Assoc. Prof. Liu Haijun | Associate Professor | Mechanical Engineering | Food Processing Technology

Liu Haijun is an accomplished Associate Professor at the School of Intelligent Manufacturing, Huzhou University, China, with over two decades of experience in mechanical engineering, agricultural mechanization, and food processing technology. Born in Harbin in October 1978, Dr. Liu has built an impressive academic career spanning teaching, research, and industry collaboration. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering from Northeast Agricultural University and international research experience as a Visiting Scholar at McGill University, Canada (2015-2016), he brings a global perspective to his work. His research expertise encompasses advanced materials synthesis through electrodeposition, microwave vacuum processing technologies for food products, mechanical design innovation, and intelligent manufacturing systems. Dr. Liu has published extensively in high-impact international journals including Ceramics International and has secured multiple patents for innovative machinery and equipment designs. His interdisciplinary approach bridges mechanical engineering, materials science, and food technology, contributing to both fundamental research and practical industrial applications. As an educator, he has received recognition for teaching excellence and has mentored numerous students in innovative design and manufacturing technologies. His work addresses critical challenges in sustainable food processing, advanced coatings for industrial applications, and intelligent manufacturing systems.

Online Profiles

• Associate Professor, School of Intelligent Manufacturing, Huzhou University
• Former Associate Professor, School of Engineering Technology, Zhejiang A&F University Jiyang College
• Former Associate Professor, College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University
• Former Visiting Scholar, McGill University, Canada
• Published researcher in Ceramics International, International Journal of Electrochemical Science, and other international journals
• Patent holder with five authorized Chinese invention patents
• Principal Investigator on multiple provincial research projects
• Temporary assignment experience with Zhuji Municipal Agriculture Bureau

Education

Ph.D. in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering

College of Engineering, Northeast Agricultural University, China
July 2010 – July 2013
Doctoral Research Focus: Microwave vacuum puffing characteristics of food materials and advanced processing technologies

Advanced Studies in Mechatronics Engineering

School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, China
March 2008 – July 2008
Advanced training in mechatronic systems and intelligent manufacturing

Master of Science in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering

College of Engineering, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, China
September 2002 – July 2005
Master’s Research: Agricultural machinery and food processing equipment

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Design and Manufacturing

College of Engineering, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, China
July 1998 – July 2002
Undergraduate Major: Mechanical Design and Manufacturing with focus on agricultural applications

Research Focus

Dr. Liu Haijun’s research spans multiple interconnected domains in mechanical engineering, materials science, and food processing technology. His primary research areas include:

• Advanced Materials and Coatings: Development of composite materials through pulse current electrodeposition, particularly Ni/W-TiN and Ni-SiC nanocomposites with enhanced wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties
• Electrodeposition Technology: Investigation of pulse electrodeposition parameters including duty cycle, pulse frequency, and current density on the microstructure and properties of nanocomposite coatings
• Microwave Vacuum Processing: Research on microwave vacuum puffing and drying technologies for food materials including berries, mung bean cakes, and starch-based products
• Food Processing Engineering: Development of innovative processing methods for producing crispy snacks from fruits and vegetables with optimized texture, nutritional retention, and sensory properties
• Heat Transfer Systems: Numerical simulation and experimental verification of multi-cavity spiral cascade heat transfer systems for industrial applications
• Mechanical Design Innovation: Development of novel machinery and equipment for food processing, textile manufacturing, and agricultural applications
• Process Optimization: Application of artificial neural networks (BP-NN) and mathematical modeling for optimizing processing parameters in food technology and materials synthesis
• Intelligent Manufacturing Systems: Integration of robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing technologies in industrial production
• Sustainable Materials Processing: Research on microwave-assisted beneficiation of recycled coarse aggregate from waste concrete for sustainable construction materials

Experience

Associate Professor

School of Intelligent Manufacturing, Huzhou University, China
September 2022 – Present

Dr. Liu currently serves as Associate Professor at Huzhou University’s School of Intelligent Manufacturing, where he conducts research on advanced manufacturing technologies, intelligent systems, and materials processing. He teaches courses in mechanical design, industrial robotics, and manufacturing technology while supervising graduate and undergraduate research projects.

Associate Professor

School of Engineering Technology, Zhejiang A&F University Jiyang College, China
July 2017 – September 2022

During this period, Dr. Liu led research projects on advanced coatings and food processing technologies while teaching mechanical engineering courses. He received recognition as “Outstanding Staff Member” in 2021 and achieved Grade A in undergraduate teaching evaluation in 2020.

Temporary Assignment

Zhuji Municipal Agriculture Bureau, China
August 2020 – July 2021

Dr. Liu served on temporary assignment with the municipal agriculture bureau, providing technical expertise on agricultural mechanization, food processing technologies, and rural industrialization initiatives, bridging academic research with government agricultural policy and implementation.

Associate Professor

College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, China
July 2013 – July 2017

In this position, Dr. Liu established his research program on microwave vacuum processing of food materials and advanced coatings, securing research funding and publishing in international journals while teaching food machinery and equipment courses.

Lecturer

College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, China
July 2008 – July 2013

As Lecturer, Dr. Liu completed his doctoral studies while teaching undergraduate courses and developing research projects on food processing technologies and agricultural mechanization.

Assistant Lecturer

College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, China
July 2005 – July 2008

Dr. Liu began his academic career as Assistant Lecturer, teaching foundational courses in mechanical engineering and food processing while pursuing advanced studies at Harbin Institute of Technology.

Visiting Scholar

McGill University, Montreal, Canada
May 2015 – June 2016

This international research appointment provided Dr. Liu with exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies, international collaboration opportunities, and advanced laboratory facilities at one of Canada’s premier research universities, enhancing his research capabilities and global perspective.

Research Timeline

September 2022 – Present: Associate Professor, Huzhou University

August 2020 – July 2021: Temporary Assignment, Zhuji Municipal Agriculture Bureau

July 2017 – September 2022: Associate Professor, Zhejiang A&F University Jiyang College

May 2015 – June 2016: Visiting Scholar, McGill University, Canada

July 2013 – July 2017: Associate Professor, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University

July 2010 – July 2013: Ph.D. Studies in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering

July 2008 – July 2013: Lecturer, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University

March 2008 – July 2008: Advanced Studies, Harbin Institute of Technology

July 2005 – July 2008: Assistant Lecturer, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University

September 2002 – July 2005: Master’s Studies in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering

July 1998 – July 2002: Bachelor’s Studies in Mechanical Design and Manufacturing

Publication

Publications as First Author

Liu Haijun. Effect of TiN concentration on microstructure and properties of Ni/W–TiN composites obtained by pulse current electrodeposition. Ceramics International, 2021, 47(17): 24331–24339.

Liu Haijun. Influences of Duty Cycle and Pulse Frequency on Properties of Ni-SiC Nanocomposites fabricated by Pulse Electrodeposition. International Journal of Electrochemical Science, 2020: 10550–10569.

Liu Haijun. Numerical simulation and experimental verification of stability on multi-cavity spiral cascade heat transfer system. Thermal Science, 2021, 25: 3347–3354.

Liu Haijun. Crispness Form of the Berry Snacks Subjected to Microwave Vacuum Puffing Conditions. International Agriculture Engineering Journal, 2018, 27(3): 230–240.

Liu Haijun. Optimization of Microwave Vacuum Puffing Process Parameters for Berry Crisps Based on BP Neural Network. Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science and Technology, 2016, 16(3): 103–108.

Liu Haijun. Study on Microwave Vacuum Puffing Process of Mung Bean Cakes. Journal of Northeast Agricultural University, 2016, 47(11): 85–92.

Liu Haijun. Puffing Characteristics of Blackcurrant Leather under Microwave Vacuum Conditions. International Journal of Food Engineering, 2012, 8(2): Article 9.

Liu Haijun. Simulation of Temperature Variation for Berry Slices in Microwave Vacuum Puffing Process. Journal of Northeast Agricultural University (English Edition), 2012, 19(4): 75–78.

Liu Haijun. Correlation Analysis between Usual Performance and Final Examination Score in “Food Machinery and Equipment” Course. Farm Products Processing, 2016, 01: 67–68+71.

Publications as Corresponding Author

Liu Haijun (Corresponding Author). Ni-SiC Composite Coatings with Good Wear and Corrosion Resistance Synthesized via Ultrasonic Electrodeposition. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, 2021, 30(11).

Liu Haijun (Corresponding Author). Prediction of Wear Resistance of Ultrasonic Electrodeposited Ni-SiC Nanocoatings using BP-NN Model. International Journal of Electrochemical Science, 2021, Article ID: 210423.

Liu Haijun (Corresponding Author). Optimization of Hot Air-Assisted Intermittent Microwave Drying Technology for Straw-based Nutrient Seedling-Growing Bowl Tray. International Agriculture Engineering Journal, 2021, 30(2): 47–66.

Research Impact

Dr. Liu Haijun’s research has made significant contributions across multiple domains including advanced materials, food processing technology, and sustainable manufacturing. His work on nanocomposite coatings synthesized through pulse and ultrasonic electrodeposition has advanced the field of functional surface engineering, with publications in high-impact journals such as Ceramics International demonstrating international recognition of his research quality. The development of Ni-SiC and Ni/W-TiN composite coatings with enhanced wear and corrosion resistance addresses critical industrial needs for protective coatings in harsh environments, with potential applications in automotive, aerospace, marine, and manufacturing sectors. His pioneering work on microwave vacuum processing of food materials has contributed to healthier snack food production technologies that retain nutritional quality while achieving desired textural properties, addressing consumer demands for nutritious convenience foods. The application of artificial neural networks for process optimization represents methodological innovation that bridges materials science, food engineering, and computational intelligence. His research on heat transfer systems contributes to energy efficiency in industrial thermal processes. The breadth of his work, spanning from fundamental materials characterization to applied food processing and sustainable materials recovery, demonstrates versatility and ability to address real-world challenges. His publications in both English and Chinese journals ensure dissemination of knowledge to international and domestic audiences. His patent portfolio demonstrates successful translation of research into practical inventions with commercial potential. His visiting scholarship at McGill University facilitated international collaboration and knowledge exchange. His temporary assignment with the municipal agriculture bureau demonstrates commitment to applying research for societal benefit beyond academia.

Innovation & Intellectual Property

Dr. Liu Haijun has successfully translated his research into practical innovations, securing five authorized Chinese invention patents that demonstrate the commercial relevance and novelty of his work. The Hall-Type Broken Thread Detection Device for Embroidery Machines (Patent No. 202011221307.6, authorized August 6, 2021) addresses quality control challenges in textile manufacturing by providing automated detection of thread breakage, reducing defects and improving production efficiency in the embroidery industry. The Food Cutter and Food Processing Equipment patent (Patent No. 201810744049.6, authorized December 18, 2020) represents innovation in food processing machinery design, likely incorporating features for improved cutting precision, sanitation, and ease of operation. The Berry Peeling Machine patent (Patent No. 201910329976.6, authorized June 19, 2020) addresses labor-intensive manual peeling processes in fruit processing, providing mechanized solutions that improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance product consistency in berry processing operations. The Auxiliary Shoe Removal Rack patent (Patent No. 201910661712.0, authorized December 22, 2020), where Dr. Liu served as supervisor for a student-led invention, demonstrates his mentorship in fostering innovation among students and addresses practical needs in footwear handling. The Vacuum Microwave Drying and Sterilizing Equipment for Food Processing patent (Patent No. 202011428202.8, authorized March 29, 2022) represents integration of his research on microwave vacuum processing into practical equipment design, combining drying and sterilization functions for efficient food preservation with potential for commercial production and industrial application. These patents span diverse applications from textile manufacturing to food processing, demonstrating Dr. Liu’s versatility in innovation. His intellectual property portfolio provides potential for technology licensing, industrial partnership, and commercialization opportunities. The patents complement his academic publications by demonstrating practical application of research findings. His success in securing patent authorization in China’s competitive intellectual property environment reflects the novelty and industrial relevance of his innovations.

Research Projects & Funding

Dr. Liu Haijun has successfully secured research funding from multiple sources at provincial and institutional levels, demonstrating his capability as Principal Investigator and key contributor. As Principal Investigator, he led the project “Study on Microwave Vacuum Puffing of Cold-Region Berry Crisps” funded by the Heilongjiang Provincial Education Department, investigating processing technologies for fruit products adapted to cold climate berries abundant in northeastern China. He directed research on “Microwave Vacuum Puffing Characteristics of Mung Bean Starch” supported by the Ph.D. Graduate Research Start-up Fund, examining the fundamental puffing behavior of starch-based materials under microwave vacuum conditions. He led the “Modern Enterprise-Based Mechanical Innovative Design Curriculum Group” project, an Application-Based Curriculum initiative at Zhejiang A&F University Jiyang College, developing industry-relevant mechanical design education. His current project “Microwave-Assisted Beneficiation of Recycled Coarse Aggregate from Waste Concrete” (Project No. 2023K035) is funded by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, addressing sustainable construction materials and circular economy in the building industry. As a key participant, he contributed to the National Natural Science Foundation Project examining the “Mechanism and Protection Strategy of Quality Changes during Microwave-Assisted Foam Drying of Berries,” a prestigious national-level research grant addressing fundamental food processing science. He has participated in multiple Education Department general projects and teaching reform initiatives, contributing to pedagogical innovation and educational research. His involvement in the Daqing Science and Technology Progress Award (Second Prize) project on “Study on Corn Germ Protein Extraction and Hydrolysate Properties” demonstrates his contribution to agricultural processing research with recognized societal impact. The diversity of his funding sources, from provincial government departments to university teaching funds and national science foundations, demonstrates versatility in identifying funding opportunities. His success in securing competitive research grants reflects the quality and relevance of his research proposals and his track record of productive research outcomes.

Conference Contributions

While specific conference presentations are not detailed in the provided curriculum vitae, Dr. Liu Haijun’s publication record in conference proceedings demonstrates his engagement with the international research community. His publications in Procedia CIRP, the official conference proceedings of the International Academy for Production Engineering (CIRP), indicate presentations at prestigious international manufacturing and production engineering conferences. His work published in the International Agriculture Engineering Journal likely originated from presentations at agricultural engineering conferences. His involvement in teaching reform projects and curriculum development suggests participation in educational conferences and workshops on engineering pedagogy. His visiting scholarship at McGill University would have involved research seminars and presentations to the academic community in Canada. His participation in “training on inventive problem-solving methods and advanced mechanical design instruction” indicates engagement with professional development workshops and educational conferences. His collaboration with colleagues from different institutions, evident in his corresponding author publications, suggests networking and knowledge exchange at academic conferences. His research spanning materials science, food engineering, and mechanical design likely involves presentations at interdisciplinary conferences addressing manufacturing technology, agricultural processing, and sustainable development. As an Associate Professor at multiple institutions, he has likely mentored students presenting at undergraduate and graduate research conferences. His temporary assignment with the Zhuji Municipal Agriculture Bureau may have involved presentations to government officials and stakeholders on agricultural technology and mechanization. His award recognition (Outstanding Staff Member, Grade A teaching evaluation) suggests participation in institutional academic events and teaching showcases.

Academic Excellence

Dr. Liu Haijun has demonstrated sustained academic excellence throughout his educational and professional career. His progression from Bachelor’s degree through Master’s and Ph.D. studies at prestigious Chinese universities, culminating in an international visiting scholarship at McGill University, reflects a trajectory of continuous academic growth and achievement. His doctoral studies at Northeast Agricultural University, one of China’s leading agricultural universities, provided rigorous training in agricultural mechanization engineering. His advanced studies at Harbin Institute of Technology, a member of China’s C9 League (equivalent to the Ivy League), exposed him to world-class mechatronics engineering education. His selection for a visiting scholarship at McGill University, consistently ranked among Canada’s top three universities and globally recognized for engineering research, represents extraordinary academic recognition and opportunity for international collaboration. His steady career progression from Assistant Lecturer to Lecturer to Associate Professor demonstrates consistent achievement of academic milestones and peer recognition. His teaching excellence is evidenced by Grade A undergraduate teaching evaluation in 2020 and recognition as “Outstanding Staff Member” in 2021 at Zhejiang A&F University Jiyang College. His publication record includes articles in high-impact journals such as Ceramics International (Impact Factor 3.446, SCI Zone 2), demonstrating ability to conduct research that meets rigorous international peer-review standards. His success in publishing in both specialized materials science journals and agricultural engineering venues demonstrates interdisciplinary expertise. His role as corresponding author on multiple publications indicates leadership in research collaboration and recognition as a subject matter expert. His success in securing competitive research funding from provincial and national sources reflects the quality and relevance of his research proposals. His patent portfolio demonstrates ability to translate academic research into practical innovations with intellectual property protection. His participation in advanced training programs on inventive problem-solving and mechanical design instruction indicates commitment to continuous professional development. His ability to balance teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities (including temporary government assignment) demonstrates exceptional professional capacity and time management.

Societal & Industry Contribution

Dr. Liu Haijun’s work addresses important societal challenges and contributes significantly to industrial advancement and public welfare. His research on microwave vacuum processing of fruits and vegetables contributes to healthier snack food production, addressing public health concerns about nutrition and food quality while reducing food waste by converting surplus or imperfect produce into value-added products. His development of advanced composite coatings with superior wear and corrosion resistance extends the service life of industrial equipment and machinery, reducing maintenance costs, minimizing environmental impact from equipment replacement, and improving industrial productivity. His patents on food processing equipment including berry peeling machines and food cutters directly benefit the food processing industry by improving efficiency, reducing labor requirements, and enhancing product consistency. His temporary assignment with the Zhuji Municipal Agriculture Bureau (2020-2021) demonstrates direct engagement with government agricultural policy and rural development initiatives, providing technical expertise to support agricultural modernization and farmer livelihoods. His research on microwave-assisted beneficiation of recycled concrete aggregate addresses critical challenges in sustainable construction, reducing construction waste, conserving natural resources, and supporting China’s circular economy initiatives in the building sector. His teaching of courses including Mechanical Innovative Design, Fundamentals of Mechanical Manufacturing Technology, and Basics of Industrial Robotics prepares the next generation of engineers and contributes to China’s industrial upgrading and intelligent manufacturing transformation. His development of modern enterprise-based curriculum connects academic education with industry needs, ensuring students develop practical skills relevant to employment. His research on agricultural mechanization and food processing equipment supports rural industrialization and agricultural value-chain development, contributing to rural revitalization strategies and farmer income improvement. His work on heat transfer systems contributes to industrial energy efficiency, addressing climate change mitigation through reduced energy consumption. His interdisciplinary research bridging materials science, mechanical engineering, and food technology exemplifies the integration of knowledge domains needed to address complex societal challenges. Through his combined research, teaching, government service, and innovation activities, Dr. Liu makes multifaceted contributions to industrial advancement, sustainable development, and social welfare.

Global Recognition

Dr. Liu Haijun has achieved international recognition through his research publications, international collaboration, and visiting scholarship experience. His visiting scholarship at McGill University, Montreal, Canada (2015-2016) represents significant international recognition and provided opportunities for collaboration with Canadian researchers, access to advanced research facilities, and exposure to international research methodologies. His publications in internationally recognized journals including Ceramics International, International Journal of Electrochemical Science, Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, International Journal of Food Engineering, and International Agriculture Engineering Journal ensure global visibility of his research. Ceramics International, published by Elsevier, is a leading journal in ceramic and composite materials with global readership and high impact factor, positioning his work on nanocomposite coatings for international impact. His publications in English-language journals make his research accessible to the global scientific community beyond Chinese-language readers. His research topics, particularly advanced composite coatings and food processing technologies, address challenges of universal relevance across countries and industries. His work on sustainable materials processing and circular economy aligns with global priorities for environmental sustainability and resource conservation. His interdisciplinary research approach, bridging materials science, mechanical engineering, and food technology, reflects contemporary global trends in integrated research addressing complex challenges. His collaboration with international research standards and methodologies, evident in his systematic experimental designs and computational modeling approaches, demonstrates alignment with global research best practices. While based primarily in China, his research contributes to global knowledge in advanced manufacturing, materials engineering, and sustainable food processing. His visiting position at a top Canadian university established international networks and potential for future collaboration. His citation by international researchers (though citation metrics are not provided in the CV) extends the influence of his work beyond his immediate research context. His research on agricultural mechanization and food processing has relevance for developing countries facing similar challenges in agricultural modernization and food security. Through his international education experience, publications in global journals, and research on universally relevant topics, Dr. Liu has established himself as a scholar with international perspective and recognition within his fields of expertise.