Prof. Chunlei Guo | Energy Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Chunlei Guo | Professor | University of Rochester | United States

Academic Background

Chunlei Guo received his undergraduate education in Optical Physics and Fine Mechanics at the Changchun Institute of Optics in China. He then pursued his Ph.D. in Physics at the University of Connecticut, followed by postdoctoral training in Materials Science at Los Alamos National Laboratory. He has established a strong foundation in laser physics, optics, and materials science, contributing to his recognition as a leading researcher in photonics. According to Scopus, his work includes over four hundred publications cited nearly ten thousand times, with an h-index indicating substantial influence in his field. His Google Scholar profile further reflects his widespread impact across laser material processing, femtosecond laser applications, and nanostructuring.

Research Focus

Guo’s research primarily focuses on femtosecond laser interactions with materials, including the creation of superhydrophobic surfaces and laser-induced nanostructures. His work integrates ultrafast laser techniques with material science, aiming to advance applications in energy, imaging, and nanotechnology. His studies emphasize precise control of surface properties and functionalization at the micro- and nanoscale.

Work Experience

Guo has held a variety of academic and research positions, starting as an Assistant Professor and later Associate Professor at the Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester. He is currently a Professor at the Institute of Optics and holds joint appointments in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. He has also served as the founding director of the GPL Photonics Lab in China, further establishing his international research presence.

Key Contributions

Guo has made significant contributions to laser-induced surface structuring, development of superhydrophobic and superwicking surfaces, and femtosecond laser applications in imaging and material processing. His work has enabled new methods for nanostructuring metals, improving energy management, and advancing optical technologies. He has been widely recognized for developing techniques that combine laser precision with novel material functionalities.

Awards & Recognition

Guo’s research excellence has earned him multiple prestigious awards, including honors for innovation in defense and design, recognition by professional societies, and fellowships in the Optical Society of America, American Physical Society, and International Academy of Photonics and Laser Engineering.

Professional Roles & Memberships

He has served in numerous editorial and advisory roles, including Editor-in-Chief of the CRC Handbook of Laser Technology and Applications, associate editor for leading optics journals, and program committee membership for major international conferences. He has also chaired conferences and technical groups, contributing to shaping the field of laser science and engineering globally.

Publication Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Guo, C., Vorobyev, A. Y., & Singh, S. C. (2023). Imaging Dynamics of Femtosecond Laser-Induced Surface Nanostructuring. In Ultrafast Laser Nanostructuring. Springer Series in Optical Sciences, 239, 355–375.

Guo, C., & Singh, S. C. (2021). CRC Handbook of Laser Technology and Applications. CRC Press.

Vorobyev, A. Y., & Guo, C. (2015). Superwicking Surfaces Produced by Femtosecond Laser. In Advanced Lasers, 193, 101–120.

Guo, C. (2016). Using femtosecond lasers to create new material properties. SPIE Newsroom.

Guo, C. (2010). Surface-plasmon-enhanced photoelectron emission. SPIE Newsroom.

Impact Statement / Vision

Guo envisions leveraging ultrafast laser technologies to design materials with unprecedented properties for industrial, environmental, and energy applications. His work continues to inspire innovations in nanofabrication, surface engineering, and photonics, bridging fundamental research and practical applications for global scientific advancement.

Ms. Takwa Hamdi | Energy Technologies | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate in Mechanical and Energy Engineering | University of Gabes | Tunisia

Ms. Takwa Hamdi is a dedicated PhD student in Mechanical and Energy Engineering at the National Engineering School of Gabes, Tunisia, specializing in advanced combustion modeling and alternative fuels. With a strong academic foundation, she has pursued her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies in mechanical engineering with excellence, graduating as class valedictorian during her master’s program. Her research focuses on dual-fuel engine combustion, particularly the use of light alcohols and hydrogen in internal combustion engines, employing advanced numerical simulation tools such as ANSYS Forte, Matlab, Abaqus, SolidWorks, and CFD-based approaches. Driven by a passion for sustainable energy solutions, she is motivated to contribute to the development of low-emission technologies that address global energy challenges. Alongside her research, Takwa serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at the Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Gabes, where she teaches courses in dismountable assembly processes, CAD using SolidWorks, welding, and mechanical design projects, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on applications to support student learning. She has also gained experience in developing educational materials, supervising student projects, and guiding practical workshops, which highlights her strong communication and leadership skills. Fluent in Arabic, French, and English, she is able to collaborate effectively in international and multicultural environments. Beyond her academic and teaching career, she demonstrates strengths in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and research innovation, with interests in technology, cultural exploration, and community volunteering. Motivated, research-oriented, and passionate about innovation, Takwa aims to further her expertise by contributing to cutting-edge projects in energy, combustion, and sustainability through collaborative scientific research and internships.

Featured Publications

Hamdi, T., Hamdi, F., Molima, S., Domínguez, V. M., Rodríguez-Fernández, J., Hernández, J. J., & Chrigui, M. (2025). Numerical investigation of hydrogen substitution ratio effects on spray characteristics, combustion behavior, and emissions in a dual-fuel compression ignition engine.

Molima, S., Hamdi, F., Hamdi, T., Muya, G. T., Mondo, K., Amsini, S., & Chrigui, M. (2025). Effects of H2 substitution on combustion and emissions in ammonia/diesel compression ignition engine. Energy Conversion and Management, Elsevier.

Hamdi, T., Hamdi, F., Molima, S., Hernandez, J. J., & Chrigui, M. (2025). Computational analysis on the effect of methanol energy ratio on the spray and combustion pattern of a dual-fuel compression ignition engine. Journal of Energy Resources Technology, ASME.