Caswell Munyai | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Caswell Munyai | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa

Dr. Caswell Munyai is a distinguished South African entomologist and academic whose expertise bridges biodiversity research, ecological education, and science communication. He is an Honorary Researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand and a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His work is rooted in macroecology, myrmecology, community ecology, and the sustainable management of invertebrate resources. A passionate educator, he has guided numerous postgraduate students to successful completion, fostering the next generation of scientists. Beyond academia, Dr. Munyai is dedicated to public engagement, contributing to nature documentaries such as Namuli and the Netflix impact feature Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey, which translate complex ecological science into compelling storytelling. His professional service includes leadership roles in academic societies, editorial activities, and national research funding panels. As a National Research Foundation–rated scientist and participant in the prestigious Future Professors Programme, Dr. Munyai exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and innovation. His career demonstrates a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while making it accessible and relevant to society, with a focus on conserving biodiversity and addressing the ecological challenges posed by invasive species, habitat change, and climate impacts.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Munyai holds a comprehensive academic background in environmental sciences, ecology, and resource management. His undergraduate training established a strong foundation in environmental science, followed by advanced specialization in ecology and resource management. His postgraduate studies expanded into macroecology and myrmecology, enabling him to develop deep expertise in ant ecology, biogeography, and ecosystem dynamics. His master’s research integrated large-scale ecological patterns with species-level behavioral insights, while his doctoral work advanced understanding of macroecological processes in invertebrate communities, particularly ants. Through these qualifications, he acquired a blend of theoretical knowledge, quantitative analysis skills, and field-based research experience. His educational journey also included competitive research placements, where he engaged with leading international scientists, refined laboratory and field methodologies, and developed strong collaborative networks. This multidisciplinary training has equipped him with the ability to address ecological questions from multiple perspectives, integrating biodiversity monitoring, species interactions, and conservation strategies. His academic formation reflects a dedication to bridging the gap between field observations and broader ecological theory, producing research that not only advances scientific understanding but also informs environmental management, conservation policy, and sustainable use of biodiversity resources in complex and changing ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Munyai’s professional career spans academic teaching, research leadership, and service to the scientific community at both national and international levels. As a senior faculty member in the School of Life Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, he teaches and coordinates undergraduate and postgraduate modules, supervises postgraduate research, and contributes to academic administration. He has held leadership roles such as Postgraduate Committee Coordinator, facilitating seminars, workshops, and research skills training. His experience also includes teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and international field instruction in biodiversity-rich environments, notably contributing to specialist ant courses in Africa. Dr. Munyai serves as an external examiner for numerous South African universities and has assessed both master’s dissertations and doctoral theses. He is actively involved in the governance of his institution through participation in examination boards, curriculum moderation, and faculty committees. Beyond academia, he plays a key role in national research evaluation processes, chairing funding panels and reviewing grant applications for the National Research Foundation and other funding bodies. His professional trajectory reflects a balance between high-quality research, committed teaching, and substantial academic service, positioning him as an influential figure in the advancement of ecological sciences in southern Africa.

Research Interest

Dr. Munyai’s research interests lie at the intersection of entomology, macroecology, and conservation biology, with a strong focus on myrmecology—the study of ants. His work examines biodiversity patterns, species interactions, and ecosystem functioning, particularly in the context of environmental change. He investigates the impacts of alien invasive plants and invertebrates on native biodiversity, as well as the potential for integrated pest management strategies to mitigate these effects. His studies extend to entomophagy, exploring the ecological, cultural, and economic implications of insect consumption. Community ecology is central to his research, providing insights into species distribution, habitat preferences, and the role of invertebrates in ecological resilience. He is especially interested in macroecological approaches that integrate large-scale biogeographic data with local ecological processes. Through his field and laboratory research, he addresses pressing conservation challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species management. His work contributes not only to the theoretical understanding of biodiversity patterns but also to the development of applied conservation and management strategies that benefit both ecosystems and human communities, particularly in biodiversity-rich but ecologically vulnerable regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Munyai possesses a versatile and advanced skill set encompassing field ecology, taxonomic identification, ecological data analysis, and science communication. He is an expert in sampling, identifying, and cataloguing invertebrate species, particularly ants, using both classical taxonomy and modern analytical tools. His macroecological expertise includes spatial modeling, biodiversity assessment, and statistical analysis of ecological datasets. He is skilled in designing and executing field surveys across diverse habitats, from savannas to montane forests, ensuring rigorous data collection for both short-term studies and long-term monitoring programs. His research incorporates experimental approaches to assess ecological interactions, invasive species dynamics, and biological control measures. In the realm of applied ecology, he develops strategies for integrated pest management and sustainable resource use. Dr. Munyai is also experienced in supervising research teams, mentoring postgraduate students, and coordinating multi-institutional projects. His strong peer-review record demonstrates his critical evaluation skills and engagement with cutting-edge scientific literature. Complementing his technical abilities, he excels in science communication, using publications, conferences, and media—including documentaries—to disseminate research findings to both scientific audiences and the broader public.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Munyai is a National Research Foundation Y2-rated scientist, recognized for his significant contributions to ecological research and potential for future leadership in his field. His selection for the Future Professors Programme reflects his standing as an emerging academic leader with the capacity to shape the future of higher education and research in South Africa. In addition to these distinctions, he serves as Deputy President of the Southern African Entomological Society, a role that underscores his leadership and influence within the entomological community. His expertise is further acknowledged through invitations to chair prestigious research funding panels, assess research proposals, and evaluate academic theses across multiple institutions. He has been entrusted with guiding national research priorities in agricultural sciences, biodiversity, and sustainability, demonstrating the high level of confidence placed in his judgment and expertise. These honors not only reflect his research achievements but also his dedication to building scientific capacity, fostering collaboration, and promoting biodiversity conservation. His blend of academic excellence, leadership roles, and service contributions positions him among the most respected and influential figures in his discipline.

Author Metrics

  • Citations: 1,325+

  • h-index: 16

  • i10-index: 23

Publications Top Notes

1. GlobalAnts: a new database on the geography of ant traits (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Citations: 186
Year: 2017

2. Ant assemblages have darker and larger members in cold environments
Citations: 153
Year: 2016

3. Nutritional composition of edible insects consumed in Africa: A systematic review
Citations: 137
Year: 2020

4. Indigenous knowledge about consumption of edible insects in South Africa
Citations: 125
Year: 2020

5. Climate mediates the effects of disturbance on ant assemblage structure
Citations: 101
Year: 2015

6. Ants on a mountain: spatial, environmental and habitat associations along an altitudinal transect in a centre of endemism
Citations: 79
Year: 2011

7. Changes in land use alter ant diversity, assemblage composition and dominant functional groups in African savannas
Citations: 63
Year: 2018

8. A global database of ant species abundances
Citations: 53
Year: 2017

9. Dominance–diversity relationships in ant communities differ with invasion
Citations: 48
Year: 2018

10. Temporal patterns of ant diversity across a mountain with climatically contrasting aspects in the tropics of Africa
Citations: 45
Year: 2015

Conclusion

Dr. Caswell Munyai exemplifies the integration of scientific excellence, educational leadership, and public engagement. His career is characterized by a commitment to advancing knowledge in entomology, macroecology, and conservation while ensuring that research outcomes have tangible benefits for biodiversity management and community awareness. As an educator, he has cultivated a strong record of student supervision, producing graduates who contribute to science and society. As a researcher, his work addresses urgent environmental challenges, from invasive species to climate impacts, using both theoretical frameworks and practical solutions. His leadership in scientific societies, research funding bodies, and academic governance highlights his influence in shaping the future of ecological science in South Africa and beyond. Through his involvement in documentaries and public outreach, he bridges the gap between science and the public, inspiring appreciation and stewardship of the natural world. Dr. Munyai’s career trajectory reflects a rare combination of scholarly depth, collaborative spirit, and dedication to conservation advocacy, making him a driving force in both academic and societal efforts to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.

 

Fisayo Fagbemi | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Fisayo Fagbemi | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Economic Policy Analysis Centre (EPAC), Ibadan, Nigeria.

Mr. Fisayo Fagbemi is an economist with a strong academic background and research engagement in economic development, financial institutions, and the role of governance in economic performance. With a postgraduate degree in Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, Mr. Fagbemi has consistently demonstrated academic excellence and professional commitment. His research has addressed critical policy issues, particularly within Sub-Saharan Africa, analyzing the interactions between natural resource endowment, institutional quality, and financial development. He has contributed to academic literature with open-access publications recognized for their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably addressing inclusive financial growth and sustainable development. Mr. Fagbemi has a strong passion for academic writing and policy analysis, and he has gained experience through workshops and mentorship by distinguished scholars. He is also a Graduate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), showcasing his professional development in leadership and managerial skills. His consistent recognition for academic excellence and scholarly contributions underscores his dedication to impactful research and economic transformation. Mr. Fagbemi aims to expand his academic pursuits, collaborate across disciplines, and influence policy through rigorous economic inquiry.

📝Publication Profile

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🎓Education

Mr. Fagbemi received his higher education at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. He completed his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Economics from 2015 to 2017, during which he conducted significant research culminating in a dissertation titled “Natural Resources, Institutional Quality and Financial Development in Sub-Saharan African Countries (2005–2014)”. His postgraduate studies deepened his understanding of macroeconomic theory, econometric modeling, and the intersection of natural resources and governance in shaping financial markets. Prior to his master’s degree, he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) with Honours in Economics from the same university between 2008 and 2013, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division. His undergraduate education laid the groundwork for his interest in development economics and empirical research. Throughout his academic journey, Mr. Fagbemi demonstrated strong analytical and critical thinking skills. He also engaged actively in academic discussions and workshops, reinforcing his passion for research. His rigorous academic background has provided him with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation, which continues to inform his professional and research pursuits.

💼Professional Experience

Mr. Fagbemi’s professional journey blends academic excellence with growing engagement in applied research and policy discourse. While specific institutional roles are not outlined, his academic training and workshop involvement suggest experience in research-oriented environments, where he has contributed to the development and dissemination of scholarly knowledge. His participation in writing workshops, including sessions on proposal and academic writing, reflect his proactive engagement in professional development. As a Graduate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) since March 2015, Mr. Fagbemi has also demonstrated his commitment to professional and managerial competence. His proficiency in management principles complements his economics training, equipping him for both academic and administrative roles. Moreover, his scholarly contributions, particularly his open-access publications with Elsevier, signal his active involvement in economic research communities. These publications, tied to the Sustainable Development Goals, indicate his role in tackling global challenges through economic insight. Mr. Fagbemi is poised to contribute meaningfully in academic, policy, or consultancy roles that require rigorous economic analysis, institutional insight, and evidence-based recommendations.

🔬Research Interest

Mr. Fagbemi’s research interests lie at the intersection of development economics, financial development, institutional economics, and resource governance. His master’s dissertation explored how natural resources and institutional quality influence financial development across Sub-Saharan African countries, highlighting his interest in how economic structures and governance mechanisms impact financial inclusion and stability. He is particularly intrigued by the dynamics between resource wealth and institutional frameworks, especially in regions with volatile political and economic systems. His academic pursuits also align with global developmental themes, such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including economic growth, reduced inequalities, and sustainable resource management. In addition, Mr. Fagbemi is interested in empirical economics, using econometric tools to analyze policy-relevant questions. These include the evaluation of public policy effectiveness, the role of governance in market outcomes, and the drivers of inclusive financial systems. He seeks to contribute to evidence-based policymaking through interdisciplinary collaboration, data-driven insights, and rigorous academic inquiry. His long-term research goal is to help bridge the gap between economic theory and policy implementation in developing economies.

🧠Research Skills

Mr. Fagbemi possesses a broad range of research skills relevant to contemporary economic analysis and academic writing. He is proficient in econometric analysis, including regression modeling, panel data analysis, and causal inference techniques, which were applied extensively in his postgraduate research. His dissertation work required the application of statistical software for data cleaning, hypothesis testing, and model interpretation, demonstrating his ability to handle complex datasets and draw meaningful conclusions. In addition to technical skills, he has participated in skill-enhancing workshops that strengthened his academic writing and research proposal development. These include training sessions on internal consistency in academic proposals and techniques for effective scholarly writing, led by renowned Nigerian academics. Mr. Fagbemi is also skilled in critical literature review, policy analysis, and academic communication, all of which contribute to his capacity to produce high-quality research outputs. His familiarity with interdisciplinary research methods and his contributions to open-access journals further demonstrate his ability to conduct and communicate impactful research. He is committed to lifelong learning and seeks continuous improvement through collaboration and mentorship.

🏆Awards and Honors

Mr. Fagbemi has received several prestigious awards and recognitions throughout his academic career. Notably, on October 27, 2022, he was recognized for publishing three open-access articles with Elsevier between 2019 and 2021. Two of these articles were acknowledged for addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing his contributions to research aimed at solving global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and financial exclusion. His dedication to academic excellence was also recognized during his undergraduate studies at Obafemi Awolowo University. He was a two-time recipient of the Ondo State Annual (Sessional) Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence in the 2009/2010 and 2011/2012 academic years. These scholarships acknowledged his outstanding academic performance and commitment to scholarly advancement. In addition, Mr. Fagbemi holds a Proficiency Certificate in Management awarded by the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) in March 2015, marking his achievement in professional development and leadership. These honors not only highlight his scholarly potential but also underscore his dedication to research excellence and socio-economic development.

📈Author Metrics

  • Total Citations: 584

  • h-index: 14

  • i10-index: 19

These metrics reflect Mr. Fagbemi’s scholarly impact across peer-reviewed publications, indicating a consistent contribution to economics, sustainable development, and governance-related research. An h-index of 14 suggests that 14 of his publications have received at least 14 citations each, while the i10-index of 19 indicates that 19 of his publications have received 10 or more citations, highlighting both the quality and reach of his academic work.

📌Publications Top Notes

1. COVID-19 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): An Appraisal of the Emanating Effects in Nigeria

  • Author: Fisayo Fagbemi

  • Journal: Research in Globalization

  • Year: 2021

  • Citation Count: 77

2. Leveraging Foreign Direct Investment for Sustainability: An Approach to Sustainable Human Development in Nigeria

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, T.T. Osinubi

  • Journal: Resources, Environment and Sustainability

  • Year: 2020

  • Citation Count: 49

3. Enhancing Sustainable Infrastructure Development: A Boon to Poverty Reduction in Nigeria

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, T.T. Osinubi, O.A. Adeosun

  • Journal: World Development Sustainability

  • Year: 2022

  • Citation Count: 42

4. Nigerian Governance Challenge: Exploring the Role of Natural Resource Rents

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, G. Omowumi Adeoye

  • Journal: Global Journal of Emerging Market Economies

  • Year: 2020

  • Citation Count: 34

5. Interconnections Between Governance and Socioeconomic Conditions: Understanding the Challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, G.E. Nzeribe, T.T. Osinubi, S. Asongu

  • Journal: Regional Sustainability

  • Year: 2021

  • Citation Count: 32

6. Climate-Resilient Development: An Approach to Sustainable Food Production in Sub-Saharan Africa

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, D.F. Oke, A. Fajingbesi

  • Journal: Future Foods

  • Year: 2023

  • Citation Count: 30

7. Institutional Quality and Financial Sector Development: Empirical Evidence from Nigeria

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, J.O. Ajibike

  • Journal: American Journal of Business and Management

  • Year: 2018

  • Citation Count: 29

8. Health Expenditure and Child Health Outcome in West Africa

  • Authors: O.S. Olatunde, A.A. Adebayo, Fisayo Fagbemi

  • Journal: International Journal of Social Sciences Perspectives

  • Year: 2019

  • Citation Count: 18

9. Interconnections Between Governance Shortcomings and Resource Curse in a Resource-Dependent Economy

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, R.A. Kotey

  • Journal: PSU Research Review

  • Year: 2024

  • Citation Count: 17

10. The Effectiveness of Poverty Alleviation Policy: Why is the Quality of Institutions the Bane in Nigeria?

  • Authors: Fisayo Fagbemi, B. Oladejo, O.A. Adeosun

  • Journal: Review of Development and Change

  • Year: 2020

  • Citation Count: 17

🧾Conclusion

Mr. Fagbemi represents a dynamic and emerging scholar in the field of economics with a strong orientation toward development, institutional quality, and financial systems. His academic trajectory, which includes both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from Obafemi Awolowo University, illustrates a sustained commitment to research and intellectual growth. He has distinguished himself through scholarly publications that address global development issues, earning recognition from reputable platforms such as Elsevier and the Nigerian government. In addition to academic achievements, Mr. Fagbemi has invested in professional development through training, workshops, and professional certification. His research interests align with pressing economic concerns in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond, particularly around governance, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth. Equipped with strong analytical tools, writing skills, and a passion for policy-relevant research, he is well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to academia, policy, or international development work. Mr. Fagbemi seeks to continue advancing his career through research collaboration, publication, and practical engagement with economic development initiatives. His long-term vision is to influence economic policy and contribute to Africa’s development through rigorous, evidence-based research.

 

Xiang Li | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Xiang Li | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Fudan University, China.

Prof. Dr. Xiang Li is a full professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering at Fudan University, Shanghai. He leads pioneering research on the use of exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the early diagnosis of major diseases, particularly cancers such as colorectal, gastric, and brain cancers. His team has developed an advanced breath sampling and trace-level VOC detection platform to enhance diagnostic accuracy through integration with multi-omics data and AI-driven models. Prof. Li’s work bridges environmental health, analytical chemistry, and biomedical applications, offering innovative, non-invasive tools for early disease detection. His scientific contributions extend to environmental carbon cycling, air pollution exposure, and emerging contaminants. He has led over 20 research projects, including major funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), and maintains strong international collaboration, particularly with German institutions. Prof. Li’s career reflects a consistent commitment to interdisciplinary approaches that fuse high-precision instrumentation, environmental analytics, and translational health research. His scholarship not only supports cutting-edge diagnostics but also contributes broadly to environmental sustainability and public health policy. With over 15 million CNY in funding, his research group continues to shape the next frontier in environmental and medical sciences.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Prof. Dr. Xiang Li holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from Fudan University, one of China’s premier institutions for science and research. His academic path has consistently focused on environmental analytical chemistry and atmospheric science, with a particular interest in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their environmental and health impacts. He undertook postdoctoral research at the University of Waterloo in Canada (2008–2009), under the supervision of renowned scientist Prof. Janusz Pawliszyn, a pioneer in solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and analytical chemistry. This international experience significantly enriched his analytical capabilities and broadened his research perspectives in environmental chemistry. Additionally, Prof. Li completed a research stay as a visiting scholar at the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS) in Germany from 2014 to 2015, collaborating with Prof. Hartmut Herrmann on advanced atmospheric modeling and pollutant transformation mechanisms. These formative experiences provided him with a unique skill set that integrates international environmental chemistry methodologies with domestic challenges in atmospheric pollution, health exposure studies, and bioanalytical research, laying a solid foundation for his future scientific achievements and multidisciplinary research leadership.

Professional Experience

Prof. Xiang Li has held a distinguished academic career at Fudan University since 2006. He began as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2011. His excellence in teaching and research earned him a full Professorship in December 2016. Throughout his tenure, he has developed a robust and internationally recognized research program in environmental analytical chemistry and human health exposure science. He also brings a wealth of international experience, having conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Waterloo, Canada (2008–2009) under Prof. Janusz Pawliszyn, and serving as a visiting scholar at TROPOS in Germany (2014–2015), collaborating with Prof. Hartmut Herrmann. These roles enriched his methodological expertise and strengthened global research collaborations. Prof. Li has successfully led over 20 competitive research projects and has established a well-equipped laboratory for advanced VOC sampling and analysis. His group integrates high-resolution mass spectrometry, artificial intelligence, and multi-omics to explore VOC biomarkers in both environmental and clinical settings. His leadership continues to inspire interdisciplinary innovations at the nexus of environment, chemistry, and public health.

Research Interest

Prof. Xiang Li’s research interests span environmental chemistry, biomedical diagnostics, and climate-health interactions. His primary research focus is the utilization of exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for non-invasive disease diagnosis, especially in early-stage detection of colorectal, gastric, and brain cancers. Through the development of an original high-fidelity breath sampling system and a trace-level VOC detection platform, his team explores the intersection of environmental exposure and human health. Prof. Li is also deeply invested in the chemical mechanisms of air pollution and its biological implications. His broader interests include extreme climate events, environmental carbon cycling, emerging pollutants, and environmental analytical chemistry. He aims to elucidate the metabolic signatures and biological relevance of VOCs using multi-omics and machine learning approaches. His interdisciplinary research integrates atmospheric science, analytical technologies, artificial intelligence, and clinical collaborations to address pressing public health challenges. Prof. Li’s work contributes not only to personalized disease diagnostics but also to environmental monitoring and policy development. By decoding the chemical language of breath and pollution, his research aspires to bridge the gap between environmental risk factors and disease pathogenesis in the context of global health.

Research Skills

Prof. Xiang Li possesses a comprehensive suite of advanced research skills in environmental science and analytical chemistry. He specializes in VOC sampling and detection, employing self-developed systems such as solid-phase microextraction (SPME), needle trap devices, and thermal desorption platforms. His laboratory is equipped for high-resolution two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC), direct mass spectrometry, and novel ionization methods including desorption corona beam ionization, allowing for ultratrace-level detection and high-throughput analysis. He is also skilled in multi-omics integration—combining metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics to understand the biological origins and significance of exhaled VOCs. Additionally, Prof. Li has implemented artificial intelligence and machine learning models for breathomics-based disease classification, establishing a framework for precision diagnostics. His environmental analytical skill set also includes quantifying emerging pollutants, characterizing atmospheric particulate matter, and evaluating air pollutant exposure pathways. Prof. Li is proficient in project management, interdisciplinary collaboration, and translating laboratory findings into clinical and policy-relevant applications. These versatile and integrative skills have enabled him to lead major national and international research programs and contribute significantly to both environmental sustainability and public health innovation.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic career, Prof. Xiang Li has received numerous recognitions for his research excellence and scientific leadership. While specific national or institutional awards are not explicitly listed, his consistent success in securing major competitive grants, particularly from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), speaks to his academic distinction. He has been awarded multiple high-impact NSFC projects, including international cooperative grants such as the Sino-German research collaboration on air pollution, which reflects global recognition of his expertise. His selection for collaborative work at institutions like TROPOS in Germany and the University of Waterloo in Canada underscores his esteemed reputation in atmospheric and analytical sciences. Furthermore, his partnerships with industry leaders such as Agilent Technologies through their ACT-UR program have led to cutting-edge advances in analytical instrumentation and breath analysis. Prof. Li’s capacity to lead cross-sector research and translate scientific findings into actionable diagnostics and environmental monitoring tools exemplifies the high regard in which he is held within both academic and applied scientific communities. His work continues to contribute to the advancement of precision diagnostics and environmental health assessment in China and internationally.

📊 Author Metrics 

📝 Total Publications

Over 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, published in internationally recognized journals including:

  • Environmental Science & Technology
  • Cancer Letters
  • npj Climate and Atmospheric Science
  • Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres
  • Talanta, Green Analytical Chemistry, and others.

📈 Total Citations (Estimated): 1,000–2,500+ citations

📚 h-index (Estimated): 15–25

🔁 i10-index (Estimated) : 15–20+

Indicates at least 15 publications with more than 10 citations each.

🧪 Core Research Areas

  • Breathomics / Volatilomics / Breath Biopsy
  • Air Pollution and Atmospheric Chemistry
    • PM, NMVOCs, NOx, O₃, oxidative stress
  • COVID-19 Related Metabolomic Biomarkers
  • Secondary Organic Aerosol (SOA) Formation
  • Environmental Mass Spectrometry & Analytical Chemistry
  • Climate Impact and Regional Pollution Dynamics

🔍 Peer Review Contributions

Dr. Xiang Li has completed 26 verified peer reviews for leading international journals:

  • Environmental Science & Technology – 13 reviews
  • Environmental Science & Technology Letters – 6 reviews
  • Journal of Hazardous Materials – 3 reviews
  • Environmental Pollution – 2 reviews
  • Science of the Total Environment – 1 review
  • Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety – 1 review

Top Noted Publication

1. Integrated Smart Mass Spectrometry Platform Enables Volatilomics‑Based Breath Biopsy

  • Journal: Green Analytical Chemistry

  • Year: 2025

2. Advancing Breathomics through Accurate Discrimination of Endogenous from Exogenous Volatiles in Breath

  • Journal: Environmental Science & Technology

  • Year: 2024

3. Nitrate Pollution Deterioration in Winter Driven by Surface Ozone Increase

  • Journal: npj Climate and Atmospheric Science

  • Year: 2024

4. Exhaled Volatolomics Profiling Facilitates Personalized Screening for Gastric Cancer

  • Journal: Cancer Letters

  • Year: 2024

5. High‑Resolution Mapping of Regional NMVOCs Using the Fast Space‑Time Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM)

  • Journal: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres

  • Year: 2023

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Xiang Li is a leading figure in environmental science and analytical chemistry, renowned for his innovative research at the intersection of breathomics, public health, and environmental pollution. As a Professor at Fudan University, he has built a distinguished career through interdisciplinary collaboration, state-of-the-art technology development, and a strong commitment to translational research. His contributions to VOC-based diagnostics and environmental health monitoring reflect a visionary approach that merges cutting-edge analytical tools with artificial intelligence and clinical relevance. With over 15 million CNY in research funding, numerous national and international research grants, and partnerships with globally respected institutions, Prof. Li has established himself as a thought leader in non-invasive diagnostics and air pollution research. His long-term vision includes the clinical integration of breath analysis as a scalable, non-invasive diagnostic platform for major diseases and broader environmental risk management. By decoding molecular fingerprints in exhaled breath and atmospheric samples, his work addresses urgent needs in both medicine and environmental policy. Prof. Li continues to mentor emerging scientists and lead impactful research that promotes both human and planetary health.