Wenbo Zheng

Dr. Wenbo Zheng is an Associate Professor in Geotechnical Engineering at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), within the School of Engineering. He leads the Resource Geotechnics Research Group, focusing on the intersection of geo-resource development and geohazard mitigation. His research is supported by prestigious grants from NSERC, Mitacs, CFI, and industry partners like Gibraltar Mines Ltd.

• PhD: University of British Columbia, Kelowna
• MEng & BEng: Tongji University, China
• Professional: PEng (EGBC)

Dr. Zheng's primary research interests are in geomechanics, applying advanced experimental, computational, and field monitoring techniques to solve complex problems. His work spans geo-energies (shale gas, geothermal) and geohazards (landslides, tunnelling). He specializes in integrating laboratory characterization (e.g., X-ray CT, instrumented indentation) with numerical modelling (e.g., DEM, CFD-DEM, LBM-DEM) to understand the fundamental behavior of geomaterials.

His recent publications reveal a strong trend in using coupled computational methods to simulate complex geomechanical processes. A significant focus is on proppant behavior in hydraulic fracturing, examining crushing, embedment, and conductivity in formations like the Montney. Another major theme is the stability of slopes and underground structures, particularly in karst terrain and under reservoir fluctuations, often using advanced monitoring and simulation techniques. His work on internal erosion and suffusion using DEM-DFM coupling highlights his expertise in granular flow mechanics.

• NSERC Discovery Grant
• NSERC Research Tools and Instruments (RTI) Grant
• NSERC Alliance International Grant (2022, 2023)
• Outstanding Reviewer Award, Elsevier – International Journal of Mining Science and Technology
• UNBC Research Project Award

Dr. Zheng actively supervises PhD and Master’s students in the NRES and Engineering programs, guiding research on topics like liquefaction flow slide simulations, tailings dam stability, and hydraulic fracturing. He has successfully mentored students who have published in high-impact journals and won presentation awards. His lab is equipped for advanced material characterization, supported by an NSERC RTI grant, and he collaborates extensively with researchers at UBC and internationally. Current and future work includes repurposing hydrocarbon formations for geothermal energy and advancing LBM-DEM coupling for soil erosion studies.

Dr. Zheng leads the Resource Geotechnics Research Group, which conducts physical modelling of landslides and laboratory testing on rock mechanics. The group is actively involved in projects funded by NSERC, Mitacs, and industry, focusing on both fundamental science and practical engineering solutions for geo-resources and geohazards.