Tiefu Zhao

Tiefu Zhao is an Associate Professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s College of Engineering, affiliated with the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and the Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC). He serves as the interim director of the BATT CAVE lab and brings six years of industry R&D experience from Eaton Corporate Research and Technology.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., North Carolina State University, USA (2010)
  • M.S., Tsinghua University, China (2005)
  • B.S., Tsinghua University, China (2003) with Excellent Graduate Honor

Dr. Zhao specializes in power electronics and renewable energy systems, focusing on Grid Edge Power Electronics, Solid State Transformers, DC Distribution, and Wide Bandgap Device Applications. His work addresses reliability, fault protection, and sustainable energy conversion through industry collaborations.

His publications highlight advancements in predictive control algorithms, thermal stress management, and arc fault detection using machine learning. Key contributions include innovative solid-state circuit protection and microgrid integration solutions.

• Scientific Awards:
  • 2015 IEEE Industry Application Society Andrew W. Smith Outstanding Young Member Award
  • 2015 STEM Forward Young Engineer of the Year Award

Dr. Zhao leads the Renewable Energy and Power Electronics Advanced Research Lab (RE-PEARL), established in 2016, which develops technologies for safer, more efficient energy conversion and renewable integration.