Prof. Dr. Chen Anran | Electrocatalysis | Best Scholar Award
Doctor at Yunnan University, China
Dr. Anran Chen is an accomplished Chinese materials scientist specializing in the design and synthesis of novel energy and catalytic nanomaterials. Born in Weinan, Shaanxi, in August 1986, he earned his doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University. Currently serving as an Assistant Researcher at the School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Dr. Chen has built a reputation for pioneering work in energy catalysis, nanostructured materials, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). His research has led to significant advancements in hydrogen production technologies and nanomaterials engineering. Recognized for his scientific rigor and innovative methodologies, he has contributed over 65 SCI-indexed journal articles, 36 of which he authored as first or corresponding author. He also holds editorial roles for top-tier journals such as Carbon Neutralization and EcoEnergy. He is known not only for his research excellence but also for his commitment to teaching undergraduate and graduate courses. With a strong track record of successful national and provincial research grants totaling over 3 million RMB, Dr. Chen has been honored with numerous awards, including the Yunnan Natural Science Award and recognition as a high-level talent in the “Thousand Talents” program.
Profile
Education
Dr. Anran Chen’s educational path reflects a deep dedication to scientific exploration in materials science and metallurgy. He began his academic journey at Yunnan University, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from 2006 to 2010. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Master’s degree in Nonferrous Metallurgy at Kunming University of Science and Technology under the supervision of Professor Zebo Zhang, graduating in 2012. Motivated by an interest in advanced functional materials, Dr. Chen continued toward a doctoral degree at Xi’an Jiaotong University, one of China’s premier research institutions. Between 2013 and 2017, he completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering under the mentorship of Professor Shengchun Yang, focusing on energy-related nanomaterials and electrocatalysis. During his academic tenure, he cultivated technical expertise in electron microscopy and surface chemistry. In 2018, he further enhanced his international experience as a visiting scholar in the Department of Applied Chemistry at Xi’an Jiaotong University, under Professor Shuxiang Ding. This well-rounded educational background has positioned Dr. Chen as a leading scholar in new energy technologies, bridging fundamental chemistry with real-world engineering applications.
Professional Experience
Dr. Chen has accumulated extensive professional experience in academia and scientific research. Since October 2019, he has served as an Assistant Researcher at the School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University. Prior to this, he was affiliated with the Energy Research Institute of Yunnan University (2017–2019), where he not only held a research position but also served as the Director of the Party and Administration Office. In 2018–2019, he expanded his academic network and technical expertise through a visiting scholar position in the Department of Applied Chemistry at Xi’an Jiaotong University, working under Professor Shuxiang Ding. His professional scope includes managing large-scale research projects, mentoring students, and teaching core courses in engineering thermodynamics and electron microscopy. Dr. Chen has led several national and provincial-level research initiatives funded by the National Natural Science Foundation, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Yunnan Provincial Government. His ability to integrate administrative leadership with hands-on research and pedagogy makes him a dynamic contributor to institutional development and scientific innovation.
Research Interest
Dr. Anran Chen’s research interests span across the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials for energy and environmental applications. His primary focus lies in developing non-noble metal nanocatalysts for electrochemical hydrogen production, specifically through efficient water-splitting technologies. He tailors these catalysts using structural modification techniques such as chemical doping, atomic interface engineering, and heterojunction formation. A secondary research avenue involves the design of heterogeneous nanomaterials composed of Fe, Cu, and Zn, which are optimized for applications in lithium-ion batteries, photothermal therapy, and electrochemical sensing. He aims to enhance their catalytic and electronic behavior by manipulating microstructural features and interfacial properties. Dr. Chen also pioneers studies in in situ electron microscopy, where he investigates the structural evolution and reaction mechanisms at the atomic scale. His work appears in top journals like ACS Nano, Journal of Energy Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering Journal, contributing to the global push for green energy and sustainable technology. With increasing interest in dual-functional materials, his research intersects multiple disciplines, including catalysis, materials science, nanotechnology, and clean energy.
Research Skills
Dr. Chen possesses a wide array of research skills centered on materials analysis, nanomaterials synthesis, and advanced electron microscopy. He is a seasoned expert in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), having operated high-end instruments such as Thermo Fisher Spectra 300 and JEOL JEM-2100F for over 12 years. His proficiency extends to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) systems including Quanta 250 FEG, and he is well-versed in ion thinning and electron sample preparation. He specializes in atomic-resolution imaging, in situ TEM analysis, and nanostructural characterization, particularly for catalytic and energy materials. Additionally, Dr. Chen is adept in the design and fabrication of non-precious metal catalysts, surface functionalization, and materials interface engineering. His skills further encompass computational data analysis, materials testing, and cross-platform synthesis of heterostructured composites. As a course instructor, he delivers content-rich lectures on modern analytical techniques and materials thermodynamics, blending theoretical knowledge with experimental practice. His interdisciplinary capabilities enable him to bridge the gap between basic research and applied technological development.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Chen has received numerous prestigious awards in recognition of his academic excellence and leadership in materials science. In 2025, he was appointed as a Youth Editorial Board Member for EcoEnergy and Carbon Neutralization, both top-tier SCI journals. He was also honored as “Excellent Teacher” by the School of Materials and Energy at Yunnan University. In 2024, he received the Yunnan Province Natural Science Award (Third Prize) as the lead recipient, and joined the editorial board of Rare Metals, another leading SCI journal. His technical excellence was repeatedly acknowledged by Yunnan University’s Electron Microscopy Center, where he earned titles like “Academic Star” and “Outstanding TEM Operator” for three consecutive years (2022–2024). In 2023, he was recognized by Jiangsu Province with the title of “Science and Technology Deputy General”. Earlier, in 2019, he was awarded the “High-Level Young Talent” designation under the Yunnan Thousand Talents Program. These accolades underscore his multifaceted achievements in research, education, and scientific service.
Publications
Dr. Anran Chen has an outstanding publication record, with over 65 SCI-indexed research papers and more than 1300 citations, earning him an H-index of 24. He has served as the first or corresponding author on 36 of these works, many of which appear in top-tier journals like ACS Nano, Carbon Energy, ACS Catalysis, Advanced Science, and Journal of Energy Chemistry. His contributions span cutting-edge areas such as non-noble metal electrocatalysts, heterostructured nanomaterials, and water-splitting technology. At least 12 of his papers are ESI Highly Cited, and more than 18 papers feature in journals with impact factors above 10. His research articles frequently explore the atomic-level optimization of catalytic interfaces, interfacial charge distribution, and the development of bifunctional materials for sustainable energy. Recent landmark papers include topics on single-atom catalysts, bimetallic sulfides, and amorphous/crystalline hybrid nanostructures. These publications not only highlight his scientific creativity but also reflect global leadership in nanomaterials for energy applications.
Conclusion
Dr. Anran Chen is a dynamic researcher and academic whose expertise bridges advanced materials science, sustainable energy technologies, and nanoscale characterization. With a strong academic foundation, extensive research experience, and a robust portfolio of high-impact publications, he exemplifies the next generation of scientific leadership. His contributions to catalytic nanomaterials and clean hydrogen production are not only of academic significance but also critical to global energy transition efforts. In parallel, his dedication to teaching and mentoring ensures the development of future innovators in materials science. Supported by major national and provincial funding schemes and honored with prestigious awards, Dr. Chen has firmly established himself as a thought leader and role model in interdisciplinary research. His continued work promises innovative breakthroughs in the field of renewable energy and a lasting influence on the academic and industrial landscapes of materials engineering.