Rong Zhao

Dr. Rong Zhao is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), affiliated with the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University (2014-2018) and prior degrees from Sichuan University. His expertise bridges renewable energy, nanotechnology, and additive manufacturing, with a focus on solar and hydrogen technologies. Dr. Zhao has held roles including Postdoctoral Research Associate at Auburn University (2019-2023) and Lab Instructor there (2015-2023).

Research interests include nanotechnology applications in energy systems, metal additive manufacturing processes (e.g., selective laser melting), and advanced characterization techniques like chemical vapor deposition and spectroscopy. His work emphasizes translating fundamental science into sustainable innovations, such as optimizing laser processing parameters for material density and mitigating porosity in additive manufacturing.

Teaching focuses on materials science, photovoltaic systems, and chemical engineering experiments. He actively mentors students in lab research and supervises experimental projects. Recent publications highlight causal relationships in LPBF processes and novel photocatalytic urea-splitting mechanisms.

Leadership includes laboratory instruction roles and contributions to interdisciplinary research teams. His work addresses challenges in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy systems, with applications in both academic and industry contexts.