Centre Spotlight: Dr Qingfeng Zhai

Dr Qingfeng Zhai is a Lecturer and ARC DECRA Fellow at UNSW, and an Associate Investigator with our Centre.

Dr Zhai’s research focuses on developing advanced functional nanomaterials for sustainable energy conversion, energy storage, and chemical sensing. He is particularly interested in controlling the synthesis of carbon-based nanomaterials and understanding catalytic reactions at the atomic scale.

A key part of his work combines carbon nanomaterial synthesis with advanced in-situ electrochemical scanning tunnelling microscopy. This enables Dr Zhai to investigate individual catalytic sites and reaction mechanisms, helping to guide the design of more efficient electrocatalysts for applications in clean energy, carbon neutrality, environmental monitoring, and healthcare diagnostics.

Dr Zhai says, “What I value most about my role with COE-CSI is the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. Through my ARC DECRA project, I have advanced research aligned with the Centre’s mission while building new cross-disciplinary collaborations. I enjoy contributing my expertise in research infrastructure management and co-supervising HDR students with CSI colleagues, helping to strengthen both research capability and outcomes.”

“COE-CSI also provides an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, developing innovative solutions, and engaging in workshops, conferences, and training programs that support continuous learning, professional growth, and new research partnerships.”