Shujuan Sun | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shujuan Sun | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Chengdu University | China

Shujuan Sun is a dedicated lecturer at Chengdu University with a rich academic background from the Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her research career primarily revolves around planetary science, with a special emphasis on statistical analysis of impact craters and the spatial distribution and genetic analysis of lunar rilles. With a strong foundation in remote sensing technology, Sun’s work contributes to a deeper understanding of planetary surface evolution and geological processes, particularly on the Moon. She is deeply committed to advancing planetary science research and applying her knowledge in the academic realm by nurturing future scientists.

Profile

Scopus

Education:
Shujuan Sun completed her graduate studies at the Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, which is part of the prestigious Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her education focused on remote sensing technology and planetary science, equipping her with the skills to conduct advanced research in these fields. During her postgraduate years, Sun honed her expertise in utilizing remote sensing data for analyzing planetary surfaces, especially the Moon. This educational background laid a solid foundation for her subsequent career in research and teaching.

Experience:
Currently a lecturer at Chengdu University, Sun brings extensive research experience to her academic role. Her expertise lies in the statistical analysis of impact craters, where she processes and analyzes vast amounts of remote sensing data to identify and characterize impact craters, contributing to a deeper understanding of planetary surface evolution. Additionally, Sun’s research on lunar rilles is significant, focusing on their spatial distribution and the formation mechanisms of these features. Through a combination of various research methodologies, she has uncovered valuable insights into the geological processes that shaped the Moon. Sun’s experience is not just confined to research but extends to practical teaching, where she integrates her scientific discoveries into the curriculum to inspire and educate the next generation of planetary scientists.

Research Interests:
Shujuan Sun’s research interests lie at the intersection of planetary science, remote sensing technology, and lunar geology. She focuses particularly on the statistical analysis of impact craters, the spatial distribution of lunar rilles, and their formation mechanisms. By applying remote sensing technology, she is able to extract and analyze crucial data that sheds light on the geological evolution of planetary surfaces. Sun’s work seeks to answer fundamental questions about planetary surface formation, specifically regarding the Moon’s geological history, and the application of these research findings to broader planetary science studies. Additionally, Sun aims to continue advancing her research while incorporating her discoveries into her teaching, ensuring the next generation of scientists builds upon her findings.

Awards:
Shujuan Sun’s contributions to planetary science have been recognized through her participation in several collaborative research projects that have advanced our understanding of lunar geology. Although she has not publicly disclosed specific individual awards, her work has been an integral part of high-impact research publications in renowned scientific journals. Her research on lunar rilles and impact craters has positioned her as an emerging expert in the field of planetary science, earning her recognition within academic circles.

Publications:
Shujuan Sun has contributed to several significant publications that showcase her research in planetary science. Notable among her work are:

  1. Yue, Z., Sun, S., Du, J., Gou, S., Di, K., Wang, Y., Lin Y., Li X., Wu F. (2024). “New Insights into the Geological Evolution History of Mare Fecunditatis,” Icarus, 425.
  2. Yue Z., Gou S., Sun S., Yang W., Chen Y., Wang Y., Lin H., Di K., Lin Y., Li X., Wu F. (2024). “Geological context of the Chang’e-6 landing area and implications for sample analysis,” The Innovation, 5(5), 100663.
  3. Wang, Y., Nan, J., Zhao, C., Xie, B., Gou, S., Yue, Z., Di, K., Zhang, H., Deng, X., & Sun, S. (2024). “A Catalogue of Impact Craters and Surface Age Analysis in the Chang’e-6 Landing Area,” Remote Sensing, 16(11), 2014.
  4. Nan, J., Wang, Y., Di, K., Xie, B., Zhao, C., Wang, B., Sun, S., Deng, X., Zhang, H., & Sheng, R. (2025). “YOLOv8-LCNET: An Improved YOLOv8 Automatic Crater Detection Algorithm and Application in the Chang’e-6 Landing Area,” Sensors, 25(1), 243.

Her publications reflect her expertise in lunar geology, crater analysis, and the application of innovative technologies such as YOLOv8 for crater detection.

Conclusion:
Shujuan Sun’s academic and research journey demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing the field of planetary science, particularly in the areas of lunar geology and remote sensing. With a robust educational background from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and extensive experience at Chengdu University, she continues to make significant contributions to understanding the geological history of the Moon. Her work in analyzing impact craters and lunar rilles provides critical insights into planetary surface evolution, positioning her as a rising expert in planetary science. As she continues to pursue her research interests, Sun remains dedicated to fostering the next generation of planetary scientists and advancing the field further through innovative teaching and groundbreaking research.

Dr. Kapesa Lokho – Planetary Sciences – Women Researcher Award

Dr. Kapesa Lokho - Planetary Sciences - Women Researcher Award

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kapesa Lokho's academic journey began with a strong foundation in geology, marked by her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Nagaland University. Her insatiable curiosity and passion for understanding the Earth's history led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Geology, further specializing in micropaleontology, Paleogene, and Neogene biostratigraphy.

Professional Endeavors

Over the years, Dr. Lokho has ascended the ranks in her professional career, starting as a Project Assistant at Nagaland University and steadily progressing to her current designation as Scientist 'F' at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a dedication to advancing the field of geology, particularly in areas such as paleoenvironment, paleoceanography, and collisional tectonics.

Contributions and Research Focus On Planetary Sciences

Dr. Lokho's research focus encompasses a wide range of topics, including biostratigraphy, basin evolution, and the closure of Neotethys Sea. Her work delves into understanding the intricacies of Earth's geological processes, with a particular emphasis on the Indo-Eurasian collision and its global implications. Through her research, she has contributed significantly to our understanding of past environmental changes and the evolution of life forms.

Accolades and Recognition In Planetary Sciences

Dr. Lokho's contributions to the field of geology have been widely recognized and celebrated. Her ascent through the ranks at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology is a testament to her expertise and dedication. Additionally, her involvement in professional affiliations and her role as an executive member of geological societies underscore her standing within the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Lokho's influence extends beyond her research contributions. As a mentor and educator, she has guided numerous Ph.D. students, shaping the next generation of geologists. Her guest lectures at prestigious institutions like the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and the Wildlife Institute of India have inspired aspiring geologists and fostered a deeper appreciation for the Earth sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions For Planetary Sciences

As Dr. Lokho continues her journey in academia, her legacy is one of scholarly excellence and mentorship. Through her ongoing research endeavors and her role in organizing academic events like seminars and symposia, she aims to further advance our understanding of Earth's geological history. Her commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive scientific community ensures that her contributions will endure for years to come.

Dr. Kapesa Lokho's remarkable career trajectory serves as an inspiration to aspiring geologists everywhere. Her passion for uncovering the mysteries of the Earth, coupled with her dedication to mentorship and education, cements her status as a leading figure in the field of geology. As she continues to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, her impact on the discipline will only continue to grow, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of geoscientists.

Notable Publications

Middle Miocene final demise of remnants of an eastern Neotethyan seaway, Naga Hills, Indo-Myanmar Range 2024

Morphotectonic evolution of the Quaternary landforms in the Yangui River basin in the Indo-Myanmar Range 2021

Eocene foraminifers of the Naga Hills of Manipur, Indo-Myanmar Range (IMR): Implications on age and basin evolution 2020