Mengyao Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mengyao Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Student at Nanyang Technological University Singapore

Mengyao Li is a dedicated researcher specializing in electromagnetic fields, metasurfaces, and frequency-selective structures. With a strong academic foundation and a passion for advancing next-generation communication and radar technologies, Li has made significant contributions to the field of low-RCS antenna-radome systems, lens antennas, and THz reconfigurable intelligent surfaces. His research focuses on innovative solutions that enhance wave manipulation, beamforming, and scattering control, making a direct impact on applications in wireless communication and stealth technology. As a Ph.D. candidate at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, under the guidance of Prof. Shen Zhongxiang (IEEE Fellow), Li has published extensively in top-tier journals and continues to explore novel electromagnetic solutions. His work not only bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications but also aligns with the future demands of 6G wireless networks and advanced sensing technologies, solidifying his position as an emerging expert in the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Mengyao Li began his academic journey with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the Communication University of China, Beijing, specializing in Telecommunication Engineering. Graduating in 2020 with a GPA of 3.59/4.0, he ranked among the top 8% of students and was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate of Beijing. His undergraduate research focused on reconfigurable frequency-selective absorbers, laying a strong foundation for his future work. In January 2021, he pursued a Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, specializing in Electromagnetic Fields and Microwave Technology. Under the supervision of Prof. Shen Zhongxiang, his doctoral research centers on low-RCS integrated radome and antenna systems, aiming to develop advanced solutions for stealth technology and wireless communication. Throughout his academic career, Li has demonstrated strong analytical skills and research capabilities, contributing to the advancement of electromagnetic and antenna engineering.

Professional Experience

As a Ph.D. researcher at Nanyang Technological University, Mengyao Li has been actively engaged in cutting-edge research in the field of electromagnetic wave manipulation, metasurfaces, and antenna systems. His professional work focuses on designing low-RCS antennas, frequency-selective structures, and THz reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, contributing to innovations in stealth technology and high-frequency communication. Collaborating with leading academics and industry experts, he has developed practical solutions for beam manipulation, conformal lens antennas, and ultra-wideband absorptive structures. His research has been published in top IEEE journals, showcasing his ability to bridge theoretical concepts with practical engineering applications. In addition to research, he actively mentors junior researchers, contributes to technical discussions, and engages in academic collaborations to advance antenna and metamaterial technologies. His expertise and technical acumen make him a promising figure in the field of advanced electromagnetic applications.

Research Interests

Mengyao Li’s research interests lie at the intersection of electromagnetic wave engineering, metasurfaces, and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), with a strong emphasis on low-RCS antenna-radome systems, lens antennas, and THz wireless communication. His work on low-scattering antenna structures contributes to stealth and radar applications, while his innovative metasurface designs enable advanced beam steering and polarization control. Additionally, he explores MEMS-based THz metasurfaces, which hold promise for 6G wireless networks and high-frequency communication systems. His research on frequency-selective structures and transmissive antennas bridges the gap between traditional electromagnetic theory and modern reconfigurable technologies. By integrating material science, physics, and advanced fabrication techniques, Li’s research aims to create high-performance, miniaturized, and dynamically tunable electromagnetic structures, making a significant impact on next-generation wireless technologies and radar systems.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic journey, Mengyao Li has received multiple recognitions for his research excellence. As an Outstanding Graduate of Beijing, he was acknowledged for his academic performance and early contributions to telecommunication engineering. His Ph.D. research at NTU has been supported by prestigious funding, reflecting the significance of his work in low-RCS antenna systems and metasurface engineering. His journal publications in IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation and IEEE Antennas Wireless Propagation Letters further highlight his research impact in the field. Li’s innovative contributions to reconfigurable intelligent surfaces and frequency-selective radomes have been well-received in the academic community, earning him invitations to collaborate with leading researchers. With his strong research background and growing influence in electromagnetic wave control and antenna design, he continues to make valuable contributions to the field, positioning himself as a rising expert in advanced electromagnetics and wireless technology.

Conclusion

Mengyao Li is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with a solid publication record, cutting-edge research contributions, and expertise in emerging electromagnetic technologies. However, improving the real-world impact, conference visibility, and interdisciplinary collaboration could further solidify the case for this award. If these areas are strengthened, Mengyao Li could become a leading figure in electromagnetic and metasurface research.

Publications Top Noted

  • Y. Ding, M. Li, J. Su, Q. Guo, H. Yin, Z. Li, J. Song – 2020 – 70 citations
    “Ultrawideband frequency-selective absorber designed with an adjustable and highly selective notch.”
    IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation 69 (3), 1493-1504

  • M. Li, L. Zhou, Z. Shen – 2021 – 30 citations
    “Frequency selective radome with wide diffusive bands.”
    IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters 21 (2), 327-331

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2023 – 13 citations
    “Low-RCS transmitarray based on 2.5-D cross-polarization converter.”
    IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation 71 (7), 5828-5837

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2023 – 5 citations
    “Integrated diffusive antenna array of low backscattering.”
    IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2022 – 3 citations
    “Hybrid Frequency Selective Rasorber Combining 2-D and 3-D Resonators.”
    2022 IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation and USNC-URSI

  • M. Li, J. Su – 2020 – 1 citation
    “Wideband frequency-selective absorber based on metal cross ring.”
    2020 IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Workshop Series on Advanced

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2024 – Not yet cited
    “Hybrid Rasorber Based on 3-D Bandpass Frequency-Selective Structures.”
    IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters

  • M. Li – 2024 – Not yet cited
    “Integrated radome and antenna systems of low radar cross section.”
    Nanyang Technological University (Ph.D. Dissertation)

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2023 – Not yet cited
    “Highly Selective Third-Order Bandpass Frequency Selective Surface.”
    2023 International Conference on Electromagnetics in Advanced Applications

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2023 – Not yet cited
    “Transmission Phase Controllable Rasorber Using All-Metal Cross-Polarization Converter.”
    2023 IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation and USNC-URSI

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2022 – Not yet cited
    “Low-RCS Transmitarray Using Phase Controllable Absorptive Frequency-Selective Structure.”
    2022 International Conference on Electromagnetics in Advanced Applications

  • M. Li, Z. Shen – 2021 – Not yet cited
    “RCS Reduction of Slot Antenna Array Using Coding Metasurfaces.”
    2021 IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation and USNC-URSI

Anna Plichta | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Anna Plichta | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Research and Teaching Assistant Professor, Cracow University of Technology, Poland

Dr. Anna Plichta is a Research and Teaching Assistant Professor at Cracow University of Technology, Poland, where she also works at the International Center of Education. With a multifaceted background in Comparative Literature and Computer Science, she combines insights from the humanities with advanced computational techniques. Dr. Plichta holds a PhD in Computer Science from Politechnika Wrocławska (2019) and has a strong academic foundation with degrees from Jagiellonian University and Politechnika Krakowska. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on machine learning, artificial intelligence, and applied computer science, with practical applications in energy systems, motor diagnostics, and microbiology. With a commitment to educational excellence and international collaboration, Dr. Plichta has been a key figure in research and teaching at the university for over a decade.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse Research Interests and Impact: Dr. Plichta’s work spans multiple domains including comparative literature, computer science, machine learning, electrical engineering, and applied mathematics. This interdisciplinary approach showcases her ability to bridge distinct fields, offering innovative solutions to complex problems. Notably, her research on bacterial classification using machine learning methods and energy consumption forecasting using machine learning reflects her versatility and the relevance of her work to contemporary scientific and industrial challenges.
  2. High Citation Impact: Her publication titled “Deep learning approach to bacterial colony classification” has received 134 citations, which demonstrates significant influence and recognition in the scientific community. This kind of citation impact highlights the relevance and utility of her research findings.
  3. Technological Innovation: Her contributions to induction motor fault detection using machine learning techniques (e.g., simulated annealing and genetic algorithms) are highly practical, with clear industrial applications. This emphasizes her role in driving innovation in applied fields, particularly in electromechanical systems and energy sectors, making her work not only academic but also relevant to real-world problems.
  4. Academic Leadership and Teaching: As a Research and Teaching Assistant Professor at Cracow University of Technology, Dr. Plichta combines academic instruction with significant research involvement. Her active engagement in the International Center of Education is a testament to her dedication to fostering a new generation of researchers and students.
  5. Publication Quality: Dr. Plichta consistently publishes in peer-reviewed journals and presents at high-level conferences like those organized by the European Council for Modelling and Simulation. This speaks to her engagement with the broader academic community and her ability to produce high-quality research.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Work: While Dr. Plichta’s interdisciplinary work is commendable, further expanding collaborations with other research groups and international institutions could enhance the visibility and impact of her work. Expanding collaborative efforts, especially with industry partners, could help bring more practical applications to the forefront.
  2. Public Outreach and Dissemination: While her publications and citations are notable, there could be a more concerted effort to engage with the general public or non-academic stakeholders, particularly in areas like bacterial classification and energy forecasting, where her research could have significant societal impact. This could include public lectures, podcasts, or participation in science communication events.
  3. Further Publishing in High-Impact Journals: Publishing in higher-impact journals (e.g., Nature, IEEE Transactions) could further boost the international recognition of her work. While her current journal choices are respected, elevating the visibility of her research in top-tier outlets may further her career and contribute to the recognition of her as a leading expert in her field.

Education

Dr. Anna Plichta’s academic journey blends the study of literature and technology. She earned a BA in Comparative Literature (2005) and MA in Comparative Literature (2007) from Jagiellonian University. Her fascination with technology led her to pursue an MA in Computer Science (2010) from Politechnika Krakowska, followed by a PhD in Computer Science from Politechnika Wrocławska (2019). Her doctoral research focused on applying computational methods to real-world engineering challenges, a field that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications. With this strong foundation, she applies machine learning and AI techniques to diverse areas such as energy forecasting, motor fault detection, and bacterial classification. Dr. Plichta’s educational background not only demonstrates her expertise in both the arts and sciences but also her commitment to lifelong learning and interdisciplinary research.

Experience 

Dr. Anna Plichta has had a distinguished career as a Research and Teaching Assistant Professor at Cracow University of Technology since 2010. She has been an integral part of the university’s International Center of Education since 2015, fostering international research collaboration. Dr. Plichta’s professional experience spans both teaching and research, with a particular emphasis on computational techniques applied to energy systems, mechanical engineering, and biology. She has developed and taught courses related to machine learning, AI, and applied computer science. Her academic leadership extends to guiding postgraduate students and conducting collaborative research projects. Dr. Plichta’s expertise in energy consumption modeling, motor diagnostics, and microbial classification has positioned her as a thought leader in these domains, contributing to over 17 published works. She is also involved in the advancement of international education, contributing to the university’s global research network.

Research Focus 

Dr. Anna Plichta’s research focuses on applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to solve complex problems in fields ranging from energy systems to biological data analysis. Her work in forecasting energy consumption uses advanced computational techniques to predict energy demands in clusters, supporting sustainable energy solutions. In the area of electromechanical engineering, she has applied genetic algorithms and wavelet analysis to detect faults in induction motors, such as inter-turn short circuits. Additionally, her research in microbiology explores the use of image analysis and neural networks to identify bacterial species, contributing to more accurate and efficient diagnostic methods. Dr. Plichta is deeply invested in interdisciplinary research, bringing together computational methods with practical applications in industries such as energy, engineering, and healthcare. She is particularly interested in improving the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic techniques and optimizing energy consumption through AI-driven models.

Publication 

  1. Forecasting Energy Consumption in Energy Clusters using Machine Learning Methods 📊💡
  2. Matrix Similarity Analysis of Texts Written in Romanian and Spanish 📚🔍
  3. Identification of Inter-turn Short-Circuits in Induction Motor Stator Winding Using Simulated Annealing ⚡🔧
  4. Application of Genetic Algorithm for Inter-turn Short Circuit Detection in Stator Winding of Induction Motor ⚙️🧠
  5. Recognition of Species and Genera of Bacteria by Means of the Product of Weights of the Classifiers 🦠🔬
  6. Application of Image Analysis to the Identification of Mass Inertia Momentum in Electromechanical Systems with Changeable Backlash Zone ⚙️🔍
  7. Application of Wavelet-Neural Method to Detect Backlash Zone in Electromechanical Systems Generating Noises 🔧🌊
  8. Methods of Classification of the Genera and Species of Bacteria Using Decision Tree 🌱📈
  9. Deep Learning Approach to Bacterial Colony Classification 🧬🤖
  10. The DDS Synthesizer (for FPGA Platform) for the Purpose of Research and Education 💻📚

Conclusion

Dr. Anna Plichta is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her multidisciplinary approach, significant research contributions, high citation impact, and leadership in academia. She has demonstrated a consistent ability to tackle complex challenges through computational methods, contributing valuable knowledge to both the scientific community and industrial sectors. Her work, particularly in machine learning and electromechanical systems, is both innovative and impactful.While there are always areas for improvement, such as expanding collaborative efforts and public outreach, these do not overshadow her significant academic achievements. Dr. Plichta’s track record of high-quality research and teaching, along with her contribution to solving real-world problems, make her an excellent contender for the Best Researcher Award.