Rate Professor Dongke Zhang

Professional Summary: Professor Dongke Zhang

Professor Dongke Zhang is a distinguished academic and researcher at the University of Western Australia (UWA), recognized for his contributions to chemical engineering, energy technologies, and sustainable fuel development. With a career spanning several decades, he has established himself as a leading expert in combustion science and renewable energy systems.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Zhang holds advanced degrees in engineering, reflecting his deep expertise in the field:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Newcastle, Australia (1993)
• Master of Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, China (1986)
• Bachelor of Engineering, Shenyang Institute of Chemical Technology, China (1983)

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Zhang’s research focuses on energy and fuel technologies with an emphasis on sustainability. His key areas of interest include:

• Combustion science and technology
• Bioenergy and biofuels
• Coal and biomass utilization
• Carbon capture and storage
• Clean energy systems and emissions reduction

Career History and Appointments

Professor Zhang has held numerous prestigious positions throughout his career, contributing to both academia and industry:

• Winthrop Professor, School of Engineering, University of Western Australia (2008–present)
• Director, Centre for Energy, University of Western Australia (2008–present)
• Associate Professor, Curtin University of Technology, Australia (2000–2008)
• Senior Lecturer, University of Adelaide, Australia (1996–2000)
• Research Fellow, University of Newcastle, Australia (1993–1996)

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Zhang has been recognized internationally for his contributions to chemical engineering and energy research:

• Fellow, Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE) (2012)
• Fellow, Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
• Recipient of multiple research grants from the Australian Research Council (ARC)

Key Publications

Professor Zhang has authored and co-authored numerous influential papers and articles in high-impact journals. A selection of his notable works includes:

• Zhang, D.K., & Wall, T.F. (1994). 'Ignition of Coal Particles: The Influence of Volatiles.' Fuel, 73(7), 1114-1119.
• Zhang, D.K. (2006). 'Ultra-Supercritical Coal Power Plants: Materials, Technologies and Optimisation.' Woodhead Publishing (Contributor).
• Hayashi, J.I., & Zhang, D.K. (2009). 'Advances in Coal and Biomass Gasification.' Progress in Energy and Combustion Science, 35(2), 171-177.
• Wu, H., & Zhang, D.K. (2010). 'Bioenergy Production from Biomass: Challenges and Opportunities.' Energy & Fuels, 24(3), 1979-1985.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Zhang’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of combustion processes and sustainable energy solutions. His work on biofuels and carbon capture technologies has informed policy and industry practices, contributing to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He has supervised numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering the next generation of energy scientists. His leadership at the Centre for Energy at UWA has positioned the institution as a hub for innovative energy research in Australia.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Zhang is actively involved in the academic community through various roles and contributions:

• Keynote speaker at international conferences on energy and combustion, including the International Symposium on Combustion
• Member of editorial boards for journals such as Fuel and Energy & Fuels
• Advisor to government and industry bodies on energy policy and sustainable fuel technologies
• Active participant in professional organizations like the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)