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Congratulations to Associate Editor Professor Da-Gang Yu of Chemical Synthesis for winning the 18th China Youth Science and Technology Award

Published on: 25 Nov 2024 Viewed: 92

On November 17, 2024, the 2024 World Youth Scientist Summit concluded successfully in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China. Among the highlights of this prestigious event was the announcement of the winners of the 18th China Youth Science and Technology Award. Professor Da-Gang Yu, Associate Editor of Chemical Synthesis, was honored with this distinguished accolade.

About Professor Da-Gang Yu

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Professor Da-Gang Yu

Professor Da-Gang Yu has devoted his career to pioneering research in carbon dioxide (CO2) utilization. His groundbreaking concept, "CO2 = CO + [O]", redefined approaches to CO2 activation. Among his innovative contributions are the development of "visible light-promoted single-electron activation of CO2" and "electrolyzer-controlled CO2 conversion selectivity". Through these breakthroughs, he has established a "radical-based CO2 organic transformation" model, enabling efficient CO2 activation and precise control of selective reactions under mild conditions. His work has led to the discovery of several novel CO2 conversion reactions and facilitated the synthesis of bioactive, pharmaceutical, and material molecules.

Professor Yu's research has been featured in Nature and other top-tier journals. He holds over 20 authorized invention patents. His achievements have been recognized as part of the inaugural "Top Ten Scientific Advances in Sichuan" and highlighted by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, ScienceNet, and other notable platforms. He has led major projects funded by the National Outstanding Youth Scientists Fund and the National High-Level Talents Youth Program and has been acknowledged as an academic and technical leader in Sichuan Province. Additionally, he heads the Sichuan Youth Science and Technology Innovation Team.

Beyond his research, Professor Yu is a pivotal figure in shaping the academic landscape. He serves as an associate editor and (youth) editorial board member for multiple high-impact journals. Additionally, he is a committee member of the Chinese Chemical Society's divisions on CO2 chemistry and photochemistry, actively promoting collaboration and innovation in these fields. Professor Yu has authored chapters on CO2 chemistry in four authoritative monographs and co-organized four special issues dedicated to this transformative area of research. His outstanding achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the China Chemical Society–Royal Society of Chemistry Young Chemist Award, the China Chemical Society Young Chemist Award, and the Kyoto Rising-Star Lectureship Award.

About the China Youth Science and Technology Award

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Established in 1987, the China Youth Science and Technology Award was initiated by esteemed scientists including Xuesen Qian and Guangya Zhu. The prestigious accolade honors young scientists who have made exceptional contributions to national economic development, social progress, and technological innovation. Its mission is to inspire passion for innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity while cultivating a robust pipeline of young scientific talent. It aims to foster the rise of outstanding young scientists and develop a generation of academic and technical leaders at the forefront of global science and technology. These efforts contribute significantly to advancing socialist modernization.

Jointly organized by the Central Organization Department, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, and the China Association for Science and Technology, the award is presented biennially to no more than 100 recipients per cycle.

Professor Yu's recognition reflects his unwavering dedication to advancing CO2 chemistry and showcases the profound impact of his contributions on both academia and industry. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Yu for this well-deserved honor!

Editor: Kangying Cao
Language Editor: Emma Chen
Production Editor: Yan Zhang
Respectfully Submitted by the Editorial Office of Chemical Synthesis