Zhang’s research focuses on the theory and modeling of plasmas, beams, and surface and interface science, with applications in high-power electromagnetics, nanoelectronics, quantum devices, ultrafast phenomena, and novel light sources and particle accelerators.
Peng Zhang has joined the University of Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences (NERS) faculty as an associate professor. Zhang brings extensive expertise in the theory and modeling of plasmas, nanoelectronics, and accelerator technology.
Zhang comes to NERS from Michigan State University, where he served as an associate professor in the College of Engineering. His research has spanned a wide range of topics, including electrical contacts, thin films, quantum diodes, space-charge-limited current flows, beam-circuit interactions, multipactor and breakdown phenomena, z-pinches, and laser-plasma interactions. More recently, his work has focused on plasma-surface interaction, ultrafast electron emission, quantum transport, and novel high-frequency radiation sources.
A proud Wolverine, Zhang earned his PhD and MS in Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences from our department. During his doctoral studies, he was awarded the Richard and Eleanor Towner Prize for Outstanding PhD Research and the Rackham Presidential Fellowship Award. He also received the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Nuclear and Plasma Sciences Graduate Scholarship Award. Zhang’s academic journey began at Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), where he earned a BEng in electrical and electronic engineering and an MEn. in microelectronics.
Zhang’s appointment work will not only expand the department’s research portfolio but also provide new opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge technologies that bridge nuclear engineering with advancements in electronics, materials, and plasmas.
“We are very excited to have Peng join NERS,” said NERS Chair, Todd Allen. “Paired with Scott Baalrud, we now have one of the strongest plasma theory groups in the world.”