Chuck Zhang has been appointed as the Eugene C. Gwaltney, Jr. Chair for the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, starting on July 1, 2023. This prestigious appointment recognizes Zhang's exceptional achievements and leadership in the field of advanced manufacturing. 

The selection committee praised Zhang for his remarkable accomplishments, including his role as Director of the NSF IUCRC "Composite and Hybrid Materials Interfacing."

They also commended the significant growth of his research program, his substantial funding from federal agencies and industry, and his numerous patent awards. 

Zhang brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as a Professor and Chair in the Department of Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering at the Florida A&M University-Florida State University College of Engineering, and as the Deputy Director of the High-Performance Materials Institute at the Florida State University.  

His research endeavors have received significant recognition, with over 60 projects funded by esteemed sources such as the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Department of Defense.

Additionally, he has received support from notable industrial companies and foundations. 

Zhang holds an impressive educational background, including a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Iowa, an MS degree in Industrial Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo, and both a BS and an MS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics in China.  

His research interests encompass various areas, including additive manufacturing, scalable bio-/nano-manufacturing, advanced composite structures manufacturing and maintenance, and manufacturing cybersecurity.

Notably, Zhang leads a collaborative effort among three universities in the NSF CHMI IUCRC Center, focusing on the development of advanced materials and techniques for joining and repairing composite and hybrid materials. 

Chuck Zhang's appointment as the Eugene C. Gwaltney, Jr. Chair solidifies his position as a leader in mechanical engineering. With his exceptional research, leadership, and accolades, Zhang's contribution will undoubtedly drive the continued success and advancement of the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering.