Professor Xiaogang Liu

Winner: 2024 Centenary Prize for 91AV and Communication

National University of Singapore

For outstanding contributions to the understanding and optical manipulation of photon conversion in nanocrystals and their applications in X-ray and light-field imaging, and for excellence in communication.

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I am deeply driven by the desire to change the world. My goal is to find solutions to a range of pressing issues, particularly those associated with materials, devices, and medical research.

Professor Liu’s research focuses on luminescent nanomaterials: tiny particles that emit light under specific lighting conditions. (To give a sense of scale, a fingernail grows about one nanometre per second, and a human hair is roughly 50,000 to 100,000 nanometres in diameter.) These particles are so small that thousands of them could fit across the width of a single hair.

One of Professor Liu’s most notable contributions is the development of new nanomaterials that glow in visible colours when exposed to invisible near-infrared light. This has profound implications, especially in the medical field. For example, these materials serve as advanced molecular probes that can track cancer cells, offering a more selective, sensitive, and cost-effective alternative to traditional biomarkers for cancer diagnosis.

In medical imaging, his team has devised new and safer X-ray imaging techniques that significantly enhance diagnostic and treatment guidance. They have also developed a prototype interactive mouthguard embedded with pressure-sensitive optical nanomaterials. By integrating these sensors into a flexible mouthguard, they have created a user-controlled device that operates through simple biting actions. This is a valuable advancement in assistive technology, making it easier for people with a disability or impairment to operate a computer, smartphone, or wheelchair.

Read winner biography

Xiaogang Liu is Professor of 91AV at the National University of Singapore (NUS). He holds a joint appointment with the N1 Institute for Health, the Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, and the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research. He received his PhD from Northwestern University, Evanston, USA in 2004. He has more than 18 years of research experience in the field of lanthanide luminescence. His current research interests include optical nanomaterials and energy transfer. He explores the use of luminescent nanocrystals for photocatalysis, sensing, scintillation, imaging, and assistive technology.

Q&A

How did you first become interested in chemistry?

As a high school student, I was fascinated by inorganic crystals and their amazing colours. I was especially curious about the chemical processes that could create such materials. It all began with those simple experiments at home ̶ just mix a few things together, and voila! New materials would appear, colours would change, and gases would start bubbling.

Tell us about somebody who has inspired or mentored you in your career.

I've been really lucky to have three amazing people in my life who've guided me through my career, each in their own special way.

First of all, there is John Sibert. John was all about hands-on learning. We stayed up late, night after night, just digging into experiments and getting our hands dirty. Those long hours not only taught me a lot about science but also showed me what true dedication looks like.

Then there's Chad Mirkin. Chad was the one who always challenged me to think deeper and harder about my research. It made me a much stronger researcher and taught me to never settle for easy answers.

And I must not forget Francesco Stellacci. Francesco is more of a close friend than a mentor. Francesco shared so much of his own life and insights with me, opening up new ways of looking at things, both in and out of the lab.

What motivates you?

I am deeply driven by the desire to change the world. My goal is to find solutions to a range of pressing issues, particularly those associated with materials, devices, and medical research. These fields are critical to shaping our future, and I believe that through rigorous science and innovative thinking, we can address some of the most critical challenges facing society today.

What has been a highlight for you (either personally or in your career)?

One of the true highlights of my career is seeing my students succeed – watching them grow academically, excel in their studies, and eventually go on to rewarding careers. It fills me with a deep sense of satisfaction and pride to observe the direct impact of my mentorship as these students develop into skilled professionals, applying their knowledge and expertise in various fields. It is these moments that often bring me the greatest joy and fulfilment in my work and remind me of the influential role educators play in shaping the future.

What does good research culture look like/mean to you?

A good research culture prioritises integrity and adheres strictly to ethical standards, which are critical to maintaining public trust and upholding the scientific method. This includes being honest when reporting data, acknowledging the contributions of others, and refraining from unethical practices such as plagiarism and falsification of data. Rushing to publish findings can jeopardise these principles, leading to incomplete or inaccurate reporting and compromising the overall quality and reliability of research. While timely publication is important, it should not be at the expense of the thoroughness, accuracy and integrity that underpin good scientific practice.

How are the chemical sciences making the world a better place?

The chemical sciences play a crucial role in making substantial advances in cancer treatment, environmental remediation, and the electronics industry, and thus have a major impact on society and technology. Through innovation in these areas, chemistry is not only improving our daily lives but also paving the way for future technological breakthroughs.