
Shuo Qian
Staff Scientist, Second Target Station Instrument Development
Bio
Dr. Shuo has dedicated over a decade to advancing neutron scattering science, with a particular focus on solving problems critical to society. Earning a Ph.D. in Physics from Rice University and a B.S. in Applied Physics from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Dr. Shuo Qian embarked on a career that bridges neutron scattering with impactful applications in energy, environmental science, and biology. Now a Staff Scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Dr. Shuo Qian plays a key role in the Second Target Station project, developing cutting-edge instruments like CENTAUR, a small- and wide-angle diffractometer. This instrument has the potential to uncover new insights into nano-scale systems, making significant contributions to sustainable energy and healthcare research.
Throughout his tenure at Oak Ridge, Dr. Qian has pioneered advancements in neutron scattering applications for biomolecular research, leading initiatives like the Bio-SANS upgrade and initiating to collaborative access programs such as SANS-SAXS between ORNL and Brookhaven National Laboratory's LiX beam line, which integrates resources across U.S. national laboratories. As a principal investigator and co-principal investigator, they have designed and optimized novel scattering instruments that allow researchers to non-destructively explore complex materials and biological structures. Dr. Qian's work has been recognized with multiple awards, including the ORNL Significant Event Awards, which highlight their contributions to biomembrane research and instrumental advancements in detector technology.
Beyond the scientific achievements, Dr. Qian is deeply passionate about educating new neutron users and inspiring students, fostering a new generation of researchers who can leverage these tools to address societal challenges. They actively contribute to the scientific community, serving on advisory boards, organizing workshops, and mentoring early-career scientists. Dr. Qian envisions neutron scattering as a pivotal tool for addressing critical challenges in energy, the environment, and public health, fostering innovations that meet societal needs through fundamental science.
Awards
2021 Recognition of Contribution to the US DOE Energy National Virtual Biotechnology Laboratory Project "Molecular Design and Analysis to Inform Therapeutics Related to COVID-19", part of the DOE COVID-19 Pandemic Response in 2020
2017 ORNL Significant Event Award (In-vivo Biomembrane Research Project)
2016 ORNL Significant Event Award (Bio-SANS Wide-Angle Detector Upgrade Project)
2014 ORNL Performance Award