Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award

Recognizing scholars’ exemplary collaboration with the private sector

This award honors a faculty member whose scholarly contributions and associated outreach efforts have measurably and significantly improved lives through engagement with industry or other elements of the private sector.

Xiao Zhang

Professor, Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering

With over 20 years of research experience under his belt, Xiao Zhang’s research in chemical engineering has made him an international expert in renewable biofuels and bioproducts. His research and leadership in the field have led to WSU forming relationships with several prominent industry partners. By working directly with industry partners, Zhang is able to translate academic research into applied technologies which have helped promote economically sustainable bioproducts.

Zhang is dedicated to educating the next generation of scientists, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to build a strong workforce that can promote a sustainable economy essential to our modern world. He has trained 17 graduate students, mentored postdoctoral research fellows and research assistant professors, and provided internship opportunities for over 30 undergraduates. Zhang teaches with an emphasis on how academic work applies to the real world, giving students industry experience to help understand the economic and societal impacts of their work.