Zhenyu Tian

Zhenyu Tian is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Northeastern University’s College of Science, affiliated with the Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Washington Tacoma’s Center for Urban Waters. His research focuses on identifying and quantifying environmental contaminants, particularly tire-derived pollutants like 6PPD-quinone, using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and chemoinformatics. His work addresses microplastics, urban stormwater toxicity, and engineered treatment systems.

Key research interests include non-target analysis (NTA), bioassay integration, and assessing contaminant risks to ecosystems and human health. His lab explores microplastic impacts, tire wear particle leaching, and chemical transformation products in environmental samples. Tian has received the 2023 TIER1 Award for innovative research in environmental chemistry. His affiliations include the Barnett Institute and Northeastern’s Biotechnology and Chemistry departments. His expertise spans environmental chemistry, analytical methodologies, and eco-toxicological assessments.

• Education: Ph.D., University of North Carolina; Postdoctoral Research, University of Washington Tacoma
• Awards: 2023 TIER1 Awardee (Northeastern University)
• Labs/Groups: Tian Research Group, Barnett Institute