NTU MSE Researchers Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia for Advancing Health & Materials Science
Two researchers from NTU’s School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) – Dr Li Junzhu and Dr Guo Shasha – have been named to the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 list in the Healthcare & Science category. This recognition shines a spotlight on their contributions to next-generation materials research and underscores MSE’s commitment to advancing global talent and impactful science.
Recognising Our Rising Scientific Leaders
Dr Li Junzhu, a research fellow at NTU MSE, works at the frontier of two-dimensional (2D) materials, focusing on their potential applications in electronics and optoelectronics. Her research explores the fundamental mechanisms behind the growth of wafer-scale 2D materials with low defect density – an essential step toward integrating these advanced materials into electronic and photonic devices. Her work has been published in leading journals including Advanced Materials, Nature Communications, and Nature Materials.
"One of the biggest challenges today is improving the crystal quality and scalability of 2D materials,” says Dr Li. “I’m motivated to continue learning and hope my work lays the foundation for their integration into real devices and accelerates their adoption across industries."
Dr Guo Shasha, now at Cornell University, investigates (photo)(electro)catalysis processes at the nanoscale and designs atom-precise synthesis methods for sustainable material production. Her research contributes to the transition toward a clean energy economy, and her findings have appeared in Nature Catalysis, Nature Communications, Nature Synthesis, and Journal of the American Chemical Society. Dr Guo earned her Ph.D. at NTU MSE and was awarded the MSE Doctorate Research Excellence Award (Silver) for her high-impact scholarship and Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology Development Grant.
"I’m focused on understanding how catalytic processes unfold at the nanoscale
using high-throughput techniques,” explains Dr Guo.
“This knowledge is critical for
reducing energy consumption and enabling more sustainable materials manufacturing."
The Mentor Behind the Milestone
Both researchers were mentored by Prof Liu Zheng, a faculty member whose research focuses on 2D materials for sustainability and electronics. A recipient of multiple global accolades – including the APEC Science Prize and highly cited researcher (from 2018 to now) – Prof Liu has played a pivotal role in shaping his students' scientific journeys.
"The success of Junzhu and Shasha is a powerful reflection of what we stand for at NTU MSE – scientific curiosity coupled with grit, interdisciplinary exploration, and meaningful mentorship,” says Prof Liu. “It’s been a privilege to come alongside these young talents
as they push the frontiers of materials science."
From Lab to Recognition: The Journey of Discovery
For both Dr Li and Dr Guo, the journey to Forbes was one of deep learning, hard-won resilience, and mentorship.
"One of the most pivotal moments in my journey was choosing to slow down, reflect, and redefine my research direction,” shares Dr Li. “It wasn’t easy to commit to a long-term path, but doing so allowed me to grow – both personally and scientifically."
"My time at NTU MSE was shaped by moments of challenge and reflection,” adds Dr Guo. “From my qualification exam to my oral defence, each step taught me
something new about the discipline and about myself."
Both credit Prof Liu’s mentorship for creating an environment of trust and excellence.
"Prof Liu’s insights, intuition, and work ethic had a profound influence on me,” says Dr Li. “He sets an example not just through guidance, but through how he works and leads.""If I had to highlight one thing, it’s the confidence Prof Liu had in me,” adds Dr Guo. “Even when I doubted myself, he believed in what I could do – and that made all the difference.” She also credits her lab seniors, especially Dr Yongmin He, for offering valuable advice and
steady support throughout her time at NTU.
Advice to Aspiring Researchers
What does it take to be recognised among the region’s most promising young scientists? According to Dr Li and Dr Guo, it’s not about perfection, but about persistence and passion.
"Progress in research can feel slow at times,” says Dr Li. “But every setback is a lesson,
and many breakthroughs come from moments that didn’t go as planned.
Resilience, humility, and a genuine love for science will take you far."
"You don’t need to be perfect when you start,” echoes Dr Guo. “You’ll grow with each year.
Follow your supervisor’s guidance closely at the start, but as you progress,
be bold in developing your own ideas. And most of all, surround yourself with
role models who inspire you to grow and dream bigger."
A Launchpad for Interdisciplinary Innovation
The achievements of Dr Li and Dr Guo highlight NTU MSE’s thriving research ecosystem – where cutting-edge science meets real-world application. From biomedical materials to clean energy solutions, MSE is committed to addressing global challenges through materials innovation and mentorship.
Be Part of the Future of Materials
If you’re passionate about making a difference through science and innovation, consider joining our vibrant postgraduate research community. NTU MSE offers:
- Ph.D. programmes
- Master of Engineering
- Master of Science for advanced professional upskilling
