Qi Yang | Sustainable Polymer | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Yang | Sustainable Polymer | Best Academic Researcher Award

Teacher at Qingdao University of Science and Technology | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Yang is a dedicated researcher and academic in the field of polymer science and engineering, currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Materials and Engineering from Qingdao University of Science and Technology in 2014, followed by a Ph.D. in Material Science from the University of Science and Technology of China in 2019, where he conducted advanced research under the guidance of Prof. Xuequan Zhang. Since 2020, he has contributed significantly to teaching and research as a faculty member, while also expanding his international academic exposure through a postdoctoral fellowship at Tampere University from 2023 to 2025. His research interests center on developing eco-friendly synthetic pathways for diene rubbers, exploring novel structures and properties to enhance their industrial applications, and advancing functionalization methods to equip synthetic rubbers with innovative properties tailored for sectors including healthcare and electronics. He is also deeply engaged in creating stimuli-responsive rubber materials that react to light, heat, and magnetism, enabling their integration into soft robotics for intelligent, flexible actuation and adaptive deformation. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Yang scholarly contributions are evidenced by his publications in high-impact journals, covering topics such as selective polymerization of isoprene, novel copolymer designs for high-performance elastomers, light-responsive programmable materials, and sustainable thermoplastic elastomers. His work not only advances the understanding of polymer structures and properties but also bridges fundamental research with practical applications in advanced materials. With a strong foundation in material science and a focus on sustainable and intelligent polymer systems, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Yang continues to make meaningful contributions to the field, aiming to drive innovation in both academic research and industrial applications.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Liu, X., Yang, Q., Zhang, C., Zhang, X., & Liu, H. (2024). 3,4-Selective polymerization of isoprene by iron-based system: The key role of borate salts for enhancing catalytic activities and broadening 1,10-phenanthroline ligand scope.

Liu, X., Zheng, H., Wang, X., Jiang, Z., Gu, J., Liu, H., Zhang, C., Yang, Q., & Zhang, X. (2023). Novel butadiene/isoprene copolymer with predominant 1,2/3,4-units: A tough thermoplastic elastomer material with superior dynamic mechanical properties.

Yang, Q., Shahsavan, H., Deng, Z., Guo, H., Zhang, H., Liu, H., Zhang, C., Priimagi, A., Zhang, X., & Zeng, H. (2022). Semi‐crystalline rubber as a light‐responsive, programmable, resilient robotic material.

Yang, Q., Zheng, W., Zhao, W., Peng, C., Ren, J., Yu, Q., Hu, Y., & Zhang, X. (2019). One-way and two-way shape memory effects of a high-strain cis-1,4-polybutadiene–polyethylene copolymer based dynamic network via self-complementary quadruple hydrogen bonding.

Yang, Q., Peng, C., Ren, J., Zhao, W., Zheng, W., Zhang, C., Hu, Y., & Zhang, X. (2019). A near-infrared photoactuator based on shape memory semi-crystalline polymers toward light-fueled crane, grasper, and walker.

Yang, Q., Wang, X., Wang, B., Liu, Y., Sun, Y., Na, L., Wang, F., Zhang, C., Liu, H., & Zhang, X. (2021). Toward sustainable and strong ABA-type thermoplastic elastomers with poly(ε-caprolactone-co-4-methyl-ε-caprolactone) soft midblock and polystyrene hard end blocks.

David Olawumi | Catalytic Graphitization | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. David Olawumi | Catalytic Graphitization | Best Researcher Award

Combustion Laboratory at University of Maryland | United States

Mr. David Olawumi is a highly motivated student recognized for his academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. With a strong foundation in advanced placement courses and honors programs, he has consistently demonstrated intellectual curiosity and resilience. His dedication extends beyond academics into research, extracurricular leadership, and volunteer service. As a co-founder of school clubs and an active participant in community organizations, he combines creativity with analytical thinking. Through experiences in research, graphic design, and team leadership, Mr. David Olawumi exemplifies a commitment to innovation and service. His well-rounded accomplishments make him a promising candidate for recognition through this award nomination.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Mr. David Olawumi is currently pursuing a rigorous secondary education curriculum with a focus on advanced mathematics, sciences, and engineering-related subjects. His coursework includes AP Physics C, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, and AP Government, complemented by multiple honors classes. He has demonstrated exceptional academic discipline and adaptability. He has also been actively involved in research-based courses and competitions that foster critical thinking and problem-solving. These educational experiences not only highlight his intellectual strengths but also prepare him for future academic endeavors in engineering, technology, and applied sciences at higher education institutions.

Experience

Mr. David Olawumi has gained meaningful experience through both research and community-focused roles. At the University of Maryland, he contributed to advanced material science research, specifically investigating catalytic graphitization processes. This research enhanced his understanding of engineering principles and innovative technologies. Additionally, his long-term involvement in the family business developed his customer service, management, and teamwork skills. Beyond work, he has held multiple leadership roles at school and in his church, coordinating media, design, and peer mentorship initiatives. These experiences collectively demonstrate his ability to balance academic excellence with real-world applications and community responsibility.

Research Interest

Mr. David Olawumi research interests lie in the intersection of engineering, material science, and computational technologies. His work on catalytic graphitization reflects a passion for exploring sustainable and efficient approaches to advanced materials. As co-founder of the Quantum Computing Club, he has also shown deep interest in computational sciences, coding, and quantum theory applications. He seeks to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical innovation, envisioning advancements that integrate quantum computing with material engineering. His inclination toward multidisciplinary exploration positions him as a forward-looking scholar, capable of addressing complex challenges with creativity, scientific rigor, and an eagerness to pioneer transformative research.

Awards

Mr. David Olawumi academic and leadership journey has been recognized through numerous honors. He received the Prince George’s County Innovation Scholarship Award, reflecting his innovative contributions to learning and research. He was also nominated as a UMBC Meyerhoff Scholar, underscoring his potential in STEM disciplines. His selection as a semifinalist for the prestigious Posse Scholars Foundation further highlights his leadership and academic excellence. Additionally, he has been a consistent member of the Principal’s Honor Roll and a finalist in the Eleanor Roosevelt High School Math Competition. His induction into the Science National Honor Society affirms his scholarly commitment.

Publication Top Notes

David has engaged in research that reflects potential for future publication.

Title: Catalytic Graphitization to Valorize Char By-products from Pinewood Liquefaction
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Mr. David Olawumi embodies the qualities of a well-rounded scholar, combining academic brilliance, research engagement, leadership, and community service. His demonstrated ability to excel in advanced coursework, initiate innovative projects, and contribute meaningfully to team and organizational success sets him apart. With a strong focus on STEM, leadership in clubs, and dedication to service, he reflects the spirit of perseverance and excellence that this award seeks to honor. Mr. David Olawumi achievements so far serve as a foundation for greater contributions in science, technology, and community leadership, making him an outstanding nominee deserving of recognition through this award.