Lihong Zhao

Lihong Zhao is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Kennesaw State University (2024-present). Previously held positions include Visiting Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech (2023-2024) and Postdoctoral Fellowships at UC Merced (2020-2023) and University of Idaho (2018-2020). Holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from University of Louisiana at Lafayette (2012-2017) and B.S. in Mathematics from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (2007-2011).

Research focuses on mathematical modeling of biological systems with applications to epidemiology, immunology, and public health. Expertise includes dynamical systems analysis, stochastic modeling, and multi-scale modeling approaches. Notable projects involve modeling malaria vaccination strategies, Legionnaires' disease dynamics, and microbiome interactions with pathogens.

Received awards including AAI Intersect Fellowship (2022), NSF-Simons Multiscale Cell Fate Research grant (2022), and MAA Project NExT Fellowship (2021). Active in teaching roles including College Algebra, Differential Equations, and Mathematical Modeling courses at multiple institutions.

Involvement in collaborative initiatives includes the NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research and the Health Sciences Research Institute. Engages in interdisciplinary work combining mathematical approaches with experimental biology to address real-world health challenges.