Xiao Lin ZHAO

Professor Xiao Lin ZHAO is Chair Professor of Civil Infrastructure at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and a globally recognized expert in Civil Engineering. He previously held the Chair of Civil Engineering at Monash University, Australia, from the age of 37, becoming the youngest chair professor in the country at the time. His leadership in structural resilience and advanced composite materials has established him as a pivotal figure in rehabilitating steel structures and developing hybrid tubular systems.

His research focuses on high-performance sustainable materials, steel-concrete-FRP hybrid construction, and floating structure technology, aiming to address land shortages and enhance infrastructure safety. At PolyU, he leads initiatives like Sustainable Smart Floating Structures for land creation and Floating Farms for food security.

Scientific awards and honors include:

• Thomas Medal (International Institute of Welding)
• Humboldt Research Award
• Fellowships at 6 major academies including the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, American Society of Civil Engineers, and Hong Kong Institution of Engineers
• World’s Top 2% most-cited Scientists in Civil Engineering (Stanford University)

With over 400 refereed journal papers and an H-index exceeding 80, his work has profound international impact.