Cheng Zhu

Cheng Zhu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at Rowan University's Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. His research focuses on Geomaterial-Climate Interaction, Sensing Technologies in Geoengineering, Bio-mediated Geotechnics, and Energy Geotechnology. He earned his Ph.D. from Georgia Institute of Technology and holds M.S., M.Eng., and B.S. degrees from Nanyang Technological University.

• Education:
• Ph.D., Georgia Institute of Technology
• M.S., Georgia Institute of Technology
• M.Eng., Nanyang Technological University
• B.S., Nanyang Technological University

His research explores soil-rock responses to climate change, bio-mediated soil stabilization, and innovative pavement materials. Key contributions include studies on freeze-thaw effects on rocks, microwave-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP), and desiccation cracking mechanisms. He leads the GLUES Laboratory, advancing geotechnical education through mixed reality games and hands-on activities.

• Selected Awards:
• Researcher of the Year, ASCE NJ Section (2022)
• NSF I-Corps National Award (2021)
• Wall of Fame, Rowan University (2020)

Dr. Zhu has secured grants for projects like Wireless In-Situ Pavement Sensors (2021-2024) and Microstructural Effects on Salt Creep (2018-2021). Over 100 peer-reviewed articles highlight his work in geomechanics, environmental engineering, and education innovation.