Dr. Zhen Gang Wang

Professor

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Biography

Zhen-Gang Wang is the Dick and Barbara Dickinson Professor of Chemical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from Beijing University in 1982 and completed his Ph.D. at the University of Chicago in 1987. His teaching career at Caltech began as an Assistant Professor in 1991, progressing to Associate Professor in 1997, and becoming a full Professor in 2002. He serves as the Executive Officer of Chemical Engineering since 2019. Wang's research focuses on statistical mechanics and its applications to complex fluids, polymers, liquid crystals, gels, nucleation, and biophysics, particularly in DNA and evolutionary protein design. His group utilizes statistical mechanics to tackle interdisciplinary challenges in physical chemistry and materials science. Current projects include studying phase transformation in complex fluids, the dynamics of constrained polymers, and membrane biophysics. Wang's work aims to derive fundamental insights into complex materials based on their molecular characteristics and to develop models that simplify complex problems while retaining essential features.

Research Interests

Courses

Introduction Statistical Thermodynamics Chemical Thermodynamics Polymer Physics

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.