Qiang Zhang

Qiang Zhang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Washington State University (WSU), part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of South Carolina (2013) and a B.S. from Jilin University, China (2008). Before joining WSU, he was a postdoctoral researcher at Texas A&M University (2013–2016). His research focuses on designing advanced functional materials, particularly metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), for applications in catalysis, separation, nuclear science, and sensing. Key projects include MOF synthesis optimization, catalytic performance enhancement, and radioactive precursor integration.

Research interests span the synthesis and characterization of MOFs, with emphasis on their thermal behavior, catalytic activity, and morphological control. The Zhang Lab trains students in techniques like X-ray crystallography, spectroscopy, and advanced microscopy. Notable awards include recognition as an Emerging Investigator in Crystal Growth & Design (2019) and the ALASKA AIRLINES TRAVEL AWARD (2018).

Publications highlight MOF-based systems for CO2 capture, lithium battery electrolytes, and photocatalytic hydrogen production. The group has secured grants, including a WSU SEED Grant (2018), and collaborates with institutions like the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). Current projects explore MOF composites, heteronuclear gold clusters, and nanomaterials for energy and environmental applications.