021

HxMoO₃−y nanobelts: an excellent alternative to carbon electrodes for high performance mesoscopic perovskite solar cells

  • Authors: Hua Zhang, Huan Wang, Yinglong Yang, Chen Hu, Yang Bai, Teng Zhang, Wei Chen, Shihe Yang
    Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
    Year: 2019