Guochun Zhang | Magnetic Refrigeration | Best Researcher Award

Guochun Zhang | Magnetic Refrigeration | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry | China

Professor Zhang Guochun, a leading faculty member at the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, is an accomplished inorganic chemist recognized for his pioneering contributions to crystal science. He earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Science and Technology of China, where he established a strong academic foundation in advanced material synthesis and characterization. His professional career has been devoted to advancing crystal research, with a focus on the discovery of new functional crystals, investigating the fundamental relationships between structure and properties, and developing innovative methods for bulk crystal growth. Through his expertise, Professor Zhang has significantly contributed to expanding the practical applications of crystalline materials in diverse scientific and technological fields. In addition to his research, he plays an active role in academic leadership, supervising students, mentoring young researchers, and fostering collaborations that promote innovation and excellence in physical chemistry. His impactful body of work, reflected in high-quality publications and influential contributions to the field, has advanced both fundamental understanding and practical applications, establishing him as a prominent figure whose achievements continue to shape the landscape of inorganic and materials chemistry.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Wide spectral range refractive indices of BBO crystal covering 0.2–2000 THz. (2025). Applied Optics.

Optical properties of barium borate crystal in the THz range revisited. (2025). Optics Letters.

The crystal structures, magnetic interactions and cryogenic magnetocaloric effects for NaGdXO₄ (X = Si, Ti) compounds. (2025). Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Potential laser crystal of Zn₄B₆O₁₃:Mn²⁺ with low thermal expansion and high thermal conductivity: Single-crystal growth and characterization. (2024). Crystal Growth & Design.

Magnetic properties and cryogenic magnetocaloric effect in α-Gd₂(MoO₄)₃ compound. (2024). Cryogenics.

Tagne Takote Brice Clausel | Solar Cooling Systems | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Tagne Takote Brice Clausel | Solar Cooling Systems | Best Innovation Award

Researcher at University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria

Dr. Tagne Takote Brice Clausel is a distinguished Cameroonian expert in Renewable and New Energy Systems whose academic and professional journey exemplifies dedication to advancing sustainable technologies. With a background spanning engineering, teaching, and applied research, he has made notable contributions in the design and experimental validation of solar-driven adsorption chillers and thermal energy storage systems. His pioneering innovations in renewable energy and thermal cooling technologies aim to address pressing global challenges such as energy efficiency, CO₂ emission reduction, and sustainable power solutions for vulnerable populations.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Clausel pursued a rigorous academic path that reflects both depth and interdisciplinary breadth in renewable energy. He earned his Ph.D. in Renewable Energy and New Energy Systems under the World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power and Energy Development (ACE-SPED), University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His doctoral research centered on “Experimental and Thermodynamic Modelling of an Innovative Solar-Driven Adsorption Chiller,” which integrated encapsulated phase change material thermal energy storage to optimize day-night operational efficiency. Prior to his doctorate, he completed a Master of Engineering in Renewable Energy with a specialization in Solar Energy at the University of Buea, Higher Technical Teacher’s Training College (HTTTC) Kumba, Cameroon. His strong educational foundation equipped him with expertise in multiphase heat and mass transfer, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solar energy systems, and thermal energy storage technologies, enabling him to bridge theory with practical applications.

Experience

Dr. Clausel has accumulated significant experience across academia, research, and industry. As a doctoral researcher at ACE-SPED, he dedicated four years to investigating advanced solar thermal systems, focusing on their design, modeling, and performance optimization. Parallel to his research career, he served as a government teacher in Renewable Energy at a bilingual technical high school in Cameroon, where he nurtured future engineers and technologists. His teaching career underscores his passion for knowledge dissemination and capacity building in sustainable energy. Beyond academia, Dr. Clausel has engaged in professional practice as a part-time designer and lead engineer at Tagus Drone Company, Yaoundé. In this role, he spearheaded engineering teams in the design and deployment of solar energy systems for residential applications. Notably, he played a central role in the electrification of a 400m² exhibition stand for GIZ at Promote, Cameroon’s premier international business fair. These professional milestones demonstrate his ability to apply renewable energy concepts to real-world scenarios, delivering solutions that improve community resilience and sustainable development.

Research Focus

The core of Dr. Clausel’s research lies in renewable and sustainable thermal systems, particularly adsorption chillers, solar energy storage, and advanced heat transfer processes. His doctoral thesis explored the integration of encapsulated phase change materials (EPCM) into solar-powered adsorption chillers, aiming to resolve the mismatch between solar availability and continuous cooling demand. This innovation enhances energy efficiency, reduces CO₂ emissions, and offers affordable cooling alternatives in heat-vulnerable regions. His expertise extends to computational fluid dynamics, thermodynamic modeling, and multiphysics simulations, which he employs to optimize the design and control of renewable energy systems. He has worked on the design and fabrication of several groundbreaking prototypes, including a 1kW adsorption chiller, a paraffin wax-based EPCM thermal energy storage unit, a 150-liter evacuated tube collector, and an affordable portable solar kit for remote communities. These innovations not only demonstrate technical ingenuity but also provide scalable solutions for sustainable development.

Publication Top Note

Title: Performance Modelling of a Two-Bed Silica Gel-Water Pair Adsorption Chiller
Author: Tagne Takote Brice Clausel
Summary: This study models a two-bed silica gel-water adsorption chiller, evaluating thermodynamic performance and operational efficiency for sustainable cooling applications.

Conclusion

Dr. Tagne Takote Brice Clausel exemplifies the qualities of an innovative researcher, skilled educator, and practical engineer in the field of renewable energy and new energy systems. His groundbreaking research on solar-driven adsorption chillers and EPCM-based thermal energy storage systems provides sustainable solutions that align with global climate action and energy efficiency goals. His professional achievements, from designing community-scale solar projects to leading engineering teams, further showcase his ability to translate research into impactful real-world applications. With a strong portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, research grants, and practical innovations, Dr. Clausel stands as a highly deserving candidate for recognition in the field of renewable and sustainable energy. His work not only advances academic knowledge but also delivers tangible benefits to society, positioning him as a leader in shaping the future of clean energy technologies.