Wei Zhang

Dr. Wei Zhang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh, with a secondary appointment in the School of Pharmacy. Previously, he held an Assistant Professor position in Anesthesia at Harvard Medical School. He earned a BS in Chemistry from Peking University (2011), a PhD in Polymer Science from the University of Akron (2016), and completed postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School under Professors Daniel Kohane and Robert Langer. His research focuses on interdisciplinary materials science, combining synthetic chemistry, polymers, and biomedical applications to address challenges in drug delivery, pain management, and wound healing. Key areas include stimuli-responsive materials (light/ultrasound-controlled drug release), polymeric tissue adhesives, and structure-property relationships in therapeutic materials.

Dr. Zhang has authored 50+ publications and 4 patents, including licensed technology. Notable awards include the NIH Pathway to Independence Award and anesthesia research distinctions. His lab at Pitt emphasizes translational research, bridging chemistry with pharmaceutical science to develop innovative therapies and materials. Further details are available on his lab's WordPress site.

• Education:
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Peking University (2011)
• PhD in Polymer Science, University of Akron (2016)

Research interests span synthetic polymers, drug delivery systems, and biomaterials with applications in anesthetics and wound healing. His work integrates small molecules and polymer design for controlled efficacy, alongside studies on molecular interactions and macroscopic outcomes.

• Awards:
• NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award
• Anesthesia Research Trailblazer & Ignition Awards
• Outstanding Reviewer (Polymer, Elsevier)

Grants and funding details are not explicitly listed, but his NIH award underscores sustained research support. The lab collaborates across disciplines, emphasizing material innovation and clinical translation.