Yifan Zhao | Sensors | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yifan Zhao | Sensors | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xi’an jiaotong University, China

Yifan Zhao, male, is an Associate Professor and doctoral supervisor at the School of Instrumentation Science and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University; his research in MEMS micro-nano processing and advanced sensing physics is aimed at addressing critical technological challenges in China’s sensor industry; with extensive academic and project leadership, he has spearheaded major national R&D projects exceeding 5 million yuan in funding and has published 25 SCI-indexed papers, 14 of which have impact factors over 10; recognized for innovation, he holds multiple patents and has received prestigious awards including the First Prize of Provincial Science and Technology and the 2024 Hot Article Award; his work blends academic rigor with national innovation priorities, reinforcing his standing as a leading figure in China’s applied physics and sensor technology fields.

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Yifan Zhao completed his doctoral education in Power Engineering and Engineering Thermophysics at Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2017, where he built a solid foundation in thermophysics, microfabrication, and MEMS sensor technologies; his graduate research emphasized interdisciplinary integration between mechanical systems, sensor design, and thermal energy applications; this academic trajectory enabled him to develop high-impact, application-driven research competencies that aligned well with China’s strategic science and technology development goals; Zhao’s doctoral studies cultivated his long-term focus on cutting-edge sensing physics and the pursuit of scalable sensor devices to serve both industrial and national innovation platforms; prior to his Ph.D., he likely pursued undergraduate and master’s degrees in closely related fields at Xi’an Jiaotong University, reinforcing a seamless academic progression within one of China’s top technical institutions.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Yifan Zhao has cultivated over a decade of specialized experience in MEMS and sensor systems, currently serving as Associate Professor and doctoral supervisor at Xi’an Jiaotong University; he has led 8 national-level projects including the National Science and Technology Major Project and National Natural Science Foundation grants, with a cumulative budget exceeding 5 million yuan; Zhao’s role encompasses teaching, mentoring doctoral candidates, and managing cross-functional research teams; his responsibilities also include translating research into patents and high-impact publications; he has authored 25 SCI-indexed papers, with a remarkable 14 having impact factors above 10, underscoring his influence in sensor physics; Zhao has also developed strong international visibility through collaborations and innovation-driven outcomes, including a U.S. patent and provincial science awards, while continuing to shape the future of sensor innovation and instrumentation science through academic leadership and technological advancement.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Yifan Zhao’s academic and research excellence has been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors; he received the First Prize at the provincial and ministerial-level Science and Technology Awards, acknowledging his breakthrough contributions to sensor technology and MEMS innovation; in 2024, he was honored with the Hot Article Award, spotlighting the scientific impact and relevance of his published work; additionally, he has been granted 6 Chinese patents and 1 U.S. patent, reflecting his consistent push toward innovation and intellectual property generation; his papers, often published in high-impact SCI journals, have placed him among the top contributors in his domain, with 10 articles ranked in the top 1 zone of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; these accolades affirm his national and international recognition as a thought leader in sensing technology and instrumentation science.

🔬 Research Focus

Yifan Zhao’s research focuses on MEMS micro-nano processing devices and advanced sensing physics, aiming to overcome bottleneck technologies in China’s sensor domain; his work combines microelectromechanical system design, thermal physics, and materials science to develop miniaturized sensors with superior sensitivity and performance; he explores frontier sensing mechanisms for applications in environmental monitoring, biomedical instrumentation, and industrial automation; Zhao’s team designs and fabricates micro/nano devices using cutting-edge techniques to enhance device reliability and scalability; his research addresses challenges such as high-temperature sensing, ultra-sensitive detection, and integration of multi-parameter sensors; he leverages interdisciplinary methods involving thermodynamics, material interfaces, and signal processing to deliver next-generation sensor platforms; through national-level projects and international publications, Zhao is actively advancing China’s strategic capabilities in sensing and MEMS, bridging theoretical insight and real-world impact.

Conclusion

Dr. Yifan Zhao is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award given his remarkable achievements in high-impact publications, national-level research leadership, and technological innovation in sensor science. While there is scope to further strengthen international presence and mentorship roles, his existing record already sets a benchmark for excellence in his field.

Publication Top Notes

🧪 1. Island-shaped micro-cracks evolution in ultrathin film enables ultra-sensitive for strain sensors under high temperatures
🧬 2. Superior sensitive graphene fiber sensor enabled by constructing multiple nanoembossments for glucose detection
⚙️ 3. Solar manipulations of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy for flexible spintronics
🔋 4. Enhancement of spin Hall angle in semimetallic materials α-Sn under voltage regulation
🧫 5. Flexible Organic Photovoltaic‐Powered Hydrogel Bioelectronic Dressing With Biomimetic Electrical Stimulation for Healing Infected Diabetic Wounds

  • Year: 2024

  • Authors: Yi‐Wei Hu, Yu‐Heng Wang, Fang Yang, Ding‐Xin Liu, Guang‐Hao Lu, Sheng‐Tao Li, Zhi‐Xiang Wei, Xiang Shen, Zhuang‐De Jiang, Yi‐Fan Zhao et al.

  • Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202307746

🔧 6. Flexible pressure sensors with ultrahigh stress tolerance enabled by periodic microslits
🌞 7. Solar-Powered Switch of Antiferromagnetism/Ferromagnetism in Flexible Spintronics

  • Year: 2023

  • Authors: Chenying Wang, Yujing Du, Yifan Zhao, Zhexi He, Song Wang, Yaxin Zhang, Yuxuan Jiang, Yongjun Du, Jingen Wu, Zhuangde Jiang et al.

  • Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13243158

⚡ 8. Enhancing spin–orbit torques with a low voltage in metallic multi-layered heterostructures

  • Year: 2023

  • Authors: Zhexi He, Yifan Zhao, Shishun Zhao, Yaojin Li, Jiaqiang Liu, Xi Zha, Meng Zhao, Yujing Du, Rui Wang, Yuxuan Jiang et al.

  • Link: https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0168696

🌀 9. Manipulations of Spin Waves by Photoelectrons in Ferromagnetic/Non‐Ferromagnetic Alloyed Film

  • Year: 2023

  • Authors: Meng Zhao, Yifan Zhao, Yaojin Li, Guohua Dong, Zhexi He, Yujing Du, Yuxuan Jiang, Shaoyuan Wu, Chenying Wang, Libo Zhao et al.

  • Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202303810

☀️ 10. Deterministic Magnetic Switching in Perpendicular Magnetic Trilayers Through Sunlight‐Induced Photoelectron Injection
🌈 11. Deterministic Magnetization Reversal in Synthetic Antiferromagnets using Natural Light
🩻 12. Superior performances via designed multiple embossments within interfaces for flexible pressure sensors

  • Year: 2023

  • Authors: Yujing Zhang, Yuheng Wang, Chenying Wang, Yifan Zhao, Weixuan Jing, Song Wang, Yaxin Zhang, Xiangyue Xu, Fuzheng Zhang, Kaige Yu et al.

  • Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2022.139990

 

Mahmoud Meribout | Sensor Systems and Measurement | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr Mahmoud Meribout | Sensor Systems and Measurement | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Mahmoud Meribout, Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates

Prof. Mahmoud Meribout is a distinguished academic in Electrical and Computer Engineering, currently serving as a Professor at Khalifa University of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi. With a rich background spanning over three decades, his expertise includes sensor systems, embedded systems, and enhanced oil recovery techniques. He has held significant academic and industrial roles in France, Japan, Oman, and the UAE, contributing extensively to hardware design and real-time imaging systems. Prof. Meribout is recognized for his pioneering work in sensor technologies and multiphase flow metering.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse Research Expertise:
    • Professor Meribout has a broad and diverse research portfolio that spans several key areas including sensor systems, embedded systems, imaging systems, and enhanced oil recovery. This diversity demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of different technological domains and their applications.
  2. Significant Contributions:
    • His work includes influential publications in high-impact journals such as IEEE Transactions, Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, and others. His research on advanced sensor systems and imaging techniques, including hardware accelerators and real-time applications, showcases his significant contributions to the field.
  3. Extensive Experience:
    • With over two decades of experience in academia and industry, including roles as a lecturer, assistant professor, and professor, Professor Meribout has a well-rounded background that bridges theoretical research with practical applications. His experience in various international settings (France, Japan, Oman, UAE) enriches his research perspective.
  4. Successful Funding and Projects:
    • Professor Meribout has successfully secured substantial research funding from various organizations, reflecting his ability to lead and execute high-impact research projects. Notable projects include multiphase flow meters and demulsifying devices, which address practical challenges in the oil and gas industry.
  5. Leadership in Academic and Industrial Settings:
    • His roles as Principal Investigator on multiple high-value projects and as a leader in the electrical engineering field highlight his ability to drive innovative research. His contributions to the academic community are also evident through his editorial roles and involvement in international conferences.
  6. Awards and Recognition:
    • He has received multiple awards for both his research and his supervision of student projects. These awards reflect his excellence in research as well as his commitment to mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Research Impact Metrics:
    • While Professor Meribout has numerous publications, assessing the citation impact and the broader influence of his research on the field could provide a clearer picture of his research’s significance. Improving citation metrics and citation indices could strengthen his case for the award.
  2. Broader Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • Expanding collaborative efforts across different disciplines could further enhance the scope and impact of his research. Collaborations with researchers in complementary fields might lead to innovative interdisciplinary projects.
  3. Increased Public Outreach:
    • Engaging more in public outreach and dissemination of research findings to a broader audience could improve visibility and impact. Participating in popular science forums or public lectures could enhance the societal impact of his work.
  4. Long-Term Research Strategy:
    • Developing and communicating a long-term research strategy or vision could provide a clearer roadmap for future contributions. This could help in aligning his research goals with emerging trends and challenges in technology and industry.

 

Education

Prof. Mahmoud Meribout earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Sorbonne University and the University of Technology of Compiegne in France (1991-1994). His dissertation focused on real-time 3D vision systems using hybrid DSP-FPGA architectures. He also holds an M.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering (Sorbonne University, 1990-1991) and a B.Eng. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from the University of Constantine, Algeria (1985-1990).

Experience

Prof. Meribout’s career includes pivotal roles in academia and industry. He has served as a Professor at Khalifa University (since 2020) and previously held positions at Petroleum Institute and Sultan Qaboos University. His industrial experience includes hardware design roles at Quickom Corporation, NTT Corporation, and NEC Corporation, focusing on communication and video processing systems. His projects have ranged from real-time video-based systems to advanced multiphase flow meters.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Meribout has received numerous accolades for his research and mentorship. Notably, he won the 2022 KU Graduate School Award for publishing in IEEE Q1 journals and the 2019 IEEE Common Design Competition Award. He was also honored with the Best Award at the 3rd UAE Undergraduate Student Research competition in 2015 and the NTT’s Annual Award for Best Innovative Research in 1997.

Research Focus

Prof. Meribout’s research focuses on sensor systems, embedded systems, and enhanced oil recovery technologies. He is particularly interested in real-time imaging systems, electrical tomography, and hardware accelerators for face recognition. His recent work explores advancements in multiphase flow measurement and non-conventional oil recovery techniques using electrical means.

Publication Top Notes

I. Adeyemi, N. Kharoua, L. Khezzar, M. Meribout, and K. Al Hammadi. Review of Confined Swirling Flows and Bluff Body Impacts on Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics, Chemical Engineering Research and Design, September 2022. 📑

V. Tiwari, M. Meribout, L. Khezzar, K. Al Hammadi, and M. Tarek. Electrical Tomography Hardware Systems for Real-time Applications: A Review, IEEE Access Journal, 2022. 📑

A. Baobaid, M. Meribout, V. Tiwari, and J. P. Pena. Hardware Accelerators for Real-time Face Recognition: A Survey, IEEE Access Journal, 2022. 📑

I. Adeyemi, M. Meribout, and L. Khezzar. Numerical Assessment of Ultrasound Supported Coalescence of Water Droplets in Crude Oil, Ultrasonics Sonochemistry Journal, 2022. 📑

M. Meribout, A. Baobaid, M. Ould Khaoua, V. Tiwari, and J. Pena. State of Art IoT and Edge Embedded Systems for Real-time Machine Vision Applications, IEEE Access Journal, 2022. 📑

I. Adeyemi, M. Meribout, and L. Khezzar. Recent Developments, Challenges, and Prospect of Ultrasound-Assisted Oil Technologies, Ultrasonics Sonochemistry Journal, 2022. 📑

Conclusion

Professor Mahmoud Meribout is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong track record in sensor systems, embedded systems, and imaging technologies. His extensive experience, successful project management, and notable contributions to both academia and industry position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By focusing on enhancing research impact metrics, increasing interdisciplinary collaboration, and expanding public outreach, Professor Meribout could further solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field.