Weidong Zhu, Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Weidong Zhu has established himself as a leading researcher in the field of dynamic systems, with a focus on vibration experimentation, integrated analytical development, and applications in industry. Over his exceptional career, he has produced more than 180 peer-reviewed articles in top-ranked journals in his field, in addition to more than 125 peer-reviewed conference papers. Zhu holds five U.S. patents, has received five best paper awards from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and has been awarded more than $5 million from external research funding sources.
His research has significantly impacted the quality of everyday life for many people, including by producing safe and efficient structures such as elevators, wind turbines, and automotive transmissions. Zhu is passionate about sharing his knowledge and research with society. He has given more than 180 presentations at major international conferences, delivered nearly 25 keynote addresses, and given 145 seminars at companies and institutions around the world. His productivity as a researcher at UMBC is recognized as one of the strongest at the institution. His contributions have been innovative and highly impactful. As a result of his expertise, numerous large companies have called on Zhu to address large challenges they face.
Zhu supports student research, and serves as a mentor to undergraduate and graduate students. Over his 20 years at UMBC, he has supported 43 undergraduate students in their research as they prepared for graduate studies. His passion for research extends beyond UMBC. Zhu has worked to get high school students excited about research by providing opportunities to underserved students in Baltimore City. In 2004, he received a CAREER Award from the National Science Foundation, which he used to found the Future Engineers in Dynamic Systems Academy. The program works to broaden participation in engineering and science for high school students in Baltimore City high schools. More than 120 students have participated in the Academy.
He earned his B.S. in mechanical engineering and computational science from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, his M.S. in mechanical engineering from Arizona State University, and his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the University of California at Berkeley.