Xi-Cheng Zhang

Dr. Xi-Cheng Zhang is a distinguished Professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, holding dual appointments in the Department of Physics, Applied Physics and Astronomy, and the Department of Electrical, Computer and Systems Engineering. He serves as the Founding Director of the Center for THz Research and has previously acted as Head of the Department of Physics, Applied Physics and Astronomy. His career includes roles at Columbia University and visiting appointments at MIT, JPL-Caltech, and NATO technical groups.

• Education: BSc from Peking University (1982), PhD in Physics from Brown University (1986)
• Professional Service: NATO Sensor and Electronics Technology Task Group Chairman (2007–2010), NATO Exploratory Team Chairman (2005–2006)

His research focuses on terahertz (THz) waves, exploring their generation, detection, and applications in liquids and gases using ultrafast optics. Key areas include THz aqueous photonics, plasma dynamics, and nonlinear optical phenomena. Dr. Zhang has pioneered liquid-based THz sources, enabling advancements in sensing and imaging technologies.

• Over 330 refereed papers, 24 books/chapters, 29 patents
• Notable awards: AAAS/APS/IEEE Fellowships, Kenneth F. Button Prize, William Streifer Award

His work bridges fundamental science and applied technologies, with contributions to THz communication systems, material characterization, and biomedical diagnostics. Ongoing research explores THz wave interactions with novel materials and extreme environments.