"I have always adhered to a research attitude focused on the forefront of international semiconductor materials, exploring new directions in the field of flexible electronic materials," said Professor Wenping Hu, a member of the Party Committee and Executive Vice President of Tianjin University, during an interview in a university conference room. His eyes reflect a deep passion and dedication to scientific research.
At 54 years old, Hu Wenping gives the impression of being elegant, humble, quick-witted, and determined. Born in 1970, he was selected for the Chinese Academy of Sciences' "Hundred Talents Program" and received the "National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars." He has made numerous breakthroughs in the field of wearable flexible electronic materials, leading multiple research projects and contributing significantly to China's research in semiconductors and flexible electronic materials. He has also won several national-level research awards.
Pioneering a New Field of Flexible Electronic Materials
In 1993, after graduating from the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Hunan University, Wenping Hu embarked on his journey in chemical research. Reflecting on his initial career choice, he smiled and said, "It was more of a coincidence at the time, but I later found myself increasingly fascinated by the field." In 1999, after earning his PhD at the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, he pursued further studies in Japan and Germany. His overseas experiences provided a solid foundation for his future scientific research. "Working in Japan and Germany exposed me to advanced research methods and ideas, and I gained insight into international research frontiers," he said.
In 2003, Hu returned to China and joined the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he began exploring flexible electronic materials. "Back then, I hoped to develop a brand-new material that could be used in wearable devices and change people's lives."
Building a New Research Platform and Promoting Interdisciplinary Integration
In 2013, Wenping Hu joined Tianjin University, embarking on a new chapter in higher education. "At Tianjin University, I saw more possibilities," he remarked. "Here, we have first-class research platforms and an excellent scientific team."
As an assistant to the university president, dean of the School of Science, and vice president, Hu promoted interdisciplinary research between chemistry, materials science, and microelectronics. His team overcame numerous challenges, such as charge transport, and achieved significant research outcomes.
"Flexible electronic materials are a completely innovative field of research. There are no precedents to follow, and breakthroughs are needed in materials, processes, and more," Hu explained. Through continuous experimentation and optimization, his team successfully developed a new type of organic semiconductor material that greatly improved the performance of flexible electronic devices. This achievement garnered widespread attention in academia and has been applied in industry.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Researchers
Hu frequently visits the lab to exchange ideas with young researchers, sharing his experiences and insights. "I hope our research can lay a solid foundation for future technological development, and I encourage young researchers to persevere and innovate," he said.
He places high hopes on young researchers, often emphasizing, "If a person can achieve one thing in their lifetime, it is enough. Sometimes, it takes several generations to accomplish one task." From his doctoral studies to now, Hu has remained at the forefront of research, dedicated to advancing China's study of flexible electronic materials.
"Science is an endless journey. We must constantly pursue innovation and contribute to the country's technological progress," Hu said.
Facing Future Scientific Challenges
"There are still many unexplored issues in the field of flexible electronic materials," Hu noted. "Our goal is not only to solve current problems but also to prepare for future developments." His vision includes further promoting the application of flexible electronic materials, particularly in wearable devices and healthcare.
In Hu's lab, researchers are currently testing the performance of flexible electronic materials. "This material is expected to be used in next-generation wearable devices," one researcher said. This is the team's latest research direction, aiming to bring flexible electronic materials into widespread use in daily life.
Wenping Hu's research journey has been filled with challenges and opportunities, but he firmly believes in the value of continuous exploration and innovation in scientific research. "Every researcher should have the courage to innovate and explore," Hu stated. "Only then can we contribute to the advancement of the country's technology."
Since beginning his research in flexible electronic materials in 1996, Hu has dedicated nearly 30 years to this field. His perseverance and efforts have not only propelled China's research in this area but also laid a solid foundation for future technological progress.
Wenping Hu, a trailblazer in flexible electronic materials, has made outstanding contributions to the nation's scientific endeavors with his wisdom and hard work. Looking to the future, he is filled with confidence and hope, eager to see more young researchers continue their efforts and write new chapters in scientific innovation.
Original link:https://www.peopleapp.com