Haichong Zhang

Haichong Zhang is an Associate Professor of Robotics Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), affiliated with the Department of Computer Science. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University (2017), an MS in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins (2015), and prior degrees in Human Health Sciences from Kyoto University. His research focuses on medical robotics, biomedical imaging, and intervention systems, with an emphasis on integrating ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging with robotic platforms to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy. Key projects include co-robotic imaging systems to reduce user dependency, PA-based functional imaging for surgical guidance, and algorithmic advancements for computer-assisted interventions.

Dr. Zhang leads the Medical FUSION Lab, which collaborates across robotics, acoustics, optics, and biology. His work has been supported by grants such as the NIH Director's Early Independence Award and DoD CDMRP Early Investigator Award. He has developed systems for applications like kidney transplant screening, prostate cancer detection, and robotic ultrasound guidance for pandemic response. Recent innovations include miniaturized imaging catheters and reflector-integrated ultrasound systems for clinical translation.

Education

• PhD Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, 2017
• MS Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, 2015
• MS Human Health Sciences, Kyoto University, 2013
• BS Human Health Sciences, Kyoto University, 2011

Research Interests

His interdisciplinary research bridges robotics and biomedical engineering, addressing challenges in image-guided interventions, real-time surgical navigation, and novel imaging modalities. Specific areas include robotic-assisted ultrasound systems, spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging for tumor detection, and mathematical frameworks for clinical accuracy improvement.

Grants & Awards

• NIH Director's Early Independence Award (2022)
• CDMRP Early Investigator Research Award (2018)
• WPI Seed Grants (2023-2024)

Labs & Teams

Medical FUSION Lab focuses on developing robotic imaging systems with expertise in robotics, medical imaging, and clinical translation. Collaborations include multidisciplinary teams in acoustics, optics, and biology for cutting-edge medical device innovation.