Dr. Zhenhao Zhao, currently an Associate Professor and Doctoral Supervisor in the Department of Environmental Engineering at Jilin University, is an emerging scholar recognized for his impactful contributions to the field of wastewater treatment and environmental biotechnology. He holds a Master’s degree from Jilin University and a Ph.D. from Northeast Normal University, and is also a distinguished Tang Aoqing Young Scholar, reflecting his excellence in scientific research and academic leadership. Dr. Zhao’s research primarily centers on the application of microbial activating agents and the development of biotechnological processes for advanced wastewater treatment and resource recovery. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of microbial systems for pollutant degradation, addressing critical issues related to water quality and environmental safety. He has successfully completed or is currently engaged in 13 research projects, including competitive grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, underscoring his strong research capability and leadership. Dr. Zhao has an impressive research output with 19 peer-reviewed papers published in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, accumulating 159 citations from 141 documents and achieving an h-index of 7 (Scopus). His publications have advanced understanding in microbial ecology, bioreactor design, and sustainable wastewater treatment mechanisms. In addition, he holds 10 patents (5 authorized) related to innovative water purification technologies, further demonstrating the translational impact of his research. Beyond research, Dr. Zhao actively contributes to the academic community as a Young Editorial Board Member of Water Purification Technology and as a member of the Jilin Provincial Society of Environmental Science and Engineering. His collaborative work with the NSFC Joint Fund further emphasizes his interdisciplinary and applied research focus. Dr. Zhao’s scholarly achievements and growing citation impact highlight his potential as a leading researcher in environmental science and sustainable water treatment innovation.
Featured Publications
Zhao, Z., Wang, L., Li, Y., Chen, J., & Liu, H. (2025). Mechanistic insights into the enhanced synergistic removal of composite heavy metals using modified zeolite in constructed wetlands. Journal of Safety and Environment.
Zhang, C., You, Z., Li, S., Zhang, C., Zhao, Z., & Zhou, D. (2024). NO₃⁻ as an electron acceptor elevates antibiotic resistance gene and human bacterial pathogen risks in managed aquifer recharge (MAR): A comparison with O₂. Environmental Research, 249, 118277.
Sun, S., Zhao, Z., Cui, X., Huo, M., & Geng, Z. (2020). The influence of residual coagulant Al on the biofilm EPS and membrane fouling potential in wastewater reclamation, Water.