Pu Zhang

Pu Zhang is an Associate Professor and Undergraduate Studies Director in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Binghamton University (State University of New York at Binghamton). He leads the Composite and Architected Materials Group, focusing on advanced materials research. Previously, he held postdoctoral positions at the University of Manchester and earned his PhD from the University of Pittsburgh, with earlier degrees from Hunan University.

Education background includes a B.S. and M.S. in Mechanics from Hunan University (China), followed by a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh (USA).

His research interests revolve around the mechanics, design, and manufacturing of composite and architected materials, particularly those incorporating liquid metals. Key areas include:

• Development of soft conductive composites and metamaterials
• Advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing and hybrid methods
• Multiscale and multiphysics modeling for material behavior prediction

Recent publications highlight advancements in liquid metal-based composites, additive manufacturing innovations, and multiscale modeling approaches. These works address challenges in material fabrication, characterization, and application in fields like soft robotics and wearable electronics.

He has received notable recognitions, including the NSF CAREER Award (2022) and the Watson Early-Stage Distinguished Research Award (2024).

Zhang has taught courses such as Intro to Solid Mechanics and Mechanics of Composites. He has mentored over seven PhD and MS students and holds multiple patents. His research is supported by NSF, IEEC, and industry partnerships.

His lab, the Composite and Architected Materials Group, fosters interdisciplinary research in soft functional materials and advanced manufacturing technologies.