Rui Zhang
About Rui Zhang
Rui Zhang is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, specializing in small-angle scattering techniques to study porous materials. He holds a PhD in Energy and Mineral Engineering from Penn State University and has extensive experience in material science and petroleum engineering.
Work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Rui Zhang has been employed as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory since 2021. In this role, he applies his expertise in small-angle scattering techniques to tackle scientific challenges in material science. His work focuses on the study of porous materials, including coal nanoparticles and metal-organic frameworks (MOF), under in situ conditions.
Education and Expertise
Rui Zhang holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Energy and Mineral Engineering from Penn State University, where he studied from 2015 to 2018. He also earned a Master of Science (MS) in Petroleum Engineering from the same institution between 2013 and 2015. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Petroleum Engineering at Southwest Petroleum University from 2006 to 2010, followed by a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering from 2010 to 2013. His academic background supports his specialization in modeling and experimental analysis of materials such as shale and kerogen.
Previous Positions at Penn State University
Before his current role at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Rui Zhang worked at Penn State University in various research capacities. He served as a Research Assistant from 2014 to 2018, contributing to projects related to material science. Following this, he was a Research Associate from 2019 to 2021, where he continued to develop his research skills and expertise in the field.
Research Focus and Techniques
Rui Zhang specializes in the study of porous materials, utilizing small-angle scattering techniques to address complex scientific challenges. His research includes the investigation of coal nanoparticles and metal-organic frameworks (MOF) under in situ conditions. He has developed a strong foundation in modeling and experimental analysis, particularly concerning materials like shale and kerogen.
Visiting Scholar Experience
Rui Zhang previously held the position of Visiting Scholar at Oak Ridge National Laboratory from 2017 to 2018. During this seven-month tenure, he engaged in research activities that contributed to his professional development and expertise in material science.