November 21, 2024

UOW researchers among world’s most influential, leading positive change

Annual list identifies researchers who have demonstrated significant influence through multiple highly cited papers in their fields

University of Wollongong (UOW) researchers have earned a place among the world’s elite featuring in the 2024 Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers list.

The annual list recognises influential researchers worldwide whose work has been frequently cited by peers with community wide recognition, highlighting its global impact and significance.

Five of the researchers are affiliated with the Institute for Superconducting and Electronic Materials (ISEM) and one is from the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute (IPRI). Both ISEM and IPRI sit within UOW’s Australian Institute for Innovative Materials (AIIM).

Senior Professor Jun Chen (IPRI) was recognised in the Cross-Field category for his pioneering contributions to advanced materials research.

Distinguished Professor Shujun Zhang (ISEM), who researches dielectric, piezoelectric, ferroelectric and electrocaloric materials in different forms such as ceramics, textured ceramics, crystals, composites, polymers, and thick film, was named in the Materials Science category.

Emeritus Professor Shi Xue Dou was featured twice, in both Chemistry and Materials Science category, for his research achievements.

Three other UOW affiliated researchers were listed in the Materials Science category, reflecting UOW’s global strength in this field.

Emeritus Professor Hua Kun Liu was included in the Materials Science category for her research in energy storage and material innovation.

Honorary Distinguished Professor Yoshio Bando appeared in the Materials Science category for his influential contributions to nanomaterials and advanced materials science.

Honorary Distinguished Professor Yang-Kook Sun was recognised in the Materials Science category for his notable research on sustainable energy solutions.

AIIM is a purpose-built facility to help transform multi-functional materials research into commercial reality and bridge the gaps between breakthroughs, prototyping and commercialisation.

Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research and Sustainable Futures) Senior Professor Eileen McLaughlin praised the exceptional achievements of the researchers on the global stage.

“The inclusion of UOW researchers in the 2024 Highly Cited Researchers list is a testament to their commitment to their respective fields and finding solutions to addressing global challenges,” Professor McLaughlin said.

“Their innovative research not only elevates UOW’s reputation but also underscores the critical role of collaboration in solving complex problems.

“From advancing renewable energy solutions to improving public health outcomes and fostering sustainable development, their work has a tangible impact on the communities they serve, driving positive change locally and globally."

The list is drawn from the publication of multiple Highly Cited Papers™ which rank in the top one per cent by citations for their field/s and publication year in the Web of Science over the past decade. It identifies the research institutions and the countries where they are based.

David Pendlebury, Head of Research Analysis at the Institute for Scientific Information at Clarivate said: “The Highly Cited Researchers list identifies and celebrates exceptional individual researchers at the University of Wollongong whose significant and broad influence in their fields translates to impact in their research community.

“Their pioneering innovations contribute to a healthier, more sustainable and secure world. These researchers’ achievements strengthen the foundation of excellence and innovation that drives societal progress.”