Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Colorado. His research focuses on dynamic covalent chemistry (DCvC), supramolecular chemistry, and sustainable materials, addressing challenges in carbon capture, energy storage, and recyclable polymers. He leads the Zhang Group with labs in Ekeley Science M376/M386.

• Education: Ph.D. (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2005), Postdoctorate (MIT, 2006-2008)

Research Interests include:

• Dynamic covalent reactions (alkyne metathesis, imine chemistry, SNAr, spiroborates)
• Shape-persistent 2D/3D molecular architectures for nanoparticle growth
• Covalent organic frameworks (COFs/ICOFs) for gas separation and ion transport
• Dynamic network polymers (CANs) with self-healing and closed-loop recyclability

The 15 most recent publications highlight advancements in recyclable thermosets, conductive COFs, and helical polymer topology, emphasizing sustainable design and precision synthesis. Awards include the 2024 College Scholar Award, 2023 National Academy of Inventors Senior Member, and the 2011 NSF CAREER Award. His group includes PhD candidates Ashley, Zirui, Alec, Joy, and Zhehao. The Zhang Group also explores applications in lithium/sodium batteries, CO2 selectivity, and bio-inspired composites.