Chao Zhao

Chao Zhao

Associate Professor, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Associate Professor, Biomedical Engineering

Location

Life Science Laboratories

240 Thatcher Road
Amherst, MA 01003
United States

N531

Links

The Zhao Lab develops polymeric biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and medical devices for disease treatment. Research integrates polymer chemistry, nanomedicine, and tissue engineering, with a particular focus on non-opioid alternatives for pain management and gene therapy vectors for targeted delivery. The lab pursues translational strategies to advance therapeutic candidates toward clinical application.

Education

  • PhD, University of Akron
  • MS in Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University, China
  • BE in Polymer Materials and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, China

AWARDS AND HONORS

  • ORED Award, Faculty and Staff Innovation Pitch Competition, University of Alabama, 2024
  • ChBE Outstanding Research Impact Award, University of Alabama, 2022
  • Journal of Materials Chemistry B Emerging Investigators, 2021
  • RGC Level 1 Award, University of Alabama
  • Prestigious ChemStress Award, College of Engineering University of Akron, 2013
  • UASIS Outstanding Student Research Award, Univeristy of Akron, 2013
  • Dean's Graduate Fellowship Award, University of Akron, 2011 & 2012
  • Outstanding Graduate Research Award, University of Akron, 2010
  • Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant Scholarships, University of Akron, 2009-2013
  • Second-class Scholarship for Excellent Students, Harbin Institute of Technology, 2003
  • First-class Scholarship for Excellent Students, Harbin Institute of Technology, 2003