Kai Zenger

Kai Zenger is a Senior University Lecturer and Docent at Aalto University, affiliated with the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation and the Autonomous Systems research area within the School of Electrical Engineering. He holds a doctoral degree from Helsinki University of Technology, now part of Aalto University, and has maintained a long-standing academic and research career in control systems and engine technologies.

• Doctoral degree, Engineering and Technology, Helsinki University of Technology (2003)
• Licentiate degree, Engineering and Technology, Helsinki University of Technology (1992)
• Master's degree, Engineering and Technology, Helsinki University of Technology (1986)

His research focuses on advanced control systems for combustion engines, particularly marine and diesel engines, with an emphasis on emission reduction and efficiency. Key areas include Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI), predictive control modeling, machine learning applications in engine systems, and neural network-based estimation of in-cylinder pressure. His work contributes to sustainable propulsion technologies and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy and industry innovation.

The recent publications show a strong trend in integrating machine learning with traditional control theory for real-time monitoring and optimization of marine and diesel engines. Topics such as low-temperature combustion, emissions prediction, and phase estimation in RCCI engines dominate his recent scholarly output, reflecting a focus on environmentally sustainable propulsion systems.

Kai Zenger has led several significant research projects, including the Clean Propulsion Technologies (CPT Zenger) initiative funded by Business Finland, demonstrating leadership in securing research grants and driving innovation. He has also been involved in organizing academic events and serving on scientific committees, indicating active engagement in the academic community.

• Principal Investigator, Clean Propulsion Technologies (CPT Zenger), 2021–2023
• Principal Investigator, CleanShip: Sustainable Business through Clean Ship Technologies, 2019–2020
• Organizer, EUROSIM Congress on Modelling and Simulation & SIMS Conference, 2016

He has supervised multiple theses and mentored early-career researchers such as Nguyen Khac H., Modabberian A., and Storm X. His lab and research team focus on simulation environments for controller design, virtual sensors, and intelligent control systems for next-generation combustion engines. Collaborations span across Finland and internationally, with strong ties to industry and government-funded innovation programs.