Jing Zhao

Jing Zhao is an Associate Department Head and Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Connecticut (Storrs Campus). She leads the Zhao Research Group, focusing on nano-optical studies of semiconductor and metallic nanoparticles, with applications in biological sensing, energy, and imaging. Her research employs advanced techniques like single-particle spectroscopy, plasmonics, and nanofabrication.

Education:

• Postdoctoral Researcher, MIT (2008-2012)
• Ph.D., Northwestern University (2008)
• B.S., University of Science and Technology of China (2003)

Research Focus: Characterizing nanoparticle optical properties at the single-particle level, exciton-plasmon interactions, and functionalizing nanoparticles for biosensing and energy applications. Key tools include time-resolved fluorescence, Raman scattering, and atomic force microscopy.

Outreach & Awards: Active in educational outreach programs like MolQ Day and QuanXR. Students in her group have received accolades, including the Outstanding Student Poster Award (Hawi) and Waring Award (Juan).

Advising & Labs: Advises graduate students (e.g., Hawi, Juan) and oversees the Zhao Research Group lab, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration. Research spans nanoparticle synthesis, optical characterization, and practical applications.

Contact: Located in CHEM A-413, reachable via email or phone (860-486-2443).