Qingdao University of Science and Technology | China
Author Profile
Scopus
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Meng Yao began his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Engineering from the prestigious State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology. During his doctoral training, he developed a strong foundation in chemical engineering and advanced materials research, which set the stage for his future academic career. His early academic pursuits reflect a consistent commitment to exploring the interface of chemistry, engineering, and material sciences, ensuring a solid platform for impactful research contributions.
Professional Endeavors
In 2019, Prof. Yao joined the College of Chemical Engineering at Qingdao University of Science and Technology as a Tier-5 recruited talent. Currently serving as the Director of the Teaching and Research Office and as a Master’s Supervisor, he actively contributes to both academic leadership and student mentorship. His professional journey is marked by a blend of administrative excellence, research supervision, and innovative academic program development, particularly within graduate programs in Chemical Engineering, Light Chemical Engineering, and Materials Science and Engineering.
Contributions and Research Focus
Prof. Yao’s research contributions primarily center on biomass-based functional materials and biomimetic structurally colored materials, with applications in high-performance packaging, optical anti-counterfeiting, and advanced photonic structures. He has published over 20 SCI-indexed papers in high-impact journals, including Advanced Functional Materials, Chemical Engineering Journal, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. Additionally, his innovative work has resulted in 2 granted invention patents. His research reflects a forward-looking approach, bridging sustainability, functionality, and cutting-edge material design.
Impact and Influence
Beyond his publications, Prof. Yao’s influence extends to the wider scientific community. He serves as a Youth Committee Member of the Fine Chemicals Professional Committee of the Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China (CIESC), where he contributes to advancing the field of chemical engineering at a national level. His role as a mentor in national innovation and entrepreneurship programs further amplifies his impact, nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators.
Academic Citations
Prof. Yao’s publications in Q1 journals with high impact factors-some exceeding IF 19-demonstrate the visibility and relevance of his research within the international scientific community. Several of his works have been highlighted in journal features and professional press reports, reflecting both academic recognition and practical importance. His scholarship is widely cited, particularly in areas such as sustainable materials, functional films, and photonic crystal technologies.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Prof. Yao’s academic legacy is being shaped by his dual commitment to advancing sustainable material solutions and training future scholars. His pioneering work in stimulus-responsive photonic crystals and biomimetic starch composite films lays the groundwork for transformative applications in security, food packaging, and green technologies. Looking forward, his contributions are poised to influence both academia and industry, aligning with global efforts toward sustainability, functional innovation, and environmentally conscious engineering solutions.
Conclusion
In summary, Prof. Meng Yao exemplifies the qualities of a distinguished researcher whose academic pursuits, professional leadership, and impactful research make him a strong candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award. His ability to bridge fundamental science with practical applications, combined with his mentorship and service to the academic community, ensures that his influence will continue to grow, leaving a lasting legacy in chemical engineering and materials science.
Notable Publications
"High barrier paper-based materials with optical anti-counterfeiting performance."
- Author: Jiang Y, Tu W, Ma J, Wang W, Cheng H, Zhang X, Meng Y
- Journal: Progress in Organic Coatings
- Year: 2025
"Manipulation of random laser by the bandgap in three-dimensional SiO2 photonic crystals"
- Author: Lv H, Shi B, Zhang Y, Guo J, Meng Y, Wang X.
- Journal: Journal of Luminescence
- Year: 2024
"A novel paper-based composite film with enhanced oxygen and water vapor barrier properties."
- Author: Chen X, Xiao B, Yang Y, Jiang Y, Song X, Chen F, Wang W, Wu J, Meng Y
- Journal: Progress in Organic Coatings
- Year: 2024
"Biomimetic Robust Starch Composite Films with Super-Hydrophobicity and Vivid Structural Colors. "
- Author: Wang Y, Fan J, Zhao H, Song X, Ji Z, Xie C, Chen F, Meng Y.
- Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Year: 2023
"The Flotation Separation of Chalcopyrite and Galena: Crystal, Surface, Floatability and Reagents"
- Author: Zhang X, Zhu Y, Mkhonto PP, Meng Y, McFadzean B, Ngoepe PE, O’Connor C.
- Journal: Separation & Purification Reviews
- Year: 2023