A University of Queensland researcher has been internationally recognised for his groundbreaking contributions to materials science, as part of a global team that developed an entirely new class of glass.
Associate Professor Jingwei Hou, from UQ’s School of Chemical Engineering, has been named a winner of the 2025 Dalton Horizon Prize by the Royal Society of Chemistry, awarded for the discovery and development of hybrid glasses – a new family of materials distinct from all previously known glass types.
The prize recognises a collaborative achievement led by Professor Thomas Bennett at the University of Canterbury, which marks the first time since the 1970s that a new chemical family of glass has been identified.
Associate Professor Hou’s contribution to the research topic is on his innovative research into the interface, structure, and functionality of nanocomposite glass. His work has significantly advanced the fundamental understanding of these complex hybrid systems, revealing how interfacial interactions govern macroscopic properties.
“The development of next-generation materials with high performance in membrane separation, optics, and catalysis have the potential to revolutionise multiple industries,” Associate Professor Hou said.
"I am honoured to be part of the team receiving this award. The nanocomposite glass has been recognised as a new paradigm in hybrid glass materials, and it shows great promise across multiple fields.
I believe this is only the beginning of a much more exciting journey."
Associate Professor Hou’s study of the interfaces has led to the development of versatile platform technologies that enable advanced functions including efficient light emission, energy conversion, separation, and biomedical imaging
UQ’s Head of the School of Chemical Engineering, Professor Justin Cooper-White, congratulated Associate Professor Hou on the achievement.
“This award is a testament to the vision and leadership Jingwei has demonstrated in advanced materials research,” Professor Cooper-White said.
“Developing a new class of glass – something not seen for over 50 years – is an extraordinary feat and reflects the calibre of scientific talent we have here at UQ. We’re incredibly proud of Jingwei and the team.”
The Dalton Horizon Prize celebrates exceptional interdisciplinary research that has opened new horizons in inorganic chemistry. This breakthrough in hybrid glasses signals an exciting new frontier for researchers and industries around the world.
