Early Career Editorial Board Member Interview: Dr. Yageng Li

Dr. Yageng Li is an Associate Professor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing. He earned his PhD in 2020 from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.

His research focuses on metallic biomaterials for tissue repair and regeneration, with a particular emphasis on additive manufacturing technologies. Dr. Li has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications and applied/issued more than 10 patents in the field of biomaterials. He has received numerous awards, including the Acta Student Award (2020), the Cum Laude distinction from Delft University of Technology (2020), and the Scientist Medal from the International Association of Advanced Materials (2024). Dr. Li has led several major research projects, including the National Key R&D Program Youth Scientist Project, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) General and Youth Programs, and the Beijing Natural Science Foundation Key Project. He is an active contributor to the academic community, serving as a Board Member of the Chinese Society for Corrosion and Protection, Vice Secretary-General of the Medical Metal Materials Corrosion Control Committee, and a Committee Member of the Additive Manufacturing Technology Committee of the Chinese Society for Nonferrous Metals. Additionally, Dr. Li is a Young Editorial Board Member for several international journals, including Bioactive Materials, Acta Metallurgica Sinica, Additive Manufacturing Frontiers, and the International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing.

Here is the interview we did with him:

1. Could you briefly introduce the specific focus of your current research within the broad area of bioactive materials?

My current research focuses on 3D-printed biodegradable metals for bone regeneration. We are exploring novel materials and developing advanced porous structures through 3D printing to enhance the functionality and performance of these materials in bone tissue engineering.

2. In the context of researching bioactive materials, what unique obstacles or difficulties have you faced?

One of the primary challenges in biodegradable metals is achieving a balance between bioactivity, degradation rate, and mechanical properties. While bioactivity is essential for tissue regeneration, enhancing it without compromising the materials’ strength and degradation behavior remains a significant hurdle. Generally, coming up with innovative and clinically relevant research ideas is often challenging. Unlike other materials, the translation of biomaterials into clinical applications typically takes much longer, which adds complexity to the research process.

3. How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in research, considering the rapidly evolving nature of the field?

I regularly follow prominent researchers on platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate. Additionally, I stay informed through various channels such as WeChat, where I receive updates on recent publications and discussions in the field.

4. What were the key factors that attracted you to become an early career editorial board member of Bioactive Materials?

I joined the editorial board as I was starting my academic career and saw it as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the evolving field of biomaterials. At that time, the focus of biomaterials research was shifting from simply being biocompatible to being bioactive. This change, along with the presence of esteemed experts in the field on the editorial board, made the journal particularly appealing.

5. From your perspective, what are the most promising directions for the future development of Bioactive Materials?

One of the most promising directions is the personalized design of bioactive materials tailored to individual patient needs. Integrating artificial intelligence in the design and fabrication process could greatly enhance the precision and effectiveness of these materials, making them more adaptable and beneficial to patients.

6. As an early career editorial board member, what initiatives do you plan to take to engage more early-career researchers with the journal and the field of bioactive materials?

I plan to initiate collaborations by inviting senior editors and researchers to give talks at our university and organize seminars at biomaterials conferences. By fostering a platform for high-impact research and promoting the clinical translation of bioactive materials, we can inspire and engage more early-career researchers.

7. Beyond your scientific endeavors in bioactive materials, what is your favorite pastime?

While I used to practice popping and breakdancing, my favorite pastime now is spending quality time with my family.

8. Given the demanding nature of scientific research, how do you manage to strike a balance between your research work and your personal life?

It’s definitely challenging to maintain a work-life balance, and my daughter often reminds me of that! However, I make it a priority to spend Sundays with my family. Additionally, improving work efficiency helps a bit.