Kin Fai Tong | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Kin Fai Tong | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Chair Professor of Antennas and Applied Electromagnetics at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong is a highly accomplished researcher in antennas and applied electromagnetics, with a prolific academic and professional career spanning over two decades. He holds a Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering and currently serves as Chair Professor at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, with prior leadership roles at University College London. A Fellow of IEEE and several other prestigious academies, he has received numerous international awards including best paper and innovation accolades. His research is backed by substantial funding from top agencies such as EPSRC, DFID, Innovate UK, and MoD UK, with over 30 funded projects in wireless communication, smart agriculture, IoT, and fluid antenna systems. His work has led to groundbreaking advancements in 6G technologies and hybrid microwave-optical systems. While already a leading expert, future efforts could further focus on commercializing innovations and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations. Overall, Professor Tong is exceptionally well-suited for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong possesses an impressive educational background that laid the foundation for his distinguished career in electronic engineering and applied electromagnetics. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering, followed by a Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering, all from reputable institutions known for their strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancement. His academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and continuous learning, equipping him with in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in areas such as antennas, wireless communication, and electromagnetic theory. Throughout his educational career, he demonstrated exceptional aptitude for research and problem-solving, which later translated into pioneering contributions to 5G and 6G wireless systems, microwave photonics, and IoT technologies. Professor Tong’s robust academic training not only shaped his scientific mindset but also prepared him to mentor future engineers and researchers, making him a valuable asset in both educational and research-focused institutions around the world.

Professional Experience📝

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong has amassed extensive professional experience in the field of electronic engineering, particularly in applied electromagnetics, wireless communications, and antenna design. He currently serves as a Professor of Microwave and Communication Systems at University College London (UCL), where he leads research initiatives and mentors students in cutting-edge technological domains. Over the years, Professor Tong has held various academic and research positions, contributing significantly to the development of 5G and emerging 6G technologies, microwave photonics, and wearable electronics. His work bridges theoretical research with real-world applications, earning him international recognition. He has collaborated with leading industry partners and academic institutions on numerous high-impact projects, and his research has resulted in over 300 scholarly publications. Beyond his technical achievements, he is an influential educator and speaker, often invited to present his work at global conferences. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation, leadership, and knowledge dissemination.

Research Interest🔎

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong’s research interests lie at the intersection of applied electromagnetics and next-generation wireless communication systems. He focuses on the design and development of advanced antennas, microwave and millimeter-wave systems, and their integration into emerging technologies such as 5G, 6G, and the Internet of Things (IoT). His work also explores microwave photonics, body-centric wireless communications, and wearable electronics—aiming to create high-performance, compact, and energy-efficient communication systems. Professor Tong is particularly interested in reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), terahertz communications, and electromagnetic compatibility in complex environments. His interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical modeling, simulation, and practical prototyping to address real-world engineering challenges. By collaborating with international partners from academia and industry, he drives innovation in areas such as medical diagnostics, wireless sensing, and smart cities. His research continues to shape the future of wireless connectivity, contributing to transformative solutions that enhance communication efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of electromagnetics and wireless communication. He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), reflecting his esteemed professional standing. Over the years, he has been honored with prestigious research grants and awards for excellence in innovation and academic leadership. His pioneering work in body-centric wireless communications and millimeter-wave antenna design has earned accolades from international conferences and professional societies. Professor Tong has also served on editorial boards of reputed journals and has been invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences, further validating his impact on the scientific community. These recognitions highlight his commitment to advancing technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers in the field.

Research Skill🔬

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that have significantly advanced the fields of electromagnetics, antenna design, and wireless communication. He excels in the development and analysis of millimeter-wave and terahertz antennas, with a strong command of computational electromagnetic simulation tools and experimental prototyping. His expertise includes designing body-centric wireless systems and wearable antennas, demonstrating a deep understanding of human body interaction with radio frequency signals. He is also proficient in system integration, signal processing, and electromagnetic compatibility. Professor Tong’s interdisciplinary approach allows him to collaborate effectively across engineering, healthcare, and biomedical fields, applying his skills to real-world applications such as remote sensing and wireless body area networks. His ability to lead complex research projects, publish extensively in top-tier journals, and secure competitive funding showcases his strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities, making him a highly skilled and impactful researcher in his domain.

Conclusion💡

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.
His decades-long contributions to antennas, wireless communications, and applied electromagnetics—combined with high-level funding, awards, publications, and global recognition—make him an ideal candidate. His research has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also shaped industrial applications in 6G, smart cities, and IoT.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Advances in Microstrip and Printed Antennas
    Authors: KF Lee, W Chen
    Year: 1997
    Citations: 888

  • Title: Experimental and Simulation Studies of the Coaxially Fed U-slot Rectangular Patch Antenna
    Authors: KF Lee, KM Luk, KF Tong, SM Shum, T Huynh, RQ Lee
    Year: 1997
    Citations: 586

  • Title: A Broad-band U-slot Rectangular Patch Antenna on a Microwave Substrate
    Authors: KF Tong, KM Luk, KF Lee, RQ Lee
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 400

  • Title: Circularly Polarized U-slot Antenna
    Authors: KF Tong, TP Wong
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 330

  • Title: Microstrip Patch Antennas—Basic Characteristics and Some Recent Advances
    Authors: KF Lee, KF Tong
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 312

  • Title: Fluid Antenna Systems
    Authors: KK Wong, A Shojaeifard, KF Tong, Y Zhang
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 296

  • Title: A Survey of Emerging Interconnects for On-Chip Efficient Multicast and Broadcast in Many-Cores
    Authors: A Karkar, T Mak, KF Tong, A Yakovlev
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 183

  • Title: Fluid Antenna Multiple Access
    Authors: KK Wong, KF Tong
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 173

  • Title: Frequency Diverse Array with Beam Scanning Feature
    Authors: J Huang, KF Tong, CJ Baker
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 140

  • Title: Frequency Diverse Array: Simulation and Design
    Authors: J Huang, KF Tong, K Woodbridge, C Baker
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 136

Domenico Di Grazia | Engineering | Industry Innovation Recognition Award

Dr. Domenico Di Grazia | Engineering | Industry Innovation Recognition Award

Principal Engineer at STMicroelectronics, Italy

Domenico Di Grazia is a seasoned GNSS Signal Senior Engineer and team leader at STMicroelectronics, recognized for his outstanding contributions to satellite navigation technology. With over two decades of experience, he has led the design and implementation of innovative algorithms for signal acquisition, tracking, and precise positioning across global constellations including GPS, Galileo, and Beidou. He holds several U.S. patents in anti-jamming, multipath mitigation, and signal reacquisition, reflecting his pioneering role in advancing GNSS solutions, particularly for autonomous driving applications. His work bridges industrial innovation and academic collaboration, as he actively mentors students and contributes to international projects and publications. While his impact in applied research and embedded system design is significant, further academic publications could enhance his scholarly visibility. Nonetheless, his leadership, technical depth, and real-world impact position him as an ideal candidate for the Research for Innovation Recognition Award, celebrating excellence in applied engineering innovation.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Domenico Di Grazia holds a Master’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the University of Naples Federico II, one of Italy’s leading technical universities. He graduated summa cum laude in July 2001, demonstrating exceptional academic performance. His thesis focused on MPEG-4 technology, developed in collaboration with Uni.Com (Telit Group), where he gained early exposure to real-world digital signal processing and multimedia systems. His foundational education provided strong expertise in digital communications, signal processing, and embedded systems—core areas that later shaped his professional focus in GNSS technology. Prior to his university studies, he completed his secondary education at Liceo Scientifico in Lagonegro, graduating with a perfect score of 60/60. Throughout his academic journey, Domenico showed a strong inclination toward innovation and research, which has seamlessly translated into his professional achievements. His education laid the groundwork for a successful career in developing cutting-edge satellite navigation technologies and collaborating on international research initiatives.

Professional Experience📝

Domenico Di Grazia brings over 20 years of professional experience in GNSS and digital signal processing, primarily at STMicroelectronics. Since joining the company in 2003, he has advanced from a software designer to the GNSS DSP Team Leader, overseeing algorithm development, chip design specifications, and cross-site team management. His work focuses on the modeling and implementation of advanced signal processing techniques for GPS, Galileo, Beidou, and other global navigation systems, with applications in high-precision positioning and autonomous driving. He has led several innovative projects, authored patents in anti-jamming, signal reacquisition, and tracking, and contributed to international collaborations and conferences. Prior to STMicroelectronics, he worked as a hardware and firmware designer at Uni.Com (Telit Group), gaining hands-on experience in DVB standards and SMART TV systems. Domenico’s career reflects a blend of deep technical expertise, leadership, and real-world impact, making him a driving force in GNSS innovation and embedded system design.

Research Interest🔎

Domenico Di Grazia’s research interests lie at the intersection of advanced signal processing, satellite navigation systems, and embedded system innovation. He specializes in the development of algorithms for GNSS signal acquisition, reacquisition, and tracking across multiple constellations, including GPS, Galileo, Beidou, and IRNSS. His focus extends to precise positioning technologies through carrier phase and pseudorange measurements, multipath mitigation, and cycle slip detection. Domenico is particularly passionate about enhancing GNSS performance in challenging environments, contributing to the evolution of anti-jamming and anti-spoofing techniques for reliable navigation. He is actively involved in designing GNSS-enabled systems for autonomous driving, integrating functional safety standards. His work emphasizes real-time implementation on embedded platforms, bridging theoretical models with practical applications. Additionally, his interest in fostering industry-academia collaboration fuels his contributions to training, mentoring, and joint research initiatives with universities, reinforcing his commitment to technological innovation and next-generation navigation systems.

Award and Honor🏆

Domenico Di Grazia has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to GNSS signal processing and satellite navigation technologies. He holds several prestigious U.S. patents, reflecting his innovative work in areas such as anti-jamming, signal reacquisition, digital demodulation, and multi-constellation satellite tracking. These patented technologies have been instrumental in advancing precise positioning and enhancing signal reliability in complex environments. In addition to his intellectual property achievements, Domenico has co-authored several influential articles published in international journals and conference proceedings, including contributions to ION and GPS World. His role as a team leader at STMicroelectronics and as a key contributor to international collaborative projects has further solidified his reputation as a global expert in GNSS technologies. Recognized within the industry for driving advancements in automotive GNSS applications, particularly for autonomous driving, Domenico’s innovations continue to impact the field. His consistent excellence and commitment make him a strong candidate for technical and research-oriented honors.

Research Skill🔬

Domenico Di Grazia possesses advanced research skills in digital signal processing, algorithm development, and satellite navigation technologies. His expertise spans modeling and real-time implementation of innovative acquisition, reacquisition, and tracking algorithms for multi-constellation GNSS systems, including GPS, Galileo, Beidou, and IRNSS. He is highly skilled in programming languages such as C, MATLAB, and Python, which he uses to develop and test complex signal processing solutions on embedded platforms. Domenico excels in applying carrier phase and pseudorange measurement techniques, multipath mitigation, and cycle slip detection to enhance GNSS accuracy and reliability. His deep understanding of anti-jamming and anti-spoofing strategies supports robust navigation systems for critical applications like autonomous driving. He also demonstrates strong collaboration and mentoring skills, contributing to research initiatives with universities and guiding young engineers. His ability to integrate theoretical research with industrial application showcases his strength as a well-rounded innovator in the field of GNSS technology.

Conclusion💡

Domenico Di Grazia is highly suitable for the Research for Innovation Recognition Award. His career exemplifies cutting-edge technological innovation, deep domain expertise, and meaningful contributions to global industries such as autonomous systems and telecommunications.

His leadership in patent-worthy research, direct real-world impact, and sustained commitment to advancing GNSS technologies make him an excellent candidate. Strengthening academic visibility and broadening interdisciplinary reach could further elevate his innovation profile.

Publications Top Noted✍️

1. Title: Putting the Synthetic Global Navigation Satellite System Meta-Signal Paradigm into Practice: Application to Automotive Market Devices
Authors: Domenico Di Grazia, Fabio Pisoni, Giovanni Gogliettino, Ciro Gioia, Daniele Borio
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.3390/engproc2025088030
Citation:
Di Grazia, D., Pisoni, F., Gogliettino, G., Gioia, C., & Borio, D. (2025). Putting the Synthetic Global Navigation Satellite System Meta-Signal Paradigm into Practice: Application to Automotive Market Devices. Engineering Proceedings, MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025088030

2. Title: Combined Navigation and Tracking with Applications to Low Earth Orbit Satellites
Authors: Fabio Pisoni, Domenico Di Grazia, Giovanni Gogliettino, Thyagaraja Marathe, Paul Tarantino, Tyler Reid, Mathieu Favreau
Year: 2025
DOI: 10.3390/engproc2025088022
Citation:
Pisoni, F., Di Grazia, D., Gogliettino, G., Marathe, T., Tarantino, P., Reid, T., & Favreau, M. (2025). Combined Navigation and Tracking with Applications to Low Earth Orbit Satellites. Engineering Proceedings, MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025088022

Jian Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Director of the Department at Tiangong University, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu is a senior experimentalist and Master’s Supervisor at Tiangong University, specializing in ultra-fine fiber preparation, textile machinery design, and automation. With a PhD in Mechanical Design and Theory, he has led and contributed to six major research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Development and Reform Commission. Dr. Liu has played a key role in 13 horizontal projects and four new product developments for enterprises. His innovative contributions are evident in his 11 national invention patents, multiple utility model and appearance patents, and software copyrights. As a prolific researcher, he has published over 20 scientific papers as the first author. Beyond research, he actively mentors students and advances engineering education. With a strong track record in applied research and industry collaboration, Dr. Liu continues to make significant contributions to mechanical engineering and automation.

Professional Profile 

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu has a strong academic background in mechanical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Shandong University of Technology in 2007. Continuing his education at the same institution, he obtained a Master’s degree in Mechanical and Electronic Engineering in 2010. Driven by a passion for research and innovation, he pursued a PhD in Mechanical Design and Theory at Tiangong University, completing his doctoral studies in 2019. His academic journey reflects a continuous commitment to advancing his expertise in mechanical engineering, particularly in design, automation, and manufacturing technologies. Through his higher education and research, Dr. Liu has developed a strong foundation that supports his contributions to both academia and industry, playing a crucial role in advancing new technologies and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Professional Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu has extensive professional experience in mechanical engineering education and research. He began his career as a teaching assistant at the Engineering Teaching Internship Training Center of Tiangong University in 2010. In 2013, he was promoted to lecturer, further strengthening his role in academia. After earning his PhD in 2019, he continued his career as an experimentalist at the same institution, where he contributed to hands-on engineering education and research. In 2020, he was appointed as a senior experimentalist, overseeing advanced experimental research and training. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Liu has been actively involved in mentoring students, leading research projects, and contributing to industrial innovation. His expertise in ultra-fine fiber preparation, textile machinery design, and automation has made him a key figure in bridging academic research with real-world applications, enhancing both educational and technological advancements in his field.

Research Interest

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu’s research interests lie in the fields of ultra-fine fiber preparation technology, textile machinery design, and automation. His work focuses on developing innovative techniques for producing high-performance fibers with enhanced properties for various industrial applications. He is also deeply involved in the design and optimization of advanced textile machinery, aiming to improve manufacturing efficiency and precision. Additionally, Dr. Liu explores automation technologies to enhance production processes, integrating smart control systems and intelligent manufacturing techniques. His research contributions extend beyond theoretical studies, as he actively collaborates with industry partners to develop cutting-edge solutions for modern textile and mechanical engineering challenges. With numerous patents and publications, Dr. Liu continues to push the boundaries of mechanical design, automation, and material science, striving to bridge the gap between research and practical application in the evolving landscape of engineering and manufacturing.

Award and Honor

You haven’t mentioned specific awards and honors in your resume. However, based on your research contributions, patents, and publications, you may have received recognitions that can strengthen your profile. If you have received awards for research excellence, innovation, patents, or teaching achievements, highlighting them would enhance your candidacy for honors like the Best Researcher Award.If you provide details on any grants, fellowships, best paper awards, innovation prizes, or academic honors, I can craft a precise and compelling paragraph

Research Skill

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Liu possesses strong research skills in mechanical engineering, specializing in ultra-fine fiber preparation, textile machinery design, and automation. His expertise includes experimental design, advanced material processing, mechanical system optimization, and automation integration. He has a deep understanding of engineering simulations, prototyping, and industrial application development, enabling him to bridge theoretical research with real-world solutions. Dr. Liu is highly skilled in patent development, having secured multiple national invention and utility model patents, reflecting his innovative approach to problem-solving. His ability to conduct multidisciplinary research is demonstrated through his involvement in national and regional research projects, where he applies his skills in data analysis, system modeling, and process optimization. Additionally, his experience in scientific writing and publishing has allowed him to author over 20 research papers. With a strong foundation in mechanical design and automation, Dr. Liu continues to drive innovation in engineering research.

Conclusion

Your strong research background, patent portfolio, and industry collaborations make you a competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award. If the selection criteria prioritize patents, applied research, and industry impact, you are well-positioned. However, strengthening your international presence and independent funding leadership could further elevate your profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Author(s): P. Wang, B. Wang, L. Zhao, L. Nie, J. Liu
  • Year: 2025
  • Title: Effects of Crystal Growth Rate on Convection and Heat Transfer During GaInSb THM and VBM Crystal Growths Considering the Mushy Zone
  • Journal: Journal of Electronic Materials
  • Citation Format (APA):
    Wang, P., Wang, B., Zhao, L., Nie, L., & Liu, J. (2025). Effects of crystal growth rate on convection and heat transfer during GaInSb THM and VBM crystal growths considering the mushy zone. Journal of Electronic Materials.
  • Citation Format (IEEE):
    P. Wang, B. Wang, L. Zhao, L. Nie, and J. Liu, “Effects of Crystal Growth Rate on Convection and Heat Transfer During GaInSb THM and VBM Crystal Growths Considering the Mushy Zone,” J. Electron. Mater., 2025.
  • Citation Format (Harvard):
    Wang, P., Wang, B., Zhao, L., Nie, L. and Liu, J. (2025) ‘Effects of Crystal Growth Rate on Convection and Heat Transfer During GaInSb THM and VBM Crystal Growths Considering the Mushy Zone’, Journal of Electronic Materials.