Zhenghe Xu
Ph.D., Materials Engineering Science, 1990
Induction year: 2026
Zhenghe Xu was drawn to Virginia Tech for its global reputation in mining and mineral processing, as well as its outstanding training programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and cutting-edge research. What kept him connected to the university, however, were the lasting relationships he built with mentors and colleagues. Among them, University Distinguished Professor Roe-Hoan Yoon had a profound influence, shaping Xu’s approach to leadership and mentorship in his role today as Chair Professor and founding dean of the College of Engineering at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, China.
“Dr. Yoon not only provided me with a generous research assistantship that allowed me to focus fully on my Ph.D. research, but also gave me an exciting project that enabled me to apply the fundamental science I learned at Virginia Tech to solve complex challenges in fine coal processing,” Xu said. “That experience laid a solid foundation for my academic career.”
Following his time at Virginia Tech, Xu became an internationally recognized leader in materials engineering and natural resources processing. He has authored more than 500 peer-reviewed publications, holds numerous patents, and has mentored hundreds of graduate students and researchers around the world. “I feel fortunate to have been educated at Virginia Tech,” Xu said. “The university’s motto has always guided my work, from mineral processing to the sustainable development of energy resources. I have had a great career that allowed me to be recognized by my peers, not only publishing outstanding papers, but also winning numerous recognitions, such as this induction into the Virginia Tech Academy of Engineering Excellence.”
Professional roles:
- Chair Professor, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), 2017-Present
- Founding Dean, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), 2017-2024
- Associate to Chair Professor, Department of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada, 1997-2016
Boards and committees:
- Executive Committee Member, Global Engineering Deans Council, 2017-2025
- Council Member, International Mineral Processing Council, 2016-2024
- President, MetSoc of Canadian Institute of Mining, 2016-2017
Awards and honors:
- Antoine M. Gaudin Award, Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, 2024
- MetSoc Airey Award, MetSoc, 2021
- ASTech Awards, Technology Alberta, 2018
- MetSoc Award for Research Excellence, MetSoc, 2016
- CIM Syncrude Award for Excellence in Sustainable Development, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, 2015
- APEGA Frank Spragins Award, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta, 2012
Why did you decide to come to Virginia Tech?
Virginia Tech is a globally well-recognized engineering school, in particular in the field of my discipline in mining and mineral processing, with excellent training programs, state-of-the-art research facilities, and cutting-edge research projects.
Who influenced you during your career and/or time at Virginia Tech?
My supervisor, Professor Roe-Hoan Yoon. As my Ph.D. supervisor, Dr. Yoon not only provided me with a generous research assistantship that allowed me to concentrate on my Ph.D. research, but also gave me a very exciting project that allowed me to apply the fundamental science learned at Virginia Tech to resolve separation challenges of fine coal processing using hydrophobic coagulation. The experience I gained at Virginia Tech laid a solid foundation for my academic career.
What is one of your favorite memories from Virginia Tech?
Excellent research group members who offered great collegial working environments that made my time at Virginia Tech most enjoyable and rewarding.
What do you think about your academic career?
I feel fortunate to have been educated at Virginia Tech. My experience laid a solid foundation for my academic career. The university's motto has always guided my research directions — from mineral processing to the green development of unconventional oil resources and sustainable development of renewable energy. I think I have had a great career that allowed me to be recognized by my peers, not only publishing outstanding papers, but also winning numerous recognitions, such as this induction into the Virginia Tech Academy of Engineering Excellence.
Please note: Inductee spotlight is as of the year of their induction.