Julie Z Hao

Julie Z. Hao is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at Old Dominion University's Batten College of Engineering and Technology. Her research focuses on Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), nano-resonators, and sensors with applications spanning biomedical engineering and homeland security.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science/Mechanics, University of Central Florida (2000)
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (1997)
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (1994)

Research Focus: Dr. Hao specializes in thermoelastic damping mechanisms in micro-resonators, tuning-fork gyroscopes, and nanosensor development. Her work bridges mechanical engineering with biological applications through bio-micro/nano interfaces, particularly in cartilage measurement and security sensor systems. She employs advanced modeling techniques including numerical simulations and thermal-energy methods to analyze vibrational energy dissipation.

Publication Trends: Her 15 most recent publications (2002-2018) demonstrate an evolution from fundamental MEMS resonator modeling toward biomedical applications. Early work focused on support loss mechanisms and disk resonators, progressing to sophisticated tuning-fork gyroscopes and culminating in distributed-deflection sensors for biological tissues. The research consistently addresses energy loss phenomena while expanding into medical device innovation.

Scientific Recognition:

• Double Deer Fellowship (ODU)
• Outstanding Student (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)
• Enhancement Fellowship (UCF, 1999)
• Enhancement Award (UCF, 1997)
• Undergraduate Fellowship (Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1990)

Research Leadership: Dr. Hao secured over $1 million in federal funding including a $310,401 MRI grant for multi-probe AFM/NSOM/SPM systems and $175,000 for bio-micro/nano learning communities. Her projects integrate MEMS education with homeland security applications, demonstrating strong interdisciplinary collaboration. While no current advisees are listed, her grants indicate extensive mentorship of students through collaborative research teams.

Research Environment: Her laboratory in Kaufman Hall leverages ODU's engineering infrastructure for MEMS fabrication and testing, with particular emphasis on SOI-based systems and thermo-mechanical characterization. Current work shows continued focus on improving resonator quality factors through structural innovations.