Meet the Researcher: Xiang Li

Spotlight on Xiang Li

It’s our pleasure to introduce Xiang Li, a postdoc researcher in membrane science at Imperial College London. Xiang’s research aims to design materials and fabrication methods in organic membranes that overcome common limitations, including stability and scalability. His work in developing novel organic molecules and polymer materials seeks to improve membrane technology for water treatment.

What inspired you to pursue your current research area, and how did you become interested in membranes?

I have been fascinated by new chemical materials since high school, motivated to develop solutions for real-world challenges. Membrane technology attracted me because it bridges material design and practical applications, which led me to focus on organic membranes—a field I have been passionate about ever since.

Can you explain your research in a way that someone outside your field might understand?

I work on making “plastic” films that act like filters. They can clean seawater into drinking water and separate useful substances from their aqueous or organic mixtures. The goal is to do this in a cleaner, more energy-efficient way than current technologies.

What key challenge or problem does your research aim to solve, and why is it important?

The main challenge I focus on is developing organic membranes that combine high performance, long-term durability, and the potential for large-scale production for water and organic processes. Many membranes perform well in the lab but are hard to produce at scale or degrade quickly. My research aims to design materials and fabrication methods in organic membranes that overcome these limitations, making sustainable separation processes practical and efficient for real-world applications.

Have you had any ‘eureka’ moments or small wins in the lab that felt especially exciting?

Honestly, every time I make progress in the lab it feels like a little “Eureka!” moment. Even small improvements in membrane performance or durability give me a real sense of excitement and motivation to keep going.

How does your project contribute to the wider goals of the SynHiSel programme?

My project contributes to the wider goals of the SynHiSel programme by developing novel organic molecules and polymers materials, improving existing fabrication processes based on interfacial polymerization technology used in water treatment reverse osmosis membranes. The aim is to translate these advances into scalable applications for water, organic solvent and gas separations. By bridging fundamental membrane science with practical, high-performance, and scalable separation technologies, my work supports SynHiSel’s mission of enabling sustainable and efficient separation solutions across a range of chemical processes.

What do you enjoy most about working within SynHiSel, and have any collaborations stood out for you?

What I enjoy most about working within SynHiSel is the opportunity to combine cutting-edge membrane science with real-world applications, and to be part of a collaborative environment where ideas and expertise are shared freely. 

Outside of the lab, what helps you stay motivated or inspired during your research journey?

Outside the lab, I stay motivated by exploring new materials and sustainable technologies through articles, conferences, and discussions with colleagues from different fields. Conversations with industry experts—whether in membrane science or other sectors—also inspire me, providing insight into real-world needs and the societal impact of scientific innovations. On top of that, spending time with my family helps me recharge and maintain perspective. Balancing these experiences with my research keeps me energized and passionate about my work.