Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tao Ma | Soft Materials | Research Excellence Award

Shaanxi Normal University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tao Ma is a recognized researcher in the field of soft materials, with a strong focus on sustainable, bio-based material systems and their functional applications. He is an Associate Professor at Shaanxi Normal University, where his research integrates materials science, soft matter physics, and food-related functional materials engineering. Dr. Ma’s work centers on the design, processing, and performance regulation of soft materials derived from natural polymers, particularly cellulose-based nanomaterials, protein–polysaccharide systems, and composite hydrogels. His research addresses key challenges in controlling rheological behavior, interfacial interactions, and structural stability of soft materials, enabling their application in advanced technologies such as 3D printing, encapsulation systems, and responsive functional materials. A major strength of his work lies in tailoring microstructure–property relationships to achieve precise control over mechanical, optical, and stimuli-responsive characteristics. Dr. Ma has contributed significantly to the development of Pickering emulsions, foams, oleogels, and hydrogels stabilized by nanocellulose and biopolymer complexes, supporting environmentally friendly and health-oriented material solutions. His interdisciplinary approach bridges materials science, chemical engineering, and applied physics, facilitating the transformation of renewable resources and food-related wastes into high-value soft materials. In addition to his research activities, Dr. Ma is actively involved in academic teaching, graduate supervision, and collaborative research with national and international partners, fostering innovation across disciplinary boundaries. He also contributes to the scientific community through peer review and scholarly service, supporting the advancement of soft materials research. Through his sustained contributions to green soft materials, functional design, and application-driven innovation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tao Ma has established a strong scientific profile and is a highly deserving recipient of the Research Excellence Award.

View Scopus Profile
   View Orcid Profile

Featured Publications