We are pleased to announce that Prof. Dr. Liang Li has been appointed Associate Editor of the Section “Solar Energy and Solar Cells” in Nanomaterials (ISSN: 2079-4991). With an extensive background in scientific research and publishing, he will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this role.

Name: Liang Li
Affiliation: School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
Interests: optoelectronic conversion materials and devices such as solar cells, photodetectors, and photoelectrochemical cells; electrochemical batteries, such as Li- and Na- ion batteries; preparation of thin films utilizing atomic layer deposition, magnetron sputtering, etc.
Website: https://ecs.suda.edu.cn/1d/12/c30958a531730/page.htm

The following is a short Q&A with Prof. Dr. Liang Li, who shared his vision for the journal with us, as well as his views on the research area:

1. Could you briefly introduce your current research direction and its main content?
Our team's research primarily focuses on optoelectronic conversion, energy materials, and devices, encompassing specifics such as photoelectric detection, solar (photochemical) cells, and energy storage devices.

2. We noticed that your research experience is quite extensive. What pivotal moments led to your choices of different research institutions and countries?
My research journey has indeed spanned across multiple countries and research institutions. Each pivotal moment has been accompanied by new opportunities and challenges. After obtaining my doctoral degree in 2006 from the Institute of Solid State Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, China, I pursued postdoctoral research at the National University of Singapore, Singapore, mainly due to the complementary nature of the research focus with my doctoral work, which centered on the electrochemical corrosion method for structured nano-array thin film fabrication. Subsequently, I moved to Japan, conducting postdoctoral research at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, and the National Institute for Materials Science, focusing on the micro/nano-fabrication and physical property characterization of nanostructured photoelectric detection devices. Finally, I concluded my postdoctoral research in Canada at the University of Western Ontario, working on the development of novel energy storage devices based on nanomaterials. Throughout these experiences, I accumulated rich research expertise, particularly gaining exposure to various research fields and scientific cultures in different countries, providing a strong foundation for my independent work as a principal investigator (PI) upon returning to China.

3. Do you have any advice or guiding principles for young scholars aspiring to engage in similar research pursuits and strive for excellence?
Firstly, maintaining a love for research and nurturing curiosity is of utmost importance. The path of research is full of challenges, demanding continuous exploration and innovation. Secondly, it's crucial to build a solid foundation and master the fundamental knowledge and experimental skills relevant to the field. Additionally, engaging in international conferences and academic exchanges broadens one’s horizons and offers access to the latest research trends. Lastly, perseverance and patience are essential. Research requires prolonged dedication and effort, it's not a path for quick victories.

4. What was it like to serve as an Associate Editor for the “Solar Energy and Solar Cells” Section? What are your expectations and goals in this role?
Serving as an Associate Editor has been a valuable experience, providing me with the opportunity to stay abreast of the latest research developments in the field, as well as participate in the paper review and decision-making process. My goal is to help enhance the journal's international influence and drive research advancements in the field of new energy. I look forward to being more involved in the selection and recommendation of outstanding papers, fostering academic exchange and collaboration.

5. As the Associate Editor of the “Solar Energy and Solar Cells” Section, what insights do you have regarding the latest developments and future trends in this field?
In recent years, solar cell technology has rapidly advanced, with perovskite solar cells continuously achieving breakthrough efficiencies, making it a research hotspot. Moving forward, stability and commercial applications will be its primary development focus. Furthermore, the integration of photovoltaic technology with other energy technologies, such as photoelectrocatalysis and energy storage, will also emerge as an important developmental trend.

We warmly welcome our Associate Editor, Prof. Dr. Liang Li, and wish the journal every success in the future.