Professor Yadong Li is a world-renowned chemist and distinguished academic leader at Tsinghua University, where he serves as Professor of Chemistry and Director of the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry. Born in Anhui province in 1964, he earned his Bachelor's degree from Anhui Normal University in 1986 and completed his Ph.D. at the University of Science and Technology of China in 1998. Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Li has established himself as a transformative figure in the field of materials chemistry with his research group becoming an international hub for innovation in energy storage and catalysis. His leadership extends through his supervision of doctoral students and shaping scientific direction across China's premier academic institution.
Professor Li's groundbreaking contributions to single-atom catalysis have revolutionized the understanding of active sites in supported metal catalysts and enabled atomic-level control of solid catalyst structures. His seminal publications on thermal runaway mechanisms in lithium-ion batteries have provided critical insights into battery safety with over 500 citations each, while his comprehensive reviews on graphite anode materials represent definitive references in the field with nearly 600 citations. These innovations have enabled environmentally friendly and energy-efficient industrial production processes for essential chemicals including chloroethylene, acetic acid, and propanol. His extensive research portfolio demonstrates exceptional impact across both academic and industrial applications with transformative implications for sustainable technology development. The profound influence of his work is reflected in his substantial citation metrics and international recognition from the scientific community.
As a recipient of the prestigious Future Science Prize, Professor Li has been recognized for his transformative contributions that bridge fundamental research and practical applications for sustainable development. With consistent ranking among the top 3% of scientists worldwide and occupying the #2 position among researchers at Tsinghua University, his influence continues to shape the trajectory of materials science globally. Professor Li remains actively engaged in pioneering new frontiers in catalysis and energy storage, mentoring the next generation of scientists who will address critical challenges in sustainable energy. His ongoing research programs promise to deliver innovative solutions that advance both scientific understanding and practical applications in the crucial field of energy materials.