Hongyan Ma

Dr. Hongyan Ma is a Kummer Impact Professor, Francisco Benavides Scholar, and Associate Professor at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T). She joined Missouri S&T in 2015 as an Assistant Professor and was promoted to tenured Associate Professor in 2021. Currently directing the Lab of Future Cements and Carbon-negative Initiatives (FuCCI), Dr. Ma leads research funded by NSF, DOE, DOD, and industry. Her work spans future cements, CO2 mineralization, and critical minerals recovery, with affiliations across multiple departments.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, 2013
• M.Eng. in Structural Engineering, Shenzhen University, 2008
• B.Law. and B.Eng. in Inorganic Non-metallic Materials Engineering, Chongqing University, 2005

Research Interests:
Dr. Ma’s work addresses carbon-negative construction materials, focusing on future cements (efficiency strategies, alternative binders), solid waste upcycling, CO2 capture/utilization, thermal energy storage, and nano-biological technologies. Her lab employs advanced materials characterization and multi-scale modeling to enhance concrete durability and develop carbon-negative recovery of critical metals (Ni, Co, Li, Cu).

Research Trends:
Her recent publications emphasize carbon mineralization, steel slag upcycling, and multi-scale transport modeling, reflecting a strong focus on sustainable construction and industrial waste valorization. Key areas include CO2 sequestration, phosphate cement synthesis, and seawater-resistant concrete.

Scientific Awards & Recognitions:

• Kummer Impact Professorship (2024)
• Francisco Benavides Scholar (2022)
• Faculty Excellence Awards (2023, 2020)
• Top 2% Scientists in 'Building & Construction' (2020–2022)
• Game Changer Academies Panel Fellow, NSF (2022)

Grants & Leadership:
Dr. Ma’s research is supported by National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, Department of Defense, and private foundations. She serves on editorial boards, evaluates grants internationally, and leads the FuCCI Lab, integrating multi-disciplinary teams for carbon-negative innovation.