Shao-Chun Li | Quantum Materials | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Shao-Chun Li | Quantum Materials | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Nanjing University | China

Prof. Shao Chun Li, affiliated with Nanjing University, is a prolific researcher whose work primarily focuses on condensed matter physics and materials science, particularly low-dimensional quantum materials. His research explores the fundamental electronic properties of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and topological materials such as WTe₂ and ZrTe₅. These materials are of significant interest due to their exotic quantum phenomena, including quantum spin Hall effect, topological insulating behavior, superconductivity, charge density waves, and pseudogap states. Notable among his contributions is the observation of a Coulomb gap in monolayer 1T’-WTe₂, which has implications for understanding electron-electron interactions in two-dimensional systems. He has also investigated potassium-intercalated Td-WTe₂ and revealed emergent superconducting properties, broadening the potential for novel quantum device applications. Furthermore, his work on 1T-TiSe₂ provided insights into charge density wave inhomogeneity and pseudogap phenomena, contributing to the broader understanding of correlated electron systems. Through detailed experimental techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), Prof. Li’s research elucidates the complex interplay of lattice, charge, and spin in quantum materials. With over 3,642 citations and an h-index of 30, his scholarly output, including 59 publications in high-impact journals like Nature Communications, Nano Letters, and Physical Review B, reflects his strong influence in the field. Prof. Li’s investigations not only deepen the fundamental understanding of quantum states of matter but also support the development of next-generation electronic and quantum technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Song, Y.‑H., Jia, Z.‑Y., Zhang, D., Zhu, X.‑Y., Shi, Z.‑Q., Wang, H., Zhu, L., Yuan, Q.‑Q., Zhang, H., Xing, D.‑Y., & Li, S.‑C. (2018). Observation of Coulomb gap in the quantum spin Hall candidate single‑layer 1T′‑WTe₂. Nature Communications, 9(1). 
 Cited by: 74

2. Zhu, L., Li, Q.‑Y., Lv, Y.‑Y., Li, S.‑C., Zhu, X.‑Y., Jia, Z.‑Y., et al. (2018). Superconductivity in potassium‑intercalated Td‑WTe₂. Nano Letters, 18(10). 
Cited by: 63

3. Zhang, K.‑W., Yang, C.‑L., Lei, B., Lu, P., Li, X.‑B., Jia, Z.‑Y., Song, Y.‑H., Sun, J., Chen, X., Li, J.‑X., & Li, S.‑C. (2018). Unveiling the charge density wave inhomogeneity and pseudogap state in 1T‑TiSe₂. Science Bulletin, 63(7), 426‑432. 
Cited by: 20

Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi | Quantum thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi | Quantum thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran

Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi is an emerging physicist and a dedicated PhD candidate in Optics and Laser Physics at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran. With a Master’s degree in Atomic and Molecular Physics and a solid foundation in laser spectroscopy, Sajjad is spearheading theoretical innovations in quantum thermodynamics and energy-efficient heat engines. His work intricately combines quantum optics, information theory, and thermodynamic modeling to advance nanoscale energy systems. His growing publication record in high-impact journals and strong conceptual grasp of quantum systems position him as a promising young researcher in the frontier of quantum technologies. 🌟

👨‍🔬 Author Profile

✅ Strengths for the Award

Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi has demonstrated notable potential and commitment to advancing the field of quantum thermodynamics and quantum heat engines, particularly within the context of quantum optics and information. As a Ph.D. candidate, his contributions reflect a deep theoretical understanding and novel analytical approaches. His published works in reputable journals like Scientific Reports and International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer indicate the scholarly merit and international visibility of his research.

  • Development of a Quantum Otto engine model with a Pöschl–Teller potential, contributing to energy efficiency at the nanoscale.

  • Exploration of non-thermal reservoirs and their impact on work and efficiency, which broadens the understanding of thermodynamic behavior in quantum systems.

  • Innovative analysis of endoreversible quantum heat engines under strong coupling, offering insight into irreversibility and system performance trade-offs.

His work addresses fundamental challenges in energy-efficient technologies and emerging quantum devices, aligning with cutting-edge priorities in modern physics and quantum engineering.

🎓 Education

Sajjad began his academic journey at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, where he earned his M.Sc. in Physics, specializing in Atomic and Molecular Physics. His thesis focused on the spectroscopic characterization of molecular transitions under various pressure conditions, revealing key insights into atomic behavior in dynamic environments. Driven by a passion for precision measurement and quantum mechanics, he continued his academic path at the same university, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Physics (Optics and Laser). His doctoral research is centered on laser-based high-resolution imaging and quantum metrology, where he explores applications ranging from ultrafast laser dynamics to the mechanics of quantum heat engines. 🎓🔬

👨‍🔬 Experience

During his academic career, Sajjad has contributed to several research endeavors that reflect both depth and innovation. His collaborative work extends across multiple domains of quantum physics, from thermodynamic cycle modeling to non-classical reservoir dynamics. He has presented his findings at national Awards, gaining recognition for tackling complex theoretical models with practical significance in quantum engines. He has also participated in interdisciplinary projects involving ultrafast laser dynamics, contributing to the design of precision instruments in optical physics. His evolving expertise is evidenced by peer-reviewed publications in Scientific Reports and International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer. 📊🧪

🔍 Research Focus on Quantum thermodynamics

Sajjad’s research bridges quantum thermodynamics, optics, and non-equilibrium heat engine modeling, with a primary focus on Quantum Otto heat engines. He explores how non-standard reservoir dynamics and system-bath interactions influence performance, including studies on Pöschl–Teller potential models for enhanced efficiency, the role of coherent and non-thermal reservoirs, and the impact of strong coupling in endoreversible engines. Through analytical and numerical modeling, his work supports the development of nanoscale thermal machines relevant to quantum information processing and energy conversion technologies. 🔭⚛️

📚 Publications Top Notes

Quantum Otto Heat Engine with Pöschl–Teller Potential in Contact with Coherent Thermal Bath

Authors: Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi, S.Y. Mirafzali, H.R. Baghshahi
Journal: Scientific Reports, Volume 13, Article 10522, 2023
Publisher: Nature Portfolio
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37681-1
Summary:
This paper explores the behavior of a quantum Otto heat engine using a Pöschl–Teller potential as the working medium, coupled to a coherent thermal reservoir. By incorporating quantum coherence into the thermal bath, the study demonstrates measurable improvements in efficiency and work output. The authors establish that coherence can be leveraged to enhance the performance of nanoscale thermal machines beyond classical thermodynamic limits, offering a pathway toward the realization of quantum-enhanced energy devices.

Endoreversible Quantum Heat Engine Affected by Strong Coupling with Thermal Reservoir

Authors: Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi, S.Y. Mirafzali, H.R. Baghshahi
Journal: International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, Volume 167, Article 109309, 2025
Publisher: Elsevier
DOI: 10.1016/j.icheatmasstransfer.2025.109309

🔍 Summary:
In this work, the authors examine a quantum endoreversible Otto engine operating under strong coupling between the system and its thermal environment. Unlike weak coupling models that simplify energy exchange, this study reveals how strong interactions affect irreversibility, power output, and overall thermodynamic efficiency. The analysis uncovers trade-offs between performance and system-bath coupling strength, providing critical insights into the design of realistic quantum thermal engines operating in non-ideal conditions.

Efficiency and Work Quantum Otto Machine in Contact with Non-Thermal Reservoir

Authors: S. Hashemi Abasabadi, S.Y. Mirafzali, H.R. Baghshahi
Journal: Quarterly Journal of Optoelectronic, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pages 51–58, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.30473/jphys.2023.69525.1170

🔍 Summary:
This article investigates the performance of a quantum Otto engine interacting with a non-thermal reservoir, extending conventional thermodynamic models. By introducing non-thermal bath characteristics such as squeezed states or engineered distributions, the paper analyzes their impact on the engine’s efficiency and work extraction capacity. Results show that non-thermal reservoirs can be engineered to outperform thermal baths, marking a significant step forward in optimizing quantum energy systems.

🧠 Conclusion

Sajjad Hashemi Abasabadi is a visionary early-career researcher whose work bridges theoretical physics and applied quantum technologies. His groundbreaking studies on quantum heat engines have unveiled fundamental relationships between coherence, coupling strength, and engine performance, shaping a new understanding of how quantum machines can operate efficiently in realistic environments. Despite being at the outset of his career, Sajjad has already carved a niche in quantum thermodynamics and optics, showing the potential to lead transformative research in the field.