The German Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation has recently unveiled its 2015 "Sofia” award list. ZHUANG Xiaoying, a 32-year-old associate professor from the School of Civil Engineering of Tongji University has been awarded up to 1.65 million euros.
ZHUANG’s research centered on the applications of nanocomposite material in various engineering fields. She optimized the application of nanocomposite (POLYMER) in engineering by using a computer to build a mechanical and mathematical model. By using a computer to simulate elements and physical fields in multi scales, she identified the improved application effects of nanocomposites in various electronic products such as aircraft and automobiles. For example, through improving the method of application and restructuring materials, the durability, anti-corrosion and heat resistance of engineered materials can be greatly enhanced. Based on a computer simulation platform, ZHUANG made assumptions that could optimize materials and then validated the results through simulation experiments. She pointed out that in the future a practical computer application platform will be built so that scientific researchers and engineering technical personnel can carry out the research and application of nanocomposite material more easily.
ZHUANG studied in the Civil Engineering School of Tongji University from 2001 to 2007, and in 2010 she earned her Ph.D. in Durham University. Then in 2011, after finishing postdoctoral research in Norway, she returned to be a lecturer in Tongji University. Three years later she was appointed as associate professor of the Civil Engineering School. She said, “In the Civil Engineering School of Tongji University, there exists a German way of thinking, which is quite rigorous. Owing to the practical and rigorous teachers as well as excellent textbooks and experimental facilities, Tongji University has kept cultivating high-quality talents.” Accordingly, during her studies in Tongji University, she concentrated on interdisciplinary research. She hopes to combine traditional civil engineering practices with the advanced technology of nanocomposites digital tools, which will inject new blood into civil engineering and help carry forward this discipline. “Thanks Tongji University for helping me to develop my knowledge and skills. I love Tongji University!”
President PEI Gang expressed sincere congratulations to ZHUANG Xiaoying in his congratulatory letter. He gave full recognition to her excellent performances of lecturing and working in Tongji University. He also highly praised the great contributions she had made in improving Tongji University’s international influences in the civil engineering field, and encouraged her to stick to the good tradition of maintaining balance between engineering theories and practices. Thus, making ever greater scientific achievements in the future.
Translated by May Language studio based upon
http://news.tongji.edu.cn/classid-8-newsid-48515-t-show.html
